As the new academic year began at the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU), some returning students faced a harsh reality: without money to register, their dreams of continuing their education were at risk. For months, these students had juggled part-time jobs, family responsibilities and academic pressure – only to be met with the devastating possibility of being left behind.
Soprano Thando Mabuza, an honours degree music student at the North-West University (NWU), has received a scholarship to further her studies at the Musikhochschule Lübeck in Germany, following her participation in the Vocal Masterclass and Scholarship Scheme with Martin Hundelt.
“When I received the news, I could not believe it, because during the masterclass everyone was so prepared,” said Thando. “I was excited, and I scared my family with my screams.”
The Department of Basic Education’s commitment to increasing psychosocial support for learners and teachers has the potential to deliver long-term gains for education and the country.
At the release of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results, South African education officials, including the Minister of Basic Education, acknowledged the emotional strain caused by examinations, academic pressure and social challenges facing many learners and emphasised the urgent need for support.
A new pilot study led by Prof. Welma Lubbe, director of NuMIQ in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the North-West University (NWU), has highlighted the potential benefits of a structured parenting education programme for mothers of preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). The findings were published on 1 December 2025 in the journal Children.
Understanding the true state of biodiversity in sub-Saharan Africa has long been a challenge, especially for those responsible for shaping environmental policies. A major new study published in the prestigious Nature journal now offers much-needed clarity.
Fodder beet is gaining attention as a key livestock feed crop in South Africa, and new research from the North-West University (NWU) shows how nitrogen fertiliser and planting season shape its growth and nutritional value.
Zabesuthu Sithokozisiwe Mngomezulu investigated how two fodder beet varieties respond to different nitrogen levels during winter, spring, and autumn. The study focused on growth traits, yield, and nutrient profiles.
South Africans continue to navigate load-shedding while the right to sufficient water faces strain in vulnerable communities.
Recent North-West University (NWU) graduate Miranda Andhile Mkansi conducted research on “The impact of load-shedding on the right to have access to sufficient water”. Her study explores how disruptions in electricity supply challenge the constitutional right to water.
By Gofaone Motsamai
As a young girl growing up in the Free State, Dineo Majoang watched her grandparents raise chickens, pigs and cattle in their small yard, making a living from the little they had. Those early experiences shaped her interest in farming and the challenges faced by rural households.
In a rapidly warming world, Africa has much to teach about harnessing indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) for global health resilience and trauma risk reduction.
Diane Thelma Molokwa, a doctoral candidate at the IKS Centre on the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus, demonstrated this when she participated at the 7th International Young Researchers' Symposium on Global Health held in Berlin, Germany.
The North-West University (NWU) proudly celebrates one of its shining stars, Dr Moleboheng Mokhele-Ramulumo from the Research Unit for Self-Directed Learning.
Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo received the South Africa’s Young Leader in Education award at the prestigious 40 Under 40 Awards ceremony held at Melrose Arch, Johannesburg.
This national recognition honours exceptional young professionals under the age of 40 who are making significant contributions as influential leaders and trailblazers in their respective fields.