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Education technologist highlights inclusive learning at international conference

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 11:08:53 +0000

Education technologist highlights inclusive learning at international conference

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 12/10/2024 - 13:08

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.

Orefile presented an article co-authored with Dr Thamie Ndlovu titled “Creating inclusive learning environments with Universal Design for Learning (UDL)”. The research focuses on adopting and implementing UDL principles at the NWU to create inclusive and adaptable learning environments.

Catering for students from different cultures

"UDL is about recognising that not all students learn in the same way," says Orefile, who is part of the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) on the Vanderbijlpark Campus. "At the CTL, we aim to adapt to the diverse needs of students who come from different cultures within South Africa and across Africa."

The research highlights how NWU integrates UDL principles into its blended learning approach. Strategies include offering alternative methods of delivering content, such as videos, immediate feedback through online quizzes, and the use of infographics. The goal is to ensure content accessibility for a diverse student population.

Thirty participants attended Orefile's presentation on 28 November. "I was excited to see the level of interest in the topic, even though I felt a bit nervous as it was my first time presenting at an international conference," she says.

The presentation included an interactive activity to demonstrate UDL principles. Participants were taught how to greet in Sesotho, using the word "Dumelang", which means "hello" when addressing a group. The session combined live demonstrations, video instructions and interactive cards.

"The activity highlighted how language challenges in South Africa are similar to those faced in countries like Canada and Germany," Orefile notes. "It was encouraging to see attendees engaging with the activity and reflecting on the shared challenges of inclusive education."

Orefile describes the experience as impactful, providing an opportunity to share insights from NWU's implementation of UDL and learn from global perspectives. "It was a privilege to represent NWU and contribute to the ongoing conversation about how technology can support inclusive education."

Orefile Malebo presents at the Online Educa Berlin conference in Germany.

Tswala! project bridges the digital divide in South African schools

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 11:03:04 +0000

Tswala! project bridges the digital divide in South African schools BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 12/10/2024 - 13:03

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.

In 2023, the International Health Awareness Network (IHAN), in partnership with the Optentia research unit, donated R200 000 worth of Galaxy tablets to Eloff Primary School near Delmas.

This donation was part of a larger effort to support the digital transformation of education and was co-created with input from the school’s teachers. The aim of this donation is to help the school better equip its learners to engage with educational content, to interact with one another, and to connect with the wider world.

Building on the success of this pilot project, IHAN plans to expand the initiative to 100 schools across Africa. Many schools in the region still face significant challenges in accessing digital technology, with traditional teaching methods often being the norm. This project seeks to overcome those barriers by providing students and educators with essential digital tools.

In 2024, the initiative saw further collaboration as academics from the Faculty of Humanities and the Faculty of Education joined forces with IHAN’s founder, Dr Sorosh Roshan, and secretary Leila Farshchian. The team revisited Eloff Primary School to assess the impact of the tablets and expanded the programme to other schools.

Among the new beneficiaries was Kamagugu Primary School in Mbombela, which specialises in educating children with significant disabilities. The school received tablets to enhance learning for its students.

Additionally, Ntolo High School, located near Garankuwa, also benefited from the donation of tablets. Destinata School in Meyerton, which caters to children with learning barriers, was provided with laptops to support specialised software for students with hearing difficulties.

Ntolo High School’s principal, Mr SJ Phillips, expressed his gratitude. “I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for your generous donation of tablets to our school. Your contribution has not only equipped our classrooms with valuable technology, but has also opened new doors of opportunity for our students,” he said.

“These tablets will transform the way our learners engage with education. With access to digital tools and resources, our students are now better equipped to explore

interactive learning, enhance their skills, and stay connected in an increasingly digital world.”

The future of the Tswala! project looks promising, with plans to distribute more technology to as many schools as possible across the country and continent. The initiative also aims to intensify support for the four schools that have already received gadgets.

This project represents a vital step forward in ensuring that all students, regardless of location or background, have access to the digital tools needed to succeed in the modern world.

Join in the journey the Tswala! project team took to Destinata School:

Children at Eloff Primary School are using the tablets donated by the International Health Awareness Network.

Dr Khido Ramadie helps learners tackle mental health during exams

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 07:24:08 +0000

Dr Khido Ramadie helps learners tackle mental health during exams BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 12/10/2024 - 09:24

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.

Her path to the NWU was well-planned. She began instructing part-time research courses at the university and became a full-time lecturer and wellness counsellor in 2019.

Dr Ramadie currently focuses her efforts on academic guidance and promoting mental health awareness. She takes pleasure in interacting with students and aiding in their personal development. Beyond her job, she delights in participating in church events, preparing meals, swimming, and enjoying books.

Supporting students through mental health advocacy

As a wellness counsellor Dr Ramadie tackles topics related to anxiety and stress, particularly in students and young adults. Her efforts reach beyond the classroom.

Collaborating with the North West Department of Education, she goes to schools to help students manage examination-related stress. "Students frequently experience fear and uncertainty during examinations, especially those in matric. They require steady assistance," she explains.

Dr Ramadie suggests that parents and teachers provide reassurance to students in difficult situations. Her method focuses on setting a routine at home, encouraging physical movement, and instructing methods such as deep breathing for stress management.

Her dedication to mental health is also clear in the guidance she provides to colleagues. "I urge employees to promote understanding and a supportive environment. It’s essential for both personal and career growth.”

The impact of anxiety on behaviour

Anxiety affects behaviour and personality, dictating how people respond to various circumstances, says Dr Ramadie. “Some individuals might retreat socially, steering clear of interactions or challenges because of fear of criticism, leading to feelings of isolation. Anxiety frequently leads to overthinking, resulting in indecisiveness and constant self-doubt. Some manage by focusing on others' needs, turning into people-pleasers who find it hard to establish boundaries.”

In more extreme instances, anxiety may present as isolation, sadness or frustration, causing individuals to become aggressive or experience a sense of being overwhelmed. “Anxiety typically influences individuals' actions or reactions, yet these are adaptive responses to feelings of uncertainty,” she adds, highlighting the importance of comprehending and addressing these behaviours with compassion.

Building resilience

Dr Ramadie’s efforts are rooted in a commitment to uplift individuals confronting challenges. She aims to offer tools and resources that help students tackle challenges, whether academic or personal.

Her guidance for parents during exam time is straightforward: foster a tranquil, supportive atmosphere, track progress subtly without stress, and promote honest communication. "A regular routine can lead to a notable change," she says.

Dr Khido Ramadie

Water symposium leads to collaboration agreement between NWU and WRC

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 07:18:50 +0000

Water symposium leads to collaboration agreement between NWU and WRC

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 12/10/2024 - 09:18

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.

The agreement establishes a formal collaboration between the NWU and the WRC that is aimed at advancing water research, innovation and capacity building in the North West Province. The partnership will focus on addressing water-related challenges through research and stakeholder engagement.

Dr Mamohloding Tlhagale, head of partnerships and business development at the WRC, explained the significance of the agreement. “The MoA is a foundation for knowledge sharing, innovation and coordinated efforts to address the water issues affecting our communities. It ensures that our actions are aligned with provincial needs.”

The symposium identified several focus areas, including improving water governance, reducing pollution and addressing climate-related water challenges. Key initiatives under the MoA include implementing water research, development and innovation projects and providing training programmes to strengthen capacity in municipalities and communities.

The agreement also positions the NWU as a key partner in generating science-based solutions for water and sanitation issues in the region. Plans include joint research initiatives, the development of water-related education programmes and hosting public seminars and conferences.

Speaking about the university’s role, Dr Tlhagale said, “This partnership leverages the NWU’s expertise to develop practical solutions for municipalities and water boards. Collaboration like this is essential for addressing water management challenges effectively.”

Prof David Modise, executive dean of the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, expressed satisfaction with the formalisation of the partnership. “The MoA highlights our commitment to working with the WRC to address water challenges. Through clear frameworks, this collaboration has the potential to create meaningful benefits for communities.”

From left are Dr Mamohloding Tlhagale, Prof David Modise, Prof Sylvester Mpadeli and Prof Thebe Medupe during the signing of the MoA.

Alumnus makes his mark in full-time farming

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 06:49:19 +0000

Alumnus makes his mark in full-time farming

by Oscar Mosiane

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 12/10/2024 - 08:49

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.

In 2010, following the passing of his father, Thamsanqa started farming on communal land with an initial herd of 20 breeding cows. Presently, he oversees a total of 87 cows and heifers, which include two stud bulls of the Simbra and Bonsmara breeds, as well as one young Brahman bull. He also farms with sheep, goats, turkeys, chickens and ducks.

Before his full-time engagement in farming, he dedicated 24 months to working with unemployed agricultural graduates and completed three months as an agricultural practitioner. Subsequently, he chose to pursue farming as a full-time career.

"I am currently operating on communal land; however, I have participated in several interviews for the government's land lease programme since 2021. I remain optimistic that I will secure a farm in the future," says Thamsanqa.

North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, recently handed over 30 pregnant heifers and a bull to Thamsanqa as a beneficiary of the Department’s Unemployed Agricultural Graduates Programme. The handover was graced by the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Nokuzola Capa, and took place on 22 November 2024 at Lekung Village just outside Mahikeng.

Thamsanqa Ramosotho.

Some of the pregnant Bonsmara heifers that Thamsanqa received from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

NWU shines as global host for BRICS skills development and innovation challenge

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 08:40:55 +0000

NWU shines as global host for BRICS skills development and innovation challenge

by Angeline Marokoane

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 12/06/2024 - 10:40

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.

Chosen by BRICS South Africa for its outstanding reputation, the NWU’s School for Computer Science and Information Systems hosted this international gathering.

The event fostered collaboration between South African and Chinese students, researchers and industry innovators, showcasing cutting-edge projects in technology and automation, including innovations like metal 3D printers, a robotic dog and advanced automation systems.

The competition was more than just a contest – it was a cultural exchange and a bridge between nations. With over 150 delegates, including 120 from China, the event symbolised a growing partnership between BRICS nations. The opening ceremony featured distinguished speakers and a vibrant showcase of South African culture, complete with a marimba band, traditional dancers and local cuisine.

Central to this success were Prof Japie Greeff, deputy director of the School for Computer Science and Information Systems and lead expert of the BRICS Business Council Skills Development, Applied Technology and Innovation Working group, and Jacqui Muller, a lecturer in the School and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) lead.

Both played instrumental roles in building the NWU’s reputation within BRICS and their expertise and leadership were pivotal in the university’s selection as the host institution.

Jacqui was also awarded a gold and a silver medal for her entries into the Technical Innovation Challenge. Their dedication laid the groundwork for what was a transformative experience for participants.

Event highlights: Innovation and recognition

· Technology Innovation Competition: Teams presented high-level projects, judged by a panel of South African and Chinese experts.

· Robotic Process Automation (RPA) Student Challenge: Students from South Africa and China participated in a three-day challenge relating to RPA.

· Cultural exchange: From a lively South African atmosphere at the opening ceremony to a spit braai and the NWU TikTok Challenge, the event emphasised cultural immersion.

· Awards ceremony: The competition concluded with an excellence awards ceremony. NWU teams proudly secured top spots – two silver and one gold – reflecting the university’s competitive edge.

This event marked a significant milestone for the NWU, setting a precedent for future collaborations. The competition was not just about winning; it was about building connections, fostering innovation, and showcasing South Africa’s talent to the world.

With leaders like Prof Greeff and Jacqui driving this vision, the NWU’s future in global innovation looks brighter than ever.

Jaqui Muller receives her cash prizes for her silver and gold awards for the Innovation competition. From left are Prof Japie Greeff, Jacqui and Dr Lui Zhenying, Chairperson of the China Chapter of BRICS Business Council Skills Development, Applied Technology and Innovation Working Group.

Jacqui proudly shows off her silver and gold medals. With her are Prof Greeff and Dr Zhenying.

Receiving the Training Centre plaque for the NWU: from left are Prof Sibusiso Chalufu, acting deputy vice-chancellor for Vanderbijlpark Campus operations and executive director for student life, Prof Greeff, Palesa Katlehongs Makoti from BRICS SA, and Dr Zhenying.

From left are Mapule Ncanywa, chairperson of South Africa Chapter of BRICS Business Council Skills Development, Applied Technology and Innovation Working Group, Prof Estelle Taylor, director of the School of Computer Science and Information Systems, Prof Greeff and Dr Zhenying with the NWU Training Centre plaque.

Palesa hands over the certification of donation to Prof Greeff.

Prof Raubenheimer is advancing quantitative risk analysis

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 08:06:11 +0000

Prof Raubenheimer is advancing quantitative risk analysis

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 12/06/2024 - 10:06

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.

The title of his presentation was “Extremes in risk management – a non-parametric approach to the estimation of the quantiles of compound distributions”. In his opening remarks, Prof Helgard gave an overview of operational risk, which is defined as the risk of loss resulting from inadequate internal processes or external events. He highlighted how operational risk differs from other types of financial risks, emphasising that it has no upside potential and is primarily concerned with losses.

In the same vein, Prof Helgard examined the limitations of traditional parametric methods such as the single-loss and perturbative approximations, which depend on predicting more extreme quantiles of an underlying severity distribution. He argued that inaccurate evaluations of these quantiles may result from faulty parametric distributional assumptions.

To get around this issue, Prof Helgard presented a new non-parametric multiplier technique that is based on the single-loss and perturbative approximations as well as the extreme value theory. This novel approach estimates a less extreme lower quantile of the severity distribution and seeks to increase accuracy without making significant parametric assumptions.

The Monte Carlo simulation, by which the novel approach was assessed, validates Prof Helgard’s innovative non-parametric technique as a reliable alternative for extreme quantile estimation – especially in cases where there is little data available.

Further, Prof Raubenheimer emphasised the need for accurate extreme quantile estimation, stating that incorrect assumptions about parametric distributions can lead to inaccuracies in quantile estimation, ultimately impacting financial stability.

His presentation featured a discussion of the practical implications of using the proposed methods in operational risk management in financial institutions.

Prof Helgard concluded by highlighting the importance of not just historical data, but also expert judgement and scenario analysis in improving risk assessments.

About Prof Helgard Raubenheimer

Prof Helgard holds a PhD in Risk Analysis, which he obtained at the NWU in 2010, and his primary research interest is quantitative risk management. From 2016 to 2021 Prof Raubenheimer served as the head of the Scientific Analytical Services (SAS) laboratory. His responsibilities included organising industry training initiatives and promoting interactions with the SAS Global Academic Programme, both domestically and abroad.

Prof Raubenheimer co-authored a number of peer-reviewed publications that Risk.net, the Actuarial Society of South Africa (ASSA), and the South African Statical Association (SASA) have praised both domestically and internationally.

Prof Helgard Raubenheimer

Academic honoured with prestigious award

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 07:57:42 +0000

Academic honoured with prestigious award

by Mafumane Tlhapi

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 12/06/2024 - 09:57

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.

Prof Coetzer brings a wealth of experience, having spent more than 30 years in the industry before joining the NWU in 2021. He has led multidisciplinary teams in developing artificial intelligence and process modelling solutions, and has contributed to applied and theoretical statistical research globally. Among his accomplishments are 53 co-authored scientific publications, a patent in coal processing technologies, and numerous successful postgraduate supervision projects.

He has also held influential positions, including that of SASA president in 2013 and being a council member of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions since 2015. Notably, he led efforts to address South Africa's academic statistics crisis, resulting in significant government support for developing local talent.

Prof Coetzer focuses on teaching, research, and securing impactful industry collaborations. His work showcases the importance of integrating theoretical and applied statistics to solve real-world problems in areas such as energy efficiency, environmental compliance and sustainability.

He emphasises that statistics is vital across disciplines. “The greatest ideas come from industry problems with no existing solutions. Framing these as academic challenges generates innovative solutions for value creation.”

Receiving the Thought Leader Award, Prof Coetzer expressed his pride and hopes to use this recognition to inspire younger generations to explore the boundless opportunities in mathematical and statistical sciences.

"Statistics are making a difference in many areas, including business, industry, medicine, government and society. The next generation of statisticians has the chance to shape a better world," he says.

Prof Roelof Coetzer, recipient of the SASA Thought Leader Award, celebrates decades of contributions to the field of statistics.

Lessons from Covid-19 can help strengthen maternal healthcare

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 07:51:29 +0000

Lessons from Covid-19 can help strengthen maternal healthcare BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 12/06/2024 - 09:51

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.

“Access to maternal healthcare has always been a challenge for women in rural areas, but the pandemic amplified these difficulties,” Makgake explains. “Lockdowns, curfews and resource shortages left many women anxious and unsure whether they would receive timely care.”

The study revealed several negative outcomes, including delays in care, limited contact with healthcare providers and an increase in complications during pregnancy and childbirth. “The diversion of resources to handle Covid-19 meant maternal health services were not prioritised, which had real consequences for expectant mothers,” Makgake says.

Intimate partner violence added to women’s stress

Another concerning finding was the dual impact of pandemic restrictions on family dynamics. “On the one hand, women appreciated spending more time with their families,” she notes. “But on the other, we saw an alarming rise in intimate partner violence, which added another layer of stress for many women.”

In response to these challenges, her study offers several recommendations. “We need to rethink how we deliver maternal healthcare during crises,” she says. “Mobile health services, telemedicine and better funding for maternal care can ensure continuity and improve outcomes even in emergencies.”

Makgake’s research also highlights the need for preventative measures. “Adequate supplies of personal protective equipment and infection prevention strategies are essential,” she emphasises. “These basics can make a world of difference for both healthcare providers and the women they serve.”

This study sheds light on the critical need to strengthen healthcare systems to withstand future disruptions. As Makgake concludes, “The lessons from this pandemic must guide us in creating a more resilient and inclusive healthcare framework that prioritises women’s needs, no matter the circumstances.”

Her findings serve as a call to action, urging policymakers to invest in maternal healthcare systems that can weather crises and safeguard the well-being of women and their families.

Makgake Ziphorah Mohulatsi

Wellness expert advocates against gender-based violence during 16 Days of Activism

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 07:28:19 +0000

Wellness expert advocates against gender-based violence during 16 Days of Activism BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 12/06/2024 - 09:28

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.

According to Dr Ramadie, educational institutions have a unique responsibility to contribute to the fight against GBV. “The institutions can offer counselling and mental health support for survivors, hold awareness campaigns, and provide safe spaces to help prevent and address GBV,” she says.

These measures not only create an environment where students feel supported but also foster a culture of respect and accountability.

Awareness campaigns during the 16 Days of Activism are especially critical. Dr Ramadie highlights the importance of using a variety of methods to engage the university community.

“Through campaigns, workshops, social media outreach, public events and partnerships, we can educate the public on the impact of GBV and help promote prevention strategies and resources for survivors.”

Support survivors through ribbons, stories and marches

Symbolic actions such as wearing ribbons, sharing survivor stories, and organising marches also play a key role in drawing attention to the urgency of addressing GBV. For survivors of GBV, psychological support is a vital component of recovery.

Dr Ramadie stresses that counselling and therapy provide a safe space for survivors to heal emotionally and rebuild their self-esteem. “Therapy and counselling normally provide a safe space for survivors to process their experiences, manage symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety or depression, and develop healthy coping mechanisms,” she says. “This support is essential for long-term recovery and empowerment.”

At the NWU, wellness services aim to address these needs by providing accessible, professional counselling to students and staff. Survivors can then begin the journey of recovery in a supportive and understanding environment.

As part of its commitment to social responsibility, the NWU continues to prioritise initiatives that address GBV on its campuses and beyond. This year’s 16 Days of Activism provides an opportunity for the university to amplify its efforts, fostering an environment where students and staff can thrive free from the fear of violence.

NWU wellness counsellor Dr Khido Ramadie.