Humanities

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.

The fragile state of South Africa’s political and economic landscape: What to do?

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 13:09:45 +0000

The fragile state of South Africa’s political and economic landscape: What to do?

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 03/06/2025 - 15:09

Uncertainty springs eternal in the South African political landscape, or so it would seem. The Government of National Unity (GNU) has yet to find its feet, and cohesion has not been one of its hallmarks.

According to Professor Kedibone Phago, Director of the School for Government Studies at the North-West University (NWU), there is much to be done if the country is to be defined by its successes rather than its failures.

The state of SOEs: A broken backbone

State-owned enterprises are the backbone of the South African economy, but that backbone is fractured. Nowhere is this more evident than at Transnet, which suffered severe damage from the era of state capture under former President Jacob Zuma.

“There is no doubt that the government needs to focus on reviving SOEs to fix the economy,” says Phago. He stresses that one of the first steps should be a comprehensive skills audit, followed by a clear roadmap for skills development.

“A structured partnership with universities and TVET colleges is crucial for medium- to long-term planning. This would ensure a steady pipeline of technical expertise feeding into both SOEs and local government structures.” Phago also suggests that collaborations should extend to the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) and the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA).

Will the GNU be a short-lived alliance?

How long will the GNU last? That remains the burning question. The current unity government, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, was a necessary response to the ANC’s failure to secure an outright majority in the last elections.

“It is in South Africa’s best interest for the GNU to hold until the next elections,” says Phago. “With Ramaphosa at the helm, there’s a chance that the GNU could endure, but the real threat lies within the ANC itself.”

The party’s elective conference, expected before 2029, could be a turning point. If Ramaphosa decides not to run for a third term as ANC president, history suggests that internal party battles could bring his tenure to a premature end. “We have seen this before. Both Thabo Mbeki and Jacob Zuma were ousted due to ANC leadership struggles,” Phago notes. Leftist opposition forces, particularly the EFF and MK parties, are watching closely, waiting for an opportunity to unseat him.

What kind of governance does South Africa need?

With a diverse population and a young, vibrant workforce, South Africa needs pragmatic governance. However, the ideological tug-of-war between left-wing and centrist policies continues to shape the country’s political landscape.

“A pragmatic approach must be entrenched,” Phago argues. “The left may call it neoliberalism, but the reality is that South Africa has to align itself with global financial systems such as the World Bank and the IMF.”

The challenge, he says, is that leftist rhetoric in South Africa often lacks substance. “To sustain social grants, free education, and other welfare programmes, the government needs to broaden its tax base. Without this, left-wing policies become little more than empty slogans.” Corruption scandals such as the Arms Deal, Travelgate and State Capture have further exposed the hypocrisy of some so-called progressive leaders.

The ANC’s prospects for 2029

With declining support, the ANC faces an uphill battle ahead of the 2029 elections. However, Phago sees some signs of stabilisation. “Early polls suggest that both the ANC and the DA have maintained their support base since the formation of the GNU.”

The 2026 local government elections will be a crucial test. “The black middle class in urban centres will be a key demographic to watch,” he notes. In addition, the ANC’s elective conference in 2026 will provide insights into the party’s internal power struggles.

The rise and fall of opposition parties

The MK Party, founded by Zuma loyalists, is still in its infancy and its leadership instability threatens its future. “The rift between its secretary general and Duduzile Zuma could determine whether the MKP retains its 14% support base,” Phago predicts. Without internal cohesion, the party’s future is uncertain.

Meanwhile, the EFF appears to be in decline. “The departure of Floyd Shivambu and Mbuyiseni Ndlozi has left a significant leadership vacuum,” Phago observes. “So far, Julius Malema has not demonstrated a clear strategy to keep the party viable.”

The DA, on the other hand, has adopted a two-pronged strategy within the GNU. “By staying in government while simultaneously challenging policies in the courts, the DA seeks to retain white voters who might drift to the Freedom Front Plus, while also appealing to the black middle class,” Phago explains. If the ANC elects a controversial or corruption-tainted leadership at its next conference, the DA could gain further traction among urban voters.

The emergence of a centrist force?

Given South Africa’s current political fragmentation, could a centrist force emerge as a viable alternative? Phago believes such forces are already visible within the GNU, but their survival is uncertain.

“The challenge is to sustain them,” he warns. “Paul Mashatile, the current deputy president of the ANC, does not represent this centrist shift. Until we see who succeeds Ramaphosa, it’s too early to say whether a pragmatic governance model will take hold.”

For now, the so-called progressive forces remain weak and divided. “If they were a real threat, we would have seen them take control of a municipality in Gauteng or KwaZulu-Natal by now,” says Phago.

The road ahead

South Africa’s political and economic landscape remains volatile. The survival of the GNU depends on Ramaphosa’s leadership, while the ANC’s ability to reverse its declining fortunes will be tested in the coming years. As Phago puts it: “The next few years will determine whether South Africa moves towards pragmatic governance or remains mired in ideological battles that do little to address its pressing economic challenges.”

Professor Kedibone Phago

From selling tekkies to award-winning lecturer

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 06:53:00 +0000

From selling tekkies to award-winning lecturer

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 03/06/2025 - 08:53

Dr Thulisile Bhuda once stood behind the counter at a Tekkie Town store in in a mall, ringing up customers’ purchases. Now, years later, she stands in front of a lecture hall of students at the University of Mpumalanga, sharing her knowledge of culture and heritage, with a PhD in indigenous knowledge from the North-West University (NWU) behind her name.

“I worked at Tekkie Town in 2012 to save money to buy needed necessities for university. I already received an acceptance letter from the NWU by the time I started working, and I knew that I needed cash for food, transport and toiletries,” says Dr Bhuda.

“I want people to know that where you start does not define where you will end up,” she adds.

Not that that the path to success is easy. Becoming a lecturer in South Africa requires years of study, research and teaching experience. “It takes patience and commitment,” she says. “But if you have a purpose, you will get there.”

Dr Bhuda obtained her PhD in 2022. She completed both her master’s degree (2019) and BA degree (2017) with distinction – all from the NWU. Never one to rest on her laurels, she is pursuing a second PhD at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, focusing on the IsiNdebele language and culture development, and in particular the survival of the language and cultural practices after the 1883 Mapoch war.

Beyond the classroom, Dr Bhuda is a strong advocate for heritage preservation. She was awarded the 2023 National Voice of Heritage Shield Award at the Golden Shield Heritage Awards, hosted by the National Heritage Council of South Africa. This award recognises individuals who have made meaningful contributions to preserving and promoting our indigenous heritage.

In 2023, Dr Bhuda also received an Alumni Excellence Award from the NWU in recognition of her contributions to academia and her significant societal impact.

Her influence continues to grow. She was named on the Sunday World Unsung Heroes 2024 list in the category Youth in Academia and Education, which acknowledges individuals shaping the nation through education.

Recently, Dr Bhuda was reappointed to the Indigenous Knowledge / Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) National Authentication Panel. Having first joined in 2021, she will now serve on the panel until 2027.

From wearing a cashier’s uniform to a PhD robe, Dr Bhuda’s story is proof that modest career beginnings can lead to greatness.

Dr Thulisile Bhuda

South Africa is at a crossroads: Time to restore faith

MOIRA MULLER — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 08:01:34 +0000

South Africa is at a crossroads: Time to restore faith

by Bertie Jacobs

MOIRA MULLER Wed, 03/05/2025 - 10:01

South Africa is at a breaking point. The political landscape is shifting, economic pressures are mounting, and trust in government is waning. Dr Sysman Motloung, a political analyst and academic at North-West University (NWU), has spent years studying the nation’s fractures: how power is won, wielded, and too often squandered. His research spans electoral behaviour, constitutionalism, and the politics of water, an issue he argues is central to the country’s long-term stability. In a candid and unflinching conversation, Dr Motloung dissects the nation’s biggest challenges, from coalition politics to economic distress, and presents a stark choice: reform or decline.

The nature of power and politics

Dr Motloung’s research is deeply rooted in interpretive qualitative methods, focusing on electoral behaviour and political development. His latest work has explored topics as diverse as the fragile state of constitutionalism, the impact of the 2024 elections on women in politics, and the often fraught relationship between Members of Parliament and their constituencies.

His most recent publication in 2025 explores the impact of a lack of mentorship on the career progression of young black women, while his latest studies examine the politics of water in South Africa – an area he believes is critical to the country’s long-term stability.

“At the heart of my research is the fusion of classical political theory with contemporary policy issues,” he explains. “Understanding how governance works - or doesn’t work - is central to ensuring that democratic institutions serve the people.”

The challenges of 2025: Democracy under pressure

According to Dr Motloung, the most immediate political and economic challenge facing South Africa is the consolidation of its democracy in an era of coalition governance. The country’s political landscape is shifting, with weakened opposition parties and a polarised civil society. The fragmentation has stifled efforts at national unity, he argues, and created space for interest groups such as AfriForum to push “parochial agendas.”

Perhaps even more concerning is the growing loss of trust in government. “People no longer believe in the political process,” he says. “Declining voter turnout is a symptom of deeper discontent. If government performance does not improve and politicians cannot demonstrate that they are working in the public interest, the erosion of trust will accelerate.”

Beyond politics, economic distress is exacerbating instability. The soaring cost of living has placed even middle-class households under strain. “Service backlogs are growing because many residents cannot afford municipal charges. This forces people to seek private alternatives, doubling their financial burden.”

And then there is corruption, an entrenched force that, Dr Motloung notes, breeds a “society of contempt.” From government tenders subverted for personal gain to the theft of electricity and water, these systemic failures weaken state legitimacy. “Even residents who can afford municipal rates are refusing to pay,” he observes, citing ethical decay as a major societal crisis.

South Africa’s place in the world: A balancing act

On the global stage, South Africa faces an increasingly polarised geopolitical environment. Dr Motloung believes the country must exercise assertive non-alignment while safeguarding its sovereignty. “BRICS offers South Africa a vital platform to challenge arrogant foreign policy practices,” he says. But while the country must maintain its partnerships, it cannot afford to neglect African geopolitics.

“South Africa must take its role on the continent seriously,” he argues. “As a leading African nation, it should actively promote development across the region, fostering a united and prosperous continent.”

The fragile social fabric

Dr Motloung views social instability as one of South Africa’s greatest threats. With unemployment soaring, service delivery protests on the rise, and crime syndicates tightening their grip on communities, the government faces an uphill battle. “The murder of school principals, extortion rackets in businesses – these are symptoms of a deeper governance failure,” he warns.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach. Strengthening law enforcement is crucial to curbing crime and corruption, while enhanced border security can help regulate economic migration. Ensuring that township residents who can afford municipal rates pay them is equally important, alongside scrutinising the indigent register to ensure social assistance reaches those who truly need it. By tackling these issues systematically, South Africa can begin to restore trust in governance and build a more stable society.

The road to 2035: A blueprint for reform

Looking ahead, Dr Motloung outlines key reforms essential for national stability. Chief among them is fostering national cohesion. “White and Afrikaner communities must make a concerted effort to integrate and work toward a common nationhood,” he asserts. “South Africa cannot move forward if segments of society seek to exist in isolation.”

At the municipal level, he urges a shift in how local governments engage with communities. “When residents take the initiative – whether by patching potholes or fixing infrastructure – municipalities shouldn’t see this as competition. The ANC has long said, ‘working together we can do more.’ It’s time to make that a reality.”

Economic reform must also be prioritised, particularly job creation and fair wages. “Certain jobs should be reserved for South African citizens, while education should be restructured to produce graduates with real-world competencies,” he suggests.

Finally, safety and security remain fundamental. “People need to feel safe at home and in the streets,” he insists. Without that, social trust and economic prosperity will remain elusive.

A call for pragmatism and urgency

As South Africa grapples with the weight of its challenges, Dr Motloung’s insights provide a sobering yet hopeful assessment. The country stands at a crossroads, and the path forward will depend on decisive leadership, structural reform, and a willingness among citizens to contribute to a national project greater than individual interests.

“In the end,” he says, “it’s about restoring faith, not just in government, but in each other.”

Seminar explores socio-political dynamics

RONEL ROSCHER — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 08:29:37 +0000

Seminar explores socio-political dynamics

by Steve Maphakathe

RONEL ROSCHER Tue, 03/04/2025 - 10:29

The School of Government Studies at the North-West University (NWU) recently hosted a thought-provoking discussion on the dynamics of urban conflict in South Africa, featuring conflict resolution expert Andre Vlok. Dr Seshupo Mosala, a lecturer in the School of Government Studies, and Katlego Mbali Sekwele, part-time lecturer at Vuselela TVET College, were the discussants.

The discussion was officially opened by Prof Kedibone Phago, director of the School of Government Studies, who welcomed attendees both in person and online. In his statement, he stressed the need to addressing urban conflict, emphasising the role of academic institutions in fostering critical debates on governance and societal challenges.

Andre Vlok: understanding conflict

Andre Vlok highlighted the importance of conflict management as a societal skill rather than merely an academic exercise. He argued that a well-informed public, which is equipped with the ability to understand and navigate conflict, is crucial in achieving long-term stability.

If we were better at conflict, we would understand what happened, what solutions we have, and what responses we should be having, Vlok stated, alluding that leadership needs to put more effort into resolving conflict rather than pursuing political gains.

He criticised the way politicians are managing situations, saying that they often seek immediate calm rather than addressing underlying issues. He further noted that conflict resolution should be a fundamental aspect of leadership, requiring bold and skilled individuals who are willing to engage with deep-seated problems such as land disputes and service delivery failures.

Discussants offered critical perspectives

Dr Seshupo Mosala provided an academic perspective on urban conflict, linking it to structural governance issues. Dr Mosala challenged conventional narratives that isolate township economies, arguing that economic activity should be understood holistically. He was critical of the perception of township economy, stating that economic activity is universal and should not be classified on the basis of geographical or racial lines. “Economy is economy, whether it happens in a township, on a farm, or in a city,” he declared.
Adding to the conversation, Katlego Mbali Sekwele explored the lived realities of marginalised communities, emphasising that the lack of service delivery and governance incompetence fuel urban conflict. She emphasised how social frustrations often manifest as protests, with communities resorting to direct action to demand accountability. Sekwele also stated that grassroots activism is essential, and it must be accompanied by real policy changes.

A request for practical methods to resolve urban conflicts marked the end of the discussion. Vlok reinforced that conflict management skills and knowledge should be applied in daily life rather than being limited to academia.

“Conflict resolution is not an elite product; it is human nature. Every individual and community must develop an increased level of understanding of conflict,” he stated.

Dr Mosala and Sekwele supported this view, and in turn advocated for policies that prioritise systematic change over political rhetoric. They urged the government to focus on sustainable solutions that address deep-rooted socio-economic imbalances.

At the end of the seminar, there was a networking opportunity for attendees to continue the discussion informally.

Study reveals shifting portrayals of women in South African advertisements.

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 12:45:39 +0000

Study reveals shifting portrayals of women in South African advertisements.

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 02/27/2025 - 14:45

Television advertisements influence how society views gender roles, and a new study from North-West University (NWU) explores how women are represented in South African adverts. The research, conducted by Koketso Rabanye from the NWU’s School of Communication, examined both traditional and changing portrayals of women in the media.

“Advertisers have the power to either reinforce outdated gender roles or challenge them,” Rabanye says. Her research, which won first place in the master’s category at the NWU Postgraduate Student Showcase, highlights how women are often depicted in domestic roles but are also increasingly shown as independent and empowered.

She has also presented her findings at the South African Communications Association’s 2024 Conference at Stellenbosch University.

The study finds that while some brands are shifting towards more progressive portrayals, many advertisements still focus on beauty and appearance. “There’s progress, but the emphasis on physical looks remains strong,” she says.

The representation of women in media is particularly relevant in South Africa, where issues such as gender-based violence and inequality persist. “Media representation matters. What we see on screen influences how we view women in real life,” Rabanye explains.

Her research tracks the historical portrayal of women in advertising, from early depictions as caregivers to more inclusive roles o in later decades. However, traditional gender roles remain dominant in many campaigns.

As the advertising industry evolves, Rabanye emphasises the responsibility of media creators in shaping public perceptions. “The media has the power to shape attitudes and challenge norms. It’s time we fully embrace that potential.”

Her findings contribute to ongoing discussions about gender representation in South African media, calling for a shift towards more balanced and realistic portrayals of women in advertising.

Koketso Rabanye

The AI revolution hits the NWU: Here is what you need to know

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 10:21:23 +0000

The AI revolution hits the NWU: Here is what you need to know

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 02/07/2025 - 12:21

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to play an increasingly important and prominent role in our lives, the North-West University (NWU) has established the NWU AI Hub to serve as a coordinator and facilitator for all things AI at the NWU. No sphere of the university environment has been left unaffected by the AI revolution, and with the creation of the NWU AI Hub, the university is implementing the necessary structures and guidelines to navigate the pitfalls and opportunities that this groundbreaking technology holds.

Professor Anné Verhoef has been appointed as the director of the NWU AI Hub, and as chairperson of the AI Steering Committee (AISC) of the NWU, which comprises members from across the university. They are dedicated and united in their goal to make the NWU transition as seamlessly as possible into this new AI age.

Here is Prof Verhoef to tell us more:

Can you explain the mission and vision of the NWU AI Hub to us?

The establishment of the NWU AI Hub in the portfolio of the deputy vice-chancellor for Operations and Digital Futures was proposed at the NWU’s University Management Council Bosberaad in 2024 and came into effect on 1 January 2025. The AI Hub fulfils a crucial role in the vision of Information Technology (IT) “to be a leading partner in positioning the NWU as a unitary institution of superior academic excellence through digital transformation”. Regarding the NWU’s strategic plan, the AI Hub concretely realises the vision to “discover new frontiers and opportunities that benefit society, advancing our relevance and impact” and our mission: “To benefit society through the provision of knowledge, excelling in innovative teaching, cutting edge research and focused engagement with the community.”

What are the primary responsibilities of the AI steering committee (AISC) in the AI Hub, and how does the committee contribute to shaping and guiding AI initiatives at the university?

The purpose of this multifunctional committee is to develop an NWU AI policy, guidelines and rules, based on the NWU-AI framework policy and NWU-AI statement of intent, and to guide and consult on matters relevant to AI at the NWU. Although the committee’s focus is primarily on AI, it will also take note of other AI-associated technologies in future that may be disruptive in the higher-education context.

The main responsibilities and tasks of the AISC are:

To develop an NWU AI policy, guidelines and rules, based on the NWU-AI framework policy and NWU-AI statement of intent as developed by the interim AI steering committee.
To coordinate artificial intelligence (AI) matters across various functions and involving different stakeholders of the NWU, for example, TL, SJS, Research, CoPAI, Writing Centres, AIWG.
To ensure that AI development and AI applications are guided in an ethical manner, aligned with the NWU’s core institutional and regulatory requirements.
To act in an advisory capacity to the chair of the NWU’s IT committee regarding the specialised skills AI requires and about the specific education and training needs that should be addressed at the NWU.
To empower NWU employees to excel in an AI-driven future and to foster a culture of learning and innovation, and contribute towards addressing the digital divide.
To strengthen the commitment of the NWU to embrace AI technologies that are responsible, beneficial and aligned with our vision to bring positive change, and to continue to identify AI opportunities that are inclusive, ethical and sustainable.
To scan the environment and to investigate (for instance, regarding proposals and requests for demonstrations, proofs of concept, etc.) available AI software, programs and IT tools and to recommend on their use and implementation (for example, training needs) at the NWU.
To regulate, standardise and enhance the effective use of generic and specific AI tools, and ensure the quality of these tools. This should be aligned with accepted international standards and best practices like ISO/IEC42001:2023.
To serve the NWU academic community in developing advice on general matters relating to the implementation and management of AI.
To develop a consistent AI agenda that helps the NWU to regulate its approach on AI and to reflect on the institutional position on AI and its implementation.

What key AI research projects, collaborations or community outreach initiatives is the AI Hub currently engaged in?

The AI Hub is doing research about AI use and the needs of academic and support staff, and of students at the NWU. The research unit TELIT-SA (Technology Enhanced Learning and Innovative Education and Training in South Africa) is taking the lead with this research under the guidance of Prof Liandi van den Berg. We are also collaborating with research being done by the Faculty of Engineering on the Mindjoy AI tool. The AI Hub is furthermore exploring and evaluating the use of different AI tools with IT, to ensure the

NWU will be able to make the right – that is to say, safe, efficient and affordable – AI tools available to all staff and students to help bridge the digital divide. The community involvement plan is to adjust the AI literacy course for students, which was just developed in collaboration with CTL (Centre for Teaching and Learning), to make it suitable for school children to use. This would be our first community outreach initiative.

How does the AI Hub facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration among different departments in the university?

The AI steering committee has representatives from all faculties, the Business School, the library (LIS), IT, CTL, the research office, and various support departments like Strategic Intelligence. We are working across all entities and functions of the NWU to ensure AI can benefit the NWU as much as possible. We are also working with the AI Circle of South Africa in Higher Education (AICSA), which has representatives from most higher-education institutions in SA, and we share expertise with them.

In what ways can students, faculty members and researchers get involved with the AI Hub, and what kind of support or resources does the AI Hub provide to encourage innovation in AI?

The AI Hub provides a centralised office at the NWU to support AI initiatives and to give guidance about our AI policy, rules, implementation, ethical and responsible use. The relevant AI resources and documents are available on the AI@NWU website and training opportunities will also be listed here. We would love to hear from staff who experiment with AI so that we can learn from each other.

What is the best way for interested parties to contact the AI Hub or the AI steering committee for further information, potential collaborations or inquiries about upcoming events?

Please visit the AI@NWU website or contact me at anne.verhoef@nwu.ac.za. The NWU AI Hub would love to hear what the needs of staff and students are regarding AI at the NWU. For example, we plan to explore how AI can be used by support staff in particular for productivity reasons. AI is developing so fast that it is difficult – or nearly impossible – to keep up, but with the establishment of the AI Hub, we have a centralised place from where we can think strategically about all the opportunities and challenges AI brings to us as university.

Bridging language gaps on African Radio

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 06:18:49 +0000

Bridging language gaps on African Radio BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 02/07/2025 - 08:18

By: Gofaone Motsamai

The rich linguistic diversity in Africa has always posed challenges and opportunities for the media, particularly for radio. A new book, Reconceptualising Multilingualism on African Radio, seeks to redefine multilingualism on African radio broadcasting by proffering epistemological ways to solve the African language problem.

The book was edited by two North-West University (NWU) academics – Dr Limukani Mathe, a lecturer and research fellow at the Social Transformation research focus area, and Prof Gilbert Motsaathebe from Indigenous Language Media in Africa research niche area.

“The book provides fresh insights into the complexities of accommodating multilingual speakers and offers practical solutions for promoting social cohesion through radio programming,” says Dr Mathe.

The editors and contributors highlight the unique linguistic realities of African societies, where multiple languages – some widely spoken and others marginalised – coexist and shape everyday communication. The book argues that African radio can serve as a platform to bridge the diversity of languages by reflecting the coexistence of speakers, rather than limiting itself to a few major languages.

The central theme explored is the fluidity of identity and language use in pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial African contexts. Dr Mathe and his collaborators suggest that many communities naturally embody multilingualism, challenging traditional perceptions that isolate languages as separate entities.

“The book presents applied case studies that illustrate how some radio stations have successfully navigated these complexities by fostering linguistic inclusivity and cultural exchange. These examples not only demonstrate the potential of multilingual broadcasting but also highlight the role of radio as a tool for promoting social cohesion in linguistically diverse societies,” Dr Mathe notes.

Furthermore, the authors propose practical strategies for accommodating multilingual speakers, such as adopting hybrid language formats, developing multilingual programming schedules, and training broadcasters to effectively engage with diverse audiences.

“By reconceptualising multilingualism as an inclusive and dynamic practice, the book makes a significant contribution to ongoing conversations about lingual diversity in the media landscape. It challenges radio broadcasters to rethink how they can better serve multilingual audiences, promote cultural understanding and strengthen social bonds,” Dr Mathe emphasises.

Find the book on Springer Nature Link here.

Dr Limukani Mathe

Prof Gilbert Motsaathebe

Academic supports SA’s response to tensions with Rwanda

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 07:20:04 +0000

Academic supports SA’s response to tensions with Rwanda

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 02/05/2025 - 09:20

In times of escalating tension between states, cool heads and calm words are crucial, says North-West University (NWU) academic Dr Pumlani Majavu.

“The Rwandan president came dangerously close to declaring war with South Africa, both in words and in deeds. We are fortunate to have a head of state who champions diplomacy over war. In such times, peace is needed,” says Dr Majavu, referring to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s measured response to the current diplomatic tensions between South Africa and Rwanda following the deaths of 14 South African soldiers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Dr Majavu, a lecturer in Political Studies and International Relations, describes the current state of relations between the two countries as severely strained.

The South African government has warned that further attacks on its troops would be considered a declaration of war. Dr Majavu says Rwanda’s response to these warnings reflects its broader interests in the region.

“Rwanda’s rhetoric, including its threat of war, is about ensuring that it continues to benefit from the DRC’s mineral resources. Stability in the east of the DRC does not serve the financial interests of Kigali. Since 1996, that part of the country has historically been controlled by Kigali-backed warlords.”

South Africa and Rwanda have experienced diplomatic tensions in the past, he notes.

In 2014, South Africa expelled three Rwandan diplomats after an attack on an exiled Rwandan dissident’s home in Johannesburg. Rwanda responded by expelling six South African envoys. Dr Majavu noted that these past events contribute to the current strained relationship between the two countries.

The rising tensions have raised concerns about regional alliances and peacekeeping efforts in the Great Lakes region. Dr Majavu explains that the core issue is Rwanda’s stance on the DRC.

“The tensions arise from the fact that Kigali does not respect the sovereignty of the DRC and does not want a stable eastern DRC. Rwanda has been against the deployment of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC. Instead of supporting a

regional mission aimed at peace, Kigali supports a militia that thrives on deadly chaos.

“It is to be hoped that cool heads and calm words will prevail, resulting in a peaceful resolution and the safe return of South African soldiers in the DRC,” concludes Dr Majavu.

Dr Pumlani Majavu.