Alumni

Multilingualism shapes online communication

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 10:28:15 +0000

Multilingualism shapes online communication

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 07/21/2025 - 12:28

Languages clash, blend and connect users across the North-West University (NWU) Mahikeng Campus Updates Facebook Group, revealing how multilingualism drives communication in a digital student space.

Ontiretse Motingwa, an NWU graduate, led a study that examined how language choice, ethnicity and power relationships influence communication patterns on the NWU Mahikeng Campus Updates Facebook Group. The group, moderated by NWU students, functions as a platform where members post, comment and engage in various languages, including indigenous ones.

“Multilingualism in this group goes beyond translation,” says Ontiretse. “It plays a role in shaping identity, access to information and participation.”

The research used sociolinguistic theories, specifically the language variation theory and social network theory, to investigate the relationship between language and online interaction. A netnographic approach allowed her to observe communication patterns and analyse content shared on the group.

One participant noted, “When someone posts in Setswana, I feel more at home. But sometimes I skip posts I don’t understand.”

The findings highlighted that language diversity boosts communication effectiveness and cultural exchange among members. However, the study also identified ongoing challenges such as the preference for English, unequal access to digital tools, and gaps in indigenous language comprehension.

“Using many languages helps reach more people, but it also risks leaving some out,” says Ontiretse.

She believes this research offers a lens into broader issues of language use in South Africa’s digital communities. “Social media reflect real tensions and opportunities in multilingual societies,” Ontiretse says. “Understanding how people navigate them helps shape more inclusive digital spaces.”

The study contributes to ongoing discussions about preserving indigenous languages while recognising the limitations of current strategies in virtual environments.

Ontiretse Motingwa’s study explores how language diversity affects interaction on the NWU Mahikeng Campus Updates Facebook Group.

Two tracks, one path, as NWU alumna navigates cybersecurity and songwriting

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 06:08:38 +0000

Two tracks, one path, as NWU alumna navigates cybersecurity and songwriting

by Mafumane Tlhapi

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 07/11/2025 - 08:08

Information Technology Security and music composition are not as far removed from each other as they might seem. Ask Bonolo Phiri, North-West University alumna.

Bonolo studied Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at the NWU Vanderbijlpark Campus, and completed her degree in 2017. She begins her mornings reviewing security policies. By evening, she is in the recording studio, layering vocals on an Afro-house track. As she advances in both fields, Phiri is reaching new frontiers by merging cybersecurity with creative expression, two industries seldom explored in parallel. “The modules I studied at the NWU, such as computer science and Design analysis, shaped how I approach both my professions,” Phiri says. “I apply the same discipline to risk assessment and composition.”

During the day, Phiri works in the corporate environment Gauteng, Johannesburg (Midrand). She documents and reports security incidents in weekly meetings to facilitate threat identification and effective response. She leads the development of security policies and procedures to strengthen governance practices throughout the organization.

After hours, she performs at events, works as a voice-over artist for advertising campaigns, or collaborates with international producers. In 2024, she contributed to Chicken Licken’s “Snack Rappin” campaign, voicing one of its promotional wraps.

She currently has a released single with Afro-house international DJ, Zulu Mageba and a project to be released where she is featured by the South African famous music duo, Black Motion.

“Working in the studio requires the same level of preparation and awareness as a boardroom,” Phiri says. “You need to read the room, understand the risks and know your role.” She also mentors young people with an interest in either the arts or cybersecurity, and advises aspiring entertainers not to abandon their academic goals.

“Never leave your studies for the microphone,” she says. “The entertainment industry has highs and lows; education offers stability.” That perspective, she notes, was shaped during her time at the NWU.

“As a student, I learnt how to carry myself in meetings and on stage. That balance is what keeps me moving forward.”

NWU alumna Bonolo Phiri balances risk assessments by day and rhythms by night.

Celebrate NWU excellence ― nominate outstanding alumni for prestigious award

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 12:08:03 +0000

Celebrate NWU excellence ― nominate outstanding alumni for prestigious award

by Willie du Plessis

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 07/02/2025 - 14:08

The North-West University (NWU) continues to take pride in the remarkable achievements of alumni who actively make impactful and valuable contributions in all spheres of society – both locally and internationally.

Do you know an NWU graduate who exemplifies excellence in their field? Whether you are an alumnus, staff member or stakeholder, now is the perfect opportunity to put forward a name that deserves to be honoured. Nominations are open for the university’s most prestigious recognition of alumni achievement – the Biennial Alumni Excellence Awards. Nominations close on 8 August.

Your nomination might just be one of the cream of the crop of NWU alumni who will be celebrated during the ninth biennial awards ceremony, which will take place later this year.

These sought-after accolades recognise alumni who not only make significant contributions to their communities but also remain deeply committed to the values of the NWU. These individuals are ambassadors of excellence who uphold the university’s reputation as a globally respected institution.

The honour roll of previous recipients includes prominent and revered figures from all spheres of South African and international society. These illustrious recipients include, among others, Prof TT Cloete, Judge Frans Kgomo, Prof Dan Kgwadi, Prof Anis Karodia, Deon Meyer, Dr Alistair Mokoena, Judge Bess Nkabinde, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, Prof Tjaart van der Walt and Sunette Viljoen.

Nominations are welcomed across nine categories: arts and culture, business leadership, community involvement, education, public service, research, sport, the Young Alumni Award, and the Lifetime Achievement Award. Nominations can be submitted electronically at www.nwu.ac.za/alumni-awards-nomination. For more information, email Nicolize van der Walt at nicolize.vanderwalt@nwu.ac.za.

To relive the inspiration from the previous event, watch the 2023 NWU Biennial Alumni Excellence Awards ceremony here: https://youtu.be/SWE0Id51LhI

Celebrate NWU excellence ― nominate outstanding alumni for prestigious award

Real men cry too: Alumni workshop breaks the silence on men’s mental health

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 08:21:59 +0000

Real men cry too: Alumni workshop breaks the silence on men’s mental health BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 07/02/2025 - 10:21

By Gofaone Motsamai and Nikelo Mehlomakulu

It was not just a gathering; it was a breaking of the silence around men’s mental health struggles. On 26 June 2025, the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus became a space where men exchanged ego for honesty, and bravado for openness.

The NWU alumni men’s mental health workshop brought together graduates, professionals and mentors for a conversation about what it means to be a man in a society that teaches boys to hold back pain.

The date was not chosen at random. 26 June is the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, a reminder that substance abuse and trauma are often linked. June is also Youth Month in South Africa – a time of memory and struggle.

“We cannot keep meeting only to talk about soccer, car parts or weekend braais. Real conversations are overdue,” said Prof Leepile Sehularo, director at the Lifestyle Diseases research focus area in the Faculty of Health Sciences. Prof Sehularo shared the statistics that South Africa ranks third on the continent in suicide rates, with 10 861 men taking their lives in this country in 2019.

Internationally, the position is bleak too. “Three men die by suicide each minute in the world,” he told the audience. “And men are told not to cry. But when they don’t cry, they make others cry – their children, wives, mothers, friends.”

Using stories and humour, Prof Sehularo said depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and addiction are not signs of weakness; they are diseases that need care, support and help. “When you eat too much, it's a problem. When you don’t eat, it’s also a problem. Mental health needs care. Men must stop hiding behind alcohol, smiles and roles.”

Dr Gopolang Gause, a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Health Sciences, spoke about the pressures men face. He listed the roles expected of men: to provide, protect, lead and suffer in silence.

“We live in made-up lives. A guy arrives with a belt and shoes, not because he can afford them, but to look like what the world expects. It is a trap,” said Dr Gause. “Men are people. Men are hurt. Men are not speaking.”

He called for circles of support – like those women form through groups, churches and clubs. “We must speak about money, relationships and problems without fear. Let us support one another.”

Prof Leepile Sehularo

Dr Gopolang Gause

Vanderbijlpark Campus hosts Inaugural Alumni and Friends Sports Day

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 06:26:20 +0000

Vanderbijlpark Campus hosts Inaugural Alumni and Friends Sports Day

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 06/30/2025 - 08:26

The North-West University’s (NWU) Vanderbijlpark Campus burst into life on June 16 as it welcomed back former students, staff, and community partners for its inaugural Alumni and Friends Sports Fun Day. The event, held on Youth Day, blended athletic energy with heartfelt reconnection, marking a new chapter in alumni engagement through the unifying power of sport.

Soccer took centre stage, with friendly yet competitive matches featuring teams such as Black Pool, VUT, Young Alumni Soccer Ladies, and Vaal Ladies. Alumni played alongside staff and invited stakeholders, reviving campus camaraderie and sparking conversations about future collaboration.

More than just a sports day, the event signalled the beginning of a broader initiative - laying the groundwork for the formation of a Vanderbijlpark Campus Sports Alumni Chapter. For organisers, it was about far more than goals scored on the field.

“This event was about more than just sport - it was about reconnecting and reigniting the NWU alumni spirit,” said Zanele Ngobese from the Alumni Relations Office. “Sport has always had the power to unite people. We used that spirit to bring our alumni and friends back into the fold, laying the foundation for long-term involvement.”

Youth Day, with its profound significance in South African history, served as a meaningful backdrop. As attendees laced up their boots and shared memories on the sidelines, the atmosphere echoed the NWU’s ongoing commitment to youth empowerment through education and sport.

In attendance was Silvanus Welcome, director for development and fundraising, who emphasised the strategic role of alumni in the university’s growth.

“Our alumni are a vital part of the university’s development ecosystem. This event exemplifies how social and sporting platforms can be used not just to build relationships, but to ignite philanthropic interest and collaborative growth opportunities for the campus and surrounding communities.”

The day also featured informal discussions around student-athlete support, mentorship, and the role alumni can play in shaping a more inclusive, empowered NWU community.

While a few minor challenges emerged, such as a brief shortage of amenities due to the public holiday; the event ran smoothly overall, thanks to a responsive organising team and a deeply engaged audience. Many attendees praised the welcoming atmosphere, community spirit, and the strategic direction the event represented.

With over 100 attendees, enthusiastic feedback, and growing interest from those who could not attend, plans are already underway to make the Alumni and Friends Sports Day a flagship annual event, with potential for expansion to other NWU campuses.

“The overwhelmingly positive response confirms that there’s a real appetite for meaningful alumni engagement,” said Zanele. “We’re excited to build on this momentum.”

As the final whistle blew and teams posed for photos, it was clear that the day had scored more than goals. It had rekindled connections, inspired new ideas, and reminded everyone of the enduring bond between the NWU and its people - on and off the field.

Soccer took centre stage at the inaugural NWU Alumni and Friends Sports Fun Day.

Digitising government procurement could curb fraud and corruption and enhance efficiency

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 06:21:27 +0000

Digitising government procurement could curb fraud and corruption and enhance efficiency

by Oscar Mosiane

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 06/30/2025 - 08:21

Digitising manual procurement processes in government could assist in curbing corruption and bolster a culture of accountability. This is according to PhD graduate Dr Lawrence Moetapele Mojaki of the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA).

Dr Mojaki is a deputy director for supply chain management at the GPAA and recently completed his PhD in Economic and Management Sciences with Business Administration at the Mahikeng Campus of the North-West University (NWU).

His PhD explored the advantages of developing a digital procurement framework based on Industry 4.0 technologies for the public sector in South Africa.

“There is a need to migrate the manual procurement processes in government to digital, which has frameworks that can assist in curbing corruption in the public coffers and to make sure that there is accountability,” says Dr Mojaki, who has already written five articles from his PhD research. Three of these have been published and two are under peer review.

He notes that while governments around the world increasingly recognise the need to embrace technology in their public procurement processes, the South African government has not yet fully adopted digitisation.

Public procurement activities still rely on manual processes, which create loopholes for human interference and fraud and corruption, ultimately resulting in waste and poor service delivery.

Dr Majoki’s study explored the linkages between the internet of things, cloud computing and sustainable public procurement. He interrogated the literature on Industry 4.0 technologies in South Africa and considered various digital technologies that government can harness to improve its procurement processes.

His findings show that Industry 4.0 technologies present significant opportunities to improve public procurement systems in South Africa, while at the same time addressing sustainability by enhancing efficiency and improving preferential procurement initiatives.

The study also presented an implementation plan for a digital procurement framework that would enable full automation and cut out human error and intervention – and therefore also eliminate opportunities for fraud and corruption.

Dr Lawrence Moetapele Mojaki recently graduated with a PhD in Economic and Management Sciences with Business Administration from the NWU.

Botswana alumni deliver tools of success to learners

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 07:59:59 +0000

Botswana alumni deliver tools of success to learners

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 06/25/2025 - 09:59

In a classroom where calculators are shared and pencils run short, a delivery of 70 branded pencil cases from the North-West University (NWU) Botswana Alumni Chapter landed with purpose. These cases containing pens, maths sets and scientific calculators represent the means to bridge more than just academic gaps.

The handover took place on 21 June 2025 during the annual NWU Botswana alumni reunion, hosted by the NWU Alumni Office at Avani Hotel in Gaborone. The donation formed part of the chapter’s 2025 corporate social responsibility initiative, which aimed to support learners from Naledi Senior Secondary School in Gaborone.

“This gesture has taught us what it means to ‘plough back,’ as the NWU likes to describe it,” said Aumake Aaron, Naledi’s learner representative council president. “It motivates us to work hard academically. That child who cannot afford a calculator but needs one to excel will one day also feel the love of the NWU.”

Naledi educator Mpho Masasa said the support arrived at a time of financial strain. “There is a lack of funds at the school. We appreciate the compassion shown by the Alumni Chapter. The learners are happy; it bridges the gap. Thank you for giving us love. You are a unique university. We call on all communities to follow this example and start donating to our schools.”

Dr Kemmonye Gracious Amos from the chapter committee said the gesture reflects the NWU’s ongoing commitment to education beyond its campuses. “This is about planting seeds of hope. We believe in nurturing talent from all corners of society, and this is one of the ways we give back to the communities that raised us.”

For the learners at Naledi Senior Secondary School, the pencil cases are more than supplies. They are reminders that someone is paying attention, that even from across a border, alumni still walk beside them, one equation, one exam and one future at a time.

Members of the NWU Botswana Alumni Chapter hand over mathematics sets, pens, and pencils to learners and a teacher as part of a corporate social responsibility project aimed at supporting academic excellence in schools.

Alumnus appointed CEO of Boxing South Africa

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 12:04:10 +0000

Alumnus appointed CEO of Boxing South Africa

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 06/18/2025 - 14:04

North-West University (NWU) alumnus Tsholofelo Lejaka has entered the ring as Boxing South Africa’s (BSA’s) new chief executive officer.

Tsholofelo previously served as BSA CEO from 2016 to 2020, and he returned to the organisation in September 2024 as acting accounting officer. His appointment, effective 17 June 2025, follows a comprehensive recruitment process initiated in January 2025 to restore stability within the organisation.

He says his leadership priorities include rebuilding trust in the sport, engaging stakeholders and sponsors, and implementing resolutions from the 2025 Boxing Convention.

“My return to BSA comes at a time when the organisation faces ongoing governance and financial challenges, and I am determined to overcome these challenges.”

More about Tsholofelo’s journey

Tsholofelo obtained his BA degree in fine art from the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus in 1997. During his time at university, he was involved in student leadership and served on the Student Representative Council.

Following his studies, Lejaka pursued a career focused on public service and youth development. He served as CEO of the Free State Youth Commission, where he worked closely with young people and grassroots organisations across the province.

These experiences shaped his belief in the potential of sport, particularly boxing, as a tool for youth empowerment and social transformation.

NWU alumnus Tsholofelo Lejaka has been appointed CEO of Boxing South Africa.

Alumnus excels as senior political reporter

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 06:58:12 +0000

Alumnus excels as senior political reporter

by Oscar Mosiane

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 06/18/2025 - 08:58

Never underestimate the value of actively participating in student activities while studying. Ntlantla Lucky Kgatlhane, now a senior political reporter at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), is testament to that. He started out at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus radio station, writing for the campus newspaper and generating content for the university’s website.

“I would never choose any other university because for me, the NWU is where it all started, where I built the foundation of my career,” he says.

Ntlantla completed his BA and honours degrees in communication from 2008 to 2012 at the NWU, followed by a master’s degree – also in communication – in 2023. He says he made many friends and learnt valuable lessons during this time. “I am grateful for what the NWU instilled in me; hence I always encourage learners to pursue their studies at the NWU after matriculating.

For his master’s research, he investigated the nature of participatory communication in ward meetings of the Jouberton township in the Matlosana Municipality in the North West Province.

Ntlantla, who currently works as a senior political reporter for radio and television at the SABC, was recruited while working at the campus radio station and the Album student newspaper.

Now, with 10 years’ experience in news and political reporting, his daily duties include attending and covering political functions for radio, TV and social media, interviewing sources and keeping track of political developments on credible news websites and social media platforms.

“I particularly enjoy covering news related to the President and senior political leaders from the governing party and other political formations,” Ntlantla says.

Ntlantla also believes in giving back to his alma mater and challenges his fellow alumni to make time in their busy schedules to be part of the NWU’s alumni programmes. “By giving back and sharing our expertise, we can help current students to realise their dreams.”

Ntlantla Lucky Kgatlhane interviews former President Thabo Mbeki.

Work with artificial intelligence but don’t fear it, says expert

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 06:55:02 +0000

Work with artificial intelligence but don’t fear it, says expert

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 06/18/2025 - 08:55

What happens when students begin to wonder if universities are still necessary? This was one of the questions posed by the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Prof Anné Verhoef during a talk for postgraduate students on artificial intelligence (AI).

“AI is changing everything,” said Prof Verhoef, director of the NWU AI Hub and a professor of philosophy. “It is not just about technology. It forces us to ask what makes us human and what skills will matter in the future.”

Organised by the NWU Alumni Office, the event took place on 22 May at the Mahikeng Campus and focused on how AI is reshaping the future of learning, research and work.

Prof Verhoef used the platform to challenge assumptions about the role of higher education in an AI-driven world.

He outlined how AI is now capable of producing text, images, videos and even reasoning through complex problems, and gave examples of how AI is applied in medicine, psychology, engineering and theology, raising questions about the future of human expertise.

“Jobs are disappearing. Others are being created. The key issue is not to fear AI but to work with it,” he said.

Free online course for students now available

To support this transition, the NWU has developed a free online course titled AI for Academic and Career Success. The course is open to all registered students and covers the basics of AI tools, their ethical use and career planning.

The course is designed to promote responsible AI use, Prof Verhoef said. Students will receive a certificate and a career plan once they complete it.

NWU Convocation President Tutu Kgobane encouraged postgraduate students to remain engaged with the university through the Convocation.

“Convocation is the voice of alumni in university matters,” he said at the event. “It is necessary to join because it keeps you connected and informed, and gives you a say in the future of the institution you studied at.”

The NWU AI Hub continues to lead the university’s efforts in promoting ethical, inclusive and practical use of AI through training, policy and academic programmes.

From left are Hloni Putsoane, Prof Anné Verhoef, Relebogile Sekati and Keabetswe Gopane.