EMS

NWU and SAIGA celebrate an accreditation milestone

MARELIZE SANTANA — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 11:20:57 +0000

NWU and SAIGA celebrate an accreditation milestone

MARELIZE SANTANA Wed, 09/18/2024 - 13:20

The North-West University (NWU) and the Southern African Institute of Government Auditors (SAIGA) recently celebrated the NWU’s inclusion on SAIGA’s list of accredited universities to contribute towards the certification and development of public sector accountants and auditors.

This means that the NWU is now accredited to offer the Registered Government Auditor (RGA) qualification, which is fully recognised and registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

This partnership is a major step forward in the development of public sector auditing and governance in South Africa, and highlights a shared commitment to professionalism, integrity and excellence in training future government auditors.

"The SAIGA’s accreditation of the NWU is an important addition to the growing list of universities contributing to the certification and development of public sector accountants and auditors," said SAIGA CEO Russel Morena in a congratulatory message.

He emphasised the role of SAIGA over the past 36 years in building a pool of professionals for state entities and local, provincial and national governments, with the auditor-general of South Africa being one of the largest beneficiaries of SAIGA-trained professionals.

Russel also highlighted the importance of the RGA designation.

“The RGA offers university graduates the opportunity to specialise in public sector accounting and external auditing. The programme also instils the necessary ethical values, technical competencies and foundational knowledge in RGA graduates, preparing them to lead with integrity and professionalism.”

Lovedelia Kganakga, a lecturer in the School of Accounting Sciences, emphasized the importance of this milestone. "Today marks a significant step in our partnership with SAIGA, aimed at advancing the field of public sector auditing. This accreditation will empower professionals to access high-quality education, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to lead the public sector with competence and ethical responsibility."

She also acknowledged the SAIGA leadership team and Prof Ntebo Moroke, deputy dean for community engagement and stakeholder relations in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, for driving this partnership forward.

Dr Calvin Mahlaule, deputy director of School of Accounting, said this recognition contributes to the NWU’s strategic goal of being relevant and sought after. “This presents an exciting growth opportunity for those pursuing the RGA designation, offering market development and new career paths."

In closing, Russel encouraged students passionate about public sector finance and auditing to join the SAIGA membership, which offers various benefits including access to professional development programmes, mentoring and academic awards.

This accreditation not only celebrates the achievements of the NWU and SAIGA, but also marks the beginning of a new era of collaboration, promoting excellence and innovation in public sector governance.

Various stakeholders celebrated the NWU’s accreditation by SAIGA, including representatives from the Provincial Treasury, the local municipality, PricewaterhouseCoopers, the NWU’s School of Accounting Sciences and SAIGA.

School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management impresses at SABPP awards

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 06:39:35 +0000

School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management impresses at SABPP awards

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 09/16/2024 - 08:39

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management was recently recognised in two categories of the 2024 South African Board for People Practices (SABPP) Awards.

The school won an award in the category Best University in People Practices and Governance (PPG) Standards Alignment, and Debbie Mtshelwane, a lecturer and programme leader for Human Resource Management won an award in the Best Standard Research Paper/Dissertation category.

These awards were made at the recent annual SABPP People Factor Conference that took place in Johannesburg.

Debbie, who holds a master’s degree in human resource management from the NWU, says she feels proud, grateful and honoured that she and her school were nominated and won two of the awards.

"These achievements are truly the result of collaborative efforts from all the staff in our school, which led to us being recognised as the best university in PPG standards alignment. The research award is also a testament to the support, insights and advice from my research promoters, Prof Lizelle Rossouw and Prof Lene Graupner," says Debbie.

Debbie has played a key role in shaping the educational experience of students. She has demonstrated her dedication to the field through impactful initiatives such as master classes, work readiness workshops/webinars, internships during breaks, guest lectures, and industry days to support students and expose them to real-world human resource management practices. Through these efforts, she has facilitated valuable interactions between students and industry experts, equipping students with the necessary knowledge and skills for their future careers.

Debbie says her journey into human resource management was not a conventional one, but rather a serendipitous discovery. She initially aimed for a degree in communication, but she found herself redirected to human resource management due to capacity constraints. What seemed like a twist of fate turned out to be the beginning of a fulfilling career and a deep passion for human resource management education.

"I planned to switch to my first option of communication later, but then I ended up enjoying the human resource management modules and decided to stay," she explains.

Her advice to those who want to excel in this career?

“Dedication, perseverance and proactive engagement beyond the classroom are key to excel in human resources or industrial psychology. Commit to personal growth, take advantage of opportunities, stay updated with industry trends, develop soft skills, and remember that networking is crucial for career advancement. Consistently exceed expectations and maintain a lifelong learning mindset. If you strive for excellence in your professional journey, you will be going places."

Debbie Mtshelwane, a lecturer and programme leader for Human Resource Management won an award in the Best Standard Research Paper/Dissertation category at the 2024 South African Board for People Practices (SABPP) Awards.

NWU students excel in SAICA ITC exams

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 13:27:11 +0000

NWU students excel in SAICA ITC exams

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 09/05/2024 - 15:27

The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Initial Test of Competence (ITC) exam is a critical milestone for aspiring chartered accountants in the country, and North-West University (NWU) students have once again proven to be among the best in the country.

Achieving high results in this exam demonstrates a strong grasp of fundamental accounting principles and readiness for advanced professional practice.

The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants, also known as SAICA, has released the results of its Initial Test of Competence, which is conducted in January and June each year. The NWU’s overall pass rate for the 2023 Postgraduate Degree in Accounting (PGDA) class increased from 97% in the January exam to 99% in the June exam. This puts the NWU in second place overall for the postgraduate degree in the country.

“Results such as these are a testament to the tireless efforts, dedication and passion for education of our staff and students. Well done PGDA class of 2023!” says Heleen Janse van Vuuren, Director of the NWU’s School of Accounting Sciences.

For a university like the NWU, the success of its students in the ITC is vital as it reflects the quality of its accounting programme and strengthens its reputation in the academic and business communities.

Groundbreaking research leads to comprehensive and effective approach to forensic interviewing

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 07:53:18 +0000

Groundbreaking research leads to comprehensive and effective approach to forensic interviewing

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 08/19/2024 - 09:53

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Optentia research unit recently celebrated a significant milestone with delivering the first PhD graduate in social sciences with relational dynamics and development. The groundbreaking research of Dr Constant Laubscher van Graan focuses on relational dynamics in forensic investigations.

His study has significantly contributed to the field of commercial forensic investigations by shedding light on the complex dynamics that unfold during interactions between multiple stakeholders.

Dr Van Graan, a senior lecturer and leader of the Forensic Accountancy programme at the NWU, recognised the inadequacy of traditional interviewing methods in comprehending the intricacies of human interaction within forensic investigations, particularly in the South African context.

His innovative work has culminated in the development of the Ponaletso Commercial Forensic Interviewing (CFI) Framework, which integrates the person-centered approach (PCA) and the PEACE model to provide a more comprehensive and effective approach to forensic interviewing. His framework aims to enhance the gathering of reliable and admissible information during interactions with suspects and witnesses.

"My research broadly reiterates that, when you respect people and acknowledge their complexities, they are more willing to engage. This is a central theme of the social sciences and, up until now, has been neglected in the forensic investigative context,” he says.

“Empathy, congruence (genuineness) and acceptance are core qualities that need to be exhibited by the investigator, and this links with their ability to be aware of the relational dynamics at play. These qualities are visible in many contexts and, if applied correctly, enrich the engagement and interaction between individuals," he explains.

He says that his interest in relational dynamics and development within the commercial forensic investigative context was sparked by the lack of knowledge about forensic investigative interviewing. This type of interviewing is a crucial tool for gathering evidence during fraud investigations.

"There is no standard interviewing technique for investigators in South Africa and current international guidelines usually do not take into consideration the complexities of human beings. Relational dynamics can help us understand the interactions between investigators and interviewees (i.e. suspects and witnesses) and pave the way for new approaches to interviewing in South Africa and the rest of the world. This gap intrigued me, and I wanted to explore it further," he reveals.

Looking ahead, he envisions real-world application of his conceptual framework in commercial forensic investigative practices.

Throughout his research journey and as a forensic accountant, Dr Van Graan encountered a myriad of challenges, from logistical issues in interviewing participants to grasping complex new methodologies in the field of social sciences. However, his determination and focused approach enabled him to overcome these obstacles.

"I also had to be open to modifying my study when new information or data arose. To stay sane through these challenges, I focused only on things I could control and made peace with the rest. It wasn't easy, but ultimately, the determination to finish at all costs, even if it took longer than expected, helped me cross the finish line," he says.

He adds that they are busy developing an electronic version of the framework, which may be of significant importance to the forensic industry.

“Watch this space," he says.

Dr Constant Laubscher van Graan.

Young entrepreneurs shine in youth innovation challenge

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 15 Aug 2024 08:29:07 +0000

Young entrepreneurs shine in youth innovation challenge

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 08/15/2024 - 10:29

The North-West University (NWU) hosted the Young African Entrepreneurs Institute (YAEI) and Absa Youth Entrepreneurship Northwest Tour (YET), from 6 to 7 August, welcoming young impactful entrepreneurs to the Potchefstroom Campus.

The YET aims to extend entrepreneurship development support across South Africa. The tour visits each province, providing a platform where young entrepreneurs can showcase their ventures.

Day one of the tour kicked off with a youth innovation challenge pitch where participants had the opportunity to present their innovative ideas and solutions, kindling their entrepreneurial spirit and creativity.

This challenge aimed to develop entrepreneurial youth that can drive measurable socio-economic impact, addressing pressing issues in energy, environment, finance, social development and technology.

The competition was open to all students, graduates and entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 to 35 years who are passionate about developing solutions that could make a tangible impact and show market potential with a clear path to implementation.

Participants were required to be at least at the concept or minimal viable product stage of their ideas, which were evaluated based on their originality, viability market identification, and sustainability.

In the end, Faith Matilo (Bright Spark), Ntando Neck (Babu Space), Kgothatso Mashigo (We Learn ZA), Claudia Mosupa (Heatricity), and Martin Maupa (Cerrar Solutions), were announced the winners. They received cash prizes and will become part of the national Emerging 30 Innovators that will have the opportunity to attend a fully sponsored 12-month enterprise and development incubation programme.

On the second day the young innovators were given a masterclass on financial inclusion, which included advice on how to obtain funding. This was followed by a penal discussion about developing sustainable businesses and creating entrepreneurial pathways.

During his welcoming address, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, NWU principal and vice-chancellor, set the tone for the day, underscoring the importance of promoting innovation and entrepreneurship among young people.

“Institutions of higher learning are crucial in fostering an atmosphere that encourages innovation, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Partnering with stakeholders like the government, non-governmental and non-profit organisations, and industry partners, we are able to create an environment that is conducive to entrepreneurship and help these young giants create ground-breaking inventions.”

Prof Tyobeka emphasised that the recently launched NWU Enterprises will offer networking opportunities, mentorship programmes and functional incubators to assist and build resources for young entrepreneurs on their path to success.

“As we continue to provide young people with entrepreneurial opportunities, we must recognise that this is an intentional journey involving creativity, invention, and resilience, rather than merely a destination,” said YAEI CEO Risuna Maluleke.

“The journey needs guidance and support, and the YAEI programme is a well-structured ecosystem designed to motivate young people to solve problems and turn their ideas into reality to create opportunities for themselves,” he added.

Bitsa Lenkopane, MEC for Economic Development, Conservation, Environment and Tourism at the Northwest provincial legislature, said government fully supports this initiative. “This partnership is crucial for identifying and funding economic growth programmes that serve public interests.”

More about the Young African Entrepreneurs Institute

The Young African Entrepreneurs Institute (YAEI) is a youth-led registered non-profit company that was established with a mission to develop entrepreneurial youth who will drive measurable socio-economic impact by actively participating in the economy. The institute delivers on its mandate through well-structured programmes that have a combination of practical skills, organised knowledge and proactive support for the youth.

They have partnered with various institutions nationwide, including Absa, Nedbank and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency.

The winners of the YAEI Youth Entrepreneurship Tour for the Northwest province posing with delegates from the YAEI and Absa.

Prof Bismark Tyobeka welcomes attendees during the last day of the Youth Entrepreneurship Tour.

Sabelo Ntshangase, provincial manager for the Small Enterprise Development Agency, Dr Lerato Mdaka, senior lecturer from the NWU’s Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, and Ronald Nkhumise senior specialist in enterprise development from Absa, were the panellists.

The NWU community welcomes Bitsa Lenkopane, MEC for Economic Development, Conservation, Environment and Tourism at the Northwest provincial legislature.

The CEO of YAEI, Risuna Maluleke

The African tourism renaissance: Now is the time to unlock its tourism potential

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 08:14:06 +0000

The African tourism renaissance: Now is the time to unlock its tourism potential

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 08/13/2024 - 10:14

Africa is experiencing a tourism renaissance. Since 2022, the continent has seen a remarkable turnaround in its tourism fortunes, and it is enjoying an influx of foreign currency. Experts agree that now is the time to capitalise on this renewed interest in Africa as a tourist destination, as opportunities like this don’t come along very often.

“Africa is in the best possible position to benefit from post-pandemic travel. In terms of tourism, the continent has grown significantly post-Covid 19, and according to the United Nations Tourism Report 2024, the continent has achieved a 96% recovery, which is driven by European markets,” explains Prof Elmarie Slabbert of the Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society (TREES) research unit at the North-West University (NWU) in South Africa.

“I think there is something to be said about the hospitality of Africans, the vast landscapes to escape to, the bucket list drive, the special places to visit and above all, the unique and authentic experiences – this is Africa! This continent has also opened its doors wide to tourists after realising the devastating effect of the absence of tourists. Priorities post-Covid such as air connectivity, digitisation, investment and ease of access have contributed to this growth,” says Slabbert.

She also notes that Africa’s tourism offering is becoming more relevant as people yearn to be in nature and spend time with family and friends.

“However, it is important to ensure that we develop this sector in a sustainable way in order to offer these products to many generations to come.”

If Africa can continue to adapt to the demands of the tourism sector, the future looks bright.

“Sustainable practices are becoming a factor influencing travel behaviour and choices. Despite many challenges, tourism to Africa will continue to grow because of what it has to offer and its people. Africa needs the European injection into tourism, which drives economic growth, infrastructure development, job opportunities, improved livelihoods and the conservation of valuable attractions and wildlife. The strategy to increase international tourist arrivals is very effective and shows how cooperation between different departments can make a difference –an example for other continents and countries,” concludes Slabbert.

*In June 2024, 1,6 million foreign travellers visited South Africa, of which 641 284 were tourists staying overnight, mainly for holiday purposes. The majority of these tourists (77%) were from SADC countries, with Zimbabwe being the largest contributor at 169 490 tourists, according to Stats SA. South Africa received 40 591 tourists from the USA and 15 601 from the UK in June. This shows that Africans are travelling and choosing South Africa as their destination.

Prof Elmarie Slabbert

A new book from the NWU explores the digitalisation-employment relationship in Africa

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 08:19:42 +0000

A new book from the NWU explores the digitalisation-employment relationship in Africa

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 08/08/2024 - 10:19

A new book written by a group of researchers from the TRADE research entity at the North-West University (NWU) delves into digital developments in Africa and their effects on employment. Titled Digital developments and employment: Understanding trends in Africa, the book is published by AOSIS under an open-access licence.

According to the book’s authors (Ali Parry, Prof Wilma Viviers, Dr Emmanuel Orkoh and Dr Adelia Jansen van Rensburg), there is broad consensus in the literature that job creation and productive employment are critical building blocks in the creation of a vibrant, inclusive economy. An important premise in the book is that employment is a leading determinant of inclusive growth, which has become a key policy imperative across the African continent.

While the digital era has the potential to expand employment by opening up new professional pathways and market opportunities, it also poses risks – not least of which is that increasingly sophisticated digital technologies will displace workers in “traditional” jobs, leading to higher unemployment levels. This is something that Africa can little afford, given its high levels of unemployment and informal (and thus vulnerable) employment.

The book uses both qualitative and quantitative research methods to explore the digital developments-employment nexus, comparing qualitative findings from a broad literature review with actual quantitative results from an empirical study that the authors conducted using a longitudinal regression analysis of 20 African countries. A disaggregated approach was adopted for the empirical study, providing important insights into the employment effects of digital developments per sector, gender and country income group. While some results were expected, others were surprising.

The book makes for absorbing reading for academics and researchers in the economic development field who are interested in acquiring a better understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with digital advances in Africa, and how policymakers should respond.

Digital developments and employment: Understanding trends in Africa can be accessed at:

Digital developments and employment: Understanding trends in Africa | AOSIS Scholarly Books

NWU researchers take aim at bridging continents

MARELIZE SANTANA — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:46:08 +0000

NWU researchers take aim at bridging continents

by Steve Maphakathe

MARELIZE SANTANA Mon, 07/22/2024 - 09:46

In their pursuit of driving innovation and expanding the North-West University’s (NWU’s) global research, a delegation of nine researchers recently embarked on a fruitful international visit to the United Kingdom (UK).

The researchers visited two prestigious institutions, the London School of Economics and Political Sciences (LSE) and the University of Lincoln, and were cordially received by their UK counterparts.

The primary goal of the visit was to foster international collaboration and potential partnerships aimed at research, teaching and programme development, with special emphasis on the Africa Trade Platforms project.

The NWU’s researchers included Prof Steve Dunga, Prof Zandri Dickason-Koekemoer, Prof Suné Ferreira-Schenk, Prof Ireen Choga, Ermie Steenkamp, Prof Carli Bezuidenhout, Dr Jabulile Makhalima, Dr Jacques de Jongh, and Dr Lorainne Ferreira.

They are affiliated with the research focus area Trade, which specialises in the fields of development economics, international trade, supply chain management and transport, applied economics and econometrics, and financial markets.

Laying the groundwork with the LSE

During their visit to the LSE, the researchers engaged in a series of meetings with notable individuals including Prof Tim Allen, director of the Firoz Laljii Institute for Africa. Other notable individuals from the Firoz Lalji Institute included Fadil Elobeid, Africa engagement project manager, Dr Martha Geiger Mwenitete, chair of strategic development and institute manager, Dr Marta Soprana; research fellow in the Department of International Relations, and Richard Alexander from the School of Oriental and African Studies.

The delegation also met with Prof Abigail McKnight, director of the Centre for Analysis of Social Exclusion (CASE), and Dr Kitty Stewart, associate director of the CASE, respectively.

The meetings resulted in potential joint research initiatives and the sharing of data and resources with Prof David Luke, strategic director at the Firoz Lalji Institute. Prof Luke is set to be appointed as an extraordinary research professor at the NWU and this will complement the ongoing collaboration on research articles meant for publication.

Dr de Jongh highlighted the NWU’s capabilities and encouraged research discussion during his lecture titled “Global forces and local realities: Economic development in South African Customs Union (SACU) amidst ‘slobalisation’”.

The meeting with Prof McKnight and Prof Stewart from the CASE was also fruitful, with common interests in poverty research being identified and workshops being planned to align research interests and future projects.

Dr Alexander and Dr Soprana showed interest in serving as external examiners for examining postgraduate NWU dissertations in their fields of study. Dr Soprana also agreed to provide a guest lecture in applied international macro-economics .

Paving the way with the UL

The NWU delegation’s visit to the University of Lincoln (UL) aimed to build on a signed memorandum of understanding between the institutions to formalise various areas of collaboration. Prof Dunga, Prof Choga and Dr De Jongh were met by the economics team at the UL, led by Prof David Gray, economic programme development manager. They exchanged ideas for joint research projects - particularly in development economics - and the potential co-hosting of the fLincoln Conference on Development Economics in South Africa.

Opportunities for staff exchanges, guest lectures and team teaching were explored, following a recent guest lecture by the UL’s Dr Abbas Ali Gilani for NWU honours students in econometrics.

The delegation further reviewed programmes from both universities to assess the feasibility of joint offerings and expressed interest in joint supervision of postgraduate students. Colleagues from both institutions committed to participating in weekly seminars where research ideas and current research projects will be shared to further promote collaboration.

Overall, the visit to the UK was prosperous, creating the foundation for robust international partnerships and collaborative research projects.

At the back from the left are Prof Ireen Chonga, Dr Jabulile Makhalima, Prof Ermie Steenkamp, Prof Zandri Dickason-Koekemoer, Prof Suné Ferreira-Schenk, Prof Steve Dunga and Dr Jacques de Jongh. In front from the left are Prof Carli Bezuidenhout and Dr Lorainne Ferreira.

The NWU researchers at the London School of Economics and Political Sciences in London, UK.

California State University dean shares insights on how to establish an entrepreneurship ecosystem

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 07:48:39 +0000

California State University dean shares insights on how to establish an entrepreneurship ecosystem

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 07/17/2024 - 09:48

Dr Gangaram Singh, an accomplished academic and dean of the College of Business and Economics at California State University, recently visited the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (FEMS) at the North-West University (NWU) to share valuable insights on entrepreneurship ecosystem engagement.

The significance of Dr Singh's visit lies in his successful establishment of an entrepreneurship ecosystem at his institution, making him an ideal mentor for the NWU.

During the visit, Dr Singh discussed key aspects of their entrepreneurship ecosystem, including funding sources, interdisciplinary collaboration, and supporting ventures beyond the ideation stage. His diverse background in adult education, online learning and cricket management added valuable perspectives.

Dr Singh emphasised the importance of tailoring the entrepreneurship ecosystem to the NWU's unique culture and environment, rather than importing external models that may not fit.

Prof Herman van der Merwe, deputy dean for teaching and learning of the FEMS, says as the NWU is looking to launch its own entrepreneurship ecosystem, Dr Singh's visit provided an invaluable opportunity for stakeholders to learn from his experiences and to adapt his model to the university's unique context.

"Dr Sings's focus on fostering collaboration across disciplines and supporting ventures beyond the ideation stage resonates with the NWU's aim of engaging students from diverse backgrounds and providing comprehensive support for entrepreneurial ventures,” says Prof Van der Merwe.

“One of the key takeaways from his presentation was his insights on a practical training programme called STEP, which focuses on entrepreneurial skills in an accessible format suitable for non-management students. Implementing such practical training programmes aligns with the NWU's initiatives to provide students with hands-on entrepreneurship skills and knowledge.”

He adds that, by focusing on these key aspects of Dr Singh's presentation, the NWU could effectively incorporate his valuable insights and experiences into their approach, providing a roadmap for establishing a thriving, context-specific entrepreneurship ecosystem at the NWU.

Dr Gangaram Singh, an accomplished academic and dean of the College of Business and Economics at California State University, recently shared valuable insights on entrepreneurship ecosystem engagement.

NWU students shine in international service-learning project

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 23 May 2024 12:29:18 +0000

NWU students shine in international service-learning project

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 05/23/2024 - 14:29

Several students from the North-West University (NWU) participated in a collaborative online international learning (COIL) project, demonstrating the university's continued efforts to expand its global footprint.

The BCom students at the Potchefstroom Campus who are pursuing an honours degree in Management Sciences with Marketing and Management Sciences with Business Management were recently recognised for their dedication to completing a case study about a multinational corporation.

The students were divided into several groups with scholars from various universities across the world and were given the chance to interact and function in a multicultural and international environment. The students were required to complete a unique case study for Huawei, which drew on contemporary theories of international business, events in the geopolitical landscape, and the challenges encountered by international corporations.

Among the participating universities were Windesheim University of Applied Sciences (Zwolle, Netherlands), Dokuz Eylùl University (Izmir, Turkey), Coventry University (London, United Kingdom), and PAR University of Applied Sciences (Rijoka, Croatia).

Dr Lerato Mdaka, a lecturer in Business Management at the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at the NWU, said the project provided her students with invaluable exposure to international perspectives and practices.

“The students were afforded a unique opportunity to engage in real time with peers from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds to enhance their understanding of global business dynamics. Such experiences are crucial in preparing our students to become versatile leaders and problem-solvers in an increasingly interconnected world,” added Dr Mdaka.

Sincere compliments to the following student groups for raising the NWU flag on a global scale:

Next Step Consulting

StratEgde Consultants, posing with Dr Lerato Mdaka

MATA Strategists

Intersolve Solutions

Collective Synergy Partners

StratAid Consultants

CreativEdge Consultants

Flutterwise Consulting

GamePlanConsultants