With matric finals just days away, North-West University (NWU) academic in the Faculty of Education Dr Judicial Sebatana says they must focus on the present and not on past shortcomings.

Sharing his insights on the readiness of matric learners for their final exams which start on 21 October 2024, Dr Sebatana points out that the final exams account for 75% of their mark, whereas past performance only counts for 25%. “It’s important for learners to remember that it’s not too late.”

Prof Francois van der Westhuizen, deputy dean for research and innovation of the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the North-West University (NWU), has been awarded the prestigious Hofmeyr-Van Schaik Gold Medal by the South African Genetics Society (SAGS).

This is in recognition of his contributions over three decades to advancing research, diagnosis, and awareness of rare genetic diseases in South African populations.

The society presents this award biennially to one academic following a nomination and review process.

"If your aim is to change the world, journalism is a more immediate short-term weapon," according to British playwright and screenwriter Tom Stoppard. This sentiment is echoed by Thabiso Moss, an alumnus of the North-West University (NWU) and a senior journalist at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC).

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is on the rise in South Africa and the North-West University (NWU) is responding by raising awareness of the importance of healthy lifestyles.

The prevalence of this condition has increased in recent years due to diets rich in processed food, sugary drinks, a lack of exercise and obesity.

According to the World Health Organization, diabetes is among the top 10 leading causes of mortality globally, with South Africa witnessing a significant increase in cases, from 4,5% in 2010 to 12,7% in 2019.

“Tito Mboweni was a formidable leader, with deep economic insights that greatly shaped South Africa’s post-apartheid policies and structures, such as the South African Reserve Bank (SARB), labour law and Nedlac.”

Reacting to the death of former Finance Minister and SARB Governor Tito Mboweni, Prof Raymond Parsons, economist from the North-West University (NWU) Business School, says he was saddened to hear of his unexpected passing over the weekend and sends his condolences to his family.

As South Africans celebrate Transport Month in October, we should broaden our focus beyond infrastructure and modernisation to the more nuanced and pressing issue of universal access to transport. This annual observance is a time to reflect on how transport systems impact everyone, especially those who are marginalised by their physical or financial limitations. While President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the need for universal access to transport, significant challenges remain, especially for the most vulnerable commuters.

The final round of the sixth annual Leopards Lair® student business pitching competition was hosted jointly by the TTIS, bhive Enterprise Development Centre and the North-West University (NWU) Business School on Thursday, 3 October.    

As South Africa marks Transport Month in October, it's an opportune time to reflect on the profound shifts in the logistics sector that have redefined how goods are transported and delivered. The pandemic-induced changes in consumer behaviour have accelerated the rise of last-mile delivery, transforming it into a critical pillar of modern logistics. What once relied on large-scale, long-haul freight systems has now given way to more personalised last-mile solutions that deliver items directly to consumers’ doorsteps.

The subject group Social Work at the North-West University (NWU) is preparing to host the highly anticipated Student Social Work Conference 2024. Scheduled to take place on 25 October 2024, the conference will carry the theme "Strengthening Foundations for Social Work's Critical Challenges".

The conference will take place from 08:00 until 16:00 on all three campuses and is linked to the BSWP471 module. It is a key part of the assessment and is expected to draw around 80 delegates, including partners, supervisors, stakeholders and students.

By Marize Language

When one enters the NWU Art Gallery, you are immediately dragged into an adventure of colour and texture. Right next to the foyer of the gallery the magical work of Dr Colette Lotz unfolds before your eyes. Lotz is a local artist and academic in the Graphic Design subject group at the Potchefstroom Campus of the North-West University (NWU), and her work is truly extraordinary.