Community Engagement

Academic explores customary law among Khoi-San communities

Prof Christa Rautenbach, a lecturer at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Faculty of Law, recently delivered a keynote address titled "Reviving and recognising customary law: traditional leadership and governance among Khoi-San communities" at the Commission on Khoi-San Matters Research Symposium in Cape Town.

The symposium was a collaborative effort between the Commission on Khoi-San Matters and esteemed academic institutions, such as the University of the Western Cape, University of Stellenbosch, University of Johannesburg, Sol Plaatje University and Rhodes University.

Submitted on Thu, 03/28/2024 - 09:46

VC calls for introduction of meritocratic approach to appointment of executives and board members in SOEs

A continued downward trajectory is the only possible forecast for South Africa’s state-owned enterprises (SOEs) if political appointments in SOEs continue to take precedence over expertise.

This is according to Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU). Prof Tyobeka says this is not only an inescapable truth, but a gross dereliction of duty by those in key positions, which serves to hamper economic growth to the detriment of the country’s struggling citizens.

Submitted on Wed, 03/27/2024 - 14:55

Partnership empowers Malawian dietitians

It takes an expert team of doctors and nurses to ensure effective treatment for critically ill patients. A crucial addition to this team is a dietitian, as studies have shown that without the guidance of nutrition experts, many patients become malnourished while in hospital care.

The Dietetics Programme in the School of Applied Health Sciences at the North-West University (NWU) has many years of experience in training quality dietitians in South Africa.

Submitted on Wed, 03/27/2024 - 12:28

Student Counselling and Development is passionate about student well-being

By Keaoleboga Motshabi and Phenyo Mokgothu

The Student Counselling and Development (SCD) department at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus took proactive steps to connect with students through a meet-and-greet programme held on 12 March 2024.

The meet-and-greet provided an opportunity for students to learn about the role of SCD in enhancing their academic and personal welfare, and that all these services are available not only to on-campus students, but also to those residing off-campus.

Submitted on Wed, 03/27/2024 - 10:16

Eagles top Varsity Cup log

Well, isn’t that a pretty picture? The North-West University (NWU) Eagles are sitting on top of the Varsity Cup log after beating CUT Ixias 53-46 in Bloemfontein.

In what was perhaps a case of complacency, the Eagles allowed a generous half-time lead of 37-12 to be systematically etched away by the home side, especially in the last 10 minutes when the Ixias scored three converted tries.

It was a late, impressive blitzkrieg by the underdogs, but the Eagles’ opening salvos proved effective enough to secure the win.

Submitted on Tue, 03/26/2024 - 10:59

A community unites to shatter world records and nourish 10 000 souls

On Saturday, 16 March, the Vaal Triangle community witnessed an unprecedented event that not only broke records but also warmed hearts and filled stomachs.  

One of the highlights of the "Rocking the Vaal" event on the grounds of the Emerald Resort and Casino was a monumental potjiekos cook-off. This venture saw 84 North-West University (NWU) staff members and 100 students coming together to prepare a staggering 2 794 kg of the traditional South African dish.

Submitted on Mon, 03/25/2024 - 14:31

UNICEF club champions obesity and mental health awareness

The UNICEF club at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus has taken proactive steps to address pressing health issues by hosting a programme focused on combatting obesity and promoting mental health awareness among students.

UNICEF stands for the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund, now officially the United Nations Children's Fund. This agency of the United Nations provides humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide.

Submitted on Mon, 03/25/2024 - 13:49

Bingo brings joy to the elderly

In a heart-warming initiative aimed at fostering community engagement and supporting the elderly, the office of the deputy vice-chancellor for community engagement and Mahikeng Campus operations at the North-West University (NWU) recently reached out to the Rotarus Home for Senior Citizens in Mahikeng.

Led by deputy vice-chancellor Prof Sonia Swanepoel, the programme brought together elderly residents for an afternoon of entertainment and social interaction.

Submitted on Mon, 03/25/2024 - 09:33