Teaching and Learning

NWU strengthens global ties through strategic academic mission to Brazil and Peru

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 06:50:52 +0000

NWU strengthens global ties through strategic academic mission to Brazil and Peru

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 06/06/2025 - 08:50

The principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), Prof Bismark Tyobeka, will lead a high-level academic delegation on a strategic international mission to Brazil and Peru from 8 to 20 June 2025. The visit forms part of the ongoing efforts by the NWU to deepen international academic collaboration and broaden its global engagement.

During the mission, the NWU delegation will engage in bilateral meetings, knowledge-sharing sessions and strategic planning discussions with key partner institutions in both countries. These engagements will focus on strengthening existing partnerships, exploring new areas for research collaboration and advancing initiatives relating to student and staff exchange programmes.

The institutions to be visited include:

· Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) in Belo Horizonte, Brazil

· Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR) in Curitiba, Brazil

· Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia (UPCH) in Lima, Peru

· Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola (USIL) in Lima, Peru

· Universidad Tecnológica del Perú (UTP) in Lima, Peru

These institutions are recognised for their excellence in teaching, research and innovation, and the upcoming engagements are expected to yield mutually beneficial outcomes in areas such as health sciences, engineering, environmental studies, education and the humanities.

Prof Tyobeka emphasised the importance of fostering international partnerships in an increasingly interconnected academic landscape.

“Our visit to Brazil and Peru is a continuation of the commitment of the NWU to positioning itself as a globally engaged and impactful institution. By cultivating strong partnerships with institutions that share our values and aspirations, we not only enrich our academic programmes but also equip our staff and students to contribute meaningfully to global knowledge production and societal development,” he said.

This mission aligns with the NWU’s strategic goal of internationalisation, one of the university’s key pillars for growth and sustainability. Through active collaboration with reputable institutions around the world, the NWU seeks to:

· Enhance the quality and relevance of its academic offerings

· Foster collaborative, cross-border research initiatives

· Promote staff and student mobility opportunities

· Contribute to global solutions through knowledge exchange

The delegation will include senior academic leaders, researchers and internationalisation specialists, all of whom will play a vital role in identifying and formalising opportunities for joint degree programmes, research centres of excellence and intercultural learning platforms. As the NWU continues to expand its global footprint, missions such as this underscore the dedication of the university to being a leading African institution with a truly international outlook.

NWU climbs to top 4,1% of global universities

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 08:36:34 +0000

NWU climbs to top 4,1% of global universities

by Willie du Plessis

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 06/03/2025 - 10:36

The implementation of the recently approved strategy of the North-West University (NWU) is starting to show positive results. The strategy – Taking the NWU forward: 2024 and beyond – prioritises, among other things, internationalisation, partnerships and impact. Consequently, the NWU now ranks in the top 4,1% of universities worldwide. This is according to the 2025 edition of the outcome-based Global 2000 list by the Center for World University Rankings (CWUR). The CWUR published the latest ranking on 2 June.

Moving up from its 4,2% showing in last year’s list, the NWU is now ranked 860th out of 21 462 universities for academic performance, and shines among the top seven locally and the top 11 in Africa. The NWU is making an impressive showing in the rankings with the 1 610th (1 682nd last year) and the 820th (825th) place for employability and research respectively, obtaining an overall score of 71,5. This is an improvement on last year’s overall score of 71,3.

This latest impressive showing in the rankings underscores the commitment of the NWU to being a leading university locally and internationally. The university’s strategy is bearing fruit as it strives to continuously effect impact through innovation and forward-looking approaches and programmes.

Recent key developments show that the university is growing and expanding significantly in various fields. These developments include the establishment of the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine, the NWU Centre for Sustainable Mining, the NWU Veterinary School and the university’s Agri- and Artificial Intelligence hubs. These strategic initiatives are geared at advancing the impact and growth of the NWU, while promoting diversity and reinforcing operational excellence.

The latest rankings are a clear indication that the NWU can, through its expertise and initiatives, hold its place among the best in the world. The NWU is already a significant international role player, with 163 active international institutional partnerships and agreements, spanning 50 countries.

These collaborations strengthen the university’s efforts in research and innovation, as well as in teaching and learning.

More about the CWUR rankings

The CWUR publishes the largest academic rankings of global universities. The rankings are unique in that objective indicators are used for all four key pillars underlying the methodology of the ranking, with no reliance on surveys and university data submission. They also place equal emphasis on student-related and faculty-related indicators.

The ranking agency uses seven objective and robust outcome-based indicators grouped into four areas to rank the world’s universities: education (25%), employability (25%), faculty (10%), and research (output, 10%; high-quality publications, 10%; influence, 10%; citations, 10%).

Dr Nadim Mahassen, president of the CWUR, says the agency is a leading consulting organisation providing policy advice, strategic insights and consulting services to governments and universities to improve educational and research outcomes.

“Our authoritative global university rankings are known for objectivity, transparency and consistency, and are trusted by students, academics, university administrators and governments from around the world.” For more information, visit the CWUR’s website at http://www.cwur.org.

Puseletso is advocating for young women in STEM

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 21 May 2025 09:24:49 +0000

Puseletso is advocating for young women in STEM

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 05/21/2025 - 11:24

Medical scientist Puseletso Manyaka-Lesofe recently stepped up to change the narrative regarding the representation of females in science. Puseletso joined as a panellist at the launch of the groundbreaking InnovateHER project, which was hosted at the University of Johannesburg on Saturday, 10 May, reaffirming her commitment to empowering young women.

The event brought together Grade 12 learners from across Gauteng alongside passionate professionals and guest speakers to encourage young women to step into the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields – spaces where women are vastly underrepresented. Not only does this underrepresentation limit women’s contributions to vital sectors, but it hinders diversity and innovation within the workforce.

Reflecting on her role as a panellist, Puseletso stated: “I was privileged to share my journey in STEM with the learners. The questions posed to us were deeply reflective, and they reignited in me the very passion that brought me into this field. It was powerful to see the young women listening, asking questions and envisioning their own paths in science, technology and innovation.”

Among the keynote speakers were Dr Judy Dlamini, chancellor of the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) and Dr Mamoeletsi Mosia, managing director of the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRF-SAASTA). Prof Tebogo Mashifana, advisory board member of Koako Green Energy Solutions, Gugulethu Zwane, Boitumelo Lekhoe, Khanyisile Masemola, Pabalelo Banks and Dr Moleboheng Mokhele-Ramulumo were the other expert panellists.

For Puseletso, her experience among fellow trailblazers carries profound significance. “These remarkable leaders reminded us that representation matters,” she reflected. “Young women deserve to see reflections of themselves in the highest levels of academia, business and innovation.”

In addition to her advocacy on the stage, Puseletso also contributed to the InnovateHER guide, a booklet developed specifically for female Grade 12 learners. This guide is packed with practical tools for exam preparation, university readiness and career development – serving as a confidence booster for young women looking to break into a male-dominated environment. It is a document that provides young women who may not yet envision themselves in lab coats or leading technology businesses with a clearer path to their ambitions.

For Puseletso, it is important to have resources specifically tailored for young women to pursue STEM fields.

“Tailored materials foster a sense of belonging and show young women that their voices, perspectives and talents are not only welcome but essential in science, technology, engineering and mathematics,” she said.

She elaborated: “Young women often face unique social, cultural and systemic barriers in accessing and thriving in STEM fields. These resources do not just provide information – they offer representation, mentorship and affirmation. They speak directly to the lived experiences of young women, building confidence and dismantling the myth that STEM is only for men.”

According to Puseletso, the guide is meant to empower and encourage young women to navigate their paths. “I hope the InnovateHER guide becomes a beacon of hope and clarity for young women who are uncertain about their place in STEM, and my dream is that it reaches townships and rural areas where they need it the most. I wish for every girl who reads it to feel seen, equipped and inspired to pursue a future in STEM with confidence,” she stated.

The opportunity to use her own experience to encourage and uplift young women was one of the most rewarding parts of contributing to the study guide.

“Knowing that my story, once filled with questions, setbacks and hard-won triumphs, could now serve as a guidepost for someone else was extremely satisfying. Contributing to the guide allowed me to give back in a practical, long-term way, helping to unlock the potential of the next generation,” Puseletso concluded.

Puseletso Manyaka-Lesofe is a mentor to the next generation. She is passionate about guiding aspiring medical scientists towards research, career growth and leadership opportunities.

The InnovateHER guide features comprehensive resources, from academic achievement to career planning strategies, specifically tailored for female STEM students.

Shaping the future of sustainable agriculture

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 14 May 2025 06:46:40 +0000

Shaping the future of sustainable agriculture

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 05/14/2025 - 08:46

The School of Agricultural Sciences at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus is preparing a new generation of agricultural professionals through a combination of academic training, practical experience and sector-focused initiatives.

Comprising four core disciplines, namely agricultural economics and extension, animal health, animal sciences, and crop sciences, the school offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes aimed at meeting industry needs.

Students gain practical exposure at the school’s teaching and research farm which has beef and dairy cattle, goats, sheep, poultry, arable land and greenhouses supported by irrigation systems.

The school also houses the Centre for Animal Health Studies which trains animal health technicians and supports research through laboratories equipped for a range of projects.

As part of its forward planning, the school recently held a strategic retreat to define its direction for the next five years. The resulting plan outlines key goals focused on research, academic delivery, operational stability and engagement with stakeholders.

“We are aligning our work with national developmental goals and sector expectations. Our focus is to train graduates who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to agricultural production and food systems,” says Prof Simon Letsoalo, director of the School of Agricultural Sciences.

The school also runs two major initiatives aimed at supporting farmers. The Agri Hub assists with breed improvement, goat farming and crop production. Alongside it is the Nguni Cattle Project, a joint venture with government that loans cattle to qualifying farmers. These farmers return calves after a set period, allowing the programme to support others entering the field.

Integration of the project into the Agri Hub is under consideration to streamline its management.

The school will be holding an Agriculture Day at the Molelwane Farm in Mahikeng on 30 June 2025 to showcase the work they do to industry and the community, and to demonstrate how students gain exposure to the realities of the sector.

The school is encouraging learners interested in agriculture to explore its programmes and participate in its efforts to contribute to local and global food systems. “For us, it all starts here,” says Prof Letsoalo

Prof Linda du Plessis rebukes Dawie Roodt’s university closure comments

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 13 May 2025 10:14:52 +0000

Prof Linda du Plessis rebukes Dawie Roodt’s university closure comments

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 05/13/2025 - 12:14

South Africa has too many public universities, and most of them should be closed. Furthermore, only 10% of the population should pursue a university education, “while there is a big shortage at other skill levels”. These are some of the comments recently made by economist Dawie Roodt, who also labelled South Africa’s primary education sector as one of the worst in the world, arguing that the quality of state-owned universities has declined and that universities should be more selective when admitting students. He also proposes that South Africans should receive educational vouchers to spend at whichever institution they want.

This begs the question: Do South Africa’s 19 public universities and seven universities of technology still have a significant role to play in the country’s education sector, or does the future – as Roodt argues – increasingly lie in private universities?

According to Prof Linda du Plessis, vice-principal and deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning at the North-West University (NWU), Roodt’s statements fail to consider all the facts.

“Roodt’s argument oversimplifies a complex educational and socio-political landscape. South Africa produces high-quality graduates across numerous fields, and his sweeping statements fail to acknowledge the significant strides made in research, teaching, learning, and community engagement. Given a graduate unemployment rate below 10%, compared to a youth unemployment rate exceeding 40%, a degree remains a sound investment,” she says.

According to her, Roodt’s focus is almost exclusively on the shortcomings of a handful of public universities, without acknowledging the many achievements in various disciplines.

“These include globally recognised researchers and world-class programmes, substantial high-quality, widely cited research output, and critical contributions to public health, science, and national policy. His narrative is one-sided and overlooks the essential fields that underpin the country’s functioning, such as law, accountancy, engineering, nursing, social work, and teaching. Of particular concern is the ongoing underperformance of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector and the persistently low enrolment numbers. He barely addresses this or the fact that TVET students are part of the post-school education system and receive NSFAS funding.

Moreover, public universities are not merely educational institutions; they are engines of social mobility, redress, and transformation. Suggesting that only 10% of the population should attend university disregards the national imperative to expand access to higher education, as set out in the National Development Plan (NDP).”

She also notes that Roodt compares the performance of public and private institutions without providing empirical evidence or comparative data on student outcomes or employment rates.

“Most private universities in South Africa do not engage in significant research, offer limited postgraduate opportunities, and cater to a small segment of the population. They also often lack the research infrastructure necessary for impactful academic work. By contrast, public universities, despite their challenges, have made significant progress in establishing research networks, international collaborations, and strategic partnerships with national funding bodies such as the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The proposal to introduce vouchers lacks clarity on how they would make a meaningful difference. Students already have the freedom to choose their institution of study. Roodt overlooks critical issues such as planning, accommodation, and transport, which are integral to the student experience. The current NSFAS funding model is determined by government policy, not by public universities. One of its greatest benefits has been the promotion of more equitable access to education. Roodt’s argument does not address how a privatised system would avoid exacerbating existing inequalities. It might be more appropriate to explore alternatives, such as converting NSFAS to a partial loan scheme, with repayment linked to academic performance – an idea that could merit further economic analysis.

The suggestion to "level the playing field" between public and private universities assumes that they operate under similar mandates and constraints. They do not. Public universities have a constitutional mandate to serve the public good and advance social justice. These are roles that do not align with the profit-driven models typical of private institutions. Ultimately, Roodt’s assertions lack a solid evidentiary foundation. While the public university sector has areas requiring improvement, a blanket call to dismantle it in favour of private alternatives reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of the sector’s role in society and its broader impact,” Prof du Plessis concludes.

To return to the question of whether the country’s public universities still have a significant role to play in the country’s education sector, the answer seems to be an unequivocal yes.

Prof Linda du Plessis

New teaching centre will empower students as critical thinkers and change agents

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 09 May 2025 12:51:11 +0000

New teaching centre will empower students as critical thinkers and change agents BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/09/2025 - 14:51

By Gofaone Motsamai and Phenyo Mokgothu

Spearheading curriculum change, empowering educators to use decolonial syllabi and engaging students as critical thinkers and change agents is the mission of the new Centre for Teaching Excellence and Curricular Engagement (CTECE) at the North-West University.

The new centre, marking the university’s commitment to redefining education in the Faculty of Humanities, was launched at Mmabatho Palms Hotel and streamed online on 8 May 2025.

Addressing academics, students and community members, Professor Mpho Chaka, deputy dean for teaching and learning, described the centre as “a base where pedagogy meets purpose”.

Referring to the CTECE as “an academic heartbeat” of the NWU, he said it is more than an administrative entity. “We are here not just to launch a centre, but to ignite a revolution in teaching and learning,” he said. “This centre will empower educators to teach fearlessly through decolonial syllabi, digital repositories of marginalised voices and pedagogies that interrogate power while striving for social change.”

Prof Chaka highlighted the research of scholars Prof Toyin Falola and Prof Hopeton Dunn in shaping the centre's academic vision. He cited Prof Falola's work on decolonial African studies, describing the classroom as a space for intellectual emancipation. “A syllabus is a political document,” Prof Chaka said, emphasising the centre’s mission to reclaim African epistemologies.

Prof Dunn's research on digital equity and media policy also influenced the centre's goals, particularly his advocacy for bridging the digital divide and preparing for the Fourth and Fifth Industrial Revolutions. “Our curriculum must dissolve boundaries between disciplines, between experts and communities, between the analogue and digital,” Prof Chaka said.

The CTECE aims to renew the curriculum in ways that are globally dialogic while remaining rooted in African relevance. It seeks to empower educators through workshops, student-led teaching labs and experience-based learning. It also encourages co-designed engagements where students actively participate in shaping pedagogical approaches.

Prof Chaka urged the NWU academic community to disrupt, connect and transform. “Let us teach with excellence, as NWU expects. Let us prepare boldly for tomorrow’s uncertainties. And let us ensure that our students not only think critically but also shine as agents of change within and beyond the university.”

From left to right, Prof Toyin Falola, Prof Hopeton Dunn, Prof Dumi Moyo, Prof Mpho Chaka and Prof Gilbert Motsaathebe unveiling the new centre of teaching excellence.

Culture and crisis communication in focus with visit from global expert

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 08:34:49 +0000

Culture and crisis communication in focus with visit from global expert

by Belinda Bantham

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 04/23/2025 - 10:34

Culture and crisis communication took centre stage at the North-West University (NWU) when the institution was honoured to host internationally acclaimed scholar Prof Krishnamurthy Sriramesh from the University of Colorado, Boulder.

With a global academic footprint and numerous accolades to his name – including the prestigious Pathfinder Award and PRIDE Awards – Prof Sriramesh delivered a powerful public lecture titled “The link between culture and crisis communication: Global case studies”.

The event offered a unique opportunity for students and staff to engage with the socio-cultural complexities that shape how different societies respond to crises.

Prof Lynette Fourie, research director for social transformation in the School of Communication, delivered the opening remarks. She admired Prof Sriramesh’s passion for communication and ability to connect with people.

“You can see his love for communication and his deep desire to empower others through knowledge sharing,” she said. Prof Fourie also announced that Prof Sriramesh would soon join the school as an extraordinary professor – a move she believes will significantly support the development of younger colleagues by opening up access to his international network.

During his lecture, Prof Sriramesh emphasised the need for a more holistic and global approach to crisis communication. “Political, economic, societal, activist and media cultures are major influences on how crises unfold and are managed,” he explained. “Yet, they are often overlooked or only subtly addressed.” He urged educators to demonstrate to students how these cultural forces shape the development and handling of crises.

He further stressed that effective communication is not simply about disseminating information. “Listening is more important,” he said. “Only by listening can we align our messages with the people we are trying to reach – and that is something I hope most organisations will strive towards.”

Prof Sriramesh commended the School of Communication for its strong infrastructure and collaborative spirit. “The faculty and staff operate as such a cohesive unit,” he noted. “It was a revelation to see you function this well together. The cohesion within the Faculty of Humanities truly impressed me.”

Watch as Prof Sriramesh shares his insights on his lecture and reflects on his overall experience at the North-West University.

Your browser does not support the video tag.

Academic joins the launch of InnovateHER to support young women in STEM

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 12:34:11 +0000

Academic joins the launch of InnovateHER to support young women in STEM

by Mafumane Tlhapi

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 04/14/2025 - 14:34

Dr Moleboheng Mokhele-Ramulumo, senior lecturer in the Faculty of Education and member of the Research Unit for Self-Directed Learning, has been invited as a panellist for the upcoming InnovateHER project launch, under the African Female Voices platform, which will be held at the University of Johannesburg on 10 May 2025.

Adding to the line-up, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation has confirmed that Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina will deliver the keynote address at the project launch. Gina, a long-time advocate for gender equity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and a former teacher, brings political and educational insights to the event.

"I was not initially aware of the InnovateHER project until I was approached and invited to participate," said Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo. "But the moment I learned about its purpose to empower young women in STEM through mentorship, visibility and voice, it immediately resonated with me."

Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo brings her background as a researcher, mother, and advocate for self-directed learning (SDL) to the initiative. "This initiative is far more than just another event," she said. "Growing up, science was not easy for me. It often felt abstract and disconnected from my everyday reality. Yet, even then, I made myself a promise: One day, I will be the reason a child finds joy and confidence in science."

For Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo, participating in InnovateHER is a continuation of that promise. She believes the project creates space for women to lead through education, mentorship and innovation. "My identity as a mother and a scientist is not a contradiction. It is my greatest strength."

When asked about the barriers women face in innovation and entrepreneurship, Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo pointed to the impact of internalised beliefs. "One of the most significant barriers women face is the belief that we are not capable, that these spaces are not designed for us," she said. "These limits are reinforced by systems

that overlook the unique challenges women face, especially women from marginalised communities or caregiving roles."

She cited leaders like Prof Kelebogile Motaung, founder and CEO of Global Health Biotech, as examples of individuals who challenge these norms. "She powerfully balances the roles of scientist and entrepreneur. It reminds me that not only is it possible, it is transformative."

Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo is currently co-developing Renewable Rangers, a digital educational game aimed at children aged 4 to 6. The project, run in collaboration with Prof Byron Bunt and Dr Lance Bunt, focuses on renewable energy and is grounded in SDL principles. "The game transforms complex concepts into playful experiences. It makes science more inclusive and accessible."

According to Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo, InnovateHER offers a platform for grassroots innovations like Renewable Rangers to be acknowledged and supported. "It provides mentorship, community and the affirmation that we belong. We are already building the future we want to see."

She also shared a message for young women considering careers in STEM. "Choose a path that excites and inspires you. If you choose science, let it be because it lights you up inside. We are often told we must choose between motherhood and ambition, but that is a myth. I create, nurture and lead, while raising a child and designing learning experiences that serve others."

Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo emphasised the importance of lifelong learning. "Be self-directed. Learn beyond the textbook. Innovation is not a straight line, it is a mindset. And it begins with trusting your own journey."

Looking ahead to the InnovateHER event, Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo said she is looking forward the most to engaging with Grade 12 girls. "I want to hear their stories, share mine, and hopefully inspire them. If even one girl walks away from the event feeling seen, heard and capable, then this initiative will have served its purpose."

She concluded by sharing her hopes for the long-term future of the initiative. "I hope InnovateHER evolves into a platform for sustained mentorship, scholarship opportunities and learning networks that promote critical thinking, creativity and

lifelong learning. I envision it helping to build a generation of women who not only enter STEM fields but transform them."

Dr Moleboheng Mokhele-Ramulumo joins the InnovateHER project launch as a panellist, bringing her expertise in STEM Education to inspire the next generation of young women in STEM.

Leaders engage at Times Higher Education Africa Universities Summit 2025

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 08:19:45 +0000

Leaders engage at Times Higher Education Africa Universities Summit 2025 BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 04/10/2025 - 10:19

Prof Dumi Moyo, executive dean of the Faculty of Humanities, and Prof Herculene Kotzé, deputy dean, represented the North-West University (NWU) the Times Higher Education Africa Universities Summit 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda, from 18 to 21 March.

Equitable partnerships took centre stage at the summit. Experts shared insights on how universities can collaborate across borders to drive impactful research. Reflecting on the NWU’s role in global education, Prof Kotzé noted, “Hearing from experts reinforced the importance of nurturing partnerships that are truly mutually beneficial rather than one-sided resource extractions.”

Digital transformation also emerged as a key theme. Speakers explored the rapid shift to AI-driven learning and how institutions are adapting. A presentation on tech-driven education models in rural areas particularly stood out. “It was fascinating to see how digital tools can expand access to quality education, especially in underserved communities,” said Prof Kotzé.

“The conference focus on digital and AI transformation was a clarion call for institutions like ours to take the AI leap seriously and make deliberate efforts to integrate AI in all our work - including teaching and learning, research, and community engagement. This requires agility both within the institutions and the higher education regulatory bodies to enable curriculum and other innovations,” added Prof Moyo.

Sustainability in research provided an inspiring highlight. A young researcher from Ghana shared her work on climate-resilient agriculture, reinforcing how African universities are developing solutions for global challenges.

Beyond the formal discussions, the summit created invaluable networking opportunities. “Engaging with faculty from universities across the continent allowed us to exchange ideas on funding models and interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthening connections that can lead to future partnerships,” Prof Kotzé added.

Prof Herculene Kotzé and Prof Dumi Moyo represented the North-West University (NWU) the Times Higher Education Africa Universities Summit 2025

Academic elected as the new president of the African Astronomical Society

MARELIZE SANTANA — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 11:48:18 +0000

Academic elected as the new president of the African Astronomical Society

by Mafumane Tlhapi

MARELIZE SANTANA Mon, 04/07/2025 - 13:48

Prof Amare Abebe, research director at the Centre for Space Research at the North-West University (NWU), has been elected as the new president of the African Astronomical Society (AfAS).

AfAS was established to create a globally competitive and collaborative astronomy community in Africa.

Prof Abebe’s focus will be on expanding membership, fostering research collaboration and enhancing astronomy education and outreach across Africa.

He highlights the need to increase membership across African nations, noting that Africa, with a population of nearly 1,5 billion people, has about 500 active AfAS members.

"To put matters in perspective, in the United States, with 340 million people, the American Astronomical Society has more than 6 000 members, and in the United Kingdom, with 68 million people, the Royal Astronomical Society has over 3 000 members."

Prof Abebe also emphasises the importance of building stronger ties between AfAS, governments, industries and international organisations to foster interdisciplinary research, industry partnerships and policy support.

"Out of the more than 50 countries in Africa, no more than 20 of them have any meaningful astronomy programme. There is a lot of room for growth, and there needs to be enhanced public awareness of astronomy across Africa, particularly in underserved regions."

He identifies outreach programmes, educational initiatives and integration into school curricula as key to increasing interest in astronomy. "Improving data-sharing infrastructure across African nations, possibly facilitating better collaboration and access to global astronomical databases, will lead to enhanced collaboration," he says.

Prof Abebe mentions the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project, led by South Africa, as an example of infrastructure that supports collaboration between African countries and scientists.

"One of AfAS’s objectives is to bring leading African and international scientists together during its different annual activities to foster collaboration and create professional networking opportunities for its emerging astronomers and students."

He stresses the need to use traditional media and digital platforms to raise awareness. He says active outreach and education campaigns, especially in astronomically speaking underdeveloped regions, as well as formal workshops and conferences, are a great way to introduce astronomy to future astronomers.

Prof Abebe notes that astronomy has long captured human imagination and encourages critical thinking. "On the practical side, it encourages interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), fostering a skilled workforce and driving technological innovation. Astronomy has become a highly collaborative endeavour, enhancing collaborations among people from different cultural, geographical, and socio-economic backgrounds."

Prof Amare Abebe, research director at the NWU's Centre for Space Research, has been elected as the new president of the African Astronomical Society (AfAS).