Teaching and Learning

Prof. Linda du Plessis appointed as deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 05:46:03 +0000

Prof. Linda du Plessis appointed as deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 11/18/2024 - 07:46

The North-West University (NWU) is proud to announce that Prof. Linda du Plessis has been appointed as deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning by the NWU Council during its meeting on 13 November 2024.

She has been serving as acting deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning since August of this year, and previously, since July 2017 held the position of deputy vice-chancellor for planning and Vanderbijlpark Campus operations.

“Throughout her career, and especially at the NWU, Prof. Linda has distinguished herself as an exceptional leader whose managerial skills and dedication to promote the values of the NWU has made her one of the flagbearers of our institution. She exemplifies the university’s mission, which is to benefit society through the provision of knowledge. Prof. Linda does not shy away from responsibility. On the contrary, she seeks it and embraces it, as is evident by the enduring impact she has made to help the NWU excel in innovative teaching, cutting-edge research and focused community engagement,” said Mr Bert Sorgdrager, chairperson of the NWU Council.

Prof. Linda has been a groundbreaker and after 30 years of experience in the higher education sector, her enthusiasm shows no sign of abating. She was the first female vice-rector of the NWU’s Vanderbijlpark Campus from September 2008 until June 2016 and was thereafter appointed as that campus’ rector from September to June 2017. Higher honours soon followed.

As an academic, she has been widely published, has received numerous awards - including the Richard Mawditt Price from the University of Bath for the best doctoral student performance in 2020 – and has successfully led many national and international projects. She is also an alumna of the NWU, having obtained her BSc, BScHons and master’s degree in information systems, before completing her doctoral studies in 2002 at the former Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education.

“On behalf of Council and the NWU, I wish Prof. Linda all the best in her new position and role. As a university, one of our main functions is to address the societal needs of our province and our country, and teaching and learning plays a pivotal role in this regard. Beyond our research and community engagement initiatives, it is our teaching and learning endeavours that will shape the future leaders, thinkers and citizens that our country needs. With Prof. Linda at the helm, this responsibility is in safe and responsible hands,” Mr Bert Sorgdrager concluded.

North-West University expertise addresses catastrophic teacher shortfall

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 07:27:34 +0000

North-West University expertise addresses catastrophic teacher shortfall

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 11/14/2024 - 09:27

Thirty-one thousand. That is the conservative estimate of the current teacher shortage in South Africa. Classrooms are overcrowded, with ballooning learner-to-teacher ratios, especially in rural and under-resourced schools. This severely impacts dropout rates and education quality.

This is not where the woes of future learners end. It is estimated that nearly half the teaching workforce will retire within the next decade, meaning the demand for new teachers will only keep increasing.

Immediate action is needed if the country’s degrading educational system is to be salvaged. The current situation in KwaZulu-Natal, where there are insufficient funds to pay more than 11 000 teachers, cannot become the norm.

How do we keep enticing potential teachers to follow a career path where uncertainty and a lack of top-level support is coupled with a crumbling infrastructure that is ill-equipped to meet the needs of their chosen profession?

According to Prof Maryna Reyneke, deputy dean for Teaching and Learning in the Faculty of Education at the North-West University (NWU), both the university and its Faculty of Education fully understand the challenges prospective teachers face in the South African context.

“The education landscape indeed presents significant obstacles that leave aspiring teachers grappling with questions of stability and job security, professional growth and fulfilment. However, there are compelling reasons and strategic approaches to attract motivated individuals to and retain them in this noble profession,” she explains.

“Firstly, we must reaffirm and elevate the essential purpose of teaching as a deeply impactful, transformative career. Through the ages teachers have always held and continue to hold the power to shape society, to inspire young minds and to spark change, not only in communities where teachers find themselves, but also in national and international contexts. Teaching and learning in the Faculty of Education are aligned with the attainment of teacher competencies and of NWU graduate attributes such as flexibility, adaptability, resilience, creative and critical thinking, and lifelong learning. Our aim is to deliver prospective teachers who see themselves as agents of change in diverse contexts who can rise above obstacles.”

Communicating an integrated teacher education approach is also crucial: “Secondly, we are highlighting the advantages of our integrated approach to teacher education, which combines content expertise with pedagogical skill-building. This ensures that our graduates are well prepared, not only with the knowledge they need to teach but with the adaptive strategies required for diverse and evolving classroom environments. By building confidence and capability through this comprehensive approach, we manage to instil a sense of preparedness and empowerment.”

She also emphasises how the NWU is fostering support networks in education through mentorship and professional development programmes, and by advocating for better resources.

“In addition, while issues like infrastructure require systemic change, we are developing strong support networks in the education community, including mentorship and ongoing professional development. In the latter regard we offer various short leaning programmes, as well as formal qualifications such as a BEd Honours, an Advanced Certificate in Teaching, an Advanced Diploma in Education and master’s-degree and doctoral programmes. Our faculty is committed to advocating for our teachers at all levels, working with policy makers to secure better support and resources. By creating a culture that champions collaboration, encourages innovation and supports professional growth, we can help teachers feel sustained and valued on their journey.”

The NWU has been providing the country with teachers for more than a century, and its Faculty of Education is an undisputed leader in its field.

The faculty boasts five teaching and learning schools, namely Language Education, Psycho-Social Education, Professional Studies in Education, Mathematics, Science and Technology Education, as well as Commerce and Social Studies in Education.

Producing quality teachers is critical for South Africa, as the country’s education system faces severe shortages and significant performance gaps. Teachers are vital in reducing dropout rates and improving foundational literacy and numeracy, which are crucial for long-term socio-economic stability. A strong, well-prepared teaching workforce can help address inequalities by equipping learners with the skills needed to succeed.

Quality teachers also enhance the country’s ability to innovate, build a skilled workforce and foster social cohesion, making them indispensable in overcoming South Africa’s developmental challenges and realising sustainable growth.

Prof Reyneke: “The country needs more teachers, and in attracting potential teachers we are presenting an honest, realistic view while empowering them with the skills, resilience and community support they need to thrive.”

NWU and The Innovation Hub cultivate future entrepreneurs

MARELIZE SANTANA — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 06:35:57 +0000

NWU and The Innovation Hub cultivate future entrepreneurs

by Oscar Mosiane

MARELIZE SANTANA Thu, 09/26/2024 - 08:35

The Indigenous Knowledge Systems Centre (IKSC) at the North-West University (NWU) and The Innovation Hub Management Company, a subsidiary of the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency, recently organised a five-day CoachLab® workshop to empower third-year, fourth-year and postgraduate students in the IKSC.

CoachLab® is a skills development programme that is managed by The Innovation Hub in collaboration with industry partners, government and academia.
This particular workshop was aimed at providing these students with essential business, financial, marketing and leadership skills.

It encompassed two distinct phases. The first phase took place from 6 to 12 July 2024 and entailed six modules delivered by experienced business mentors, and group assignments. The second phase took place from 16 to 20 September, and students had to refine and submit business plans for Biotech or IKS-based innovations. These business plans will then be assessed, with the winning entries to be announced on 30 October 2024. The winners will then attend the Investment Summit that will take place later this year.

Dr Lele Moroole, a senior lecturer and postgraduate studies coordinator, emphasised the value of the programme. “Taking into account that not all students will pursue traditional employment or the academia, the programme equips them with essential entrepreneurship skills.”

Dr Phuti Chelopo-Mgobozi from The Innovation Hub expressed admiration for the student's attendance and dedication. "It is inspiring to witness such a strong turnout among the students, demonstrating their genuine interest in entrepreneurship. We eagerly anticipate reviewing their business plans."

Mammone Tang, representing the National Department of Science and Innovation, expressed her enthusiasm regarding the active involvement of various universities in this programme.

This group of students from the NWU’s Indigenous Knowledge Systems Centre participated in The Innovation Hub’s skills development programme.

Student centricity remains the key to successful teaching and learning

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 06:30:51 +0000

Student centricity remains the key to successful teaching and learning

by Oscar Mosiane

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 09/17/2024 - 08:30

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) hosted another successful Teaching and Learning Conference from 10 to 12 September.

Themed "Student centricity in teaching and learning at the NWU", the conference stressed the importance of reimagining teaching and learning methodologies to better cater to the specific needs of NWU students.

The annual event has proven to be a much-needed engagement where NWU stakeholders come together to unpack student excellence and innovation in teaching in the era of artificial intelligence. This year’s conference was funded as part of the University Capacity Development Grant Focus Area 2 for Staff Development, specifically the "Enhancing academics as University Teachers" project.

The annual gathering was hosted by the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus and attracted approximately 200 delegates who joined the event in person and online.

The conference underscored the significance of student centricity, emphasising the central role of students in the educational experience at the NWU, with the primary objective of guaranteeing that no student is left behind and that their perspectives are thoroughly acknowledged.

During her opening address, Prof Sonia Swanepoel, deputy vice-chancellor for community engagement and Mahikeng Campus operations, extended a warm welcome to all. She underscored the critical significance of reimagining the teaching and learning experience to foster an optimal environment, as well as the importance of empowering students to excel.

The gathering included notable NWU speakers such as Dr Anitia Lubbe, Prof Elsa Mentz, Dr Elize Küng, Prof Thebe Rodney Medupe, and Prof Tumi Mmusinyane.

Dr Timothy M Renick, executive director of the National Institute for Student Success at Georgia State University in Atlanta, USA, delivered the keynote address - “Student success in South Africa’s higher education landscape”.

Dr Renick said he believes that failure is not the opposite of success, but that it is actually a part of success.

He further explained how Georgia State University prioritises the utilisation of predictive analytics, proactive advising, analytics-based financial aid, microgrants, and chatbots to enhance academic performance and to support students from underprivileged backgrounds.

“Technology such as chatbots has allowed us to deliver much more to our students. This technology aligns with what they are familiar with, enhancing their teaching and learning experience,” said Dr Renick.

He advocated for the endorsement of technology utilisation and the harmonisation of its implementation to facilitate cohesive student success. He addressed the prevalent issue of departmental segmentation and urged for unified collaboration among all administrative bodies.

Prof Willie van Vollenhoven, chief director of the Centre for Teaching and Learning, expressed his gratitude to the university management, the conference committee and delegates for delivering another successful teaching and learning conference.

“The annual NWU Teaching and Learning Conference provides the NWU community with a dedicated forum to concentrate on the university's teaching and learning aspects. We eagerly anticipate the practical implementation and subsequent evaluation of the insightful presentations to enhance the effectiveness of teaching and learning at the NWU.”

Dr Timothy M Renick, executive director of the National Institute for Student Success at Georgia State University in Atlanta, USA, delivered the keynote address.

The NWU’s annual Teaching and Learning Conference was a great success.

NWU students excel in SAICA ITC exams

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 13:27:11 +0000

NWU students excel in SAICA ITC exams

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 09/05/2024 - 15:27

The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Initial Test of Competence (ITC) exam is a critical milestone for aspiring chartered accountants in the country, and North-West University (NWU) students have once again proven to be among the best in the country.

Achieving high results in this exam demonstrates a strong grasp of fundamental accounting principles and readiness for advanced professional practice.

The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants, also known as SAICA, has released the results of its Initial Test of Competence, which is conducted in January and June each year. The NWU’s overall pass rate for the 2023 Postgraduate Degree in Accounting (PGDA) class increased from 97% in the January exam to 99% in the June exam. This puts the NWU in second place overall for the postgraduate degree in the country.

“Results such as these are a testament to the tireless efforts, dedication and passion for education of our staff and students. Well done PGDA class of 2023!” says Heleen Janse van Vuuren, Director of the NWU’s School of Accounting Sciences.

For a university like the NWU, the success of its students in the ITC is vital as it reflects the quality of its accounting programme and strengthens its reputation in the academic and business communities.

NWU shines again in the top seven in rankings

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 08:51:12 +0000

NWU shines again in the top seven in rankings

by Willie du Plessis

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 08/20/2024 - 10:51

The North-West University (NWU) is still among the cream of the crop locally and internationally. The latest rankings of the ShanghaiRanking Consultancy again placed the NWU among the top seven South African universities in its 2024 Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU).

ARWU lists the NWU in the 601 to 700 ranking category internationally – a considerable achievement, as only the best 1 000 out of more than 2 500 universities that are actually ranked annually are published. The ShanghaiRanking Consultancy published this ranking list on 15 August.

It is a continuation of excellence

The NWU has continued its strong showing in various rankings by different ranking agencies. The latest Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings, published on 4 June, also placed the NWU among the top seven South African universities in the Top Global Universities rankings for 2025.

The Center for World University Rankings (CWUR) ranked the NWU among the top 4,2% of the world’s best universities on 13 May, and the Young University Rankings by Times Higher Education (THE) put the NWU 183rd out of 673 universities on the list of the world’s best universities that are 50 years old or younger.

More about the ARWU rankings

ARWU uses six objective indicators to rank world universities. These are: the number of alumni who win Nobel Prizes and Fields Medals (10%); the number of staff who win Nobel Prizes and Fields Medals (20%); the number of highly cited researchers in 21 broad subject categories (20%); the number of papers published in Nature and Science (20%); the number of papers indexed in the Science Citation Index-expanded and Social Sciences Citation Index (20%); and the per capita academic performance of an institution (10%).

To read more about this year’s ARWU rankings, visit: https://www.shanghairanking.com/rankings/arwu/2024, or for more about the NWU’s performance in the various rankings, visit: https://www.nwu.ac.za/rankings.

Groundbreaking research leads to comprehensive and effective approach to forensic interviewing

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 07:53:18 +0000

Groundbreaking research leads to comprehensive and effective approach to forensic interviewing

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 08/19/2024 - 09:53

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Optentia research unit recently celebrated a significant milestone with delivering the first PhD graduate in social sciences with relational dynamics and development. The groundbreaking research of Dr Constant Laubscher van Graan focuses on relational dynamics in forensic investigations.

His study has significantly contributed to the field of commercial forensic investigations by shedding light on the complex dynamics that unfold during interactions between multiple stakeholders.

Dr Van Graan, a senior lecturer and leader of the Forensic Accountancy programme at the NWU, recognised the inadequacy of traditional interviewing methods in comprehending the intricacies of human interaction within forensic investigations, particularly in the South African context.

His innovative work has culminated in the development of the Ponaletso Commercial Forensic Interviewing (CFI) Framework, which integrates the person-centered approach (PCA) and the PEACE model to provide a more comprehensive and effective approach to forensic interviewing. His framework aims to enhance the gathering of reliable and admissible information during interactions with suspects and witnesses.

"My research broadly reiterates that, when you respect people and acknowledge their complexities, they are more willing to engage. This is a central theme of the social sciences and, up until now, has been neglected in the forensic investigative context,” he says.

“Empathy, congruence (genuineness) and acceptance are core qualities that need to be exhibited by the investigator, and this links with their ability to be aware of the relational dynamics at play. These qualities are visible in many contexts and, if applied correctly, enrich the engagement and interaction between individuals," he explains.

He says that his interest in relational dynamics and development within the commercial forensic investigative context was sparked by the lack of knowledge about forensic investigative interviewing. This type of interviewing is a crucial tool for gathering evidence during fraud investigations.

"There is no standard interviewing technique for investigators in South Africa and current international guidelines usually do not take into consideration the complexities of human beings. Relational dynamics can help us understand the interactions between investigators and interviewees (i.e. suspects and witnesses) and pave the way for new approaches to interviewing in South Africa and the rest of the world. This gap intrigued me, and I wanted to explore it further," he reveals.

Looking ahead, he envisions real-world application of his conceptual framework in commercial forensic investigative practices.

Throughout his research journey and as a forensic accountant, Dr Van Graan encountered a myriad of challenges, from logistical issues in interviewing participants to grasping complex new methodologies in the field of social sciences. However, his determination and focused approach enabled him to overcome these obstacles.

"I also had to be open to modifying my study when new information or data arose. To stay sane through these challenges, I focused only on things I could control and made peace with the rest. It wasn't easy, but ultimately, the determination to finish at all costs, even if it took longer than expected, helped me cross the finish line," he says.

He adds that they are busy developing an electronic version of the framework, which may be of significant importance to the forensic industry.

“Watch this space," he says.

Dr Constant Laubscher van Graan.

Prof Lené Graupner named Academic Industrial Psychologist of the Year

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 08:15:39 +0000

Prof Lené Graupner named Academic Industrial Psychologist of the Year

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 08/08/2024 - 10:15

The field of industrial and organisational psychology has witnessed a remarkable evolution over the years, and at the forefront of this transformative journey is the North-West University’s (NWU's) Prof Lené Graupner.

Prof Graupner, a registered industrial psychologist and professor at the School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resources on the Potchefstroom Campus, recently received the prestigious Academic Industrial Psychologist of the Year award from the Society for Industrial and Organisational Psychology of South Africa. This well-deserved recognition highlights her exceptional contributions to the academic and professional realms of industrial psychology.

She says the significance of winning the award extends beyond individual recognition.

"Winning the award means that our work in industrial and organisational psychology is being recognised at an academic level. However, it's important to note that this achievement is a result of teamwork. I am part of a team of colleagues, researchers and academics who collaborate to solve problems and offer solutions for the industry," she explains.

She adds that this honour reinforces the pivotal role that industrial psychology plays in addressing the evolving demands of the industry, and emphasises the impactful solutions provided by dedicated professionals in the field.

Prof Graupner began her career in the South African Police Service (SAPS) before moving to tertiary education. She specialises in workplace and trauma counselling, training industrial psychologists, and prioritising employee well-being in organisational settings. As a National Research Foundation C2-rated researcher, she equips industrial psychologists with counselling skills and has supervised numerous research projects.

She says her passion for understanding human potential and personalities was sparked while studying for her honours degree industrial and organisational psychology.

"During this time, I started working with psychometric assessments. A whole world opened up for me to see how human potential can be developed, the structure of personalities and how people differ. As assistant, I was privileged to work with Prof Ian Rothmann, scoring personality assessments and observing him and his colleagues in practice work doing consultancy work for organisations. I was sold to industrial psychology, seeing how people grow and flourish was life-changing for me," she says.

Her commitment to preparing industrial psychologists led her to develop the Framework for Inspiring Growth, a groundbreaking workplace counselling model. This model equips students and practitioners with essential counselling skills for their professional roles.

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Prof Graupner has encountered numerous challenges, showcasing her resilience and determination.

"An important challenge we face is personal growth and development, as well as overcoming uncertainties and self-doubt. Every time I applied for honours, master’s and PhD selection, I doubted that I would be chosen. When I was selected, I put a lot of pressure on myself to prove my worthiness. In the end, it's about seizing each opportunity and making the most of it. It's not just about ourselves – it's about the people we serve and assist, and about striving to improve our skills to do so effectively," she shares.

Looking ahead, Prof Graupner envisions a promising future for industrial psychology, particularly within the realm of work-related well-being.

"As organisations increasingly prioritise the well-being of their employees, the expertise of industrial psychologists becomes indispensable in fostering a thriving work environment. I aim to continue shaping the future of industrial psychology by advocating for the pivotal role of industrial psychologists in addressing workplace well-being, and guiding organisations on strategic approaches to ensure the flourishing of their workforce," she says.

In light of her remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment, Prof Graupner emphasises the significance of skills development, trustworthy mentorship and the impact of mentoring others.

Prof Lené Graupner.

NWU researchers take aim at bridging continents

MARELIZE SANTANA — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:46:08 +0000

NWU researchers take aim at bridging continents

by Steve Maphakathe

MARELIZE SANTANA Mon, 07/22/2024 - 09:46

In their pursuit of driving innovation and expanding the North-West University’s (NWU’s) global research, a delegation of nine researchers recently embarked on a fruitful international visit to the United Kingdom (UK).

The researchers visited two prestigious institutions, the London School of Economics and Political Sciences (LSE) and the University of Lincoln, and were cordially received by their UK counterparts.

The primary goal of the visit was to foster international collaboration and potential partnerships aimed at research, teaching and programme development, with special emphasis on the Africa Trade Platforms project.

The NWU’s researchers included Prof Steve Dunga, Prof Zandri Dickason-Koekemoer, Prof Suné Ferreira-Schenk, Prof Ireen Choga, Ermie Steenkamp, Prof Carli Bezuidenhout, Dr Jabulile Makhalima, Dr Jacques de Jongh, and Dr Lorainne Ferreira.

They are affiliated with the research focus area Trade, which specialises in the fields of development economics, international trade, supply chain management and transport, applied economics and econometrics, and financial markets.

Laying the groundwork with the LSE

During their visit to the LSE, the researchers engaged in a series of meetings with notable individuals including Prof Tim Allen, director of the Firoz Laljii Institute for Africa. Other notable individuals from the Firoz Lalji Institute included Fadil Elobeid, Africa engagement project manager, Dr Martha Geiger Mwenitete, chair of strategic development and institute manager, Dr Marta Soprana; research fellow in the Department of International Relations, and Richard Alexander from the School of Oriental and African Studies.

The delegation also met with Prof Abigail McKnight, director of the Centre for Analysis of Social Exclusion (CASE), and Dr Kitty Stewart, associate director of the CASE, respectively.

The meetings resulted in potential joint research initiatives and the sharing of data and resources with Prof David Luke, strategic director at the Firoz Lalji Institute. Prof Luke is set to be appointed as an extraordinary research professor at the NWU and this will complement the ongoing collaboration on research articles meant for publication.

Dr de Jongh highlighted the NWU’s capabilities and encouraged research discussion during his lecture titled “Global forces and local realities: Economic development in South African Customs Union (SACU) amidst ‘slobalisation’”.

The meeting with Prof McKnight and Prof Stewart from the CASE was also fruitful, with common interests in poverty research being identified and workshops being planned to align research interests and future projects.

Dr Alexander and Dr Soprana showed interest in serving as external examiners for examining postgraduate NWU dissertations in their fields of study. Dr Soprana also agreed to provide a guest lecture in applied international macro-economics .

Paving the way with the UL

The NWU delegation’s visit to the University of Lincoln (UL) aimed to build on a signed memorandum of understanding between the institutions to formalise various areas of collaboration. Prof Dunga, Prof Choga and Dr De Jongh were met by the economics team at the UL, led by Prof David Gray, economic programme development manager. They exchanged ideas for joint research projects - particularly in development economics - and the potential co-hosting of the fLincoln Conference on Development Economics in South Africa.

Opportunities for staff exchanges, guest lectures and team teaching were explored, following a recent guest lecture by the UL’s Dr Abbas Ali Gilani for NWU honours students in econometrics.

The delegation further reviewed programmes from both universities to assess the feasibility of joint offerings and expressed interest in joint supervision of postgraduate students. Colleagues from both institutions committed to participating in weekly seminars where research ideas and current research projects will be shared to further promote collaboration.

Overall, the visit to the UK was prosperous, creating the foundation for robust international partnerships and collaborative research projects.

At the back from the left are Prof Ireen Chonga, Dr Jabulile Makhalima, Prof Ermie Steenkamp, Prof Zandri Dickason-Koekemoer, Prof Suné Ferreira-Schenk, Prof Steve Dunga and Dr Jacques de Jongh. In front from the left are Prof Carli Bezuidenhout and Dr Lorainne Ferreira.

The NWU researchers at the London School of Economics and Political Sciences in London, UK.

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.