The North-West University (NWU) is celebrating Tourism Month, and when it comes to tourism experts in the country, the NWU’s research unit Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society (TREES) has distinguished itself as a leader in its field.

In our ongoing series of articles, we take a closer look at what TREES are doing to promote tourism in South Africa. This is why tourism matters.
The economic power of tourism: A vital contributor to South Africa’s growth

The research unit Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society (TREES) at the North-West University (NWU) has established itself as a leading research unit focusing on sustainable tourism.

TREES distinguishes itself by conducting innovative research on the economic, environmental and social impacts of tourism, and in promoting evidence-based strategies to enhance the sector's growth. The unit plays a crucial role in promoting tourism in South Africa by analysing market trends, developing sustainable tourism models, and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders.

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).

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.

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 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. 

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. 

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.

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.

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.