Humanities

Leaders engage at Times Higher Education Africa Universities Summit 2025

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 08:19:45 +0000

Leaders engage at Times Higher Education Africa Universities Summit 2025 BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 04/10/2025 - 10:19

Prof Dumi Moyo, executive dean of the Faculty of Humanities, and Prof Herculene Kotzé, deputy dean, represented the North-West University (NWU) the Times Higher Education Africa Universities Summit 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda, from 18 to 21 March.

Equitable partnerships took centre stage at the summit. Experts shared insights on how universities can collaborate across borders to drive impactful research. Reflecting on the NWU’s role in global education, Prof Kotzé noted, “Hearing from experts reinforced the importance of nurturing partnerships that are truly mutually beneficial rather than one-sided resource extractions.”

Digital transformation also emerged as a key theme. Speakers explored the rapid shift to AI-driven learning and how institutions are adapting. A presentation on tech-driven education models in rural areas particularly stood out. “It was fascinating to see how digital tools can expand access to quality education, especially in underserved communities,” said Prof Kotzé.

“The conference focus on digital and AI transformation was a clarion call for institutions like ours to take the AI leap seriously and make deliberate efforts to integrate AI in all our work - including teaching and learning, research, and community engagement. This requires agility both within the institutions and the higher education regulatory bodies to enable curriculum and other innovations,” added Prof Moyo.

Sustainability in research provided an inspiring highlight. A young researcher from Ghana shared her work on climate-resilient agriculture, reinforcing how African universities are developing solutions for global challenges.

Beyond the formal discussions, the summit created invaluable networking opportunities. “Engaging with faculty from universities across the continent allowed us to exchange ideas on funding models and interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthening connections that can lead to future partnerships,” Prof Kotzé added.

Prof Herculene Kotzé and Prof Dumi Moyo represented the North-West University (NWU) the Times Higher Education Africa Universities Summit 2025

Public lecture urges renewed commitment to preserving indigenous languages

MARELIZE SANTANA — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 13:35:21 +0000

Public lecture urges renewed commitment to preserving indigenous languages MARELIZE SANTANA Fri, 04/04/2025 - 15:35

By Gofaone Motsamai and Phenyo Mokgothu

In a world wired for global communication, local languages are falling silent.

This was the stark message during a recent public lecture hosted at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus, where policymakers and scholars addressed the growing threat to indigenous languages.

The lecture, held on 3 April and organised by the Indigenous Language Media in Africa (ILMA) research niche area, focused on how publishing, arts and media can contribute to language preservation.

North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Tsotso Tlhapi, delivered the keynote address and called for stronger national action. “Language is the soul of a people, the custodian of their heritage, and the thread that weaves together their history, culture and traditions. If we lose our languages, we lose ourselves.”

She noted that many South African languages face diminishing use due to globalisation and shifting cultural practices. “We cannot afford to watch helplessly as our languages disappear,” she said. “We must take deliberate and urgent steps to protect and promote them.”

The lecture served as a platform to examine how creative industries, including radio, television, books and digital media, can serve as tools for cultural continuity. MEC Tlhapi commended ILMA’s work in exploring the role of indigenous-language media. “If our languages are not spoken on radio, seen on television, published in books or reflected in digital spaces, they will cease to exist”

She urged content creators and publishers to take responsibility in amplifying indigenous languages. “We must tell our stories in our own voices, in our own languages. The world must know who we are through the languages that define us.”

Beyond cultural production, the MEC called on institutions and government departments to embed indigenous languages in education, governance and public policy. “It is not enough to talk about language preservation,” she said. “We need strong policies, funding and tangible initiatives that place indigenous languages at the centre of public life.”

The event concluded with a roundtable discussion involving students, academics and language activists who debated strategies to sustain linguistic diversity in daily life.

Prof Gilbert Motsaathebe, a research professor at ILMA, underscored the importance of the lecture in strengthening public discourse around language rights. “Bringing this conversation into the public space was essential,” he said. “We cannot rely on symbolic gestures. Real preservation begins when languages are treated as living, working tools of communication.”

North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Tsotso Tlhapi, spoke about how publishing, arts and media can contribute to language preservation.

Dark skies and indigenous knowledge of astronomy are vital for astro-tourism to prosper

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 06:15:31 +0000

Dark skies and indigenous knowledge of astronomy are vital for astro-tourism to prosper

by Oscar Mosiane

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 04/02/2025 - 08:15

A passionate call has been made to integrate indigenous knowledge of astronomy into the development of responsible astro-tourism – also known as dark sky tourism – in South Africa.

“Including the diverse cultural perspectives of our understanding of the night sky will provide a holistic interpretation of our universe and pique the curiosity of young minds as they gain interest in studying modern science and benefit indigenous communities,” said Dr Sisco Auala, a renowned researcher from the Namibia University of Science and Technology, speaking at an event at the North-West University’s Mahikeng Campus on 31 March 2025.

The NWU’s Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre arranged the lecture, which was part of an IKS lekgotla held to explore how indigenous astronomical knowledge could be incorporated into astro-tourism, comprising stargazing, astrophotography and opportunities to learn about astronomy.

Indigenous astronomy often integrates celestial phenomena with cultural practices, stories and seasonal rhythms and is linked to environmental stewardship and sustainability. Indigenous people used it to develop practical ways to observe the sun, moon and stars to inform navigation and calendars, and to predict the weather.

The topic of Dr Auala’s lecture was the “Programme for integrating indigenous knowledge of astronomy into responsible astro tourism development”. It attracted indigenous knowledge experts such as Dr Motheo Koitsiwe, director of the IKS Centre and the first African indigenous scholar to complete a PhD in IKS, Prof Lufuno Makhado of the University of Venda and Thau Thau Haramanusa, an African spiritual historian.

Dr Auala also called on the South African Government to put policies in place to make indigenous knowledge thrive and for future researchers to have the necessary government support.

IKS Centre director Dr Koitsiwe, who is championing the revival of the international indigenous astronomy Experts Society, thanked Dr Auala for her contribution and commented on her track record of collaboration in the field of indigenous astronomy. “She is seeking opportunities for collaboration to build on the work she has already done in Namibia,” he said. “Further research by scholars from other universities will complement that work and help to do justice to the field.”

The lekgotla ended with discussions with students and an announcement that more seminars will follow.

Using technology to support learning

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 06:40:37 +0000

Using technology to support learning BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 03/28/2025 - 08:40

By Gofaone Motsamai

The role of technology in education took centre stage on 19 March 2025 when the Faculty of Humanities at the North-West University (NWU) hosted a presentation on using digital tools to enhance learning

The event, facilitated by Prof Mpho Chaka, deputy dean for teaching and learning, featured an online presentation by Sohag Lahiri*, an expert in instructional design and e-learning development.

Sohag emphasised the importance of adapting to technological advances without disrupting established teaching approaches. “Most of you have years of experience as teachers, and that experience is valuable,” she said. “The goal is not to replace traditional methods but to find ways to enhance them using digital tools.”

She also addressed concerns about the challenges of integrating new technologies into existing systems. “It is not about doing away with what already works,” she explained. “It is about making small, meaningful changes that improve engagement and accessibility.”

Reflecting on the changes brought by Covid-19, she noted how the shift to digital learning had reshaped teaching and delivery methods. “There has definitely been a shift in teaching and delivery methods. But the question is, how do we use technology in a way that actually enhances and supports what we have been doing rather than replacing it?”

She also encouraged lecturers to embrace digital tools in a way that keeps students engaged. “Be open to embracing technology and integrating it with what you have already been doing. The goal is not to start from scratch but to make sure learning remains engaging and effective,” she advised.

The session ended with a Q&A segment, where participants discussed strategies for incorporating technology into teaching. Lahiri provided insights based on her extensive experience, reinforcing the idea that technology, when used effectively, can enhance education without disrupting traditional methods.

*Sohag Lahiri has extensive experience in instructional design, e-learning development and curriculum strategy. She has worked on accessibility focused design, project management and learning management system deployment. She holds a postgraduate diploma in international trade from Symbiosis International University, and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Fergusson College, Pune.

Her career includes leadership roles at Tata Interactive Systems and Helix Technology Solutions.

Sohag Lahiri

Human rights defender delivers guest lecture

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 07:10:04 +0000

Human rights defender delivers guest lecture

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 03/27/2025 - 09:10

As the world struggles with the degeneration of democracy and the increasing political dissatisfaction, human rights activism has never been more important. This was the message delivered by human-rights defender Mary Pais during her recent guest lecture on honouring human rights at the North-West University (NWU). Titled “The State of Human Rights and the Importance of Human Rights Activism in a Time of Democratic Recession”, the lecture explored the critical need for community engagement in safeguarding democracy and fundamental freedoms.

In her lecture, organised by the Faculty of Humanities, Pais emphasised that citizens are increasingly disengaged from political systems, saying this poses a challenge to democratic governance and the core human rights it protects. She called attention to South Africa’s declining voter participation, cautioning that political disengagement weakens accountability and leaves marginalised communities vulnerable. Pais cited the growing inequality, the suppression of civil-society organisations and the lack of press freedom as the alarming signs of this decline.

Pais further highlighted that human rights and democracy are inherently linked – where democracy fails, human rights violations often follow. She also acknowledged the resilience of activism, pointing out the various ways in which individuals and organisations continue to fight for justice.

Pais believes that activism has progressed beyond traditional protests. While public protests remain a powerful tool, she stressed the role of digital advocacy, legal activism and international lobbying in resisting injustice. “We must adapt to the times, and leverage technology, law and global networks to amplify our voices,” she urged.

One major theme for this lecture was the responsibility of citizens defending human rights. Pais stated that activism is not reserved for organisations or policymakers, it is a duty that belongs to all. Every action, whether through voting, supporting human-rights initiatives or speaking out against injustices, strengthens the democratic society.

The lecture concluded with a call to action, urging attendees to be alert and involved. “In times of democratic recession, silence is complicity,” she warned. “Our collective efforts will determine the future of human rights in our country and beyond,” Pais concluded.

Her remarks served as an alarming reminder that human rights and democracy are not guaranteed. They must therefore be actively protected. In a time of increasing political unrest, Mary Pais’s lecture underscored the importance of a renewed commitment to community engagement and advocacy in order to safeguard the fundamental rights of all individuals.

Human rights defender Mary Pais.

Seminar: paving the way towards an international career with IEC

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 06:09:02 +0000

Seminar: paving the way towards an international career with IEC

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 03/26/2025 - 08:09

The Faculty of Humanities of the NWU recently hosted a seminar aimed at graduates and final-year students who are eager to explore international work and travel opportunities. The Faculty has a strong relationship with the Intercultural Education Corporation (IEC), who sent a delegation to South Africa to share first-hand insight into the Work and Travel in China programme. This programme offers young professionals the chance to work abroad while exploring a new culture.

This presentation provided students with the ideal opportunity to engage with IEC experts, ask questions, and obtain a comprehensive understanding of how they can begin their journey towards an international career.

The IEC is a renowned organisation that promotes global education and cultural exchange by bringing international educators of English into Chinese classrooms. It aims to connect young graduates with professional experiences in China, equipping them with global skills, cultural exposure and assisting with career development opportunities.

Exciting advantages

Prof Herculene Kotzé, deputy dean in the Faculty of Humanities, shared her insight into the programme and assured interested students that the IEC is a reputable company that they can trust. During the session, participants were presented with the numerous advantages of the Work and Travel in China programme. After an application process, successful candidates will receive a work visa and international flight ticket, making the transition to China efficient. They will also be provided with free accommodation and meals, ensuring a comfortable stay throughout the programme.

Healthcare is also taken into consideration, as participants will receive health and accident insurance. In order to help them adapt to their new environment, they will have access to Mandarin language classes, making it easier to communicate with others. Beyond these benefits, the programme will help accelerate their careers by assisting young professionals in refining their leadership, communication, and flexibility skills in a fast-paced, global environment.

Who can apply?

While candidates from a wide range of academic disciplines can apply, preference is given to graduates in the fields of Art, Drama, Music, and Physical Education.

In order to be eligible for this programme, candidates must hold or be in the process of obtaining a bachelor's degree. Those whose degrees are not related to education are advised to complete a 120-hour TEFL certificate to enable them to teach English comfortably. Additionally, applications must have a valid passport from South Africa, the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or Jamaica.

In addition to academic and travel requirement, candidates should not have a criminal record, and must show a willingness to train, learn, and teach. Embracing the Chinese culture and showing adaptability is also essential for a successful experience.

Candidates that are interested may apply on the IEC website, and the employment process is open year-round, with two annual intakes in February and September.

Representatives from the Intercultural Education program (IEC) together with colleagues from the NWU Career Services, from the left are Prof Herculene Kotzé, Ms Linda Liao, Ms Boitumelo Mokoena, Ms Shirley Li, and Ms Nombulelo Malunga.

The presentation provided students with the ideal opportunity to engage.

For the love of the language: Master’s-degree student to write entire dissertation in Setswana

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 12:20:07 +0000

For the love of the language: Master’s-degree student to write entire dissertation in Setswana BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 03/19/2025 - 14:20

By Gofaone Motsamai

Master’s degree student Otsile Emily Moatshe from the Indigenous Language Media in Africa (ILMA) research niche area of the North-West University (NWU) is advancing the role of Setswana in academic research.

She is the first student at ILMA to write a master’s-degree dissertation entirely in Setswana, aligning with the research niche area’s focus on African languages in the media. She is supervised Prof Gilbert Motsaathebe – a renowned scholar in journalism, film, and television studies at the NWU.

Her master's-degree dissertation is titled “Tshekatsheko ya puosetso mo diphetolelong tsa dikgang tsa Setswana mo kgasong ya dikgang tse di tlhophilweng: Tobiso ya Motsweding FM le Mahikeng FM” (An expository study of the significance and role of culture language on Setswana news media platforms: The case of Motsweding FM and Mahikeng FM). It focuses on the role of translation (puosetso) in indigenous language media, with a particular emphasis on the case of Motsweding FM and Mahikeng FM.

Otsile says her decision to pursue postgraduate studies in Setswana is rooted in a lifelong passion for the language. “From a young age, there was nothing I took more pride in than my home language, Setswana. As Batswana say, ‘Modisa wa dikgomo o tswa natso sakeng, mme tloga tloga e tloga kgale’ (a good herder grows with their cattle). Today, I am a second-year Master of Arts in Setswana candidate, and I am beyond proud of myself for staying true to my dreams.”

She believes indigenous languages deserve equal recognition in academia, despite the dominance of English. “I believe in the power of indigenous languages. Writing my master’s-degree dissertation in Setswana is a way of proving that our languages are just as capable of academic rigor as English,” she says.

However, researching in Setswana comes with challenges, particularly the limited availability of academic resources. “Unlike English, where there is an abundance of journals and books, Setswana academic literature is scarce. This means I often have to rely on primary research, oral history and personal interpretations of existing literature,” she says.

Otsile sees her work as a contribution to the preservation and promotion of Setswana in academic spaces. “There is no better time than now to reclaim our languages,” she says.

Otsile Emily Moatshe.

Dr Masego Matjila’s fight to keep Setswana alive

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 08:08:08 +0000

Dr Masego Matjila’s fight to keep Setswana alive

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 03/17/2025 - 10:08

For decades Dr Masego Ezekiel “Easy” Matjila’s voice has carried the baton of the Setswana language in the hope of handing it over to the younger generation. This message came across loud and clear at a recent event at the North-West University (NWU).

On 13 March 2025, he shared his journey in Setswana broadcasting at the annual public lecture hosted by the Indigenous Language Media in Africa (ILMA) research entity at the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus.

Dr Matjila’s career in radio began in September 1982 at the national broadcaster. “I started as an on-air radio personality for Radio Setswana, which later became Motsweding FM after merging with Radio Mmabatho,” he said.

Over the years, his role expanded. He became a prime-time Setswana news presenter and later acted as bulletin editor for Setswana, Sesotho and Sepedi until his retirement in 2021.

His efforts earned him wide recognition, including Best News Writer at the SABC in 2008, the honour of commentating during the 1996 African Cup of Nations with the Durban Topsport Team and recognition for his contributions to indigenous language preservation from the Pan South African Language Board.

Pure Setswana and no compromises

His commitment to linguistic integrity shaped his work. “I ensured my bulletins were in purely standardised Setswana, avoiding dialects, to serve the Batswana nation as a whole,” Dr Matjila said. He credited language boards and conferences for refining terminology and sustaining linguistic heritage. “Thanks to the mabutswapele (elders) who paved the way, we held on to what was agreed upon after years of deliberation.”

“Throughout my career, both on radio and television, I made it my mandate to deliver any presentation in the pure and living Setswana language. It is my wish that our upcoming generation should embrace our language and remember that it is passed down from generation to generation.”

Beyond broadcasting, Dr Matjila saw indigenous language media as essential for democracy and development. “Indigenous languages remain a potent vehicle for mobilising people for positive goals,” he said. Yet, he noted a decline in their use, particularly among young people, and a diminishing presence in mainstream media.

How to stem the decline

Dr Matjila appealed for stronger advocacy. “One of the most effective ways to preserve indigenous languages is through awareness campaigns,” he said, commending the SABC for its 11-language radio stations.

He also called for government intervention. “Laws should protect linguistic rights, mobilise funding and integrate indigenous languages into education.”

The message was clear: media must continue to be a platform for indigenous languages, ensuring that voices like Dr Matjila’s do not fade into silence.

From left are Prof Mpho Chaka, Dr Eazy Matjila, Prof Abioudun Salawu and Prof Gilbert Motsaathebe.

Renowned broadcaster shares industry insights with NWU students

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 09:20:04 +0000

Renowned broadcaster shares industry insights with NWU students BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 03/11/2025 - 11:20

By Keaoleboga Motshabi and Phenyo Mokgothu

Renowned radio broadcaster and cultural advocate Lucky Tlale, widely known as Hala Hala LTK, recently visited the School of Communication at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus to share insights with undergraduate broadcasting students.

With a career spanning over 17 years, LTK has established himself as a versatile media professional, excelling as a radio host, master of ceremonies, DJ, podcaster and public speaker. He is also a strong advocate for the promotion of the Setswana language and culture in the digital era.

His journey began as a music library filing clerk before he transitioned into radio presenting. He later became the station manager at Mahikeng Community Radio and subsequently hosted an afternoon drive show on Motsweding FM. Beyond broadcasting, he is set to release a music album and is publishing his debut Setswana novel, Malepa a Botshelo.

During his session with the students, LTK provided an overview of the history and core principles of radio broadcasting. He emphasised that while most people recognise radio’s three primary functions – informing, entertaining and educating – there is a fourth, often overlooked function: persuasion. He explained that broadcasters must be able to persuade listeners, particularly when it comes to advertising.

“Everyone can speak and be talkative, but not everyone can be on radio,” he said. He encouraged students to develop their unique voices and stand out in the industry.

His visit was well received, providing students with valuable industry knowledge and inspiration as they prepare for careers in broadcasting.

From left are Relebogile Sekati, Keabetswe Gopane, LTK, Thabang Ramabodu and Theo Ngake.

Inaugural lecture explores laughter as protest in Zimbabwe

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 09:03:41 +0000

Inaugural lecture explores laughter as protest in Zimbabwe

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 03/11/2025 - 11:03

In Zimbabwe’s evolving political landscape, where promises of reform have yet to materialise, one unexpected force has emerged – comedy.

While official narratives speak of progress, social media tells a different story, one shaped by satire, memes and skits that turn national struggles into humour. But in a country where dissent carries risks, is laughter merely an escape, or is it a tool of resistance?

This question was central to an inaugural lecture delivered by North-West University (NWU) academic Prof Rodwell Makombe on 7 March 2025 at the Mahikeng Campus. His lecture was titled “Making sense of the Second Republic in Zimbabwe through laughter: the poetics and politics of resistance after Mugabe”.

Prof Makombe examined Zimbabwe’s post-Mugabe era (the Second Republic) through the lens of social media comedy, arguing that humour has become a defining feature of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership, much like intellectual debate and book culture characterised former President Robert Mugabe’s rule.

Prof Makombe focused on the work of four comedians, namely Kapfupi, Marabha, Doc Vikela and Sabhuku Vharazipi. The four comedians are popular in Zimbabwe, and they have significant following on social media.

“When Robert Mugabe was forced from power in a military-assisted coup in 2017, the moment was framed as a turning point – an end to tyranny and the beginning of political and economic renewal. Seven years later, little has changed. If anything, conditions have worsened,” he said.

New resistance

He noted that social media satire has become a critical space for resistance, allowing citizens to challenge authority in a climate where open criticism is often met with repression.

“Could it be a coincidence that comedy has eclipsed the book culture of the Mugabe era?” he asked.

Prof Makombe emphasised that humour in Zimbabwe is more than entertainment. “Politics and art are consubstantial,” he said, explaining

how satire exposes contradictions in governance and shapes public perception of the so-called Second Republic.

The lecture also placed Zimbabwe’s political humour in a historical context, drawing parallels between past and present forms of satirical resistance. By laughing at their struggles, Prof Makombe argued, Zimbabweans are not merely coping with hardship but also reclaiming the political narrative.

He left his audience with a final question: Can laughter help theorise the politics of Zimbabwe’s Second Republic? While it may not solve the country’s challenges, he suggested that it remains a powerful force, both as a mirror to reality and a tool of resistance.

About Prof Rodwell Makombe

Rodwell Makombe is a professor in the subject group English at the NWU. He holds a PhD from the University of Fort Hare as well as a master’s and honours degree in English from the University of Zimbabwe.

He has taught in University of Fort Hare, Durban University of Technology and the University of Free State. He has published over 40 journal articles and three books and supervised several postgraduate students. He has a C2 research rating from the National Research Foundation.

Prof Sonia Swanepoel, deputy vice-chancellor for community engagement and Mahikeng Campus operations, hands over the inaugural lecture certificate to Prof Rodwell Makombe.