Alumni

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

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.”

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NWU alumnus finds footing in pro football as Durban City FC’s conditioning coach

A former NWU Soccer Institute player, Michael Radebe has made the transition from the pitch to the training room, now serving as strength and conditioning coach at Durban City Football Club. The club was recently promoted to the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL).

“Studying sport science at NWU laid a good foundation for my current role,” says Radebe. “The sports science programme helped with theoretical knowledge and practical experience in programme designing and player monitoring, which is one of the critical factors in conditioning.”

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What Google Maps and churches have in common when it comes to lifelong learning

By:Mafumane Tlhapi and Phenyo Mokgothu

The offline mode of Google Maps became more than a navigation tool when Pastor Piet Tlhabanyane, from Bethesda Kingdom Ministries (BKM), an NWU alumnus and a Council member, used it to explain the risks of outdated knowledge in church leadership.

“Without regular updates, even a tool as reliable as Google Maps leads you the wrong way. It’s the same with scripture. If we stop learning, we start misguiding,” said Pastor Tlhabanyane.

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Horizon Residence hosts an inspiring Alumni Business Venture and Graduation event

The Horizon Residence, specifically allocated to postgraduate students on the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus, recently hosted a memorable Alumni Business Venture and Graduation event that brought together a dynamic mix of graduates, alumni and aspiring entrepreneurs for an evening of inspiration, celebration and meaningful connections.

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Political stability seen as is key to boosting southern African trade

South Africa, Lesotho and Eswatini need to work towards stabilising their political environments and improving governance to create a better climate for business and trade.

“Political stability is crucial for trade,” says Dr Mpho Lenoke, recent PhD graduate and a lecturer in the subject group Economics at the North-West University (NWU). “When governments prioritise stability, they make room for economic growth.”

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Alumnus turns quiet leadership into national recognition at Life Healthcare

When the night shift begins at Life Peglerae Hospital in Rustenburg, Hudson Mothupi is already at work, not just supervising 16 hospital units, but also ensuring systems hold firm through medical emergencies, power outages and the other demands of overnight care.

This behind-the-scenes leadership has earned the North-West University (NWU) alumnus a place among Life Healthcare’s Great 100 Nurses for 2025.

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Alumni business breakfast sparks dialogue on regional tourism and development

The Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU) played host to a dynamic Alumni Business Breakfast on Thursday, 11 April, at the scenic Big Lapa venue.

This networking event brought together alumni, industry leaders and NWU academics for a morning of insightful dialogue centred on tourism, business development and regional growth opportunities.

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Alumni unpack career and financial pathway

By: Mafumane Tlhapi and Keaoleboga Motshabi

The North-West University (NWU) hosted an alumni career guidance seminar on 9 April 2024, bringing together five professionals to share their insights on career development and industry opportunities.

The event took place at the Mahikeng Campus, where alumni engaged in discussions ranging from curriculum vitae (CV) writing and career-building developments to financial planning.

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NWU Business School launches PhD Hub for Africa

The North-West University (NWU) Business School has established a formidable foundation and inaugurated the PhD Hub for Africa, a pioneering initiative aimed at nurturing doctoral talent and enhancing supervisory expertise throughout the continent. The PhD Hub was officially launched on Monday, 10 March 2025, during the International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development held at the Kigali Serena Hotel in Rwanda.

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