By Prof Linda du Plessis

Donors and industry partners play a vital role in keeping dreams alive at the North-West University (NWU). This was highlighted at the annual Donors and Stakeholders Luncheon, held in Pretoria on 28 October, at which the university expressed its deep appreciation for these invaluable partnerships.

Two leading scholars from the North-West University (NWU) took centre stage at the International Conference on Emerging Trends in Psychosocial Well-being (ETPW2025), hosted by the University of Namibia. Their contributions highlighted the critical link between decent jobs, mental health and human flourishing – issues at the heart of national productivity and sustainable development.

The North-West University (NWU) Business School is proud to announce the extraordinary appointments of Dr Yuanyuan (Gina) Cui and Dr Patrick van Esch, both from the E. Craig Wall Sr. College of Business Administration at the Coastal Carolina University. Their appointments bring exceptional expertise, research leadership and global academic distinction to the NWU Business School community.

South Africa’s transport sector stands at a critical crossroads: unless urgent investment and private-sector participation are channelled into public transport infrastructure, the country’s economy will continue to stagnate.

North-West University (NWU) transport economist Dr Olebogeng Baikgaki says GDP growth for 2025 is expected to be limited to between 0,9% and 1,3%, and the outlook is poor if decaying infrastructure and inefficiencies are not addressed.

South Africa’s sluggish transport system could find new momentum through digitalisation and sustainable investment, says transport economist Dr Olebogeng Baikgaki of the North-West University (NWU).

He argues that integrating digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) and electric vehicles into transport planning could revolutionise mobility and reduce carbon emissions.

South Africa’s transport system comprising roads, rail, aviation, and maritime networks remains a crucial driver of driving the country’s economic growth and trade. Yet, it faces a range of challenges including infrastructure deterioration, skills shortages, inefficiencies in freight logistics, and limited connectivity in rural areas. According to recent reports by the Department of Transport, logistics costs account for approximately 10–12% of South Africa’s GDP, one of the highest in emerging markets.

A university should be a transformative environment in which students can explore their passions and grow as individuals. While this experience shapes future professionals and responsible citizens, ensuring student safety is equally important.

By Gofaone Motsamai

As a young girl growing up in the Free State, Dineo Majoang watched her grandparents raise chickens, pigs and cattle in their small yard, making a living from the little they had. Those early experiences shaped her interest in farming and the challenges faced by rural households.

By Prof Joseph Sekhampu