By Ontiretse Motingwa

World Teachers’ Day is celebrated annually on 5 October in recognition of and to show appreciation for the critical role teachers play in contributing to education and development across the globe.

This year’s theme is “The transformation of education begins with teachers”.

“This year’s theme reminds me of the Bible verse 1 Timothy 5:8 – in short – charity begins at home,” says Ellen Nkwe, North-West University (NWU) Setswana lecturer.

There is an urgent need to address the problem of inadequate funding for postgraduate studies in South Africa. This was the recurring consensus during the recent North-West University (NWU) donor event held in Sandton, Johannesburg.

Oldrin Masowa

According to statistics, every day one in 27 South African women is at risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer. This particularly affects those between the ages of 15 and 60 as most women – especially those from disadvantaged rural areas – can’t afford mammograms.

This is why the North-University University’s (NWU’s) SisterHood Foundation, in partnership with Virgin Active and the Kealeboga Modimo Foundation, will celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Day by educating women about breast cancer risks, symptoms and prevention.

Ontiretse Motingwa

Joseph Senosi, North-West University (NWU) alumnus and currently a trainee script writer of Skeem Saam, was recently invited by the School of Communication to talk to second- and third-year corporate communication students on the Mahikeng Campus.

Joseph, who holds a BA in communication from the NWU, inspired the students by sharing his journey and pointing out the hardships and opportunities he experienced along the way.

Oldrin Masowa

Oldrin Masowa

Entering the world of work can be challenging particularly in a world which is constantly changing and in demand of new skills and information. Thanks to the North-West University (NWU’s) Career Centre students and alumni are able to reach their full potential through provision of academic developments, CV training, preparation for the world of work, interview preparations and financial intelligence.

The North-West University (NWU) has welcomed the United States Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben E Brigety II, during a function at its Mahikeng Campus on 4 October.

The ambassador, who officially arrived in the country eight weeks ago, was accompanied by the US Consul General in Johannesburg, Mr Vincent Spera.

NWU principal and vice-chancellor, Dr Bismark Tyobeka, said the ambassador’s visit was important as the university was considering partnering with the Colorado School of Mines to assist in establishing an NWU School of Mining.

Dr Luce Pretorius, an academic at North-West University’s (NWU’s) Social Work subject group, has recently conducted a study to look at ways to enhance safety of social workers against client violence.

The study was titled “A policy framework to enhance the protection of South African social workers against client violence”.

Student leaders and management of the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus recently celebrated Arbor Month by planting 40 trees on campus and outside residences.