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Upskilling young alumni to be ready for the job market

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 03 May 2024 12:43:41 +0000

Upskilling young alumni to be ready for the job market BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/03/2024 - 14:43

By Loveness Hulwane

"Upskilling our young alumni to be ready for the job market" was the theme of the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Alumni Job Hunters Market Day which recently took place at the Vanderbijlpark Campus.

The event – organised by the Alumni Relations department in collaboration with the Career Centre – hosted various companies who shared their employment opportunities. They included Tsebokethebe, the Department of Labour, Standard Bank, South African Breweries, TKT Consultancy, First National Bank, Reclifestyle Sports Consultancy and Abundant Human Capital: Mental Health.

Graduates also received information about development programmes, internships, vacation work and possible full-time positions.

NWU alumnus and entrepreneur Katleho Baisang directed the proceedings of the day and Chris Williams, director for student life, welcomed everyone.

Tshepiso Mothupi from the Career Centre shared interviewing and CV writing tips, and career coach Azwi Singo offered a career coaching session.

“It was indeed a good networking session. Our young alumni had the opportunity to listen to empowering motivational talks and to interact with different organisations as potential employers. It is sessions like these that uplift and encourage our students to be optimistic about the future,” says Azwi.

NWU career coach, Azwi Singo.

Tshepiso Mothupi, senior liaison officer at the Career Centre.

Academic adds novel to his growing portfolio of publications

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 03 May 2024 12:37:16 +0000

Academic adds novel to his growing portfolio of publications

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/03/2024 - 14:37

Prof Gilbert Motsaathebe, North-West University (NWU) academic and research professor in the research niche area Indigenous Language and Media in Africa, recently added a significant accomplishment to his literary portfolio with the publication of his novel Dark Leaves.

Published by Evera Publishing-Blackbird Books, Dark Leaves presents readers with a captivating blend of suspense, intrigue and moral reflection. The narrative delves into the intricate realms of crime, ethical dilemmas, and the relentless pursuit of redemption, guiding audiences through the tumultuous life of Botshelo, a young man thrust into a perilous world of deception and danger.

This literary milestone has been made possible through the support of the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture, in collaboration with the Academic and Non-Fiction Authors Association of South Africa.

Besides Dark Leaves, Prof Motsaathebe's prolific bibliography includes 11 works. He has penned eight academic books, a novel and two self-help publications.

When asked about his approach to balancing academic responsibilities, scholarly publications and creative writing endeavours, Prof Motsaathebe emphasises the importance of hard work, commitment, passion and a willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty.

With Dark Leaves Prof Motsaathebe has not only enriched the literary landscape with a gripping tale, but he has also demonstrated the capacity of academia to intersect with creative expression, offering readers an engaging narrative that resonates on multiple levels.

Prof Gilbert Motsaathebe’s book, Dark Leaves.

Students shine at the FameLab competition

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 03 May 2024 07:50:23 +0000

Students shine at the FameLab competition

by Mafumane Tlhapi

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/03/2024 - 09:50

North-West University (NWU) students across diverse disciplines illuminated the stage with their passion for science communication on 19 April 2024.

These students showcased their skills during the NWU’s FameLab competition. FameLab is an international competition designed to engage and entertain by challenging young scientists to communicate their science to a public audience in under three minutes. Participants first compete among their university peers, and then the winners advance to regional and national finals.

Nadia Olivier, a PhD pharmacology student walked away with the spoils. Luciano Willemse, a PhD student from the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, was announced the first runner-up, and Tshenolo Masilo, a master’s student also from the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, claimed the title of second runner-up.

Nadia’s topic was centred around depression which is the main focus of her PhD study.

“I am passionate about educating the public about mental health, specifically depression, and FameLab is a great opportunity to improve one’s science communication skills,” she says.

Her presentation focused on the large numbers of suicides in South Africa, and the need for new antidepressants that target novel pathways.

“In my PhD studies I am testing a novel antidepressant that targets the butyrylcholinesterase-ghrelin pathway, which is a relatively new target for antidepressant therapy. During my presentation I focused on the complex interplay of ghrelin – the hunger hormone – and depression, and how targeting this pathway has the potential to address the multifaceted pathophysiology of depression,” she explains.

“Taking part in the competition forced me to simplify complex subjects and to convey my research in layman's terms.”

Luciano says he is grateful for the experience and exposure to present his research in an easily digestible manner. He shared the findings of his research study on evaluating the effect of a high omega-3 diet on a rare disease mouse model.

Tshenolo agrees and says participating in the competition helped her to improve her ability to distil complex research into a concise, three-minute presentation that appealed to non-scientific audiences. “This taught me the value of communicating clearly and demonstrating the relevance of my work.

“My academic background in environmental sciences and biology was extremely useful in explaining the complex interactions between humans and the natural world. By breaking down the science of fish parasites into digestible concepts, I engaged with the audience and made the subject relevant," she adds.

Tshenolo’s research topic is based on parasite communities of the largescale yellow fish found in the Letaba River in the Limpopo province, a river that has been subjected to human activities such as farming, irrigation and pollution.

The students succeeded in highlighting the depth of scientific expertise within their academic community, while conveying complex ideas with clarity and enthusiasm. These exceptional performances left a lasting impression on both judges and spectators alike.

Nadia Olivier was announced the winner of the NWU FameLab competition.

Luciano Willemse was first runner-up.

Tshenolo Masilo was announced second runner-up.

Building lasting relationships through career empowerment

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 03 May 2024 07:47:14 +0000

Building lasting relationships through career empowerment BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/03/2024 - 09:47

By Mafumane Tlhapi and Keaoleboga Motshabi

Building and maintaining connections with graduates are crucial for fostering a vibrant community that benefits the North-West University (NWU) and its stakeholders. These relationships provide valuable insights into various industries and career paths, ensuring alumni remain at the forefront of their fields.

To this end, the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus hosted a career empowerment event on 16 April 2024 aimed at building strong relationships with outgoing students and future alumni, empowering them on their career journeys.

The purpose of the event was to equip students with essential skills involving resumes and interview techniques, and to provide insights into employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. Companies in attendance also shared valuable information on graduate programmes, providing students with the knowledge they need to excel in today's competitive job market.

Thabang Ramabodu, founder of the Go All Out organisation, was the guest speaker.

Thabang urged students to "Get Up," emphasising the power of hope and purpose: "Every day begins with the decision to get up. What fuels you to rise and face the world? It's hope. Hope for a brighter future, and a sense of purpose that drives you forward.”

He said that action alone isn’t enough. “It's the energy and passion you put into your endeavours that sets you apart. Enthusiasm is infectious, and the world rewards those who approach life with purpose and vigour.

“The best is yet to come – face your future boldly because you have greatness within you.”

Students listen attentively during the recent career empowerment event on the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus.

“Yster” Rassie Erasmus receives honorary doctorate

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 02 May 2024 12:24:19 +0000

“Yster” Rassie Erasmus receives honorary doctorate

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 05/02/2024 - 14:24

On Thursday 2 May, the North-West University (NWU) bestowed an honorary doctorate on Springbok coach and SA Rugby’s former director of rugby, Rassie Erasmus.

Rassie received his honorary doctorate on the NWU’s Potchefstroom Campus, and was joined by inspirational national captain, Siya Kolisi and the president of SA Rugby, Mark Alexander, amongst others. It was a day that will long be remembered.

Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU said: “Rassie is here today not because of his popularity – although I think many politicians are grateful he will not be standing as a candidate during the upcoming elections. He is here because of the impact he has made on our country that will last a lifetime.

He has always been part of winning teams, and now he is part of a winning university.

Rassie, the world has had its eye on you for many years now, but so have we at the North-West University. We saw how you made big differences, and small ones.

We saw your unselfish dedication as you turned a struggling team into the most successful one in the country’s history. We watched as you showed that if diversity is embraced in the right way, the results will speak for themselves.

We looked on as you and your Springboks made South Africa a global brand characterised by resilience, grit and determination.

Rassie, today an honorary doctorate will be bestowed on you in recognition of your innovative and exceptional management of the Springboks during your victorious 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup campaigns, of your significant standing in the international rugby coaching arena, of your strong drive and focus on diversity and inclusion, and of your commitment to social responsibility.

This honorary doctorate is for all that, and more. Because: Rassie, jy is ’n yster.”

An overjoyed and somewhat emotional Rassie said that receiving the honorary doctorate was a huge honour and a moment he will cherish forever.

He also thanked Bert Sorgdraer, NWU Council chairman, Prof Tyobeka, Prof Awie Kotzé, executive dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Bertus le Roux from the NWU’s Centre for Human Health Performance, for the role they played in him being awarded an honorary doctorate.

“I was really our of my comfort zone, and was more nervous than playing a test in front of 80 000 people,” he joked.

“I now really feel part of the North-West University. They are my kind of people.”

Siya Kolisi also commended his coach on his latest achievement as well as for the mentoring role Rassie has played throughout his career.

“I want to say congratulations to coach Rassie, he really deserves it. He gave me my first contract when I was 18, so I have experienced everything that he has done. I was very naughty, and he guided me. For some reason he stuck with me, but said I can do so much more with my talent, but that I aren’t using it. I wouldn’t be where I am without him, my family wouldn’t be where they are without him and my community wouldn’t be where they are without him. As a coach he made us play for South Africa, and not for ourselves. We are such a diverse country, but he made every single person in our group feel safe and heard. We are all indebted to him.”

Rassie Erasmus received his honorary doctorate on the NWU’s Potchefstroom Campus

Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management welcomes Fulbright specialist

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 02 May 2024 06:58:36 +0000

Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management welcomes Fulbright specialist

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 05/02/2024 - 08:58

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management (UESM) proudly announces the arrival of Prof Nishanta Rajakaruna, a Fulbright specialist and extraordinary professor within the unit.

The Fulbright Specialist Programme is a unique opportunity for academics and established professionals from the United States to engage in project-based exchanges of two to six weeks at host institutions across the globe. This programme annually selects approximately 400 US citizens, renowned for their expertise, to collaborate with institutions worldwide. The recipients are chosen based on their potential to facilitate enduring cooperation between the US and international entities.

During this visit, Prof Rajakaruna will carry out collaborative research with Prof Stefan Siebert, a geo-ecologist at the UESM.

Prof Rajakaruna's tenure at the NWU involves spearheading a project aimed at fostering knowledge exchange and forging partnerships that benefit participants, institutions and communities – both locally and abroad – and particularly in the field of environmental science. Through a diverse array of educational and training initiatives, he will leverage his expertise to enrich the academic landscape at the NWU and beyond.

Prof Rajakaruna's appointment as a Fulbright specialist underscores his academic and professional accomplishments and demonstrated leadership in the realm of environmental science.

More about the Fullbright Specialist Programme

The Fulbright Specialist Programme, a cornerstone of international educational exchange sponsored by the US government, aims to cultivate enduring connections between American and global communities.

This initiative, funded through congressional appropriations to the US Department of State, garners support from participating governments, host institutions, corporations and foundations worldwide. Operating in more than 160 countries, the programme has facilitated transformative experiences for more than 400 000 scholars, students, artists, and scientists since its inception in 1946.

Fulbright alumni, distinguished for their contributions across diverse disciplines, have made indelible marks on the global stage. Notably, 60 alumni have received Nobel Prizes, 88 have been honoured with Pulitzer Prizes, and 39 have served as heads of state or government. These accomplishments underscore the Fulbright Programme's pivotal role in addressing pressing global challenges while fostering enduring relationships, knowledge exchange and leadership development, all in service of advancing the long-term interests of the United States and the international community.

Prof Nishanta Rajakaruna

Inaugural mock trial competition opens the door to practical exposure

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 02 May 2024 06:51:09 +0000

Inaugural mock trial competition opens the door to practical exposure BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 05/02/2024 - 08:51

By Loveness Hulwane

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus held its inaugural BA and BCom Law Mock Trial competition on 19 April at the Vanderbijlpark Magistrates’ Court, where second and third-year students showcased their legal prowess.

The trial marked a significant educational milestone.

"From the preliminary round on 12 April to the finals at the Magistrates’ Court, organising this mock trial has been an exciting and enlightening journey," says third-year BA law students Basani Kumbuza and Zanele Mbatha.

The competition – organised by students for students – introduced the participating teams and supporting students in the audience to a new legal experience. This was the first practical exposure to courtroom proceedings for both BCom and BA law students on the campus.

According to Dr Natasha Ravyse, senior lecturer, subject chair for Fundamental Modules and project leader of Justice in Practice, these mock court proceedings that imitate real trials are a great way to prepare students for the world of work.

Student teams representing state and defence were given a case to try in court. Each team was then evaluated based on their performance in roles such as opening statements, direct and cross-examinations, and closing arguments.

The trial was presided over by Mosiuoa Mashiloane, a master’s student in criminal law, and Reitumetsi Legae, a master’s student in criminal law and procedure.

The defense team – second-year BCom law students Noluthando Mavimbela, Nadia Williams, D Harichund and Bongeka Sindane – were announced the winning team.

Dr Ravyse says the mock trials were a great success. “I would like to congratulate all the participants for their exemplary efforts and for motivating their peers.”

She also extends her gratitude to the first-year students who participated as trial witnesses, and the organising committee for ensuring a memorable experience for everyone involved.

All participants will receive certificates of either participation, runners-up or winners. All participating teams will also have the opportunity to represent the Vanderbijlpark Campus in inter-campus mock trials that will take place later in the year.

Third-year BA/BCom law students represented the state. They are from left Regopotswe Pitse, Sibusiso Zondo, Thandekile Skhosana and Zoleka Magwayi.

Second-year BA/BCom law students Noluthando Mavimbela, Nadia Williams, D, Harichund and Bongeka Sindane represented the defense and were announced the winning team.

Children leap for joy on Frog Day

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 08:47:57 +0000

Children leap for joy on Frog Day

by Mafumane Tlhapi

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 04/29/2024 - 10:47

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) African Amphibian Conservation Research Group in the Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management celebrated annual Frog Day with a vibrant and educational event on 6 April 2024.

The team invited 70 children to be immersed in the fascinating world of frogs, guided by experts passionate about amphibian conservation.

The main objective of Frog Day was to ignite a sense of appreciation and responsibility towards frogs among children. Prof Louis Du Preez from the subject group Zoology, led the initiative and was assisted by his team of postgraduate students.

“Frogs play an important role in maintaining ecological balance, and we have to make sure that we take the necessary proactive steps for their protection,” says Prof Du Preez.

To achieve this goal, the event featured interactive learning stations tailored to capture children's imaginations. The participants were divided into groups and guided through seven stations. Each station delved into a specific aspect of frog biology and behaviour, ranging from structure to lifecycle stages, highlighting their significance in the ecosystem.

Prof Du Preez noted the enthusiasm and eagerness of the young participants as they explored topics such as the body of a frog, the eye, calling, frog jumping, how frogs eat, and their role in the environment.

To further enrich the experience, each child received a special bag containing a book on frogs, a water bottle, and promotional items from the NWU. These thoughtful gifts not only served as mementoes, but also reinforced the importance of conservation efforts in their daily lives.

Frog Day is not just a celebration, but also a crucial step towards fostering a generation of environmentally mindful individuals by instilling knowledge and empathy at a young age.

“Through events like Frog Day, the journey towards a sustainable future for frogs and their habitats continues one small leap at a time,” adds Prof Du Plessis.

Frog Day sparks curiosity and compassion for amphibians among young minds.

A salute to service – farewell Brigadier Steven Moodley

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 07:24:12 +0000

A salute to service – farewell Brigadier Steven Moodley

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 04/26/2024 - 09:24

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Potchefstroom and the North-West University (NWU) recently bid farewell to Brigadier Steven Moodley, the station commander of the Potchefstroom SAPS. The residents of Potchefstroom will forever have a special place in their hearts for a remarkable leader with a love of management.

Brigadier Steven Moodley was appointed as station commander of the Potchefstroom SAPS in 2017, and his leadership characteristics induced him to establish the Higher Education Safety Forum in Potchefstroom. This initiative aims to mitigate any threat in the post-school sector.

In the meantime, the NWU had established the City Improvement District (CID). Brigadier Steven Moodley supported the CID by assigning several police officers to monitor and patrol the NWU residences. As a result of the parties’ close working relationship, the NWU emerged as the safest tertiary-education institution in the country, and Brigadier Moodley’s influence will undoubtedly continue after his departure.

Potchefstroom SAPS coworkers and NWU delegates gathered at the NWU Sports Village on Saturday, 13 April to honour Brigadier Moodley's 41 years of outstanding community and public service.

Prof Daryl Balia, the deputy vice-chancellor for Information Technology and Campus Operations (Potchefstroom Campus), welcomed all the esteemed guests and explained his personal relationship with Brigadier Steven Moodley.

During his farewell speech, Brigadier Moodley reflected on his 41 years spent at the SAPS.

“I am grateful for the memories, experiences and lessons that have shaped me into the person I am today. When I joined the SAPS in 1982, I never imagined that I would spend my entire career dedicated to serving and protecting my community,” he said.

Brigadier Moodley continued to reminisce about working alongside some of the most devoted and selfless individuals.

“From my fellow officers to support staff, each person has played a crucial role in fulfilling the SAPS mission of upholding the law and protecting our citizens. Together, we formed unbreakable bonds that will stay with me even as I bid farewell.” He added: “I am confident that the future of the SAPS is in good hands with these bright and devoted individuals. With the commitment of my colleagues and the continuous support of our communities, I believe that we can create a safer and more peaceful society for all.”

Brigadier Moodley said his message marked the end of his time as an active member of the SAPS, but it was not the end of his resolve to serve his community.

“I will continue to support and advocate for the advancement of our police force, and contribute to building a safer and more just society. Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts – it has been an honour and a privilege,” Brigadier Moodley concluded his sincere speech.

“I approach this evening with mixed emotions,” said Major-General Ryno Naidoo, the deputy provincial commissioner of North West, as he prepared to deliver his address.

“As a community activist, it is not only in the community policing forums that Brigadier Moodley has displayed his personal brand of activism, but he has done so in many other community formations too. He is a visionary who makes his visions become a reality; an innovator, mover and shaker – the SAPS Potchefstroom has never seen anything like it. To the NWU, thank you for the occasion, it is indicative of the relationship between the university and the police. My hope is that the relationship will sustain itself – beyond us into the future generations of management who need to maintain the standard of service delivery,” added Major-General Naidoo.

Dr Corrie Rheeder, Potchefstroom Campus director of Student Life, delivered the vote of thanks. She said: “As a former, proud member of the SAPS, and on behalf of the NWU, I would like to express our deepest appreciation to Brigadier Steven Moodley for his dedicated service and commitment to excellence. Your contributions have been invaluable, and your impact will resonate with us for years to come. Go well, you will be greatly missed.”

A toast to 41 great years of public service. The NWU extends its respect to Brigadier Steven Moodley, and wishes him a wonderful journey ahead.

The NWU’s director of Protection Services, Mr Des Ayob, sent a heartfelt message to his lifelong friend, Brigadier Steven Moodley.

Dr Corrie Rheeder, director of Student Life at the NWU Potchefstroom Campus, expressed her deepest gratitude to Brigadier Moodley for his exceptional contributions towards making the NWU a safe place.

Major-General Ryno Naidoo, the deputy provincial commissioner for the South African Police Service (SAPS) for North West.

During his speech, Prof Daryl Balia, deputy vice-chancellor for Information Technology and Campus Operations (Potchefstroom Campus), thanked Brigadier Moodley for his contributions to making the NWU the safest tertiary-education institution in the country.

From cultivation to cup: South Africa must brew up rooibos tea tourism

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 05:57:41 +0000

From cultivation to cup: South Africa must brew up rooibos tea tourism

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 04/26/2024 - 07:57

Rooibos tea, which is indigenous to South Africa, is a significant part of the country’s cultural tapestry and holds many tourism opportunities.

By concentrating on rooibos – from its cultivation to its deep cultural and historical roots – the authenticity of the tourist experience can be enhanced.

Rooibos tea is an exceptional South African product that has captivated the global market, reaching over 30 countries. It is growing in popularity due to its health and wellness properties.

It does not take the Mad Hatter sharing a cup with Alice down in Wonderland to know that few things soothe the soul as much as a steaming serving of tea. But, as Prof Martinette Kruger from the North-West University (NWU) explains, South Africa’s indigenous tea is all that, and more: “Rooibos tea is more than just a beverage; it is a cultural treasure.”

Kruger, who forms part of the research unit Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society (TREES), is currently conducting research in collaboration with Curtin University (Perth, Australia) that looks to uncover and develop the numerous tourism possibilities that rooibos tea holds. The study is designed to explore both the supply and demand sides of the rooibos tourism sector, and also to identify the industry’s challenges and opportunities.

“Rooibos tea is a significant part of South Africa's cultural tapestry, being indigenous to our nation and thriving mainly in the Cederberg Range, a part of the globally recognised Cape Floristic Region. This area, a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, is home to the unique rooibos tea. In a landmark recognition, the European Union awarded rooibos tea the prestigious Protected Designation of Origin status in 2021, making it the first African product to receive such recognition. This designation not only secures the South African origin of rooibos, but also celebrates our rich agricultural heritage, making rooibos tea a compelling attraction for international tourists,” says Kruger, adding that: “Rooibos is more than just a tea; it is a gateway to experiencing South Africa's unique flora and fauna, shaped by its fire-dependent ecology and fascinating geological history. The region itself, known for its breathtaking landscapes, archaeological richness and distinctive biological diversity, offers vast potential for eco and adventure tourism.”

Two significant milestones that serve as a foundation for the expansion of rooibos tea as a lure for tourists were the establishment of the Rooibos Route in 2017 (although this endeavour has stagnated in recent years), and the 2019 Access and Benefit-sharing (ABS) agreement, which ensured that the indigenous Khoi-Khoi and San communities receive fair benefits from the commercial use of rooibos. Then there is the popularity of the region that rooibos calls home.

"The Cederberg region, a popular destination attracting over 70 000 visitors annually, showcases a significant opportunity for sustainable development through tea tourism, particularly focusing on our native rooibos. Most of the region’s 57 000 residents live in rural settings, and tourism is a critical part of their livelihood, contributing more than half of their net income. By integrating tea tourism, we are looking at creating unique, culturally rich tourism experiences that leverage existing agricultural practices and the region’s natural beauty,” Kruger explains.

Then there is the product’s reach: “Rooibos tea is an exceptional South African product that has captivated the global market, reaching over 30 countries. It is celebrated for its unique flavour, numerous health benefits and caffeine-free properties. Rooibos has successfully been integrated into various products, from cosmetics to culinary flavourings. This versatility speaks to its appeal as a wellness product. Moreover, the rooibos industry is vital to our economy, supporting over 5 000 livelihoods. Integrating rooibos into South Africa's tourism offerings is an exciting opportunity to combine cultural heritage and economic development. By leveraging rooibos as a unique element of our national identity, we can create multifaceted tourism experiences that resonate on a global scale.”

Kruger further states that – given its growing popularity and the increasing global interest in health and wellness – rooibos is perfectly positioned to be a cornerstone of South Africa’s wellness tourism. Through establishing rooibos-related routes, as well as incorporating tea cafes and educational tours into the tourism package, the tourism sector can showcase the entire journey of rooibos tea.

“We want to show the process from leaf to cup. Moreover, we plan to use Geographical Indication (GI) and Designation of Origin (DO) branding to market rooibos more effectively. These labels connect the quality and reputation of rooibos directly to its South African roots. Such strategies have been successful in other contexts, such as wine tourism. Rooibos tea is a beloved beverage and a symbol of South African heritage and biodiversity. Our research is dedicated to exploring the full potential of rooibos tea, aiming to enhance and differentiate our region's tourism offerings. By focusing on rooibos, we are not just promoting a product, but celebrating a rich cultural legacy. This effort is about creating experiences that resonate deeply with locals and visitors, showcasing the cultural and economic importance of rooibos tea to our nation.”

With that, it is teatime.