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

Come 26 November, more than 900 000 Grade 12 candidates will be celebrating the conclusion of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.

The exams commenced on 21 October with the computer applications technology (CAT) practical paper, one of the 112 examination papers that have been set across the country. This follows months of preparation supported by provincial education departments and the Department of Basic Education (DBE).

October is Transport Month in South Africa, but there is not much to celebrate as the country’s economy is paying the price for decades of underinvestment and neglect in its transport system.

Failing roads, crumbling railways and inefficient ports are costing the country billions of rands and undermining its global competitiveness, according to transport analyst Dr Olebogeng Baikgaki of the North-West University (NWU).

The North-West University (NWU) Business School proudly announces that it will host the 2026 International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development (ICGSD) from 8 to 12 March 2026 at the Protea Hotel, Stellenbosch, Cape Town.

Themed “Reimagining innovation pathways for sustainability: research, practice and policy”, the 2026 ICGSD will bring together researchers, policymakers, innovators and thought leaders from across Africa and the world to engage in transformative dialogue on advancing sustainable development.

The Centre for Health Professions Education (CHPE) at the North-West University (NWU) has earned prestigious recognition from the World Health Organization (WHO) after being selected as a winner in the WHO AFRO Network of Partner Institutions (NPI) for Health Systems.