Awards and accolades

NWU Chartered Accountancy students excel in 2024 ITC

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 06:57:12 +0000

NWU Chartered Accountancy students excel in 2024 ITC BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 04/12/2024 - 08:57

The North-West University (NWU) has once again demonstrated its commitment to producing top-tier chartered accountancy professionals, as was evidenced by the outstanding results of its students in the recent South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Namibia (ICAN) Initial Test of Competence (ITC) exams.

In the latest ITC exam results, the NWU's candidates showcased exceptional performance. Impressively, 97% of the NWU's candidates passed the exam, marking the institution as one of the top performers among the 18 participating institutions in the country. The national average pass rate was 67%. In addition, the NWU's ICAN candidates achieved a 100% pass rate.

The excellence of the NWU's students was further highlighted by their representation in the SAICA top 10, with two candidates achieving this prestigious recognition. Notably, these two candidates passed with distinction, showcasing their exceptional abilities. Overall, the NWU produced five candidates who passed with distinction – a remarkable achievement considering the rigorous standards of the examination. More than 2 500 candidates wrote the exam nationally, of whom only 24 passed with distinction. Moreover, the NWU's success extends to ICAN, with three of its candidates ranking among the top 5, all achieving distinctions.

Prof Heleen Janse van Vuuren, the director of the School of Accounting Sciences at the NWU's Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, attributes these outstanding results to the institution's commitment to academic excellence and the dedication of its lecturers. She emphasises the importance of chartered accountants in driving economic growth and addressing the financial challenges faced by South Africa.

Janse van Vuuren underscores the NWU's role in contributing to a better future for all South Africans through its focus on producing highly skilled professionals who can make meaningful contributions to the economy.

In summary, the NWU's continued success in producing top-performing Chartered Accountancy graduates reflects its dedication to excellence in education and its contribution to the development of South Africa's economic landscape.

QS rankings place three NWU subject groups in the top 700

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 12:09:13 +0000

QS rankings place three NWU subject groups in the top 700

by Willie du Plessis

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 04/10/2024 - 14:09

The North-West University (NWU) continues its impressive showing in international rankings. The latest Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings by Subject rank three of the NWU’s subject groups in the top 700 globally, with one of these in the top 400. These include agriculture and forestry, physics and astronomy, and medicine.

Although the NWU does not have a medical school, it offers subjects that fall within the medicine category. These subjects will form a strong foundation for the NWU Medical School, which is envisaged to enrol students from 2028.

The 2024 QS World University Rankings by Subject ranked the NWU in the 301 to 350 category for agriculture and forestry, 601 to 650 category for medicine and health sciences, and in the 601 to 640 category for physics and astronomy. This is the first year that the NWU has featured in the ranking table for physics and astronomy. The university improved its ranking for agriculture and forestry from last year’s 351 to 400 ranking.

QS published the rankings on 10 April and included 1 559 institutions, ranked across 55 subjects in five broad subject areas.

QS used five indicators to determine a place on the rankings table. These included academic reputation; employer reputation; citations per paper; the h-index (measuring the stability of the impact and quality of the work published by the institutions’ scientists and scholars); and the International Research Network (IRN) (measuring the efficiency of establishing stable research collaborations in all the broad subject areas).

This is not the first time the NWU has excelled in the QS rankings. Globally, the NWU was ranked in the 801 to 850 category in June last year for the 2023/2024 QS World University Rankings. This placed the NWU among the top seven South African universities. The NWU was also ranked among the top eight out of 43 institutions on the continent in the QS Sustainability ranking. The Sustainability ranking looks at higher-education institutions’ response to crucial environmental, social and governance issues.

To learn more about the NWU’s performance in various rankings, visit: https://www.nwu.ac.za/rankings.

Celebrating excellence in medicine: Prof Binu Luke receives prestigious SAMA award

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 06:54:48 +0000

Celebrating excellence in medicine: Prof Binu Luke receives prestigious SAMA award BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 04/05/2024 - 08:54

Prof Binu Luke is a distinguished health expert and extraordinary associate professor at AUTHeR in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the North-West University (NWU). In February 2024, the South African Medical Association (SAMA) gave due recognition for his exceptional contributions by nominating him for the prestigious Extraordinary Service to Medicine Award at the SAMA Merit Awards 2024. This award acknowledges Prof Luke's outstanding dedication and expertise in the field of medicine.

Prof Luke's journey in medicine began in 1991, when he qualified as a medical doctor (MBBS) in India. His passion for excellence led him to pursue further specialisation, obtaining his degree as Doctor of Medicine (with a gold medal) and Diplomate National Board qualification in Internal Medicine in 1994. Since then, Prof Luke has been a trailblazer, obtaining his Fellowship of the College of Physicians of South Africa and Diploma in HIV Management, and leaving a significant mark in the field of medicine in South Africa. He was also awarded a Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians of London.

In 2010, Prof Luke assumed the role of head of the Clinical Department at the Klerksdorp/Tshepong Hospital in Klerksdorp, where he had served since 1996. Under his leadership and in collaboration with the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), the hospital evolved into a provincial tertiary hospital, offering a full range of tertiary services. Owing primarily to Prof Luke's vision and efforts, the hospital was transformed into an academic training site for Wits, training nearly 45 specialists at a time.

Prof Luke's commitment to medical education and training is commendable. He played a significant role in developing the revised two-year medical internship programme for the HPCSA by extending the training platform to include the district health system. He also plays a role in supporting regional and tertiary hospitals in North West as a technical adviser and serves as the programme manager of the national tertiary services grant budget for the province.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Prof Luke served as the technical lead for North West, demonstrating his commitment to public health and safety. His role as an adjunct professor at Wits further showcases his ongoing pursuit of academic excellence, where he supports clinical teaching and coordinates the North West academic platform.

In 2023, Prof Luke's valuable contributions to medical education and training were recognised with his appointment as an extraordinary associate professor at AUTHeR in the NWU Faculty of Health Sciences. His vision for establishing a medical school at the NWU, with the North West health facilities as the main clinical training platform, reflects his goal of advancing medical education in South Africa. He is currently the project lead for the NWU Medical School Project.

Prof Luke's nomination for the Extraordinary Service to Medicine Award at the SAMA Merit Awards 2024 speaks of exemplary leadership, expertise and dedication to the field of medicine. The university and the NWU Faculty of Health Sciences extend our congratulations on this well-deserved achievement and wish him continued success in his future endeavours.

“I am humbled by the recognition and attribute my contributions to the opportunities that the health system offered me over the years.” – Professor Binu Luke

Professor Binu Luke receives his award

Dr Anna Mokgokong honoured with national Legacy Award

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 10:41:29 +0000

Dr Anna Mokgokong honoured with national Legacy Award

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 03/22/2024 - 12:41

The chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), Dr Anna Mokgokong, was again recognised for her remarkable achievements as an industry stalwart when she received the Black Industrialist Pioneer and Legacy Award at the second Black Industrialist and Exporters Conference.

The conference was held at the Sandton International Convention Centre on Wednesday 20 March, and President Cyril Ramaphosa presented the awards.

The awards announced at the conference aimed at recognising the contribution of black industrialists towards driving economic growth, social transformation and in advancing inclusive entrepreneurship in South Africa.

Dr Mokgokong is the co-founder and executive chairperson of Community Investment Holdings (Pty) Ltd., a company she founded in 1995. She was congratulated for her hard work and dedication that serves as inspiration for so many, as well as for her role she plays to promote the empowerment of women, amongst many other highlighted achievements.

In her acceptance speech, Dr Mokgokong reflected on her humble beginnings selling and designing handbags in townships. She remarked that thirty years ago, there weren’t any black industrialists, but this picture has changed through hard work and dedication.

“Let the next 30 years take us to greater heights. Let us build a South Africa that is inclusive. Inclusive of women and all the citizens of South Africa,” she concluded.

The principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, expressed his delight with Dr Mokgokong receiving this award, saying: “Dr Anna Mokgokong has not only been a flagbearer of the NWU, but one for all South Africans. Her story is inspirational and her legacy continues to grow. We are proud to call her our chancellor, and I know that all our citizens are proud to call her a fellow South African.”

Dr Anna Mokgokong, was recognised for her remarkable achievements as an industry stalwart.

Celebrating 835 years of dedication

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 04:48:35 +0000

Celebrating 835 years of dedication

by Angeline Marokoane

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 03/08/2024 - 06:48

In a heart-warming celebration of commitment and dedication, the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus recently honoured its staff members for their long-standing service to the institution.

The university recognised employees who have reached milestones of 10, 15, 20, 25 and an astonishing 30 years of service. Together, these recipients commemorated a remarkable combined tenure of 835 years, symbolising not just loyalty, but a profound dedication to the university's mission and values.

“For many institutions, the backbone of their success lies within the unwavering dedication of their staff. Individuals who tirelessly work behind the scenes, contributing their expertise, passion, and energy to propel the university forward. From professors shaping young minds to administrative staff ensuring smooth operations, each role plays an integral part in the institution's journey towards excellence”, says Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for planning and Vanderbijlpark Campus operations.

The ceremony honouring these long-year service recipients was not just a moment of recognition but also a celebration of the bonds forged over the years.

Prof Du Plessis also conveyed her sincere gratitude for the dedication and commitment exhibited by all staff members, offering words of encouragement for the year ahead.

“As we kick off the new year, many of you come here with new enthusiasm, excitement, and energy. We also realise that it sometimes requires a conscious decision to remain positive. So, when you come to the office – try to be a positive catalyst. It is very easy to complain, but it is more valuable and important to count our blessings. Having a passion for what you do is contagious; energy is contagious, ambition is contagious. We are grateful for the positive motivation you bring to the campus.”

Moving forward, the institution reaffirms its commitment to fostering and acknowledging its staff members, recognising that their unwavering dedication is essential for its continued growth and success.

The NWU’s Vanderbijlpark Campus recently honoured staff with long-service awards. Also being honoured with 30th year of service award is Prof M Delport (in absentia)

Prof Linda du Plessis received her 15th year of service award.

Marietjie van der Ryst received her 30th year of service award.

JP Jooste received his 30th year of service award.

Student shines as finalist in prestigious budget speech competition

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 12:43:09 +0000

Student shines as finalist in prestigious budget speech competition

by Mafumane Tlhapi

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 02/22/2024 - 14:43

North-West University (NWU) student Keakantse Setsibe has recently made headlines by securing a spot as a finalist in the2023 Nedbank and Old Mutual Budget Speech Competition.

This competition aims to grow economic excellence in South Africa by promoting the principles of sustainable economic development. They want to make young South Africans excited about economics as subject and career path and develop future economic leaders – with a focus on young black university students.

Keakantse, who is currently pursuing her master’s degree in economics at the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus, tackled a challenging essay topic. She delved into sustainability, climate change and the practical implementation of the Just Energy Transition in South Africa – a strategic move towards cleaner and more sustainable electricity production methods.

In her essay, she explored the Just Energy Transition's repercussions on employment, particularly the impact on coal mine workers due to the potential closure of coal plants. She addressed the financial hurdles inherent in such a transition, especially given the country's current economic strain.

Her analysis did not stop at identifying challenges, it extended into a comprehensive suite of solutions and recommendations. These proposals aimed at mitigating negative impacts through government engagement and public support, illustrating the transition's benefits, including welfare improvements and the creation of green jobs in new, environmentally friendly industries.

Keakantse's recommendations further highlighted the role of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPP), emphasising its contribution to renewable energy investment and the diversification of South Africa's energy mix. She pointed out the significant mitigation capacity of the 27 operating independent power producers, each contributing to a substantial reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.

“My academic expertise improved under the guidance of lecturer Kebitsamang Sere. She has given me a solid foundation in academic writing and a deep understanding of economic principles, bolstering my confidence to compete at such a high level,” says Keakantse.

The NWU is proud of Keakantse’s achievement, which not only highlights her intellectual capabilities, but also underscores the role of academic institutions and financial organisations in nurturing future leaders in economics.

Keakantse Setsibe made her mark as a finalist in the 2023 Nedbank and Old Mutual Budget Speech Competition, showcasing innovative solutions for South Africa's Just Energy Transition.

Nursing students impress at WorldSkills competition

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 08:35:24 +0000

Nursing students impress at WorldSkills competition

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 02/07/2024 - 10:35

Two fourth-year nursing students recently represented the North-West University (NWU) at the WorldSkills South Africa competition in Durban.

Competing against six other participants from across the country, Nobuhle Noluthando Motlhare secured the top spot in the Health and Social Care Skills category, while Boitshwarelo Motlhokudi secured a commendable third place, earning herself a bronze medal.

Their achievements not only bring pride to the NWU, but also earn Nobulhle the opportunity to represent South Africa at the World Skills International competition that will take place in Lyon, France, in September 2024.

WorldSkills is an international organisation with 87 member organisations that aims to improve the world with the power of skills. WorldSkills South Africa organises biennial national competitions, bringing together tertiary students to compete in various artisan trades.

The WorldSkills National Competition, held under the theme "Skills Change Lives" coincided with the two-day WorldSkills South Africa conference in Durban, attracting 500 delegates. Additionally, the Career Festival, attended by more than 6 000 learners from various high schools in Durban and surrounding areas, along with unemployed youth, provided a platform for showcasing vocational skills.

The competition subjected the eight students to rigorous tests evaluating their knowledge and proficiency in basic health care in a simulated hospital, old age settings, clinic scenarios, and residential settings. Both NWU representatives showcased exceptional skills and competence in their respective fields.

Expressing her gratitude and astonishment at the victory, Nobuhle says she is still shocked. “I competed with people who have been exposed to the private sector and who were familiar with most of the equipment we had to use. Fortunately for me, the amazing support I got from my family, friends and lecturers pulled me through. I believe winning this is going to open many doors for me.”

Acknowledging the students’ outstanding performance, deputy director of the NWU’s School of Nursing Rorisang Machailo says their success is a testament to the quality education and training provided by the School of Nursing.

“We are excited about the calibre of nursing students we are producing – students who can demonstrate knowledge, skills and values at a national level. We are also proud of our lecturers who are guiding these students towards excellence,” adds Rorisang.

Nobuhle Noluthando Motlhare and Boitshwarelo Motlhokudi did the NWU proud during the recent WorldSkills South Africa competition.

New international editorial role in the nuclear field for Prof Bismark Tyobeka

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 07:42:36 +0000

New international editorial role in the nuclear field for Prof Bismark Tyobeka

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 02/05/2024 - 09:42

Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), has been invited by the international journal, Progress in Nuclear Energy, to be part of the journal’s editorial board.

Established in 1977, Progress in Nuclear Energy is a peer-reviewed scientific journal covering all aspects of nuclear science and engineering.

“It is a big honour to be invited to join the editorial board of Progress in Nuclear Energy. I can vividly recall reading this journal as a student in nuclear engineering. In many ways it helped to shape my future, and to be part of the editorial board now is nothing short of a privilege. I want to thank all involved with Progress in Nuclear Energy for having faith in me, and I am looking forward to contributing to this prestigious journal,” said Prof Tyobeka.

“I also want to emphasise the importance of Progress in Nuclear Energy, as it plays a crucial role in the dissemination of scientific and technical advancements in the field of nuclear energy. The journal also serves as a valuable platform for researchers, engineers, policymakers and professionals in the nuclear industry to share knowledge, discuss challenges and explore solutions for sustainable and safe nuclear energy production.

“As we continue to face growing energy challenges, we need voices such as Progress in Nuclear Energy to contribute to the global energy discourse. We need to find sustainable, efficient and environmentally responsible ways to meet our energy demands, and no word is wasted when addressing these issues.”

NWU's Technology Transfer and Innovation Support Office sets the stage for a pioneering 2024

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 10:40:39 +0000

NWU's Technology Transfer and Innovation Support Office sets the stage for a pioneering 2024 BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 02/01/2024 - 12:40

By Vukosi Mathale

As we step into the year 2024, the North-West University (NWU) Technology Transfer and Innovation Support (TTIS) Office is gearing up for an exciting year of collaboration with researchers eager to extend the reach of their research beyond academia. The TTIS plays an important role in assisting researchers in translating their academic findings into practical solutions that make a tangible impact on society. Researchers are encouraged to utilise the NWU Inventor Portal, a gateway to initiate the commercialisation process, reinforcing the university's reputation as a hub for pioneering research and innovation.

According to Mr Johann Coetzee, Manager: Intellectual Property and Contracting, “By timely disclosure of novel and inventive intellectual property (IP) to TTIS the IP may be effectively protected and the researchers supported in their commercialisation activities, allowing them to share in the benefits derived from the commercialisation of the IP.”

The NWU has been invited by the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) to host World IP Day in 2024. Various activities are planned for 25 and 26 April 2024, with the TTIS taking the lead in collaboration with the CIPC and partner organisations – the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the Department of Science and Innovation, the National Intellectual Property Management Office, the Technology Innovation Agency, and the Small Enterprise Development Agency. The hosting of this esteemed event highlights the NWU's unwavering dedication to intellectual property protection as an enabler of innovation.

To further nurture innovation, the TTIS will host an innovation onboarding session quarterly for newly appointed academic staff. This initiative aims to provide new staff with support at the onset of their research and innovation journey at the NWU by creating awareness of IP identification and protection and routes to technology transfer and commercialisation.

The TTIS will continue with its Coffee Campaign, launched at the end of 2023, which encourages researchers and innovators to meet informally and chat with the TTIS team over a cup of coffee.

For researchers interested in exploring these opportunities and engaging with the TTIS office, a simple step is to get in touch via email at techtransfer@nwu.ac.za.

Visit: https://services.nwu.ac.za/technology-transfer-and-innovation-support/t…

Celebrating Excellence in Occupational Hygiene Research

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 09:27:08 +0000

Celebrating Excellence in Occupational Hygiene Research

by Mafumane Tlhapi

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 12/13/2023 - 11:27

The Southern African Institute for Occupational Hygiene (SAIOH) Annual Conference, held from the 23rd until the 26th October 2023, in Cape Town, served as a distinguished platform to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of researchers and postgraduate students from the North-West University’s (NWU) affiliated with the Occupational Hygiene and Health Research Initiative (OHHRI).

Among the accolades granted to the OHHRI members were the prestigious SAIOH Tertiary Institution Student of the Year Award for 2022, presented to Ms Marelize van Ree, who got a distinction for her research Master's degree in Occupational Hygiene, completed in 2022 under the guidance of Dr Sonette du Preez and Prof. Johan du Plessis. She investigated emissions and exposures with the use of an Inconel metal powder used in additive manufacturing (3D-printing) and found that these workers are exposed to very small metal particles (smaller than 1 micro-meter in size), but that exposure in the workplace was well controlled, with a low risk of causing adverse health effects.

Furthermore, Prof. du Plessis received the SAIOH Article of the Year Award 2022 for collaborative research with Prof. Aleksandr Stefaniak from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health in the United States of America and Dr Sonette du Preez (NWU, OHHRI). Their awarded article, "Identification of Effective Control Technologies for Additive Manufacturing," published in the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, summarised measures used to eliminate or reduce exposure to particles and gases emitted from additive manufacturing and the need for standardised methods to evaluate the effectiveness of these control measures.

Dr Karlien Linde, a senior lecturer at the University of Limpopo and an NWU PhD graduate, also shared the SAIOH Article of the Year Award 2022. Her impactful work, related to her PhD thesis, shed light on the personal solar ultraviolet radiation exposure of farm workers, revealing potential health risks such as skin cancer based on the individual's skin colour.

Professor Du Plessis stated that the high levels of exposure were expected, but that farm workers are not that well attended to in terms of Occupational Health and Safety in South Africa.

Dr Stefan Linde earned distinction by receiving the Best Poster Award at the SAIOH Annual Conference 2023. Dr. Linde explained that the conference's theme focused on real-time monitoring and the use of instruments and technologies to assess worker exposure promptly. He emphasised the need to test and validate the accuracy of these real-time monitoring instruments compared to conventional methods of measuring exposure.

Ms Marelize van Ree got a distinction for her research Master's degree in Occupational Hygiene

Prof. Johan du Plessis