Crop production in South Africa is overshadowed by storm clouds, and not the type that farmers crave. A multitude of uncertainties combine to darken prospects for the country’s crop farmers, which include climate change, water shortages, soil degradation, disease, economic instability and infrastructure and energy restrictions. That is why researchers at the subprogramme for Crop Production and Soil Management at the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences of the North-West University (NWU) pursue concerted solutions for the country’s most critical agricultural issues.

"Language is a process of free creation; its laws and principles are fixed, but the manner in which the principles of generation are used is free and infinitely varied. Even the interpretation and use of words involves a process of free creation."

These words by Noam Chomsky encapsulate the core of SADiLaR’s mission - harnessing the creative potential of language and technology to shape the future of South Africa’s indigenous languages.

The North-West University (NWU) rewarded its exceptional staff during the annual NWU Excellence Awards ceremony, which took place in Potchefstroom on 21 November.

More than 130 staff members received recognition for their outstanding contributions in teaching and learning, community engagement, and research and innovation respectively.

On 4 November 2024, the North-West University (NWU) celebrated a momentous occasion – the 50th birthday of its principal and vice-chancellor, Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka. This milestone coincided with the university’s 20th anniversary, creating a unique and symbolic double celebration. For Prof. Tyobeka, it was a day that not only marked his personal journey but also reflected the growth and transformation of the institution he has helped shape.

As the NWU delegation’s visit under the leadership of principal and vice-chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka to the North Carolina State University (NCSU) comes to an end, it is great to reflect on the many successful and insightful engagements. What a rewarding experience. The delegation will leave the United States with a reinvigorated purpose, knowing that the NWU is on track to further grow the university’s global footprint.

The Ministry of Electricity and Energy hosted its Nuclear Energy Summit on 12 September at River Meadow Manor in Irene, Pretoria, and the Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), Prof Bismark Tyobeka, made his expert voice heard.

The theme of the summit was “Enhancing Nuclear Technology for Sustainable Development in South Africa”.

The principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU) – and internationally renowned nuclear energy expert – Prof Bismark Tyobeka, has lauded the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy’s (DMRE) proposed recommendation to Cabinet that three possible ownership models to acquire and fund more nuclear projects in SA under the Nuclear New Build Programme (NNBP) be considered.

It is official: The North-West University (NWU) has embarked on another exciting venture with the launch of NWU Enterprises at the NWU’s Potchefstroom Campus on Monday, 12 August.

The aim of NWU Enterprises is to deliver impactful, commercially focused research, consulting and commercial services and innovative companies from the NWU. It is a wholly owned subsidiary with the capacity to efficiently and astutely deliver a substantial and growing portfolio of directed research, consulting activities and derivative commercial activities.

“We are united despite our challenges.” This, the third last line of the anthem of the MM Sebitloane Special School, rang more true than ever on Tuesday, 30 July when the Vice-Chancellor Science Day of the North-West University (NWU) was held in the heart of the Taung district. Little did PJ  Mahloko and MM Madikwe know when they composed the anthem for the school – which was founded in 1984 – that more than a thousand eager secondary school learners from the greater district would one day descend on the just more than 18 000-strong community of Taung.

"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.