Student life

Human Movement Science students contribute to National School Sport Championships

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 12:44:23 +0000

Human Movement Science students contribute to National School Sport Championships

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 07/21/2025 - 14:44

The involvement of students from the North-West University's (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus in the recent National School Sport Championships marks another significant milestone in the university’s growing partnership with the North West Provincial Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

Six Human Movement Science students provided practical support during the championships, which took place from 11 to 14 July 2025 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. Showcasing their skills, discipline and professionalism, they offered a range of services, including athlete safeguarding, administrative assistance, basic first aid, and psychological support.

This initiative forms part of an ongoing effort to provide students with hands-on experiences that complement their academic training. The participating students were Rethabile Mmutlwane, a graduate in Human Movement Science; final-year students Lulutho Jizana and Gina Appiah; and honours students Nomcebo Dumakude, Kaybee Nko and Osego Molefi.

This opportunity is the result of a strong and evolving collaboration between the NWU’s School of Human Movement Sciences and the North West Provincial Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, which remains committed to providing practical learning environments for students. The Department’s inclusion of students at national events reflects its confidence in the quality of education and training provided by the NWU.

“We greatly value this partnership,” says Siyanda Mbatha, a lecturer in the School of Human Movement Sciences. “It allows our students to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, while also contributing to the development of sport on a national level.”

Reflecting on the experience, honours student Nomcebo remarked: “This experience was an eye-opener. It highlighted the importance of often-overlooked elements during competitions, such as mental preparation and the psychological state of players during matches. Understanding what athletes are thinking even when playing through injuries adds a new dimension to how we support them.”

As this collaboration continues to grow, plans are already in motion to involve more students in future sporting events, creating a sustainable platform for experiential learning and professional development.

From left are Lulutho Jizana, Rethabile Mmutlwane, Nomcebo Dumakude, Gina Appiah, Osego Molefi and Kaybee Nko.

Mahikeng Campus dancers claim USSA title again

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 07:57:42 +0000

Mahikeng Campus dancers claim USSA title again

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 07/17/2025 - 09:57

They hardly put a foot wrong. With flair and dazzling dance performances, the Dance Sport team of the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus has successfully defended their title as University Sports South Africa (USSA) Dance Sport champions.

The NWU team of 20 athletes competed against dancers from 13 South African universities in a tournament hosted by the University of KwaZulu-Natal Westville Campus in Durban from 28 June to 3 July.

They danced across multiple categories including ballroom, Latin, team formation, American show dance and team match. Every athlete progressed to the finals in their respective sections, accumulating a total of 93 points, enough to secure the overall victory.

Head coach and participant Prince Motaung says tight schedules and limited resources marked the team’s preparation. “This year has been extremely challenging, with exams in between training sessions, back-to-back competitions and no proper venue to rehearse,” he said after the tournament. “However, the team still came out on top, and they defended the title with honour.”

The NWU competed in the beginner and adult championship categories, collecting podium points that reinforced their dominance in the national university dance circuit.

“Their performance in the final stages of the tournament demonstrated consistency and coordination, particularly in the team sections where group synchronisation is crucial,” says Prince, who is also the current vice-chairperson of USSA Dance Sport NUSA.

Having won the championships in 2024 and 2025, the Mahikeng team is already preparing for the next competition cycle – while at the same time ensuring they do justice to their academics.

Sasol Foundation deepens NWU partnership to drive postgraduate success

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 12:44:27 +0000

Sasol Foundation deepens NWU partnership to drive postgraduate success BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 07/15/2025 - 14:44

By Gofaone Motsamai and Phenyo Mokgothu

A partnership with the common goal of producing researchers ready to respond to the needs of society has unlocked full bursaries for nine postgraduate chemistry students from the North-West University (NWU). This is one of the results of the ongoing partnership between the university and the Sasol Foundation.

The scholarships, awarded under the National Research Foundation-Sasol Foundation Scholarship Programme, are for the 2025 academic year and were confirmed during a visit to the Mahikeng Campus.

The programme will support three honours, five master’s and one PhD student. Its broader aim is to bolster the number of science researchers from historically disadvantaged universities, as well as black and female scientists and those living with disabilities.

Since inception, the scholarship programme has sponsored over 400 postgraduate students, a number of whom have received continuous funding from honours through to doctoral level.

Prof Zimbili Zondi, head of the subject group Chemistry, said these awards reflect the value of strategic partnerships in higher education.

“This is not just about funding degrees. It is about building careers and sharpening scientific minds to tackle real-world problems.”

She added that support from the Sasol Foundation is aligned with the department’s goal of producing researchers who are ready to respond to the needs of society.

“When students interact with industry, they begin to see where their knowledge fits into society and how they can lead change through research,” she said.

Dr Bulelwa Keke, portfolio manager for tertiary education at Sasol, said that this is more than funding education.

“The NWU is developing an environment where knowledge and innovation can take root. Through this initiative we are not only empowering individuals, but also shaping a more inclusive, sustainable and equitable future for all.”

A record of growing support and impact

Four students supported by the programme have secured internships at Sasol, further strengthening the connection between academic study and work experience. Of these, two have since received permanent appointments as scientists.

The Sasol Foundation has continued to support the NWU’s postgraduate development. In previous visits to the Mahikeng Campus in 2022 and 2023, the Foundation reaffirmed its focus on strengthening research capacity through scholarships, mentorship and the donation of research equipment.

Nine postgraduate chemistry students from the NWU received full bursaries from the National Research Foundation-Sasol Foundation Scholarship Programme.

Vanderbijlpark bodybuilding and CrossFit teams triumph at USSA 2025

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 08:10:43 +0000

Vanderbijlpark bodybuilding and CrossFit teams triumph at USSA 2025

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 07/07/2025 - 10:10

For years, the bodybuilding team of the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU) has been a consistent force, never dropping out of the top three at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) Bodybuilding Championships.

2025 was no different, as they once again showcased their class at the USSA Bodybuilding and CrossFit Championships hosted by the Durban University of Technology in Pietermaritzburg on 28 June.

Facing fierce competition from nine other universities, the NWU returned home with an impressive haul: five trophies in different categories, two overall trophies, and six medals from top six category placings.

“This is one of the strongest squads we have ever had,” says coach Raphael Ntumba. “From day one, they showed the hunger to push beyond their limits – and it paid off.”

The bodybuilding team was placed second overall, proving their disciplined commitment to intensive training and nutrition regimens ranging from four to eight weeks based on each athlete’s body composition. In total, they secured five first-place finishes plus two overall titles, cementing their place among the best on the day.

Notable results included:

· Mzamani Mabasa: 1st place Senior Men under 75 kg

· Thapelo Leputu: 1st place and overall winner Senior Men over 175 cm (Men’s Physique)

· Caley van der Bank: 1st place and overall winner Wellness under 166 cm

· Palesa Maselo: 1st place Ladies Body Fitness

· Cindy Dube: 1st place Ladies Wellness over 166 cm

· Rochelle de Klerk: 2nd place Ladies Bikini

· Busisiwe Maphumulo: 3rd place Ladies Bikini over 163 cm

· Shari Igwe: 3rd place Body Fitness

· Nkateko Ngobeni: 4th place Body Fitness

· Conrad Johan Esterhuyse: 4th place Senior Men Classic Physique One lineup

· Mpho Monyela: 6th place Ladies Beach Bikini under 163 cm

· Dumisani Kokozela: 6th place Senior Men under 80 kg

· Wethu Mboweni: 5th place Senior Men under 80 kg

· Mojalefa Moloi: 6th place Senior Men over 80 kg

· Francis Motsileng: 6th place Men’s Physique under 175 cm

“Bringing home five trophies plus two overall trophies is no small feat,” adds coach Ntumba. “Every single athlete who stepped on stage was a winner in my eyes. Whether you took gold or sixth place, you made us proud.”

Of the 20 athletes chosen to represent USSA at the upcoming National Championships in Durban this September, five hail from the NWU’s Vanderbijlpark Campus:

1. Caley van der Bank

2. Rochelle de Klerk

3. Palesa Maselo

4. Thapelo Leputu

5. Mzamani Mabasa

“That is a huge honour,” says coach Ntumba. “It shows the depth of talent and the culture we have built here.”

Meanwhile, the Vanderbijlpark Campus CrossFit team, represented by Brian Kubuya, Lethloronoholo Motaung and Kabelo Earl Mahange, put on a remarkable show of teamwork and grit to claim an excellent third place finish.

“CrossFit is about resilience and unity. Our CrossFit team delivered on both fronts, and they left everything out there on the floor,” says coach Ntumba.

As the National Championships in September draw closer, the athletes remain laser-focused on maintaining their momentum.

“Now it is about keeping that momentum, polishing the details, and believing in ourselves,” coach Ntumba concludes.

Coach Raphael Ntumba says he is proud of the team.

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

by Zenoyise John

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.