• “The future of Africa depends on ethical leaders who can guide their institutions through the complex intersection of technology, knowledge, and justice,” says Prof Linda du Plessis.

• “African leaders must evolve beyond political or institutional authority to become visionary stewards of digital transformation with an unwavering commitment to ethical and inclusive innovation.”

• “One of the greatest challenges for African higher education leaders is navigating political pressure while safeguarding academic freedom.”

At a time when teachers are so often regarded as the unsung heroes of society, growing attention is being paid to the emotional burden they carry on a daily basis. The question is no longer whether teachers are under pressure, but rather how long they can withstand it without severe consequences for their own well-being and for the future of South Africa’s children. Dr Marelize Vergottini, senior lecturer in Social Work at the North-West University (NWU), cautions that the emotional well-being of our teachers is in a state of crisis – one that can no longer be ignored.

The latest gross domestic product (GDP) figures released by StatsSA on 9 September are much better news on the growth front than we have received for some time.

Prof Raymond Parsons, economist from the North-West University (NWU) Business School, says that, as was broadly expected, the GDP figures for the second quarter of 2025 confirm that the incipient economic recovery has accelerated and widened by involving several more sectors in supporting economic growth.

• Researchers have created a comprehensive list of indigenous names for frogs and reptiles in order to promote inclusive conservation

• People are far more likely to protect what they can name

• South Africa’s indigenous languages have long been marginalised in science

• The inclusion of indigenous names in biodiversity literature is not only good science, but also democratic

"My greatest hope is that my contributions create ripple effects – opening doors for others, laying foundations for future breakthroughs, and helping shape a more just and resilient world for future generations."

The 1% rise in the unemployment level in the first quarter of 2025 raises another red flag about South Africa’s weak growth performance.

Prof Raymond Parsons, economist from the North-West University (NWU) Business School, says with the gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecasts for 2025 having been progressively reduced by various institutions and economists to about 1,5% and below, it is not unexpected that this should now be reflected in higher unemployment levels.

The bad news from the latest assessment by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) of the impact of trade wars and policy uncertainty on the world economy is not unexpected. It nonetheless highlights the extent of the economic damage anticipated by recent unbridled United States of America (US) protectionism and its wider consequences.

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) principal and vice-chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, has been reappointed as a member of the South African Council for the Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction for a period of five years from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2030.

This announcement was made by Mr Mpho Parks Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, on 31 March 2025.

There is a small brick building on Watauga Club Drive here in Raleigh, North Carolina. There is something different about it, something that distinguishes it from the other academic structures on the campus of the North Carolina State University (NCSU). It is old, very old. Primrose Hall was originally opened in 1896 and now houses the Office of Global Engagement.