South Africans might be surprised to discover that some of the country’s language challenges are similar to those faced in multilingual countries in the northern hemisphere. This is according to Orefile Malebo, an education technologist at the North-West University (NWU), who recently made a presentation at the Online Educa Berlin conference in Germany.

Held from 27 to 29 November 2024, the event brought together education leaders from across the globe to discuss the role of technology in education.

By:Optentia research unit

A groundbreaking initiative aimed at closing the digital divide in schools across Africa is making significant strides. The project, named Tswala! – a Setswana word meaning "closing" – seeks to bridge the gap between students, teachers and the world by integrating digital tools into classrooms. Its goal is to transform education by providing students and teachers with the technology needed to engage in modern, interactive learning.

By Oscar Mosiane and Tiyiselani Precious Miyambu

Dr Khido Ramadie, a wellness counsellor at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus, has dedicated her life to promoting education and wellness.

Born in Lichtenburg in the North West Province, she started her journey as a teacher after obtaining a diploma in teaching in 1994. Fuelled by her love for education, she obtained a BA in psychology while employed, ultimately leading to her position in wellness counselling.

The North-West University (NWU), in partnership with the Water Research Commission (WRC) and Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, hosted a Water Symposium at the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus on 4 to 5 December 2024.

The symposium resulted in the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MoA) between the NWU and the WRC to address regional water challenges. The agreement is for five years.

Farming is often regarded as a noble profession that demands a unique set of qualities, including a profound appreciation for the land and animals and a steadfast commitment to hard work. Thamsanqa Ramosotho, an alumnus of the North-West University (NWU), embodies these attributes and has the qualifications to match.

He holds a diploma in agriculture and animal sciences and a BScHons in animal sciences from the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus, as well as a qualification in new venture creation from the NWU Business School.

The North-West University (NWU) made history by hosting the prestigious BRICS Skills Development and Technology Innovation Competition from 24 to 28 November 2024, at its Vanderbijlpark Campus.

This event, coordinated by the BRICS Business Council Skills Development, Applied Technology, and Innovation working groups of China and South Africa, positioned the NWU as the first institution outside China to be recognised as a BRICS Skills Development Training Base – a remarkable achievement that brought immense prestige and global recognition.

Prof Helgard Raubenheimer, director of the Centre for Business Mathematics and Informatics (CBMI) in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the North-West University (NWU), delivered a presentation demonstrating his expertise to the National Institute for Theoretical and Computational Science (NITheCS) community.

Prof Roelof Coetzer, an academic from the North-West University’s (NWU’s) research focus area for Pure and Applied Analytics, has been awarded the prestigious Thought Leader Award by the South African Statistical Association (SASA).

This accolade recognises individuals who have profoundly impacted the South African statistical community through academic excellence, leadership, and industry contributions.

By Tiyiselani Miyambu

The Covid-19 pandemic significantly disrupted maternal healthcare in rural communities, exposing vulnerabilities and resilience in equal measure. A master’s study by Makgake Ziphorah Mohulatsi, a PhD student in social sciences with sociology from the North-West University (NWU), focuses on women’s experiences in Mmabatho during this challenging period. Her findings highlight key lessons for strengthening healthcare systems in the future.

By Gofaone Motsamai

As the world observes the campaign for 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) from 25 November to 10 December, the North-West University (NWU) is taking a proactive stance in addressing this critical issue.

Dr Khido Ramadie, a wellness counsellor at the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus, emphasises the importance of educational institutions in preventing and addressing GBV while supporting survivors.