Vice-Chancellor

VC calls for confronting unethical behaviour

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 11:05:32 +0000

VC calls for confronting unethical behaviour

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 07/26/2024 - 13:05

"Before we seek sustainable solutions that can take our country forward, we have to first address that which is wrong," said Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the North West University (NWU), during his keynote address at the Nelson Mandela Memorial Lecture on 24 July.

During the event that took place at the Mmabatho Civic Centre and was also streamed live, the Moral Regeneration Movement Mahikeng Chapter was also launched.

Panellists included Father Smangaliso Mkhatshwa, Reverend Thami Mbambo and Prof Kedibone Phago. MMC for infrastructure Cllr Billy Davids delivered the note of thanks on behalf of the executive mayor of Mahikeng, Clr Tshepiso Mphehlo.

Addressing the theme of the lecture - "Confronting unethical behaviour that undermines the fundamental objectives of the National Democratic Revolution - Nelson Mandela 1977" - Prof Tyobeka emphasised the importance of the South African Constitution being service-oriented and growth-driven to achieve the goals of the National Democratic Revolution.

He also highlighted the need for policies and approaches that ensure government’s actions are focused on the needs and well-being of communities, while fostering a culture of trust and engagement between the government and its citizens.

“The month of July is appropriately designated as ‘moral regeneration month’ as it coincides with the birthday of Nelson Mandela on 18 July. The late president Nelson Mandela rightly understood that we cannot transition from apartheid to a new constitutional dispensation without a fundamental moral reorientation. This is why he supported former deputy minister of education, Father Smangaliso Mkhatshwa, to form the Moral Regeneration Movement,” said Prof Tyobeka.

"He also emphasised the need for improved accountability and transparency in financial management practices within the province. The Auditor General's consolidated report on the national and provincial audit outcome for 2022/2023 reveals several challenges and shortcomings in financial management within the North West province. These issues are related to irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure, and non-compliance with supply chain management processes," he added.

Prof Tyobeka also emphasised the role of public administration as a catalyst for a developmental state. "Without state capacity, a developmental state remains a pipedream. While lectures and discourses are critical in sharpening our minds, we also need to create innovative programmes that facilitate and restore hope in our government."

"Furthermore, Prof Tyobeka underscored the NWU's commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships that have the potential to effect positive change within both the North West province and its broader geographical scope.

Prof Bismark Tyobeka address the audience during the Nelson Mandela Memorial Lecture.

Vice-Chancellor’s Business Breakfast reinforces bond with Potchefstroom business community

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 07:13:41 +0000

Vice-Chancellor’s Business Breakfast reinforces bond with Potchefstroom business community

by Belinda Bantham

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 07/26/2024 - 09:13

On 24 July 2024, The Roots Lifestyle Venue in Potchefstroom was alive with activity as the principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), Prof Bismark Tyobeka, hosted an important business breakfast.

The event was attended by key figures from the university and the local business community, symbolising the strong and growing bond between these two pillars of regional development.

The morning's proceedings began with an opening and welcoming address by Prof Daryl Balia, deputy vice-chancellor for information technology and Potchefstroom Campus operations.

Mr Clement Manoko, executive director for corporate relations and marketing, skilfully managed the programme, ensuring a smooth flow of the proceedings.

The highlight of the morning was the insightful presentation by Prof Tyobeka. He expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the turnout from the local business stakeholders.

"It is quite heartwarming to see that our local business stakeholders came in numbers for this important engagement, aimed to discuss and reinforce the bonds between the NWU and the Potchefstroom business community."

Prof Tyobeka's presentation was both a reflection on the university's achievements and a vision for its future. He emphasised the significance of this breakfast meeting as a platform to share the progress made by the NWU on various ongoing initiatives and future aspirations. He also highlighted the importance of partnerships with local businesses in driving economic growth and improving community welfare.

Among the strategic projects highlighted by Prof Tyobeka were the following:

The establishment of a Medical School: This ambitious project aims to enhance the university's educational offerings and address critical healthcare needs in the region.
NWU Enterprises: Soon to be launched, this initiative represents a significant development in diversifying the NWU's income streams and creating new opportunities for collaboration with the business community.
Veterinary Sciences: The University in partnership with the North West provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is working towards the establishment of the veterinary sciences. This is to provide support to local farmers and improve animal healthcare and welfare.
School of Mines and Mining Engineering: The NWU is also accelerating its efforts towards realizing the School of Mines and Mining Engineering.

Concluding his presentation, Prof Tyobeka conveyed the university’s gratitude. "On behalf of the NWU, I extend our sincere gratitude to the business community of Potchefstroom for your continued support. Each year, thousands of learners, prospective students, current students, parents and alumni visit our institution. You warmly welcome them and provide that special Potchefstroom hospitality, ensuring they return year after year."

As last remark he highlighted the importance of fostering stronger relationships and partnerships with local stakeholders to meet growing demands.

"Despite our facilities, we cannot meet all the demands alone. Let us join hands to expand our efforts, not only for Potchefstroom but for the North West province and the country as a whole. We have been and will continue to be economic partners in promoting growth. We value the partnership with our local business leaders and community members and look forward to continued collaboration that drives our mutual success."

The business breakfast was a demonstration of the commitment of the ongoing collaboration between the NWU and the Potchefstroom business community. The shared commitment to growth, innovation, and community welfare is poised to drive the region towards a prosperous and sustainable future.

The business breakfast was a demonstration of the commitment of the ongoing collaboration between the NWU and the Potchefstroom business community.

Don’t miss the second Vice-Chancellor Science Day in Taung

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 09:27:25 +0000

Don’t miss the second Vice-Chancellor Science Day in Taung

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 07/23/2024 - 11:27

The North-West University (NWU) is set to host the second Vice-Chancellor’s Science Day at Taung in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District on 30 and 31 July 2024.

This event aims to engage rural communities through science-based activities, particularly targeting approximately 1 200 learners in Grades 10 to 12.

The science day is a collaborative effort between various internal and external stakeholders. They include the NWU’s vice-chancellor’s office and Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement, the Greater Taung Local Municipality, the North West Department of Education, and the Taung College of Agriculture, among others.

The event aims to raise awareness and to inspire learners from schools in Taung and neighbouring villages to develop an interest in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, encouraging them to pursue careers in these areas.

Furthermore, the science day aims to demonstrate the role of science in addressing societal challenges and creating a prosperous society, debunking myths surrounding important scientific innovations, and showcasing South Africa as a hub of significant discoveries and innovation.

A scientist himself, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, the NWU principal and vice-chancellor, serves as a role model for the initiative, encouraging the youth to take charge of their futures.

By fostering partnerships with other educational institutions, government entities, private enterprises, civil society groups, and other relevant stakeholders in the region, the NWU positions itself as a preferred higher education institution.

High school learners can look forward to a range of activities such as career exhibitions, robotics workshops, science shows, quizzes and interesting presentations.

NWU principal and vice-chancellor Prof Bismark Tyobeka is passionate about instilling a love for science among the youth.

Prof Bismark Tyobeka to deliver keynote address at Nelson Mandela Memorial Lecture

MARELIZE SANTANA — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:27:26 +0000

Prof Bismark Tyobeka to deliver keynote address at Nelson Mandela Memorial Lecture MARELIZE SANTANA Mon, 07/22/2024 - 13:27

Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), will be delivering the keynote address at the Nelson Mandela Memorial Lecture on 24 July at 10:00 at the Mmabatho Civic Centre.

This event is a collaborative effort between the Office of the Premier of North West, the Mahikeng Local Municipality, the NWU and the Moral Regeneration Movement.

The lecture will coincide with the inauguration of the Moral Regeneration Movement Mahikeng Chapter and will be centered around the theme "Confronting unethical behaviour that contravenes the fundamental objectives of the national democratic revolution”.

The inauguration of the Mahikeng Chapter of the Moral Regeneration Movement aims to reinstate the moral compass within the province. As the movement, a civil society-led initiative, aspires to address the prevalent moral deterioration and anti-social conduct observed in various sectors across South African communities.

The lecture will also be live-streamed here.

For any further inquiries, please contact communication manager Oscar Mosiane at 018 389 2144 / 076 684 5014 or oscar.mosiane@nwu.ac.za.

NWU principal and vice-chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka.

MoU to bolster the public sector

MARELIZE SANTANA — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:46:22 +0000

MoU to bolster the public sector

by Steve Maphakathe

MARELIZE SANTANA Mon, 07/22/2024 - 10:46

The North-West University (NWU) and the Public Service Commission (PSC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday, 16 July to formalise and strengthen the relationship between the parties.

The MoU, which will remain in force for a period of five years, seeks to bring together the NWU and PSC to collaborate in areas of mutual interest such as the promotion of thought leadership, the production of relevant publications and community engagement initiatives. Other areas include collaborative research, capacity building and skills development - including internships and work-integrated learning.

In addition, the MoU serves as a beacon of the NWU’s commitment to addressing societal challenges and enhancing communities.

“It is such a pleasure to return to this great institution,” said Prof Somadoda Fikeni, chairperson of the PSC. “The signing of the MoU is a significant moment for the PSC, and it bodes well for our repositioning. Of importance is that the MoU will allow the commission, as a knowledge-based organisation, to collaborate with the University on areas of mutual interest. It is through this partnership that I hope that, through this partnership, we will be able to create not only career public servants, but also committed individuals who are people centered and service oriented.”

Echoing his sentiments, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, the principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, emphasised the importance of professionalism in the public sector.

“Universities are a microcosm of society, and we are dedicated to collaborating with all spheres of government to work towards building a capable state, as outlined in the National Development Plan. Through various initiatives and programmes, we are already working towards addressing challenges faced by government and its departments. We eagerly anticipate the continuation of this important work, confident that it will contribute to the improvement of society," said Prof Tyobeka.

The PSC’s mandate relates to monitoring, evaluating and making recommendations regarding the organisation, administration, personnel procedures and practices of the public service to ensure efficient, economic and effective performance. This aligns closely with the NWU’s key priorities, which emphasises the commitment to supporting and partnering with all spheres of government.

Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, , reaffirmed the NWU’s commitment to collaborate with the PSC. He said universities have a significant role to play in the professionalisation of public service by providing relevant curricula that mould students into responsible and accountable professionals that serve society with integrity when they enter the workforce.

“At the NWU, we are cognisant that qualifications alone do not develop a fully rounded graduate. Society has a crucial role to instilling professional ethics through role models at various levels, both in the public and private sector. The onus is on selecting the relevant positive role model(s) that resonates with your values and principles.”

Prof Mandla Makhanya, caretaker commissioner for the Northwest province, added that the cooperation between the parties will allow them to expand into local government and state-owned entities.

Prof Bismark Tyobeka and Prof Somadoda Fikeni, chairperson of the PSC, signing the MoU.

Prof Mandla Makhanya delivers his concluding remarks.

Mr Clement Manoko, executive director for corporate relations and marketing, coordinates the engagement.

Towards the professionalisation of the public sector.

NWU and ROF empower Afrikaans-speaking teachers

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 12:40:00 +0000

NWU and ROF empower Afrikaans-speaking teachers

by Willie du Plessis

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 07/15/2024 - 14:40

It has been 10 years since the North-West University (NWU) and the Rapport Onderwysfonds (ROF) first started collaborating to empower Afrikaans-speaking education students at the university through an ROF loan bursary.

A delegation from the ROF comprising Inge Kühne, chairperson, Phil-Marie Roberts from the ROF and Werner Human from the ROF Board of Trustees met with Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor, on 11 July. The aim of the meeting was to discuss the way forward, as the renewal of the agreement is fast approaching and the current three-year term is coming to an end.

The discussions included exploring a possible increase in the loan bursary amount for 2025, as well as reflecting on the successes and past financial assistance to students.

The ROF initiative is celebrating two decades as an important role player in the training of Afrikaans-speaking teachers across the country. Through the ROF, successful Afrikaans-speaking education students can become part of the cohort of well-trained teachers.

During the past three years thirty-six NWU education students benefitted from the loan annually. The ROF and the NWU concluded a collaboration agreement as far back as 2014, in terms of which the NWU donates to the ROF on behalf of an NWU student, and then the ROF, in addition to the one student, financially supports another NWU student. In addition, ROF supports more students at the NWU from own and other donor’s funds.

From 2020 to 2022, a total of 205 students received support through ROF – some for one year and others for more years. Education students from the Foundation Phase to master’s degree students receive support from the fund.

Through these collaboration agreements, a total of R12 million has been invested in NWU education students.

Inge says NWU education students are academically strong and driven to complete their studies. “Therefore, the ROF can confidently recommend and allocate these students to our donors. NWU education students come from across all the provinces of the country. They are not concentrated in only one province. Therefore, students can be allocated to donors from other provinces who would like to support someone from their own area according to their wishes.”

She says the ROF’s 20-year milestone would not have been possible without the support of donors such as the NWU.

Going forward, the two parties aim to explore and leverage possible opportunities and lessons learnt in this venture in order to enhance the development of Sesotho, isiZulu and Setswana as languages of instruction.

More about the ROF

An ROF loan bursary is a loan of which a portion is annually converted to a scholarship based on academic achievement. It establishes the principle of “hard work is rewarded” in young people.

According to Inge, the ROF receives more than 750 applications annually, from which approximately 300 students can be supported.

For more information, visit the ROF website at https://rof.org.za/.

ROF representatives visited the office of the NWU vice-chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka. Werner Human from the ROF Board of Trustees, Phil-Marie Roberts from the ROF, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, Inge Kühne, Nkosinathi Tom, NWU director for Strategic Partnerships and Special Projects, and Philip Malan, manager in the office of the vice-chancellor, attended the meeting.

Enhanced research collaboration on agenda at NWU-NRF meeting

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 06:55:54 +0000

Enhanced research collaboration on agenda at NWU-NRF meeting

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 07/15/2024 - 08:55

The principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), Prof Bismark Tyobeka, welcomed a delegation from the National Research Fund (NRF), led by the chief executive officer, Prof Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, during a meeting held on Monday, 8 July.

The aim of the meeting was to foster collaboration, share strategic insights, and to explore opportunities for joint initiatives between the NRF and the NWU.

Among the attendees at the meeting were Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, who took the lead in directing the proceedings.

Prof Mphahlele unpacked the recently launched institutional strategy of the NWU for 2024, which focuses on key priorities such as impact, growth, partnerships and internationalisation. Speaking on the research and innovation landscape of the university, Mphahlele said the demand for competent researchers is rising.

“The university hopes to strike a balance between quality and quantity by generating postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows who will compete both nationally and internationally. The way you train your students determines who will be the leaders of tomorrow, and we want to provide the best training possible for NWU researchers,” he said.

Prof Nelwamondo expressed his gratitude for the meeting and said the NRF will actively identify areas where it can support the NWU.

In advancing the global ranking of the university, Prof Mphahlele urged that the quality of the publications that are published with international collaborators must improve.

Furthermore, the meeting highlighted the parties’ joint interest of strategic collaboration to advance the performance of science systems, even beyond the NWU. Throughout the meeting, the focus remained on building a collaborative relationship to support increased research outputs and the generation of knowledge at the NWU and in the country.

“I want to thank you for this opportunity. As the NWU we hope to have this engagement on an annual basis as it is beneficial to come back and reflect on how discussions of this nature have improved our research and innovation,” said Prof Tyobeka in his closing remarks. He added that the information presented by the NRF will aid the NWU in its future strategies.

The engagement concluded with a visit - led by Prof Mphahlele - to the NWU’s research facilities at the faculties of Engineering, Health Sciences and Natural and Agricultural Sciences.

Prof Bismark Tyobeka with Prof Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, CEO of the NRF.

Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele leading the meeting.

The visit included a stop at the Faculty of Engineering’s coal stove facilities.

The distinguished guests were welcomed at the Preclinical Drug Development Platform.

Prof Bismark delivers keynote address for provincial legislature

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 10:15:03 +0000

Prof Bismark delivers keynote address for provincial legislature

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 07/01/2024 - 12:15

From 24 to 28 June, the North West provincial legislature hosted an induction workshop for members of the legislature, and Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), gave the keynote address to the elected members on Thursday, 27 June. The event took place at Broederstroom near Hartbeespoort.

Tshepo Khoza, deputy speaker of the North West legislature, said he was encouraged by the positive energy that was on display during the workshop. He reiterated that the legislature needed to address issues such as unemployment, poverty, restoring the public’s trust, accelerating service delivery and more.

He also spoke of the necessity to be responsive to the needs of the community and that the legislature must follow voters’ instruction, namely: “We need to work together”.

Prof Tyobeka congratulated members on their election after a demanding election season and highlighted how the NWU was helping to take the province forward.

He reminded the members in attendance of the immense responsibility resting on their shoulders: “Esteemed members, provincial legislatures are not only platforms to represent citizens regarding their needs, but are also intellectual spaces to reflect on how public representatives can contribute to shaping public policy and resourcing the government of the day to enable it to provide the necessary public services efficiently and effectively. In other words, the oversight function cannot serve as a rubber stamp for the provincial executive’s budget votes and their departmental performance submissions with minimal scrutiny. The role of this house is much more than that. The public expects accountability and responsibility for the use of public resources. Therefore, this house should seek to understand the needs and aspirations of the people of this province within the broader national and global perspectives. This requires analytical and research skills so that members and their support staff can interrogate submissions from departments.”

Desbo Mohono, speaker of the North West provincial legislature, thanked Prof Tyobeka for his comments, exclaiming: “Finally, the journey has arrived!”

She noted how the province has a lot to offer – although it thinks of itself as a small province – and that working with the education sector is imperative should the province want to achieve success.

She concluded by stating how it is the responsibility of the legislature to give the people in the province “what is theirs” and “to make them proud”.

Prof Bismark Tyobeka with Desbo Mohono, speaker of the North West provincial legislature.

bpSA helps 100 students to overcome the final hurdle

MARELIZE SANTANA — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 10:11:05 +0000

bpSA helps 100 students to overcome the final hurdle MARELIZE SANTANA Thu, 06/27/2024 - 12:11

bp Southern Africa has responded to the plight of North-West University (NWU) students as part of its centenary commemorative initiatives. The company has donated R2,5m to help 100 of the university’s students clear their outstanding fees, enabling them to enter the working world with confidence.

Answering a parliamentary question earlier this year, Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande said 56 627 students at the NWU have outstanding fees.

“While we acknowledge the need is great, we wanted to do our part to help some of these students into their next chapter. We have a long and proud relationship with South Africa, going back a century, and we owe our longevity to the communities and customers of this country – this is another way we are giving back,” says Taelo Mojapelo, CEO of bpSA.

“Over the last decade, we’ve been investing heavily in education, both within bpSA and for beneficiaries outside of bp. When we founded the Energy Mobility Education Trust (EMET) 10 years ago, the aim was to change the lives of young black South Africans and create a good pipeline of future skills across a broad range of disciplines, but particularly in maths and science. Since 2014, the trust has invested approximately R247 million to benefit 3 754 young people through science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and skills development,” she adds.

The trust’s focus is on developing skills in STEM, with particular focus on nurturing black learners and students from underserved areas in South Africa.

Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice chancellor of the NWU, says many highly talented students face a tragic shortfall in funding, which needs to be addressed urgently.

“We are thankful for bpSA’s commitment to social and economic development in South Africa and I am confident that you can benefit from the innovative research and skilled graduates that the NWU produces, which can lead to potential collaborations in various fields such as engineering, environmental sciences, law, and accounting – to mention just a few. As we celebrate our 20 years of existence, we hope that you will open your doors to our students to engage with industry leaders, gain practical experience, and contribute to solving real-world challenges.”

“I want to thank you for being one of the chosen ones to have their debt settled by bpSA. I am extremely appreciative of your efforts,” says Ntokozo Radebe, one of the 100 recipients of the bursary.

Taelo Mojapelo, CEO of bpSA, hands the cheque for R2,5m to Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice chancellor of the NWU.

First-ever Gauteng open day breaks new ground

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 10:53:35 +0000

First-ever Gauteng open day breaks new ground

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 06/03/2024 - 12:53

It was another first for the North-West University (NWU) and a day that will live long in the memory of all those who attended it. On Saturday, 1 June, the NWU held its inaugural Gauteng open day at Supersport Park in Centurion.

Learners from schools from across the province were in attendance to get their first taste of what the NWU has to offer. More than 30% of the NWU’s students hail from Gauteng, and the province plays a critical role in the makeup of the NWU, which is one of the biggest universities in the country.

With each step like this open day, the NWU becomes stronger, more relevant and better positioned than ever before. The event also formed part of the university’s celebrations of its 20th year of existence since its establishment in 2004.

All eight of the NWU’s faculties were represented at the event, as were residences from all three the NWU’s campuses, its support structures and more. Supersport Park was also transformed with the distinctive colours of the university, and everyone who attended had a great time.

The Gauteng open day was followed by an alumni event at the same venue on Saturday night, which also saw a spectacular laser show about the NWU on the famous grounds.

Dr Anna Mokgokong, chancellor of the NWU, underlined the significance of the open day at the alumni function, saying: “Today the North-West University spread its wings and soared to a new destination: our first ever Gauteng open day. We made history, as we so often do, because that is what the NWU does. Today, we brought our ethic of care, our expertise and the promise of a better future to a whole new audience. We showed our commitment to reaching out to corners unexplored, to walking on paths untrodden and to making opportunities accessible for all.”

The principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, said that although many goals have been achieved, these will be surpassed in the years to come:

“Central to our strategy is our vision, which is to discover new frontiers and opportunities that benefit society, advancing our relevance and impact. We aim to achieve this vision by providing knowledge and excelling in innovative teaching, cutting-edge research and focused engagement with the community.”

He concluded: “As we look ahead, we are filled with a sense of anticipation and excitement. The future holds immense possibilities, and we are ready to embrace them. We will continue to push the boundaries of knowledge, drive innovation, and make a meaningful impact on society. Our commitment to academic excellence, social justice and community engagement will remain the cornerstone of our efforts. Here’s to the next 20 years and beyond, when we will continue to discover new frontiers, disrupt for the better, and make an indelible impact on society.”

Cheers!