The Optentia Usiba Writing Retreat 2025, held recently at the tranquil Khaya iBhubesi Conference Centre in Parys, brought together over 76 researchers, doctoral candidates and academic staff from across South Africa and beyond for four days of transformative learning, writing and scholarly connection.

Hosted by the Optentia research unit of the North-West University (NWU), the retreat created a space for structured research progress, intellectual exchange and personal rejuvenation, set against the backdrop of the Vaal River’s peaceful landscape.

The Faculty of Humanities of the North-West University (NWU) is excited to host its inaugural Africa International Teaching Week (AITW) from 31 August to 5 September 2025 across its Vanderbijlpark, Potchefstroom and Mahikeng campuses.

This prestigious event invites 20 higher education practitioners based outside South Africa to participate in a vibrant academic and cultural exchange centred on the theme “The role of the humanities in social justice”.

The Faculty of Humanities at the North-West University (NWU) will host a public lecture on 8 May 2025, exploring the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and the future of humanities education in higher education institutions.

The event, to be held at the Mmabatho Palms Hotel and streamed online, will also mark the official launch of the university’s new Centre for Teaching Excellence.

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) School of Social Sciences hosted a seminar by Nikki Green, an occupational therapist and a service-learning coordinator at Rhodes University Community Engagement.

Nikki used the session to draw from her experience implementing service-learning programmes across institutions and disciplines.

“Service-learning is more than volunteer work. It is about integrating meaningful community engagement with academic study,” said Nikki.

One of the world’s most-cited African scholars, Prof Toyin Falola, is deepening his connection with the North-West University (NWU) and its Mahikeng Campus in particular. Two years after delivering a public lecture there on indigenous languages and global cultural shifts, he is returning to receive an honorary doctorate from the NWU.

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.

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.

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.

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.