Exaggeration is so often used as a tool for disinformation and to instil fear, but it is fair to say that never has the need to understand how our critical resources are interlinked been so important for the current and future welfare of our planet.

There is a nexus between energy, water and the environment, and here South Africa, with its unique challenges, stands at a crossroads. The country is grappling with a complex web of energy shortfalls, water scarcity and environmental pressures. And South Africa is not alone.

By Gofaone Motsamai

Fifty learners from a primary school in Mahikeng are putting their best feet forward after the Staff Sports Club on the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus donated school shoes.

The team won the annual Employee Charity Soccer Tournament hosted by the Badiri Wellness League, in partnership with Sanlam. By winning, they earned the privilege of choosing which school should receive a donation of 50 pairs of school shoes, and the team chose Lokaleng Primary in Mahikeng.

Globally, World Patient Safety Day (WPSD) is celebrated on 17 September to raise awareness on healthcare safety and quality. This initiative by the World Health Organisation (WHO) inspires healthcare professionals to show their commitment to patient safety.

The theme for 2025 is “Safe care for every newborn and every child”, emphasising that each child has the right to safe and quality care from birth.

Aphelele Wandile Sibisi’s football journey began on the streets of Mandeni in KwaZulu-Natal, where he spent hours kicking a ball around with friends. Today, the 22-year-old defender leads the North-West University (NWU) Eagles into a decisive moment in the Varsity Football tournament.

With one round-robin match left on Thursday, 18 September, the Eagles are just a single point away from securing a semifinal spot.

The North-West University (NWU) is actively reinforcing its dedication to student success by recently partnering with Blackbullion, a digital platform designed to build financial literacy. This partnership desires to give students the knowledge and skills they need to manage their money wisely during their time at the NWU and beyond.

“This partnership with Blackbullion contributes to student well-being, which is vital for academic achievement,” said Rassie Louw, coordinator at the NWU Digital Academy.

“Let your work speak for you.” This quiet conviction guides Itumeleng Bahetane, an accomplished broadcaster, academic and media strategist and proud North-West University (NWU) alumnus.

From his early days behind a radio mic in Mahikeng to leading regional operations for the SABC in North West, Bahetane’s journey is a story of vision, resilience and a deep commitment to public communication.

Livestock farming feeds millions of South Africans, but it also leaves a carbon footprint that cannot be ignored. North-West University (NWU) animal scientist Prof Kenny Mnisi says the challenge is finding the balance between sustaining households and tackling climate change.

Many farmers, however, are unaware of this link. Prof Mnisi says short learning programmes and collaborative initiatives are needed to close the gap.

“Tempus tuum adest – Your time has arrived.”

This powerful Latin phrase is not just a motto for Tshegofatso Ramokopeloa, it is the guiding principle of her life and career.

Born and raised in the heart of Mabeskraal village, Tshegofatso proudly identifies herself as ngwanyana wa Motlhako, the only daughter in a family of six siblings. Today, she is the proud mother of two beautiful daughters, an accomplished attorney and a revered traditional healer. Her journey embodies the true spirit of Heritage Month: a celebration of identity, roots and purpose.

By Mafumane Tlhapi and Mzwandile Ndlovu

 Prof Li Wei, director and dean of the Institute of Education (IOE) at the University College London (UCL), delivered a public lecture on 4 September at the North-West University (NWU).

The theme of the lecture was “What does linguistic diversity mean and how can language-education policy address multilingualism?”.

The North-West University (NWU) hosted the International Tourism Week Symposium from 9 to 11 September 2025 at The Willows Garden Hotel in Potchefstroom. The symposium brought together academics, students, and industry experts from across the globe to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the future of tourism