Student life

Vanderbijlpark Campus hosts Inaugural Alumni and Friends Sports Day

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 06:26:20 +0000

Vanderbijlpark Campus hosts Inaugural Alumni and Friends Sports Day

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 06/30/2025 - 08:26

The North-West University’s (NWU) Vanderbijlpark Campus burst into life on June 16 as it welcomed back former students, staff, and community partners for its inaugural Alumni and Friends Sports Fun Day. The event, held on Youth Day, blended athletic energy with heartfelt reconnection, marking a new chapter in alumni engagement through the unifying power of sport.

Soccer took centre stage, with friendly yet competitive matches featuring teams such as Black Pool, VUT, Young Alumni Soccer Ladies, and Vaal Ladies. Alumni played alongside staff and invited stakeholders, reviving campus camaraderie and sparking conversations about future collaboration.

More than just a sports day, the event signalled the beginning of a broader initiative - laying the groundwork for the formation of a Vanderbijlpark Campus Sports Alumni Chapter. For organisers, it was about far more than goals scored on the field.

“This event was about more than just sport - it was about reconnecting and reigniting the NWU alumni spirit,” said Zanele Ngobese from the Alumni Relations Office. “Sport has always had the power to unite people. We used that spirit to bring our alumni and friends back into the fold, laying the foundation for long-term involvement.”

Youth Day, with its profound significance in South African history, served as a meaningful backdrop. As attendees laced up their boots and shared memories on the sidelines, the atmosphere echoed the NWU’s ongoing commitment to youth empowerment through education and sport.

In attendance was Silvanus Welcome, director for development and fundraising, who emphasised the strategic role of alumni in the university’s growth.

“Our alumni are a vital part of the university’s development ecosystem. This event exemplifies how social and sporting platforms can be used not just to build relationships, but to ignite philanthropic interest and collaborative growth opportunities for the campus and surrounding communities.”

The day also featured informal discussions around student-athlete support, mentorship, and the role alumni can play in shaping a more inclusive, empowered NWU community.

While a few minor challenges emerged, such as a brief shortage of amenities due to the public holiday; the event ran smoothly overall, thanks to a responsive organising team and a deeply engaged audience. Many attendees praised the welcoming atmosphere, community spirit, and the strategic direction the event represented.

With over 100 attendees, enthusiastic feedback, and growing interest from those who could not attend, plans are already underway to make the Alumni and Friends Sports Day a flagship annual event, with potential for expansion to other NWU campuses.

“The overwhelmingly positive response confirms that there’s a real appetite for meaningful alumni engagement,” said Zanele. “We’re excited to build on this momentum.”

As the final whistle blew and teams posed for photos, it was clear that the day had scored more than goals. It had rekindled connections, inspired new ideas, and reminded everyone of the enduring bond between the NWU and its people - on and off the field.

Soccer took centre stage at the inaugural NWU Alumni and Friends Sports Fun Day.

Balancing spreadsheets and ambition: Cimoné Louw’s journey of purpose and perseverance

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 12:01:03 +0000

Balancing spreadsheets and ambition: Cimoné Louw’s journey of purpose and perseverance

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 06/26/2025 - 14:01

In celebration of Youth Month – a time to recognise the boldness, creativity and grit of South Africa’s emerging leaders – we spotlight Cimoné Louw, a dynamic 26-year-old whose career path proves that precision, purpose and passion are a powerful combination.

What did you study at the NWU?

I studied Forensic Accounting at the North-West University.

What is your current profession/occupation?

I am a forensic accountant at StoneTurn and the owner of a small business called Cfisticated.

What gives you the most joy in your current position?

The unpredictability of each day is what excites me. Every investigation is different, and I love uncovering financial truths. It keeps me on my toes.

What is your fondest memory from your time at the NWU?

Wow, there are so many to choose from! But one memory that really stands out is the R20 “Platsak Ontbyt” my best friend and I had every morning at De Jonge Akker between classes. I miss that so much now.

Apart from your studies, what are some of the most important things you learned at the NWU?

I learnt what a huge privilege it is to study and attend university – something I once took for granted until I met so many fellow students who relied on bursaries, juggled extra jobs or worked to pay off student loans. NWU also taught me the importance of networking at social gatherings.

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by hard-working people who rise above difficult beginnings, who refuse to let their circumstances define them, and who remain determined to succeed.

What makes you positive about our country’s future, what doesn’t, and what would you like to change?

Our tenacity and great sense of humour make me hopeful – we are incredibly hard-working, know how to hustle, and we’re a fun nation too!

On the downside, my line of work gives me a front-row seat to the magnitude of fraud and corruption in our country, which is deeply discouraging. If I could change one thing, it would be to recover the public funds lost to fraud and corruption, hold those responsible accountable, and invest that money into our communities – particularly in children’s education and wellbeing.

If you could give one message to our country’s youth on how to succeed in life, what would it be?

I believe success favours those who work hard. Believe in yourself. Network with people. Seize opportunities and take action. Most importantly – do not have a victim mentality!

Cimoné Louw

Debate union stands tall at UFS debate and public speaking competition

RONEL ROSCHER — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 08:56:57 +0000

Debate union stands tall at UFS debate and public speaking competition RONEL ROSCHER Wed, 06/25/2025 - 10:56

By Phenyo Mokgothu and Gofaone Motsamai

Five speakers from the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus Debate Union proved their strength at a national debate and public-speaking competition held at the University of the Free State.

“We chose the speakers from the internal public-speaking competition, and they showed they have what it takes to compete at national level,” says Sandile Mbizeni, chief adjudicator of the Debate Union.

The team participated in the debate and public-speaking categories of the competition, held from 2 to 5 May 2025. They reached the semi-finals in the debate category, while in public speaking, Boiketlo Nkosi, Paballo Mokgathi and Botho Sifumba progressed to the final round where they competed against each other for the top spot. Botho took first place, Paballo came second and Boiketlo third.

“The title of best judge in public speaking came to the Mahikeng Campus as well,” says Sandile. “Liso Ngxoza was declared the best public-speaking judge of the competition, while in debate, I was honoured as the second-best debate judge.”

This year’s results build on a successful 2024. Sandile and Chevaure Du Pokoy coached participants for the Jozi Rumble Tournament, where Lethabo Mathatho and Makhosini Dlamini placed second in the novice debate category. Thato Katametsi secured second place in public speaking. Sandile also served as an adjudicator in the public-speaking finals at that tournament.

Sandile also coached Jeremiah Mokoena and Boiketlo Nkosi at the 2024 Southern African Debate Championship. The two reached the quarter-finals in debate, while Boiketlo made it to the semi-finals in public speaking.

Building on these achievements, the Mahikeng Campus Debate Union is ready to show up, speak up and represent the NWU with pride and confidence at future competitions.

The Mahikeng Campus Debate Union is on a roll.

Community lekgotla explores cannabis commercialisation

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 07:50:57 +0000

Community lekgotla explores cannabis commercialisation

by Oscar Mosiane

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 06/25/2025 - 09:50

A call has gone out to stakeholders in the North West Province to be part of the process of unlocking the economic potential of “matekwane” - the Setswana word for cannabis - for the benefit of rural communities.

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre recently facilitated the Matekwane Community Lekgotla at the university’s Molelwane research and training farm outside Mahikeng. This event brought together various stakeholders, including indigenous growers, small business enterprises, traditional healers, the Department of Agriculture and the Rastafari community.

This recent gathering followed in the footsteps of the 2022 Cannabis Lekgotla, during which NWU vice-chancellor Prof Bismark Tyobeka made a commitment that the university would contribute to the National Cannabis Master Plan. The 2022 lekgotla was a first of its kind in the country, and was co-hosted by the NWU and the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD).

The Matekwane Community Lekgotla was held in preparation for the next national event, the 2025 Cannabis Lekgotla, taking place in September this year.

Dr Thandeka Kunene, cannabis researcher at the IKS Centre, says the purpose of the recent lekgotla was to report on cannabis research that has been done since the 2022 lekgotla, which gave rise to an Industrial Dagga Development team looking at how to include the IKS community in the cannabis development plan for the North West Province.

According to Dr Motheo Koitsiwe, director of the IKS Centre, the role of the IKS Centre is to conduct teaching, learning, research and community engagement in IKS. He said that this multi-disciplinary project will focus on mainstreaming IKS in the cannabis industry, and that the main plan is to establish the IKS Cannabis Hub at the NWU in partnership with DARD.

Dr Lele Moroole, IKS postgraduate coordinator and researcher added that the ethics clearance and Memorandum of Understanding between the NWU’s IKS Centre and IKS communities is in progress.

During the recent lekgotla the IKS Matekwane Sandbox was also introduced - an experiential, experimental commercial research programme to test ways to include various stakeholders, from research institutes and farmers to traditional leaders and healers and the Rastafari community.

Bothobuile Pule, chief director for agricultural support services at DARD, reaffirmed the government's support for the commercialisation, industrialisation and development of cannabis and hemp in the province.

“We call on all stakeholders to come on board, including other government departments such as Health, Education and the South African Police Service, to make it a collaborative effort to deliver tangible outcomes that will make this province a force to be reckoned with,” he said.

Dr Thandeka Kunene from the NWU IKS Centre explains the purpose of the lekgotla.

Bothobuile Pule, chief director for agricultural support services at the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Student awarded coveted SASA honours bursary

MARELIZE SANTANA — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 11:12:38 +0000

Student awarded coveted SASA honours bursary

by Phenyo Mokgothu

MARELIZE SANTANA Fri, 06/20/2025 - 13:12

The South African Statistical Association (SASA) has announced the winner of its 2024/25 Honours Bursary Competition. Relebohile Makhanya, a student from North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus, has been awarded the bursary valued at R50 000.

The competition is open to third-year students in statistics or mathematical statistics who plan to pursue honours studies at a South African university. It aims to support academic progress and address financial need in the field.

The SASA Honours Bursary is awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement and commitment to the discipline of statistics. According to SASA, the R50 000 bursary is part of its broader efforts to support students who plan to continue with postgraduate studies.

Relebohile recently completed her BCom degree in statistics at the NWU and is currently registered for an honours degree in business statistics. She said receiving the bursary has eased the financial pressure of postgraduate study and strengthened her motivation to continue.

“I am more than grateful for this opportunity. It motivates me to keep working hard, knowing that dedication truly pays off and that the sky is the limit,” she said. “This bursary has reaffirmed my belief in the power of perseverance and self-confidence.”

Once she has completed her honours, Relebohile intends to pursue further postgraduate studies and contribute to research and professional work in business statistics.

From left are Prof Martin Chanza, Prof Volition Montshiwa, Prof Tshepiso Tsoku and Relebohile Makhanya.

Students bring HR theory to life through drama performances

MARELIZE SANTANA — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 06:04:13 +0000

Students bring HR theory to life through drama performances

by Phenyo Mokgothu

MARELIZE SANTANA Fri, 06/20/2025 - 08:04

Drama has its uses beyond the stage and screen. It can even be applied to workplace challenges.

In a creative approach to learning, second-year students from the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Human Resource Management, Industrial Psychology and Tourism subject groups have been using drama to explore workplace challenges and propose practical solutions.

As part of their Training and Development module, students were tasked with identifying gaps in real-world company training practices and presenting strategic responses through dramatised scenarios.

They acted out these scenarios at a special training event held at the Mahikeng Campus on 12 June.

The event received support from key stakeholders, including Tsebo Cleaning Company, the Gardening Company and the National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union. Their presence underscored the relevance of the issues raised and encouraged dialogue between students and practitioners.

Combining theory and performance

Drawing on models such as Nadler’s Critical Events Model and the High-Impact Learning Model, the students combined academic theory with performance to demonstrate applied knowledge.

Each group focused on challenges such as ineffective onboarding, poor skills development and lack of continuous learning. Their drama performances offered practical solutions rooted in human resources development models, highlighting the importance of structured training and employee support.

“The goal was to get students to think critically about how organisations approach employee training and how those approaches can be improved,” says Kholiswa Mogoeng, lecturer and leader of the initiative from the School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management. “This exercise gave them the chance to apply theory in a tangible, impactful way.”

She also expressed appreciation to the subject groups Human Resource Management and Industrial Psychology for their continued support in enriching student learning experiences and preparing students for the world of work.

Students bring HR theory to life through drama performances.

NWU law student selected for national Siyaphumelela Scholars programme

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 08:15:28 +0000

NWU law student selected for national Siyaphumelela Scholars programme

by Mafumane Tlhapi

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 06/17/2025 - 10:15

A final-year law student at North-West University (NWU) Potchefstroom Campus has been chosen for the 2025 Siyaphumelela Scholars programme, a national initiative focused on student success and leadership in higher education.

Musa Bizani and four other students from the University of Cape Town, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of the Witwatersrand and University of the Western Cape will attend the Siyaphumelela Conference at the Indaba Hotel and Conference Centre in Fourways, Johannesburg, from 8 to 11 July 2025.

“This programme aligns with the kind of leadership and communication skills I’ve been working to refine as a student leader and aspiring legal practitioner,” says Bizani. “It’s also a space where I can help represent the NWU student voice in national conversations about student success.”

Coming from a previously underrepresented background, he aims to show how a combination of institutional support and student activism can lead to academic progress and institutional transformation.

“I want to share how holistic engagement through leadership, mentorship and community involvement has shaped my university experience,” he says. “It’s not just about helping students survive university but about building systems where they are empowered to thrive.”

The Siyaphumelela Scholars programme is an experiential learning initiative aimed at developing leadership, higher-order thinking, and interpersonal communication. Through the programme, Bizani hopes to strengthen his ability to advocate for social justice and prepare for his intended LLM studies next year.

“The ability to communicate clearly and with purpose is essential in both legal and academic environments,” he says. “This programme is a tool that will help me become more effective in those spaces.”

If selected by the Achieving the Dream (ATD) panel, Bizani could also participate in the DREAM Scholars programme and represent South Africa at the DREAM 2026 conference in Portland, Oregon in the USA, from 2 to 6 March 2026.

Musa Bizani will represent the university at the 2025 Siyaphumelela Conference in Johannesburg as part of the Siyaphumelela Scholars programme.

Student runs minicab business while studying

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 11:17:42 +0000

Student runs minicab business while studying BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 06/13/2025 - 13:17

By Gofaone Motsamai

A social sciences and economics student at North-West University’s Mahikeng Campus is balancing the demands of academic life with running a minicab business.

Maano Rambwa, now in his final year, ventured into entrepreneurship in 2023 when he launched Candy Corner, a small business selling sweets around campus. “I saved the money from that for two years,” he says.

He used his savings to purchase a vehicle, which is now registered under the Bolt e-hailing service and to offer private transport services to students and residents in Mahikeng.

Financial necessity motivated him to become an entrepreneur. “I would run out of the money my parents gave me after buying groceries,” he explains. Rather than asking for more, Rambwa chose to create his own income. “I understood the pressure they were under,” he says, explaining that his parents are funding his studies, his sister’s tuition at the University of Cape Town and his brother’s school fees.

Running a business while studying requires structure and self-discipline. “I try to study one chapter every day to reduce stress when it’s time for tests or assignments,” said Rambwa. Attending classes, working ahead and sticking to a study routine helps maintain an academic balance.

His business does not interfere with his academic goals. Instead, it supports them, offering financial independence and the chance to gain practical experience outside the classroom.

When it comes to managing money, Rambwa offers fellow students some key lessons. One is to prioritise spending on groceries and to steer clear of unnecessary purchases such as alcohol.

Other important tips are to save for emergencies, learning to say no when people ask to borrow money and thinking twice about expensive outings.

Maano Rambwa

Some races are worth running

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 11:12:50 +0000

Some races are worth running

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 06/13/2025 - 13:12

When the 2025 Comrades Marathon kicked off on Sunday, 8 June, Benjamin Tjiane was running more than just the 90-odd kilometres between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. He was pursuing a goal that had started during the Covid-19 lockdowns. What began as a personal challenge has evolved into something much deeper.

“My first race was 21 km in 2019. After Covid-19, I challenged myself to run 42 and 50 km races, which were qualifying criteria for the Comrades," Benjamin remembers, “and that is how I started running Comrades marathons, realising I have endurance."

Tjiane, a Venda Athletic Club member and a North-West University (NWU) master’s-degree student, finished this year’s Comrades in a time of 11 hours, 27 minutes and 53 seconds, supplementing his collection with a fourth medal. Crossing the finish line triggered an influx of emotions for Tjiane.

“I experienced a blend of emotions, feeling joyful for having made my family proud. The fact that I was being tracked on the screen until after 17:00 was a commitment that should not be overlooked. The realisation that I am adding the fourth medal filled me with immense excitement and joy,” he says.

Tough times never last

It turned out that Tjiane had had a difficult time throughout the first 30 kilometres of the race. “Down-run races are tough, and so was this year’s Comrades Marathon. It is all about applying brakes, which result in blisters, locked feet and cramps. The first 30 km of the race was tough, if not challenging – it is 45% of the total height to climb a mountain, and having passed Polly Shortts up to Drummond was a relief.”

Tjiane is not just noticing coincidences between his academic journey and his running. His research focuses on the “Adverse reporting of media in the administration of justice: case study on criminal court matters”, a subject dear to his heart because of his extensive legal background. “I have had 27 years in the legal fraternity and have seen the negative impact of the media. It is taking a toll on us," he states, referring to the pre-emptive judgements made by journalists and individuals on social applications.

Tjiane hopes his research will bring significant transformation. “Media sensationalism will stop; the judiciary will deliver quality judgements, and citizen journalism will exist no more, especially if the Criminal Procedure Act on case reporting can be enacted.” He notes similarities between his two endeavours, stating, "A runner should never be disturbed or interfered with during race preparations," similar to how the judiciary should function without media interference.

A philosophy, formed over 27 years in the legal fraternity, has helped him get through both the hard first 30 kilometres of the down run and the methodical process of his academic study. “When the going is tough, never give up. The race hills are like my research study – I will never stop until I reach the rewarding stage,” Tjiane adds.

His commitment is evident in more ways than one. He dedicated this year's Comrades to his daughter, Lethabo, who was unable to attend because of her exam obligations.

Health and excellence

At a time when many think about taking it easy, Tjiane illustrates that life after 40 can serve as a launchpad instead of an endpoint. His dedication to running is not just for awards or records; it is also to keep up the mental and physical strength needed for academic work and professional excellence. “Running is about self-discipline and self-motivation," he states.

Whether tackling the difficult obstacles of legal research or the notorious hills of the Comrades route, he has never considered quitting, emphasising that, “After each uphill, there is a downhill (to enjoy)”.

For Tjiane, whether he is sprinting towards a finish line or pursuing a degree, the core principles remain unchanged: discipline, determination and the unshakeable belief that each difficult kilometre brings him nearer to his objective.

Benjamin Tjiane

Ch@s peer helpers shine at 2025 NWU graduation

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 10:36:46 +0000

Ch@s peer helpers shine at 2025 NWU graduation

by Angeline Marokoane

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 06/13/2025 - 12:36

In a heartwarming and triumphant celebration of perseverance, passion, and purpose, the Ch@s peer helpers from the North-West University’s Vanderbijlpark Campus made an unforgettable mark during the May 2025 graduation ceremonies. But this was not just any graduation story — this was a victory parade for a group of student leaders whose impact reached far beyond academics.

From the bustling corridors of campus to the safe spaces of counselling rooms, these Peer Helpers became champions of emotional wellness and academic support, walking alongside their fellow students through the highs and lows of student life. As the tassels turned and the degrees were conferred, the air was thick with pride.

At the helm of this dynamic team stood Mandla Maduna, the 2024 chairperson, whose steady leadership anchored the group during a year rich in mental health advocacy and peer-led initiatives. From awareness campaigns to crisis interventions, Mandla led with vision and unwavering commitment.

Equally remarkable was Winile Mthembu, deputy chairperson and graduate with distinction, who balanced academic brilliance with a compassion-driven leadership style that made every peer feel seen, heard, and supported.

Sibongile Dhlamini the secretary, kept the engine running smoothly with meticulous organisation and effective communication — a behind-the-scenes maestro whose work ensured every project stayed on track.

With a love for learning and a gift for empowering others, Thandiwe Majola, the academics officer, created transformative spaces for academic growth, reminding students that excellence is a journey best taken together.

Also honoured were Promise Nxumalo and Reabetswe Tsoai, who both graduated with distinction, cementing their roles not only as academic achievers but as pillars of the Peer Helpers team — always ready with a listening ear and a helping hand.

These individuals were more than students. They were mentors, motivators, and mental health ambassadors. Their graduation represents the culmination of a journey marked by selflessness and service and their contributions will echo in the lives of those they’ve supported.

Lesedi Sebetha, Ch@s peer helpers coordinator, beamed with pride as he paid tribute to the graduates:

“To the 2024 Ch@s graduates — I am beyond proud of each one of you. Your resilience, selflessness, and dedication throughout the year set you apart as true changemakers. It has been a privilege to witness your growth and the incredible support you’ve offered to fellow students. As you now venture into the next chapter of your lives, whether that be job hunting, starting new careers, or pursuing further education, I wish you nothing but success. Always walk tall knowing the world needs more people like you — grounded, passionate, and purpose-driven. Once a Peer Helper, always a Peer Helper.”

As the Ch@s peer helpers don their gowns and step boldly into the future, one thing is certain — they leave behind more than empty seats in the student offices. They leave behind a trail of transformed lives, inspired peers, and a culture of care that will carry on through those who follow in their footsteps.

Mandla Maduna

Thandiwe Majola