By Mafumane Tlhapi and Ntokozo Maseko

In celebration of Heritage Month, the North-West University (NWU) hosted an intercampus spelling bee competition to promote language diversity across its three campuses.

The event took place on 21 September at the Mmabana Convention Centre, where students competed in a friendly yet fierce contest, spelling in the language of their choice: English, Setswana or Afrikaans.

The North-West University's (NWU’s) Sports Business Management Department recently hosted a Mini-Cricket festival as part of a community engagement initiative, aiming to promote youth participation in sports, particularly cricket, among primary school students in the Vaal Triangle region.

The event took place at the NWU’s Vanderbijlpark Campus and was a resounding success, drawing in participants and spectators from all over the region. It provided a wonderful opportunity for young athletes to showcase their talents and engage in friendly competition.

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Centre for Applied Risk Management (UARM) is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its master’s degree programme in behavioural risk work. The programme, initiated by associate professor Hermien Zaaiman and her team, has significantly influenced the professional landscape in Southern Africa over the past decade.

The North-West University (NWU) is set to face the University of the Western Cape (UWC) in the Varsity Football final on 26 September at NWU Mahikeng Stadium. After an exciting season, the NWU will host its sixth and final game, marking the climax of their home campaign and setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion.

In the final part of our series of articles celebrating Tourism Month, we again look at the phenomenal work the North-West University’s (NWU’s) research unit Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society (TREES) is doing to infuse the tourism sector with its expertise, to make the sector visible and to protect our tourism heritage. This is why tourism matters.

South Africa’s place on the global tourism stage: A competitive destination

The North-West University (NWU) is celebrating Tourism Month, and when it comes to tourism experts in the country, the NWU’s research unit Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society (TREES) has distinguished itself as a leader in its field.

In our ongoing series of articles, we take a closer look at what TREES are doing to promote tourism in South Africa. This is why tourism matters.
The economic power of tourism: A vital contributor to South Africa’s growth

The widely expected pivot for the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to now commence its interest rate cutting cycle by a modest 25 basis points (bps) is good news for business and consumers.

In commenting on the decision by the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) on 19 September Prof Raymond Parsons, economist from the Business school of the North-West University (NWU), says that, although the decision remains marginal in terms of present high borrowing costs, it nonetheless represents a positive turning point in the interest rate outlook.

The research unit Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society (TREES) at the North-West University (NWU) has established itself as a leading research unit focusing on sustainable tourism.

TREES distinguishes itself by conducting innovative research on the economic, environmental and social impacts of tourism, and in promoting evidence-based strategies to enhance the sector's growth. The unit plays a crucial role in promoting tourism in South Africa by analysing market trends, developing sustainable tourism models, and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders.

There is no feeling like it. You stand there with bated breath, waiting for your name to be called. This is the culmination of years of hard work, dedication … determination. Underneath your black gown, your nervous system is in flux, you are a veritable cauldron of emotions. “I can’t believe I did it,” you think to yourself. Then it happens. You are called to the front. Applause fills the graduation hall. You hear the cheers of your family. You reflect on the sacrifices they have made, that you have made. You leave the stage, beaming, degree in hand and your future ahead of you.

Spring starts in September, and in honour of the new season, a special exhibition of amazing art is adorning the walls of the Ferdinand Postma Library on the Potchefstroom Campus of the North-West University (NWU).

Artworks of flowers are everywhere. Not of the common or garden variety of blossoms, but of some of South Africa’s most special and – in some cases – rare and endangered veld orchid species.