The North-West University (NWU) delegation’s visit to the Universidad Tecnológica del Perú (UTP) on 17 June began with a warm and culturally rich welcome that set the tone for an inspiring day of academic exchange and collaboration.

• Researchers have created a comprehensive list of indigenous names for frogs and reptiles in order to promote inclusive conservation

• People are far more likely to protect what they can name

• South Africa’s indigenous languages have long been marginalised in science

• The inclusion of indigenous names in biodiversity literature is not only good science, but also democratic

“To expand beautiful ideas of working together across disciplines.” These were the words of Professor Jeffrey Mpahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for Research and Innovation at the North-West University (NWU), as he captured the essence of the university's Research and Innovation Colloquium that was held at Sun City from 02-04 March 2025.

The North-West University (NWU) is pleased with progress regarding the registration of first-year students for the 2025 academic year.

We received more than 390 000 applications to enrol at the NWU for this academic year. We are encouraged and grateful that we remain a university of choice for many prospective students, and that we continue to be recognised for academic excellence, a vibrant student life, and a sound co-curricular environment.

Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, Minister of Higher Education and Training has given her full support to the establishment of the North-West University’s (NWU) medical school.

The latest Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings place the North-West University (NWU) among the top seven universities in South Africa. QS published its rankings for top global universities for 2025 on 4 June.

The NWU has performed consistently among local universities in these rankings ─ QS ranked the NWU seventh in the country last year too. Globally, the NWU moved into the 851 to 900 ranking category.

It is not only globally and locally that the NWU shines. According to QS, the NWU is now also among the top thirteen universities in Africa.

As we celebrate Youth Month this June, we are reminded of the vibrant energy, resilience, and potential of our nation’s youth.

The North-West University (NWU) boasts three finalists in this year’s prestigious NSTF-South32 Awards. The university had a strong showing in the run-up to the awards, receiving eight nominations in the various categories.

The NSTF-South 32 Awards is the largest, most comprehensive and one of the most coveted national awards. It recognises outstanding contributions in science, engineering and technology (SET) and innovation by individuals, teams and organisations.

It was another first for the North-West University (NWU) and a day that will live long in the memory of all those who attended it. On Saturday, 1 June, the NWU held its inaugural Gauteng open day at Supersport Park in Centurion.

Learners from schools from across the province were in attendance to get their first taste of what the NWU has to offer. More than 30% of the NWU’s students hail from Gauteng, and the province plays a critical role in the makeup of the NWU, which is one of the biggest universities in the country.

The faculties at the North-West University (NWU) are doing exciting work on the research front.

Prof Moses Retselisitsoe Phooko is the director of Professional Development and Community Engagement in the Faculty of Law. His research is on the Southern African Development Community (SADC). He explains more about what his research entails.