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Future students explore possibilities at open days across campuses

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 29 May 2025 05:20:35 +0000

Future students explore possibilities at open days across campuses BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 05/29/2025 - 07:20

By Gofaone Motsamai

An air of possibility and curiosity pervaded the campuses of the North-West University (NWU) in May as prospective students, parents and guardians attended a series of Open Day events.

The Mahikeng Campus hosted the first event on 10 May, followed by Potchefstroom on 17 May and Vanderbijlpark on 24 May. Each event offered a glimpse into the academic programmes, student support services and inclusive culture the NWU prides itself on.

Addressing the guests, vice-chancellor Professor Bismark Tyobeka said, “Today marks a significant occasion, not only in our university calendar, but in your personal journeys as well.” He encouraged students to see the NWU as “a place where possibilities begin”, reminding them that the decision to study after school is one of the most important they will ever make.

Throughout the events, student ambassadors guided guests around campus facilities while lecturers answered questions about various fields of study. From engineering and commerce to law, health sciences and the arts, all eight faculties showcased their strengths.

“We combine academic rigour with real-world relevance,” said Prof Tyobeka, adding that the NWU’s programmes are designed to empower students to apply their knowledge and make a lasting impact.

With over 12 905 first-time entering undergraduate students in 2025 and a total enrolment of 58 077, the university’s continued growth affirms its appeal. “These numbers reflect our growth, and the trust that students and their families place in our institution each year,” he said.

The vice-chancellor also highlighted major developments such as the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine, the Veterinary School and the School of Mines and Mining Engineering. “These represent our commitment to changing lives through knowledge, inclusion and innovation.”

As the world faces rapid changes, the NWU is positioning itself to equip students with 21st century skills. “We focus on critical thinking, digital literacy, innovation, collaboration and adaptability,” Prof Tyobeka said.

Parents and learners were visibly impressed by the infrastructure, student support services and warm reception they received. “No matter who you are, where you come from, or what challenges you face — you will find a community here that welcomes you, supports you and helps you grow,” he assured them.

A packed Great Hall on the Mahikeng Campus welcomes enthusiastic prospective students for an engaging Open Day experience.

At Vanderbijlpark Campus was filled with prospective students and their parents, eager to learn more about NWU

NWU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bismark Tyobeka, shares a moment with future students during the event on the Potchefstroom Campus.

The Potchefstroom Campus was filled with energy and excitement.

NWU HART champions hypertension awareness in May Measurement Month

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 26 May 2025 07:25:29 +0000

NWU HART champions hypertension awareness in May Measurement Month

by Willie du Plessis

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 05/26/2025 - 09:25

High blood pressure is a silent killer that can lead to a fatal heart attack. Without treatment, it can also profoundly impact a person’s quality of life, causing heart disease, kidney damage, memory loss or even disability or a stroke. Many people at risk might not even know it, as hypertension operates as a secret agent, often lurking in a person’s body without symptoms as it wears out one’s arteries.

This is why the Hypertension in Africa Research Team (HART) has made it their mission to educate people on and raise awareness about the dangers of hypertension. “With knowledge comes power and it enables people to make better health and lifestyle choices,” says Sister Adéle Burger, manager at the HART clinic at the Potchefstroom Campus of the North-West University (NWU).

The HART team has set themselves an ambitious goal to screen and educate more than 2 500 individuals across various venues during the month of May. This is part of the annual May Measurement Month campaign, with International Hypertension Day observed on 17 May.

This campaign is an international drive by the International Society of Hypertension to help people have their blood pressure checked completely free of charge.

Taking hypertension awareness from the campuses into the communities

Prof Carina Mels, director of HART, says the campaign commenced on 6 May as part of Wellness Week at the NWU. They offered free screenings on the Potchefstroom Campus on 16 May, followed by blood pressure readings for community members at the Mooirivier Mall on 17 May. This was done in collaboration with Dischem Pharmacy.

Screenings also took place at several community-based sites throughout the month. These included Huis Anna Viljoen on 14 May, Safe Haven on 21 May and Samuel Broadbent House on 28 May. The campaign concludes at Vyfhoek Mall on 31 May.

“It only takes a moment to check your blood pressure – but that moment could change your life,” says Prof Mels. “We are proud to be part of this global movement, which plays a vital role in increasing awareness of hypertension. Our goal is not only to screen individuals but also to empower them to find manageable ways to reduce their risk.”

Advice in action

“This year, our focus is on simple lifestyle interventions that can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels. We encourage everyone to aim for at least 30 minutes of brisk walking daily, to include plenty of fruits and vegetables – especially nitrate-rich foods like beetroot – in their diet, and to reduce salt and sugar intake.”

Prof Mels says it is equally important to set aside time each day for relaxation, as chronic stress is a key contributor to high blood pressure. By raising awareness and encouraging healthy habits, we move one step closer to a future free of preventable heart disease.

“We are immensely grateful for our dedicated postgraduate student team who were instrumental in organising and implementing this year’s campaign, and extend our thanks to our collaborators from the Biokinetics and Nutrition team from the Faculty of Health Sciences, as well as the South African National Blood Service for their support and participation. Together, we can take small steps today for a healthier tomorrow, one blood pressure reading at a time.”

The team that made the hypertension awareness drive a success on the Potchefstroom Campus.

First-year students Tokelo Maleka and Katlego Monnepula receive nutrition advice from postgraduate students Cheré du Toit, Arole Shivambu and Rodgers Hau

First-year pharmacy student Wian Cotter was empowered with information to make healthy lifestyle choices.

Sister Adéle Burger says it is important to know what your blood pressure level is. Postgraduate student Gabriela Gabriel assisted her with the screening.

Makhubele Andruso, a third-year student, has his blood pressure screened by Paballo Kalane.

Eagi weighed in at a healthy 62 kg as first-year student Kyle Loftie-Eaton measured his height and weight.

Solar project adds power to parking areas and rooftops in energy overhaul

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 26 May 2025 06:04:42 +0000

Solar project adds power to parking areas and rooftops in energy overhaul

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 05/26/2025 - 08:04

Rows of parked cars and rooftops on the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus now share space with banks of solar panels, part of a campus-wide plan to reshape how electricity is sourced, used and sustained.

The new decentralised solar energy system is being installed across most parking areas and rooftops at the campus. The system includes 1 820 panels, each generating 550 watts of power, with a collective capacity of 1 megawatt peak (1MWp).

The panels are connected through 15 mini-systems that feed directly into the campus’s internal power grid.

“The systems connect to the university’s grid through inverters, ensuring that the power generated is used entirely on campus,” says Hendrik Esterhuizen, who oversees energy infrastructure at the NWU.

He notes that the system is designed to meet the campus’s base load requirements and does not feed power back into Eskom’s grid. This is important because it ensures the solar system directly supports the campus’s energy needs without relying on the national grid.

With the new solar plants the university enhances energy independence, reduces pressure on the public system, and improves resilience during load-shedding or power interruptions.

“It effectively acts as a virtual emergency power generator, supporting the campus’s diesel generators by adding additional capacity during load-shedding,” he adds.

Cost savings expected in the long run

The investment carries long-term cost benefits. Each 100 kWp solar unit costs about R2 million, including infrastructure and carport installation, says Hendrik. “While solar is cheaper than grid electricity in the long run, the capital investment must first be recouped.” The expected payback period is five to seven years.

Diesel use is the most expensive option, costing roughly four times more than grid electricity, Hendrik says. “Our solar systems are already helping to reduce carbon emissions, and we calculate these reductions monthly.”

Building and connecting the systems on a functioning university campus has presented challenges. Construction teams have worked around academic schedules, including tests and exams. Infrastructural limitations, such as available roof space and electrical access points, have required tailored solutions.

This solar installation forms part of a broader, phased energy project across the university’s three campuses. A 385 kWp plant is in place at the Vanderbijlpark Campus, with a 2 500 kWp system at Potchefstroom and 1 500 kWp at Mahikeng.

Future construction and major renovations will include similar solar energy components.

The rollout reflects a university-wide shift toward greater energy independence and measured investment in long-term sustainability.

More solar panels are being installed at the Biko House postgraduate parking.

Alumnus turns quiet leadership into national recognition at Life Healthcare

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 26 May 2025 05:59:06 +0000

Alumnus turns quiet leadership into national recognition at Life Healthcare

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 05/26/2025 - 07:59

When the night shift begins at Life Peglerae Hospital in Rustenburg, Hudson Mothupi is already at work, not just supervising 16 hospital units, but also ensuring systems hold firm through medical emergencies, power outages and the other demands of overnight care.

This behind-the-scenes leadership has earned the North-West University (NWU) alumnus a place among Life Healthcare’s Great 100 Nurses for 2025.

The hospital group’s annual awards programme, established in 2012, recognises 100 nurses across Life Healthcare’s network for their clinical competence, leadership and contributions to patient care. Hudson’s role as night unit supervisor places him at the centre of operations when visibility is lowest, but stakes are high.

“Being recognised is a reminder that dedication to patient care is seen and valued,” says Hudson, who graduated from the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus with a Bachelor of Nursing Science degree.

“At night, we face unique challenges. I have always believed that consistent communication and presence can prevent panic and build confidence in a team.”

Colleagues nominated Hudson for his ability to steady teams through critical situations, lead evacuation drills and maintain focus during emergency response and disaster operations. “When the pressure rises, I don’t raise my voice. I raise structure,” he says.

Harking back to his NWU days

His approach to leadership draws heavily from his formative years at the NWU. “The university taught me that leadership in nursing is not just about authority. It’s about taking initiative and building trust.”

Reflecting on the recognition he has received, Hudson says: “I am grateful for this achievement. Being nominated among the great, I acknowledge the recognition as I always try my best to achieve positive outcomes for our patients. I also want to thank nursing manager Matron Zelma Hattingh and hospital manager Denise Botha for the support they give me, for the leadership they see in me, and for having confidence in me.”

The Great 100 Nurses are nominated by peers, doctors and managers across Life Healthcare hospitals, Life Nkanyisa and Life Health Solutions. Recipients of the awards are seen as both clinical leaders and contributors to a culture of care. Hudson’s inclusion brings the number of recognised nurses since the programme’s inception to 600.

“I walk the wards with the same attitude I had as a student nurse: learn, listen, lead when needed,” he reflects. “There’s never a routine night in healthcare. Every shift is a chance to make sure patients feel safe.”

The NWU continues to track the achievements of its alumni, and Hudson’s recognition underscores the university’s contribution to shaping professionals who lead with both skill and integrity.

Matron Zelma Hattingh, Hudson Mothupi and hospital manager Denise Botha.

NWU brings music and learning together for World IP Day

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 23 May 2025 05:56:37 +0000

NWU brings music and learning together for World IP Day

by Vukosi Mathale

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/23/2025 - 07:56

On 9 May 2025, the North-West University (NWU) held a lively event celebrating World Intellectual Property Day (WIPD). This year’s theme was “IP and Music: Feel the Beat of IP”. The event showed how intellectual property (IP) helps to protect music and supports the people who create it. The celebration was organised by Technology Transfer and Innovation Support (TTIS) at the NWU with the aim of informing students and staff why IP is important, especially for creative works like music.

The programme included talks by experts, fun musical performances by students, and a live show by the NWU alumnus and Afro House Star, Bonolo Phiri, also known as Bonolo Bliz. She shared her story of making it in the music industry and explained how knowing her rights helped her succeed as an independent artist. Her talk was followed by a lively performance that got everyone excited. Christiaan Steyn, an NWU alumnus and founder of STEYN IP, explained why IP is very important for musicians. He talked about how understanding copyright laws helps artists protect their music and control their careers. Prof Janelize Morelli from the School of Music at the NWU spoke about how artists are starting to use artificial intelligence (AI) in their work. She said it is important to be clear and honest about using AI, and to think carefully about ethics. She encouraged students to try new ideas while respecting rules.

Students also took part in the NWU Youth Video Competition. Winners received great prizes and the audience got to vote for their favourite performers, making the event fun and interactive.

The NWU WIPD celebration was a big success. It showed that protecting your ideas is just as important as creating them. With music, learning and creativity at its heart, the day reminded everyone how IP helps artists and the creative world to grow.

Dr Janine Chantson, Prof Janelize Morelli, Ms Bonolo Phiri, Mr Christiaan Steyn & Dr Mesuli Mbanjwa

Winners of the NWU World IP Day 2025 Youth Video Competition

Performance by Sonic Bloom

Performance by Bonolo Bliz & Eagi

Expert warns of long-term risks of schools dropping pure mathematics

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 23 May 2025 05:53:37 +0000

Expert warns of long-term risks of schools dropping pure mathematics

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/23/2025 - 07:53

When as many as 464 public schools in South Africa have elected to stop offering pure mathematics, the question is no longer about underperformance in mathematics, it is about absence.

While most of these schools still teach mathematics literacy, pure mathematics underpins engineering, science and certain types of problem-solving. When that subject is missing from the school curriculum, the long-term impact on learners and the economy is cause for concern.

Dr Judicial Sebatana, an education expert from the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Faculty of Education, says the reasons behind this shift are complex but interconnected. “There has been a shortage of mathematics teachers. At one stage, we had to rely on foreign nationals to teach maths and science,” he says.

Schools are also responding to performance pressures. According to Dr Sebatana, the pursuit of a 100% pass rate plays a significant role in discouraging learners from taking mathematics. “When learners fail mathematics, schools do not achieve a perfect pass rate. As a result, some schools encourage more learners not to take the subject.”

The consequences are wide-reaching. “Mathematics is the language of most engineering and science disciplines. It is also a prerequisite for entering many careers at higher education institutions,” says Dr Sebatana. He believes removing the subject from the curriculum undermines students' access to technical fields and their ability to navigate a data-driven economy.

Beyond academia and employment, there are deeper implications. “Surviving in everyday life requires one to be a critical thinker and a problem solver, skills which in many cases are acquired from doing mathematics,” he says.

To reverse the trend, Dr Sebatana outlines several strategies: “Teaching and learning strategies must be innovative and relevant for classroom content and context to align. The curriculum must be revisited to ensure it caters to both national and global goals.”

He adds that mathematics could be made compulsory again and that support must be expanded. “Extra financial support is needed for student teachers, current teachers and learners studying mathematics.”

Dr Sebatana also calls for greater collaboration between universities and the Department of Basic Education (DBE). “Institutions of higher learning must partner with the DBE to ensure the preparedness of newly qualified mathematics teachers.”

The decline of mathematics in public schools may be gradual, but its long-term effects are already in motion. For Dr Sebatana, halting the slide requires both urgency and coordination across sectors.

Dr Judicial Sebatana

How to make young people part of the solution to tackling crime in communities

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 22 May 2025 07:58:34 +0000

How to make young people part of the solution to tackling crime in communities BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 05/22/2025 - 09:58

By Gofaone Motsamai

As South Africa continues to grapple with high levels of crime, a North-West University (NWU) researcher has highlighted the critical role young people can play in prevention efforts when supported and included in meaningful ways.

Dr Kgomotso Bosilong, a research support coordinator at the NWU and a recent PhD graduate, is focusing her research on how to make the nation’s youth part of the solution to crime.

With more than 12 years of research experience at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), she has contributed to initiatives aimed at enhancing the criminal justice system through technology-driven solutions. Her efforts are aimed at empowering local communities and law enforcement agencies to foster safer living conditions.

Untapped agents of change

Dr Bosilong believes the youth are not just victims or perpetrators of crime, but also untapped agents of change within their communities. She says young individuals often express a desire to participate in enhancing the safety of their communities. However, they frequently experience feelings of exclusion or insecurity and lack trust in protective systems.

Her recent study focused on youth perceptions of crime and their participation in crime prevention activities. She found that crimes such as robbery, rape, substance abuse and knife violence are often linked to patterns learned during childhood and adolescence.

“These behaviours reflect gaps in support during a young person’s formative years,” she explains. “Intervening early in a child’s life can reduce their chances of becoming involved in crime later on.”

However, fear of victimisation, unemployment and poverty, as well as a lack of trust in law enforcement, are some of the barriers that discourage youth from engaging in prevention activities.

“Young people feel vulnerable,” says Dr Bosilong. “Without the assurance of safety and without opportunities for growth, they are left idle and exposed to negative influences.”

Existing community structures such as community policing forums (CPFs) and neighbourhood patrols show potential but often lack the resources and support needed to make a long-term impact.

To tackle these challenges, her research suggests the establishment of community-based collaborations that offer mentorship, early intervention programmes, skills training and recreational opportunities. These initiatives would enable young individuals to play a proactive role in enhancing community safety and fostering social unity.

Partners in building safer communities

Dr Bosilong emphasises that solutions must be designed with young people, “We need to involve youth as partners in building safer communities. When they feel heard and supported, they are more likely to become part of the solution.”

While her study focused on Mmabatho Extension 39, a South African peri-urban residential community in the Mahikeng Local Municipality (MLM), North West Province, she believes the insights are widely applicable. “Across South Africa, young people are ready to contribute. What is missing is the structure, trust and investment to help them lead change,” Dr Bosilong concludes.

Dr Kgomotso Bosilong

Latest Budget provides foundation for building fiscal sustainability

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 22 May 2025 07:23:01 +0000

Latest Budget provides foundation for building fiscal sustainability BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 05/22/2025 - 09:23

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s revised third Budget is a pragmatic one, given the current circumstances.

This is the view of Prof Raymond Parsons, economist from the North-West University (NWU) Business School. In commenting on the third Budget presented to Parliament on 21 May, Prof Parsons says that, as was stressed by the Finance Minister, various compromises and trade-offs have now been inevitable to achieve a workable balancing of the books that builds confidence.

“The commitment to spending reviews is also an essential one. The overall thrust of the third Budget shows a strong pivot in fiscal strategy towards growth and investment, which is where the basic solutions to South Africa’s public finance challenges ultimately lie. If fully implemented, the strong emphasis on infrastructural development bodes well for the 3% gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the medium term that is envisaged by the Government of National Unity (GNU).

Prof Parsons explains that both the role of Operation Vulindlela and the participation of private sector investment indeed remain indispensable to the successful delivery of key infrastructural outcomes, especially in transport, logistics, energy and water.

“The latest Budget has therefore provided a combined policy and project foundation on which to build South Africa’s fiscal sustainability over the longer term. With the debt-to-GDP ratio to be stabilised at a higher level of 77%, the margin for error continues to remain small. There are still future risks to fiscal policy – as is highlighted by the higher debt-to-GDP ratio and the warning that the 2027 Budget may have to consider new taxes.”

According to Prof Parsons, the good news is that this is now a GNU Budget, which is not only a plus for political stability, but should also ensure its subsequent passage through the various Parliamentary processes. He says what is also important to promote policy certainty is that the positive reforms in the Budget are speedily implemented and are also seen as irreversible. This includes the investment in the capacity of SARS to improve tax collection and revenues.

“The fact that the original assumption of 1,9% GDP growth this year that underpinned the Budget has been sharply reduced to 1,4% recognises the new global and domestic economic realities shaping South Africa’s growth prospects. While this assumption may still be on the optimistic side, the more conservative Treasury projection nonetheless simply confirms why the third Budget needed to be strongly growth-dominated.”

Prof Parsons explains that if South Africa wants to grow its tax base to enlarge its fiscal space, it needs a rapidly expanding economy in which job creation accelerates. “Taxpayers must see they are getting value for money, on which basis the Budget proposals need to win the trust and confidence of citizens,” he concludes.

South African boxers are in good hands at championships in Guinea

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 20 May 2025 07:48:19 +0000

South African boxers are in good hands at championships in Guinea

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 05/20/2025 - 09:48

Young South African boxers competing in the African Boxing Confederation’s (AFBC’s) Youth Championships in Conakry, Guinea, could not be in better hands. Their team manager is Keorapetse Mashimo, an alumnus of the North-West University (NWU).

Keorapetse completed his BEd degree at the Mahikeng Campus.

A seasoned boxing referee and administrator, he is managing the South African youth men’s and women's boxing team competing in Guinea from 16 to 26 May.

Besides Keorapetse, the team consists of three female and seven male boxers, alongside two coaches.

His appointment as team manager comes shortly after his election as treasurer of the North West Provincial Sports Confederation.

He has been officiating since 2018, and has built a remarkable career in boxing, recently earning the trophy for Best Male Referee and Judge at the 2024 National Youth and Elites Championships in Durban. The event, organised by South African National Boxing Organisation, saw participation from all nine provinces.

Keorapetse contributions to boxing include serving as the spokesperson for the provincial Boxing Federation from 2018 to 2022, the year in which he was elected as its secretary-general.

The AFBC Youth Championships serve as a critical platform for young boxers to showcase their talent and gain international experience, and Keorapetse says being appointed team manager marks a significant milestone in his career in the boxing world.

"This is not just a personal achievement, but also a reflection of the work we are doing to develop boxing talent in the province and beyond.”

Keorapetse Mashimo.

Campaign calls for understanding in mental health awareness, not stigma

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 19 May 2025 06:46:47 +0000

Campaign calls for understanding in mental health awareness, not stigma

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 05/19/2025 - 08:46

A 5km-walk through the streets of Mmabatho marked more than just a physical challenge – it was a call to recognise and understand the realities of bipolar disorder and autism spectrum disorder.

On 30 April 2025, members of the Lifestyle Diseases research focus area at the North-West University (NWU) joined forces with the Mahikeng Provincial Hospital, Kgatelopele Wellness Centre and the North West College of Nursing to host a mental health awareness campaign under the theme “Ending the stigma through embracing our differences”.

Although World Bipolar Day and World Autism Awareness Day are observed on 30 March and 2 April respectively, the combined event amplified the voices of the stakeholders involved. They included non-governmental organisations such as Autism South Africa and government departments and agencies such as Health, Education, Social Development and the South African Police Service.

Dr Gopolang Gause, a representative of the research focus area, said the aim was to bring attention to the symptoms, causes and treatment options related to the two mental health conditions.

“Our goal is to educate the public and reduce stigma. Through psychoeducation and lifestyle modification, we can shift public understanding and attitudes toward bipolar disorder and autism,” said Dr Gause.

The programme included a talk by a psychiatrist from Bophelong Psychiatric Hospital, who outlined how the conditions typically present and the kind of support available in the public healthcare system.

Adding a personal perspective, a mother of a child living with autism and an individual diagnosed with bipolar disorder shared their lived experiences with the audience.

“Speaking about it helps us feel seen. It’s not about labels; it’s about learning how to live,” they said.

The event closed with reflections on the importance of early intervention, support systems and continuous awareness campaigns that go beyond a single day on the calendar.

Members of the NWU’s Lifestyle Diseases research focus area participated in a mental health awareness campaign. From left are Koketso Rankudu, Ellen Tlhojane, Dr Gopolang Gause, Tsholofelo Shophi, and Hellen Olugondae.

Dr Gopolang Gause unpacks the purpose of the day.