He is back and South Africa’s economic welfare – like that of most other global economies – is not on his list of priorities. On Monday, 20 January, Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States of America (USA) and wasted no time in making the same waves that were hallmarks of his first presidency.

He signed orders to remove the USA from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Paris climate agreement. Trump has never shied away from his rhetoric of America first, second and third.

The time for inquiries and investigations is over and action is needed. This is according to Dr Lindikaya Myeki, a senior lecturer in Agricultural Economics and Extension at the North-West University (NWU).

This is in response to the recent release of the Competition Commission of South Africa’s (CCSA’s) Fresh Produce Market Inquiry report and the broader challenges facing South Africa’s fresh produce market.

An innovative African Hut Mushroom Dome, a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to growing mushrooms, has earned North-West University (NWU) alumnus Dr Sydwell Sihlangu the title of Grassroots Innovator of the Year 2024 at the Grassroots Innovation Awards.

An entrepreneur and founder of Eco-Agro Enterprise Pty. Ltd., Dr Sihlangu obtained a master’s degree in crop science at the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus.

The NWU is implementing a new residence management system that will significantly improve efficiency within the university’s residences. The StarRez system is specifically designed for student housing and has numerous applications for residence management, placements, student interactions and reporting, among others.

In a dynamic collaboration aimed at transforming communities through entrepreneurship, the North-West University’s (NWU’s) bhive Enterprise Development Centre (bhive EDC) joined forces with Radio Pulpit, I AM Youth and TBN Africa to host the "Pitch Your Business Competition".

This initiative not only fosters innovation but also drives economic growth, skills development, and employment opportunities across South Africa and beyond.

In accordance with its internal processes and procedures, the North-West University (NWU) does not allow for a so-called walk-in application process for first-year students in 2025.

This means that persons who did not submit an application for studies during the application period, who did not receive an offer to study at the NWU or who applied for admission after the closure of the application period will not be able to make an application at this point in time.

Three rankings confirm that the North-West University (NWU) is an institution that shines not only locally but also internationally, and can stand tall among some of the world’s greatest universities.

Students can be assured that when they decide on the NWU as their preferred choice for higher education, they also choose a university that is not only known for excellence but is making an impact in addressing pressing issues in Africa.

South Africans might be surprised to discover that some of the country’s language challenges are similar to those faced in multilingual countries in the northern hemisphere. This is according to Orefile Malebo, an education technologist at the North-West University (NWU), who recently made a presentation at the Online Educa Berlin conference in Germany.

Held from 27 to 29 November 2024, the event brought together education leaders from across the globe to discuss the role of technology in education.

By:Optentia research unit

A groundbreaking initiative aimed at closing the digital divide in schools across Africa is making significant strides. The project, named Tswala! – a Setswana word meaning "closing" – seeks to bridge the gap between students, teachers and the world by integrating digital tools into classrooms. Its goal is to transform education by providing students and teachers with the technology needed to engage in modern, interactive learning.

By Oscar Mosiane and Tiyiselani Precious Miyambu

Dr Khido Ramadie, a wellness counsellor at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus, has dedicated her life to promoting education and wellness.

Born in Lichtenburg in the North West Province, she started her journey as a teacher after obtaining a diploma in teaching in 1994. Fuelled by her love for education, she obtained a BA in psychology while employed, ultimately leading to her position in wellness counselling.