The North-West University (NWU), a South African public higher education institution, whose policies and rules are governed in accordance with the supreme law of the country – the South African Constitution – has the responsibility and accountability to ensure access and success of students. 

As a public institution, the university recruits and admits qualifying students, regardless of their origin (village/township/town/region), race, religion, or gender.

The North-West University (NWU) has become the first South African university to adopt an official artificial intelligence (AI) policy. The NWU Council approved the policy at its most recent meeting, further cementing the university’s position as a leader in artificial intelligence in the higher education sector.

As nations strive towards net-zero energy targets, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), has called for South Africa to take the nuclear energy lead as the continent transitions away from its fossil fuel dependency.

Speaking ahead of one of the most significant international energy gatherings on African soil, the G20 Nuclear Energy Ministerial Conference being held on 9 October in Durban, Prof Tyobeka stressed that South Africa’s leadership in nuclear development could define how the continent navigates its energy future.

By Prof Joseph Sekhampu

For millions of South Africans, the struggle for water, electricity or safety has become routine. The queues for basic services grow longer, while those in power grow richer. It feels like chaos, yet what if this dysfunction is not a sign of failure, but evidence of how the state now works? The revelations from the Madlanga Commission remind us that what we call crisis may, in truth, be design.

• “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.”

In South Africa, a degree no longer guarantees a job. Youth unemployment hovers at crisis levels, and many graduates struggle to find stable work. Entrepreneurship, often touted as a remedy, is still seen by many as a last resort rather than a viable career path. The result is a paradox: at a time when the economy urgently needs new ventures, the very people best positioned to create them hesitate to take the leap.

• “It is important to stress that we cannot afford to lose international visitors at this point, nor can we risk creating confusion around one of our flagship attractions,” says tourism expert.

• “Renaming would almost certainly lead to short-term brand loss, visitor uncertainty, and broader economic costs across the tourism sector.”

• “Kruger is arguably one of the most famous wildlife brands in the world. It is mentioned alongside names such as the Serengeti and Yellowstone.”