EMS

Annual master’s degree research retreat promotes collaborative learning

The School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management (IPS & HRM) at the North-West University (NWU) recently held its highly anticipated annual master’s degree research retreat at Stonehenge River Lodge in Parys.

This two-day affair, organised by Dr Neil Barnard and Prof Marissa Brouwers, successfully brought together students, academic staff and guest speakers to enhance research capabilities and promote collaborative learning. The sponsors of the event included the Optentia and WorkWell research units.

Submitted on Mon, 02/17/2025 - 14:58

PhD candidate and Mrs South Africa semi-finalist inspiring change

By Gofaone Motsamai

Bontle Manana, a 34-year-old industrial psychologist and PhD candidate at the Mahikeng Campus of the North-West University (NWU), is breaking barriers and inspiring women across South Africa.

Hailing from Phola Village in Mahikeng, she recently achieved the prestigious milestone of being named a Mrs South Africa semi-finalist.

Submitted on Fri, 02/14/2025 - 08:20

How global financial cycles shape South Africa’s economy

By Tiyiselani Precious Miyambu

Global financial conditions have a significant effect on the stability of the South African economy, according to a recent study by two researchers from the North-West University (NWU).

In their study on the influence of global financial cycles on South Africa’s financial cycle, Prof Precious Mncayi Makhanya and Khwazi Magubane from the School of Economic Sciences on the NWU’s Vanderbijlpark campus, examined the impact of global capital flows, asset prices and investor risk sentiment.

Submitted on Tue, 02/11/2025 - 08:36

Expert unpacks the hidden costs of rising electricity tariffs

By: Gofaone Motsamai

The recent approval by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) of a 12,7% electricity tariff increase for the 2025/26 financial year has raised serious concerns about its implications for household budgets, business operations and socio-political stability.

Mpho Lenoke, an economics lecturer at the Mahikeng Campus of the North-West University (NWU), provides expert insights into how this significant rise will impact various aspects of South African life.

Submitted on Fri, 02/07/2025 - 12:25

Accounting matters: NWU's Management Accountancy students shine again

When people hear the word “accounting”, they often think of numbers, spreadsheets and meticulous financial records. But in a country like South Africa, accounting is far more than just balancing the books – it is a cornerstone of economic growth and stability. At the North-West University (NWU) we are committed to developing well-rounded, skilled professionals who prioritise accountability. And the results speak for themselves.

Submitted on Fri, 01/31/2025 - 11:01

Prof Waldo Krugell: Consequences of Expropriation Bill being exaggerated

On 23 January, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed into law the Expropriation Bill. Simply put, the bill allows the state to expropriate land in the public interest, including without compensation.

The signing of the Bill elicited no little backlash from the public, as well as from certain political parties, while others praised it.

But was all the fanfare warranted? According to Prof Waldo Krugell, the answer is an unequivocal “no”.

Submitted on Wed, 01/29/2025 - 09:24

“Pitch Your Business Competition” ignites entrepreneurial dreams

In a dynamic collaboration aimed at transforming communities through entrepreneurship, the North-West University’s (NWU’s) bhive Enterprise Development Centre (bhive EDC) joined forces with Radio Pulpit, I AM Youth and TBN Africa to host the "Pitch Your Business Competition".

This initiative not only fosters innovation but also drives economic growth, skills development, and employment opportunities across South Africa and beyond.

Submitted on Thu, 01/16/2025 - 08:09

Good news for interest rates as 2024 draws to a close

It is good news for business and consumers that the repo rate was unanimously reduced by 25 basis points (bps) on 21 November.

In commenting on the latest Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) statement to again reduce the repo rate by 25 basis points (bps), Prof Raymond Parsons, economist from the North-West University (NWU) Business School, says it was widely anticipated that the MPC would continue its cautious stance on easing monetary policy.

Submitted on Fri, 11/22/2024 - 09:15

Gamification boosts loyalty in South African fashion retail

South Africa’s fashion retail industry is witnessing a shift as gamification emerges as a potent tool for improving customer loyalty, retention and brand recall.

In an increasingly competitive digital environment, retailers are turning to gamified experiences to engage customers. A recent study led by Prof Roland Goldberg from the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at the North-West University (NWU), published in the Malaysian E-Commerce Journal, explored the potential of gamification to transform consumer behaviour within the South African market.

Submitted on Thu, 11/07/2024 - 14:31