Press Release

Commission for Gender Equality Report: GBV and Sexual Harassment

MARELIZE SANTANA — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 11:37:25 +0000

Commission for Gender Equality Report: GBV and Sexual Harassment MARELIZE SANTANA Fri, 12/13/2024 - 13:37

In early 2024, the North-West University (NWU) participated in a research study conducted by the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE). The main aim of the study was to get an understanding of the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual harassment (SH) at higher education institutions and focused on three universities including the NWU. The NWU viewed the study as crucial towards building a knowledgebase that can assist in addressing the scourge of GBV and Sexual Harassment in our country, particularly within the higher education sector, hence our participation in the study and the subsequent policy dialogue and panel discussion.

The research report was released in early December, followed by a policy dialogue which took place on 10 December 2024. The NWU participated in the policy dialogue and highlighted that although the university has the necessary policies and processes in place, these are regularly reviewed to ensure that the structures, systems, processes and procedures are adequate and responsive to the problem. A total of twenty-six (26) NWU participants including staff, student leaders, and students representing various demographics took part in the research study. We will address and deal comprehensively with the issues raised and the recommendations made; we hope that a follow-up study will be conducted soon.

Feedback from stakeholders such as students, staff, and organisations such as the CGE is crucial in ensuring that our policy and systems review processes and interventions to address GBV and Sexual Harassment are transparent, efficient, and effective.

We note the research findings and recommit ourselves to work with all relevant stakeholders to,

Create an environment that is hostile and unwelcoming to perpetrators of GBV and Sexual Harassment
Simplify the processes of responding to GBV and Sexual Harassment reported cases, while adhering to the principle of ethic of care for the affected parties
Continuously review policies and processes, and capacitate the structures that are responsible for addressing GBV, Sexual Harassment, and other related cases;
Intensify our campaigns and educational projects and activities aimed at raising awareness and conscientising students and staff regarding GBV and SH; and
Proactively encourage students and staff to report incidents of GBV and Sexual Harassment that may be occur in all areas of the NWU.

The table below shows some of the findings contained in the report and the NWU comments and actions that will be taken to address the issues and enhance processes.

RESEARCH FINDING

COMMENT/ACTION(S)

Students are engaging in sex work to survive

It is painful to learn about this practice. The NWU has various programmes in place to assist students financially and offer basic needs for students to sustain themselves. Various structures such as the Student Finance and Student Life portfolios work with student leaders to assist students in need. The NWU partners with relevant organisations that offer youth development and empowerment programmes to create awareness about a range of issues/challenges including wellness, financial management, and healthy lifestyle.

This is a complex issue that needs a broader societal understanding and response.

Most focus group participants indicated they did not know of any SH or GBV policies at the institution

The university has a policy on Sexual Harassment and GBV, including a Standard Operations Procedure (SOP) on addressing GBV cases. Section 73(d) of the NWU Statute and the Manual on Student Discipline, Rule 12.2.2.13-15 address the issue. These policies are available on our website.

We will work with student leaders in various structures to implement awareness campaigns and ensure broader reach and impact of the policies and rules.

Under-reporting of incidents

We have noted with concern that the GBV and Sexual Harassment cases seem to be under-reported. Although it is unfortunate, the trend mirrors the national or societal challenge where under-reporting of incidents and withdrawal of cases seem prevalent. While respecting the wishes of the complainants not to report the cases, it must also be noted that it is their right not to proceed with cases should they not wish to do so. The SOP of the university on GBVF-related matters also accommodates this aspect. The complainant should not feel victimised further by the institution forcing him/her to report the matter. Some of the reasons are associated with the fear of stigma from peers. The NWU will continue to collaborate with relevant organisations at provincial and national levels to create trust in the system. Furthermore, we will ensure compliance with the latest legislative amendments which place an obligation on institutions to pursue cases regardless of withdrawal or non-reporting.

During 2024, 26 cases were reported at the NWU.

Lack of platforms to report and address SH

The GBV and Sexual Harassment incidents can be reported via the following platforms:

Protection Services
House parents of residences
Counselling services
Student leadership structures

Awareness campaigns are regularly conducted by relevant internal stakeholders. There are several awareness campaigns that are also held with the university residences, including webinars.

Investigative skills shortage

The university has gone to great lengths to address this issue. The creation of positions for GBV investigators within Protection Services shows the commitment by the university. Student Judicial Services has well-qualified prosecutors/initiators with experience in litigation. This department works together with Protection Services to guide investigations. Additional resources and initiatives are also being explored.

Protection Services has created specialist positions, namely Priority Crimes and GBV and femicide investigators, with a view to catering for and focusing on such cases.

Nothing happens to cases during exam periods

Due to the students’ focus on their academics during examination periods, witnesses/victims/perpetrators tend to not attend scheduled hearings.

The university will continue to raise awareness regarding the reporting of GBV and SH incidents. It has been realised that there is a need for more measures aimed at raising awareness regarding available support structures and the processes and procedures for all students and staff who are affected by GBV and SH.

The CGE report can be found here.

NWU Business School launches Advanced Leadership for Women short learning programme in partnership with the LGSETA

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 04:52:44 +0000

NWU Business School launches Advanced Leadership for Women short learning programme in partnership with the LGSETA BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 10/24/2024 - 06:52

The North-West University (NWU) Business School is proud to announce the launch of a new cohort for its Short Learning Programme on Advanced Leadership for Women, aimed at empowering women in leadership roles across municipalities in South Africa. This initiative is supported and funded by the Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA), underscoring the importance of developing women leaders in South Africa.

Participants will gain comprehensive knowledge in the fields of self-management, organisational behaviour, diversity, conflict and change management, and leadership. They will also be trained in research methods and techniques, enabling them to apply these skills practically through case studies and real-world projects.

Prof Leon Jackson of the NWU Business School developed this programme in 2011 and presented the first programme in 2012 to 50 beneficiaries from the Department of Basic Education in North West, funded by the ETDP SETA. In 2022, 50 beneficiaries from the Department of Basic Education in the Northern Cape benefited from the programme, which was also funded by the ETDP SETA. In 2023, 100 women from the local government sector, funded by the LGSETA, formed part of the programme and were awarded their certificates at a ceremony held in Johannesburg in November 2023.

This year, over 200 women are set to receive training. This initiative supports the national call for women empowerment and encourages them to assume leadership positions in their workplaces. The focus of the programme is on theoretical and practical leadership skills, which makes it a key contributor to the growth and development of women leaders in local government.

The launch event will take place on 25 October 2024 at The Roots in Potchefstroom. Attendees will include the leadership of the NWU Business School, LGSETA delegates, representatives from the NWU and the selected participants in the programme.

This partnership with the LGSETA not only supports the local government sector but also strengthens the commitment of the NWU Business School to developing the next generation of women leaders in local government. Through its comprehensive Executive Education offerings, the NWU Business School continues to equip professionals with the skills and insights needed to thrive in today’s fast-changing world.

For more information, media representatives can contact:

Mbali Skosana Clara Vilankulu

Email: mbali.skosana@nwu.ac.za Email: clarav@lgseta.org.za

Phone: 018 389 2937 Phone: 011 456 8579/082 678 6794

Academic offers matrics valuable advice for 2024 exams

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 07:20:40 +0000

Academic offers matrics valuable advice for 2024 exams

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 10/15/2024 - 09:20

With matric finals just days away, North-West University (NWU) academic in the Faculty of Education Dr Judicial Sebatana says they must focus on the present and not on past shortcomings.

Sharing his insights on the readiness of matric learners for their final exams which start on 21 October 2024, Dr Sebatana points out that the final exams account for 75% of their mark, whereas past performance only counts for 25%. “It’s important for learners to remember that it’s not too late.”

Assessing the readiness of matrics is a complex task due to multiple factors, he says. “We need to consider the content factor, which includes curriculum coverage and learner performance in school-based assessments, mid-year exams and preparatory exams.”

For subjects that require practical experiments a key issue to consider is the availability of resources and whether schools were able to conduct those experiments.”

He also highlights the role of the measures in place to assist learners who have struggled academically during the school year, such as after-hours and weekend classes run by teachers in partnership with school governing bodies.

Support for the last stretch

The NWU’s Ikateleng project have also been assisting learners across the North West, Gauteng, Northern Cape and Free State provinces. “There are also various support programmes such as the Last Push, initiated by the Department of Basic Education,” Dr Sebatana says says. He adds that the department’s mathematics, science and technology unit offers further support, both in person and through virtual learning, to schools that have struggled with performance.

Dr Sebatana identifies mathematics, physical science, accounting and economics as subjects where learners may face more challenges. Mathematics had a pass rate of 53% in 2023 and physical science 61%. “These subjects are difficult for both learners and teachers, partly due to the need for various teaching and learning resources.”

He advises learners to prepare for these exams by working through past exam papers, using physics education technology simulations for certain physical science topics and accessing recorded lessons made available by the Department of Basic Education.

A final piece of advice for learners is to focus their revision on simpler topics before moving on to more difficult ones. “This can help them manage their study time better and enhance their exam readiness.”

NWU awards honorary doctorate to Peter Chiepe for contributions to agriculture

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 13:38:32 +0000

NWU awards honorary doctorate to Peter Chiepe for contributions to agriculture

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 10/03/2024 - 15:38

The North-West University (NWU) conferred an honorary doctorate in agriculture on Peter Monametsi Chiepe during its Spring graduation ceremony on 3 October 2024. An earth scientist, businessman, social entrepreneur and farmer from Botswana, Chiepe was recognised for his contributions to agriculture, particularly in sustainable farming practices.

The NWU honoured Chiepe for his role in establishing a successful livestock value-chain company that operates across Africa and internationally. His work is supported by technological solutions, best practices and innovative in-house production systems, which have uplifted small-scale farmers across the continent. Chiepe’s contributions extend beyond business as he has walked a long path in developing a transformative agribusiness model aimed at promoting sustainability in Africa.

A dedicated seed-stock breeder, he has worked with leading global entities in the United States of America, South Africa, Australia, Brazil and Ecuador since the early 1990s. His primary focus has been on breeding and developing the American Brahman breed.

He also runs extensive ranching operations and an embryo transfer centre that exports embryos, semen and live seed-stock cattle. The centre was established to provide scientific validation for transformational models focused on advancing agricultural practices across the African continent.

Chiepe’s background in earth sciences and his experience as a social entrepreneur have shaped his approach to business development. Focusing on promoting inclusive development and uplifting marginalised communities, his goal is to create a network of globally competitive entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector who are committed to ethical practices.

His professional journey began when he founded Geoflux, a geosciences and engineering consulting firm, in 1989

His agribusiness, Champrimo, has a particular emphasis on the beef and dairy industries, catering to both smallholder and large-scale farmers.

Chiepe’s efforts have focused on improving livestock quality and integrating African breeds into commercial production. His work with the American Brahman breed, in conjunction with local African breeds, has enhanced the adaptability and competitiveness of livestock in global markets, while empowering farming communities and promoting sustainable livelihoods.

In his response, Chiepe expressed his gratitude for the honorary degree, acknowledging the significance of being recognised by the NWU. He described the honour as a milestone that reflects his commitment to improving agriculture across Africa.

The North-West University (NWU) conferred an honorary doctorate in agriculture on Peter Monametsi Chiepe

NWU expertise is addressing urgent societal needs

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 06:30:30 +0000

NWU expertise is addressing urgent societal needs

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 10/02/2024 - 08:30

In the heart of South Africa, where the sun dips low over maize fields, grazing cattle and platinum mines of untold riches, dust gathers over forgotten places. It is here, where discontent grows as promises fade, that the North-West University (NWU) has heard the plight of a province in need.

The NWU is named after the North West Province, reflecting its regional roots and identity. The NWU is also the only contact university in the province. So when the province is in pain, the university feels it, hears it and sees it.

The province is not just in pain, it is suffering. Its unemployment rate of 54.2% is the highest in the country. About 25% of households face food insecurity, especially in rural areas where malnutrition and poor health are widespread. There are only 0,21 doctors per 1 000 people, which is the lowest in the country, and only 30% of the province’s population has completed secondary education.

The NWU is committed to addressing the societal needs of the province by applying its expertise in areas where the North West needs it most.

“As a university, we cannot be a bystander, we have to contribute to the wellbeing of not only the province, but the country. We need to work with the government and other stakeholders to build a capable state. The province faces many challenges, from food insecurity and unemployment to our administrative and health systems. We are developing new and relevant skills that will help eradicate unemployment,” explains Nkosinathi Tom, Director: Strategic Partnerships and Special Projects in the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka.

The NWU is currently in the process of establishing the country’s 11th medical school, which will produce skilled general practitioners to support the province’s ailing health system. This is being done in collaboration with the North West Department of Health and relevant industry sectors. The NWU Council also approved the establishment of a task team on the proposed NWU Schools of Mines and Mining Engineering, as the University has the necessary skills and expertise to develop and enhance this sector for the benefit of society.

The University is exploring the possibility of establishing a veterinary school, which would work alongside the NWU’s subject group Animal Health and the agriculture programme, among others, to make food security a priority. In the country and the North West Province, agriculture plays an important role in adding economic value, providing jobs, enabling rural development and ensuring food security. The focus is on sustainable crop production using the latest available methods and technologies, with an emphasis on caring for the soil while ensuring optimal crop production.

“If we look at food security, there is a massive need in the province, but the University has both the capacity and the expertise to make a noticeable difference in this sector, and we are increasing our involvement in agriculture by further developing our partnerships with government and the private sector,” he explains.

In addition to these efforts, the NWU is also looking to collaborate with the province’s ailing agricultural colleges, and much progress has been made in this regard.

“We have a forward-looking vision, but as we move the University forward, we also want to make a difference, and we are making a difference. We are producing capable graduates who will become leaders and who will be able to provide sustainable solutions to the problems facing their community. Our key projects are aimed at community upliftment. Let’s look at our mines. When they close down, their surrounding communities are hit hard. We must change that,” says Tom.

As the sun sinks deeper, long shadows are cast over the fortunes of the people of the North West, but candles are being lit. In the fading light, hope may sometimes seem fragile, but the NWU will remain steadfast in its commitment to lead the province to a new dawn.

NWU’s artificial intelligence expertise is safeguarding the sanctity of degrees

MARELIZE SANTANA — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 09:08:59 +0000

NWU’s artificial intelligence expertise is safeguarding the sanctity of degrees

by Bertie Jacobs

MARELIZE SANTANA Thu, 09/19/2024 - 11:08

There is no feeling like it. You stand there with bated breath, waiting for your name to be called. This is the culmination of years of hard work, dedication … determination. Underneath your black gown, your nervous system is in flux, you are a veritable cauldron of emotions. “I can’t believe I did it,” you think to yourself. Then it happens. You are called to the front. Applause fills the graduation hall. You hear the cheers of your family. You reflect on the sacrifices they have made, that you have made. You leave the stage, beaming, degree in hand and your future ahead of you. You have just graduated. But, what you are holding is just a piece of paper, a certificate, a proof of you accomplishments. A degree is so much more, and artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly devaluing the meaning of that certificate.

The North-West University (NWU) is protecting the sanctity of its degrees from the onslaught of artificial intelligence tools that hamper students’ ability to cultivate the skills necessary to critically judge and evaluate their prescribed work.

To facilitate and oversee the implementation of AI tools at the NWU, and to ensure that students are served rather than hindered by this technology, the University has established an AI steering committee with members from across the university.

“Our vision, in short, is that we want to embrace AI. We want to do it fully aware of all the risks involved and in an ethical way. We are keeping up with the latest developments in the field, and we want to encourage students and staff to use AI, but they need to be aware of the dangers, because there are many dangers. That is why we have systems in place – and we are constantly improving these systems – that protect our data and mitigate the risks of AI,” explains Prof Anné Verhoef, head of the steering committee and director of the NWU’s School of Philosophy.

Part of the NWU’s AI framework, which is already in place, are ethical and responsible guidelines for the use of AI, especially for students.

“Our guidelines are visible, they are being communicated and they are already being used for academic integrity in the teaching and learning side of the university. We also check that students are using AI ethically and responsibly,” he explains.

“In the long term, AI will definitely be a valuable research tool. It will make many tasks much easier, but it will also make it easier to cheat. So, unless we have the necessary assessment tools in place, we are going to end up with worthless degrees.”

Why? Because, when students overuse AI to complete their tasks and assessments, they are unable to effectively reflect on and interpret the work they have done. They won’t develop critical thinking, problem-solving and analytical skills. They will struggle to develop creativity and the ability to do independently research and evaluate information. AI is fast, so it does not allow students to develop time management skills, adaptability or the ability to navigate complex issues.

This means that they will enter the workforce with the necessary degree, but without the skills to succeed.

“This is not a problem that is unique to South Africa; it is a global problem. The NWU has, I think, one of the most positive approaches to finding answers about academic integrity and the ethical and responsible use of AI. We have an educative system, and we have already developed AI literacy courses for students. If they don’t use AI tools properly, we can teach them how to use them properly. We are constantly looking for further creative ideas and we are open to debate. We are not running away from the threats posed by AI. On the contrary. We are allowing different voices to participate in the process of figuring out how to go ahead, what works and what does not work. It is a dynamic atmosphere where we are willing to learn from each other. I am confident that we are steering AI in the right direction at this university,” concludes Prof Verhoef.

There is nothing artificial about an NWU degree. It is more than a piece of paper; it is more than a testament to what you have done: It is a promise of what you are capable of doing.

Prof Anné Verhoef

Prof Tyobeka lauds proposed national nuclear initiative

MARELIZE SANTANA — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 12:56:29 +0000

Prof Tyobeka lauds proposed national nuclear initiative

by Bertie Jacobs

MARELIZE SANTANA Fri, 09/06/2024 - 14:56

The principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU) – and internationally renowned nuclear energy expert – Prof Bismark Tyobeka, has lauded the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy’s (DMRE) proposed recommendation to Cabinet that three possible ownership models to acquire and fund more nuclear projects in SA under the Nuclear New Build Programme (NNBP) be considered.

This follows the Department of Electricity and Energy and Eskom’s briefing to the Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy on the status of the NNBP as well as the extension of the Koeberg nuclear power plant’s lifespan for 20 years beyond it intended design.

The three most preferable funding models for the NNBP according to the DMRE are one that focusses on public-private partnerships, one where government hold majority ownership and one of full government ownership.

In December 2023, it was announced that South Africa will start producing an additional 2 500MW of nuclear power, but that process has since been put on hold.

“The National Development Plan expressly states that nuclear should be part of our energy supply package, so this is undoubtedly a step in the right direction. But it is also a path that should be followed with the necessary oversight structures in place. It is a process in which success will depend on transparency and collaboration between private and public role-players. Our goals are clear, and we cannot allow for unethical infringements to derail this very important endeavour. There is too much at stake and the losses the country has occurred during the past decade and more have had a dire impact on a variety of vital sectors which are the lifeblood of our economic wellbeing.

“We must also be honest. South Africa’s energy crisis has not subsided due to us experiencing less loadshedding. Eskom cannot tread the country’s energy waters alone, especially considering its current financial constraints, and renewable energy sources is not the only long-term option to keep our country’s economy afloat. The energy resources at our disposal must supplement each other. Our energy dependent puzzle needs all the pieces to fit together, and nuclear is a central piece of the picture,” said Prof Tyobeka.

He concluded by stating: “The NWU, as the only university in South Africa with a nuclear engineering programme, is also excited to hear that such strides are being made. We stand ready to increase our graduate throughput in the nuclear and radiation field, because without a solid homegrown capacity, the Nuclear New Build Programme will be too expensive. Imported skills are paid in euros and dollars, which increases our project costs. Given the private public partnership (PPP) ownership model where ultimately the plant is handed over to the state after a certain period, we must ensure that skilled nuclear scientists, engineers and other allied professionals will be available to carry out this huge undertaking.”

NWU students excel in SAICA ITC exams

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 13:27:11 +0000

NWU students excel in SAICA ITC exams

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 09/05/2024 - 15:27

The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Initial Test of Competence (ITC) exam is a critical milestone for aspiring chartered accountants in the country, and North-West University (NWU) students have once again proven to be among the best in the country.

Achieving high results in this exam demonstrates a strong grasp of fundamental accounting principles and readiness for advanced professional practice.

The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants, also known as SAICA, has released the results of its Initial Test of Competence, which is conducted in January and June each year. The NWU’s overall pass rate for the 2023 Postgraduate Degree in Accounting (PGDA) class increased from 97% in the January exam to 99% in the June exam. This puts the NWU in second place overall for the postgraduate degree in the country.

“Results such as these are a testament to the tireless efforts, dedication and passion for education of our staff and students. Well done PGDA class of 2023!” says Heleen Janse van Vuuren, Director of the NWU’s School of Accounting Sciences.

For a university like the NWU, the success of its students in the ITC is vital as it reflects the quality of its accounting programme and strengthens its reputation in the academic and business communities.

Tanzanian spray toad extinction highlights the need to protect biodiversity

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 08:39:03 +0000

Tanzanian spray toad extinction highlights the need to protect biodiversity

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 09/03/2024 - 10:39

When a species becomes extinct in the wild, the loss is permanent. For Africa, a serious loss is the extinction of the Tanzanian Kihansi spray toad (Nectophrynoides asperginis) due to habitat change and infectious disease.

This should serve as a wakeup call for policy makers to prioritise and implement conservation measures for endangered species.

Found only in the Udzungwa Mountains, the species experienced a population decline after the construction of the Lower Kihansi Hydropower project and an outbreak of a fungal disease. This is according to a study co-authored by Prof Ché Weldon of the North-West University’s (NWU’s) subject group Zoology.

The hydropower project reduced water flow in the toads’ habitat tenfold, and by March 2001 the population had dropped to fewer than 2 000 toads. Although restoration efforts increased the population to nearly 18 000 by June 2003, this recovery did not last.

The final blow was an outbreak of chytridiomycosis, caused by the chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. This infection affects the outermost layers of amphibians’ skin, impairing their ability to breathe or thermoregulate correctly. This led to the toad population's rapid decline. By 2009, the Kihansi spray toad was declared extinct in the wild.

Putting two and two together

The NWU study used spatiotemporal surveillance and mitogenome assembly of the fungus from archived toad specimens. It showed that the outbreak was caused by the BdCAPE lineage of the fungus which, according to molecular dating, appeared in southern Africa around the time of the extinction of the spray toads.

Further surveillance of other amphibian species in the Udzungwa Mountains showed BdCAPE infection without noticeable health impacts, suggesting that these species can tolerate the fungus under stable conditions. However, the spray toad's vulnerability increased due to habitat change.

The findings show that despite habitat restoration efforts, the BdCAPE fungus led to the Kihansi spray toad's extinction. This is the first documented instance in Africa of a host species being driven to extinction by this specific pathogen.

The study highlighted the use of molecular techniques, such as shotgun sequencing, to analyse archived specimens and understand disease outbreaks and their impacts. It calls for comprehensive efforts to assess the risks posed by habitat modification, climate change and emerging diseases on vulnerable species.

According to the authors, the extinction of the Kihansi spray toad shows the need for integrated conservation strategies that consider environmental changes and disease dynamics.

They say policymakers must recognise the threats posed by habitat alteration and emerging infectious diseases to prioritise and implement conservation actions for endangered species.

Prof Ché Weldon.

The now extinct Tanzanian Kihansi spray toad.

Virtual-reality laboratory bridges the gap between psychology and technology

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 13:11:27 +0000

Virtual-reality laboratory bridges the gap between psychology and technology

by Willie du Plessis

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 08/27/2024 - 15:11

The pursuit of greatness without boundaries by the North-West University (NWU) has just had an innovative technological boost with the launch of its virtual reality (VR) simulation laboratory at the Faculty of Health Sciences on 23 August.

Research and teaching and learning have never been more fun: the laboratory offers immersive experiences that not only stimulate the intellect, but also invigorate the senses as it breaks down physical boundaries to open a world of virtual possibilities. Just imagine dodging balls while playing rugby, deconstructing the human body to discover the hidden aspects of its anatomy, conducting patient assessments and interventions, and many other scenarios ─ all in one room.

“What is more, it will make a significant contribution to researchers’ quest to bring about impactful change in the lives of communities, as it will provide valuable data for research and interventions,” says Prof Daryl Balia, deputy vice-chancellor for Information Technology and Campus Operations (Potchefstroom Campus).

The simulation lab, which is the brainchild of a passionate young researcher, Neville Robertson, is hailed as the first in South Africa for psychology and social work. It promises to be an innovative research hub for these and other fields of study at the university.

A leap forward in using technology in psychology and social work

Housed in the Community Psychosocial Research unit (Compres) on the Potchefstroom Campus, the laboratory is impressively equipped. It has everything from VR headsets and a VR-linked treadmill, motion capture cameras and Loco sensors to tailor-made software to assist researchers with data collection.

Prof Retha Bloem, research director of Compres, says the laboratory has special significance for researchers working in communities, as it prepares them for real-life conditions and scenarios. “We want to tackle challenges and see how we can embrace technology to co-create the Africa we want. We believe we are the first university in South Africa to host a facility with this state-of-the-art equipment. We are very proud of and excited about it.”

“This laboratory represents not just a leap forward in technology, but a profound commitment to research, innovation and the future of social sciences and healthcare,” says Prof Jeanetta du Plessis, deputy dean for Research and Innovation in the Faculty of Health Sciences.

She explains that research is the foundation upon which the laboratory was built, and it is key to unlocking its full potential. "Through rigorous inquiry, experimentation and collaboration, it will aid us in discovering new ways to improve mental healthcare, to train our students more effectively, and to make a lasting impact on the communities we serve.”

Prof Awie Kotze, executive dean for the Faculty of Health Sciences, says the laboratory underscores the NWU’s obligation to embrace technology as it meets the deeply human fields of psychology and social work on a highly innovative level.

“Today marks a significant step forward for the NWU and the entire landscape of social science and healthcare in the Faculty of Health Sciences. Traditionally, psychology and social work have been fields grounded in human interaction ─ face-to-face communication, body language and the subtle art of empathy. However, as our world evolves, so too must our approaches. Digital technology has reshaped our understanding of human behaviour, providing us with new tools to study, intervene with and support individuals in previously unimaginable ways. This virtual-reality simulation is a prime example of this evolution.”

VR simulation laboratory is a dream come true for young researcher

The laboratory is the realisation of a dream for Neville, who, as part of his PhD studies, investigated ways to use technology to change the face of psychological interventions through the power of virtual reality.

“I realised that there was no foundation in this regard for researchers who want to use technology in this way. I spoke to Prof Retha, who was my mentor. We concluded that it was a great opportunity to establish something that will also benefit researchers and research in future.”

Neville says the laboratory’s most important impact is that it will give postgraduate students in particular the opportunity to have virtual practice sessions before entering the field of real-life situations and interventions. “Through this, we can make learning through experiencing more accessible to students.”

He envisages that Psychology and Social Work students will not be the only users of the laboratory. “It is a great opportunity for, say, Pharmacy students who want to experience working with chemicals before actually doing it, for Nursing students who want to familiarise themselves with the different aspects of hospitals, or for Engineering students who want to tour a factory, for instance.”

“The possibilities are endless,” he concludes.

For more information on the VR simulation lab or to book a session, contact Neville at 25102273@mynwu.ac.za.

Prof Retha Bloem, research director of Compres, Prof Daryl Balia, deputy vice-chancellor for Information Technology and Campus Operations (Potchefstroom Campus), Prof Jeanetta du Plessis, deputy dean for Research and Innovation at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Prof Michael Temane, deputy registrar, and Neville Robertson, researcher, during the launch of the NWU’s new groundbreaking VR simulation laboratory

Prof Daryl Balia, deputy vice-chancellor for Information Technology and Campus Operations (Potchefstroom Campus), discovers one of the many exciting new applications at the VR simulation laboratory.

Prof Michael Temane, deputy registrar, enjoys a game of rugby while being assisted by Russel Millen, consultant from Innovado. Innovado is the company that assisted in developing the technology for the VR simulation laboratory

Neville Robertson, researcher and innovator, illustrates how to use a VR headset.