Youth https://news.nwu.ac.za/ en NWU Young Guns edge Maties in thrilling Varsity Cup clash https://news.nwu.ac.za/nwu-young-guns-edge-maties-thrilling-varsity-cup-clash <span>NWU Young Guns edge Maties in thrilling Varsity Cup clash </span> <div class="field field--name-field-writer field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field--item">by <a href="https://news.nwu.ac.za/news-team#Steve">Steve Maphakathe</a></div> <span><span lang="" about="/user/32504" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">BELINDA BANTHAM</span></span> <span>Wed, 03/12/2025 - 11:09</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>The North-West University (NWU) Young Guns put on a strong show in their Varsity Cup Young Guns clash against Stellenbosch University (Maties) on Monday 10 March, securing a hard-fought 33-31 victory to climb to the top of Group A.</p> <p>Both teams were level on nine points going into the game, setting the stage for a crucial encounter. The atmosphere at the Fanie Du Toit Sports Grounds was electric, with the passionate NWU supporters creating a stimulating environment.</p> <p>From the outset, the Eagles applied relentless pressure on Maties’ defensive line, dictating the tempo and capitalising on their attacking opportunities. By the 28th minute, the Eagles had stamped their authority on the game, taking a 7-0 lead. Their dominance continued as they maintained their momentum and executed their game plan effectively, extending the scoreline to 21-7 just before the break.</p> <p>“We played really well in the first half. Our defensive line was solid, we controlled possession, and the tries we scored showed our brilliance,” said head coach Hannes Esterhuizen. “We were in complete control at 21- 0, but conceding that late try before half-time was disappointing.”</p> <p>Maties, a team to never back down, launched a determined fightback in the second half and signalled their intent with an early try. The Eagles briefly extended their lead, but the visitors refused to back down and capitalised on the Eagles’ defensive lapses. In a dramatic final few minutes, the visitors piled on the pressure and threatened to snatch victory, but the Eagles dug deep and held on for a nail-biting two-point victory.</p> <p>“Our performance in the second half was below our standard. We lost focus, made unforced errors, and conceded penalties that gave Maties line outs to play from. They punished us on the counter-attack and our discipline let us down at critical moments,” said Esterhuizen.</p> <p>Despite the nervy finish, this crucial win sees the Eagles claim the top spot in Group A and demonstrates their ability to build a commanding lead. However, their second-half struggles highlighted areas that require urgent attention. “We may be leading the group, but nothing is guaranteed. Every game from here is a must-win,” Hannes stressed. “We are entering the knockout stages of the tournament, and our focus is on the next game.”</p> <p>With this victory, the Eagles have set the tone for their Varsity Cup Young Guns campaign. While the result will boost their confidence, the lessons they learnt from the game will undoubtedly influence the way they play in the future.</p> </div> Wed, 12 Mar 2025 09:09:31 +0000 BELINDA BANTHAM 30661 at https://news.nwu.ac.za Second win for NWU Young Guns builds early-season momentum https://news.nwu.ac.za/second-win-nwu-young-guns-builds-early-season-momentum <span>Second win for NWU Young Guns builds early-season momentum </span> <div class="field field--name-field-writer field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field--item">by <a href="https://news.nwu.ac.za/news-team#Steve">Steve Maphakathe</a></div> <span><span lang="" about="/user/32504" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">BELINDA BANTHAM</span></span> <span>Fri, 03/07/2025 - 11:30</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>The North-West University (NWU) Young Guns (YGs) are proving why they are the reigning champions, kicking off their title defence with back-to-back wins.</p> <p>After an outstanding campaign last season, the Eagles soared into the new campaign with a nail-biting 36-33 win over the University of Pretoria (Tuks) YGs at the Fanie Du Toit Sports Grounds on Monday 24 February. Their ability to withstand the pressure speaks volumes about their preparation and hunger to retain their title.</p> <p>The opening clash was a true test of character, with both teams delivering high-intensity performances, but the Eagles held their nerve and showed why they remain a force to be reckoned with in university rugby.</p> <p>Their winning streak continued on Monday 3 March at the Wits Stadium, where they outclassed Wits YGs in a thrilling 21-15 showdown, sealed by three tries and three conversions, which demonstrated the hunger and resilience of the Eagles to defend their crown.</p> <p>Coach Hannes Esterhuizen praised his squad for securing full points but emphasised the need for sharper execution going forward.</p> <p>“We are happy to take the full points. We should have bagged the bonus point as well and we hope it does not come back to haunt us later in the competition because the points table is incredibly tight. I thought we should have put the game to bed when we were up 21-13, but we let them in with two late tries due to a few penalties.”</p> <p>Commenting on his side’s game plan, Coach Hannes acknowledged Wits’ tenacity and stubbornness. “Wits are a gritty team. They work hard for each other and are well coached. Our plan was to keep the ball away from them, but at times we lost momentum because their defence was well organised.”</p> <p>While the Eagles have impressed with their attacking flair and defensive discipline, Coach Hannes has urged the team to improve their consistency and game management. With the season still young, the reigning champions will be looking to sharpen their claws and keep their title defence on track.</p> <p>With two wins under their belt, the NWU Young Guns are making it clear that they will not relinquish their throne easily.</p> </div> Fri, 07 Mar 2025 09:30:49 +0000 BELINDA BANTHAM 30649 at https://news.nwu.ac.za NWU student crowned Miss GBV North West https://news.nwu.ac.za/nwu-student-crowned-miss-gbv-north-west <span>NWU student crowned Miss GBV North West</span> <div class="field field--name-field-writer field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field--item">by <a href="https://news.nwu.ac.za/news-team#Mafumane">Mafumane Tlhapi</a></div> <span><span lang="" about="/user/32504" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">BELINDA BANTHAM</span></span> <span>Tue, 03/04/2025 - 10:01</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p class="text-align-right"><strong>By Mafumane Tlhapi and Kealeboga Motshabi</strong></p> <p>North-West University (NWU) student Tsholofelo Hope Batumile has been crowned Miss Gender-Based Violence (GBV) North West. She is a second-year student in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, pursuing an extended Human Resources Management programme.</p> <p>Batumile said she entered the competition to raise awareness about GBV and highlight its impact in the region. “I wanted to extend and promote the message of self-love and self-appreciation among individuals,” she said.</p> <p>She pointed to economic challenges as a key factor affecting women facing GBV in the province. “Lack of economic empowerment can increase vulnerability to abuse. Unemployment and poverty contribute to this reality,” she said. “It is important to promote education on gender equality and GBV prevention.”</p> <p>Batumile emphasised the availability of resources for survivors and urged them to seek support. “You are not alone. Your strength amid adversity is inspiring. Do not lose hope and know that we will always be beside you throughout your healing journey,” she added.</p> <p>She also acknowledged those working to combat GBV. “To those working tirelessly to create a safer community for everyone, all your efforts are seen and appreciated. Let us continue to create a positive society that values equality.”</p> <p><img alt="1" class="img-responsive" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" id="" src="/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/IMG_3006.JPG" title="" /></p> <p>Tsholofelo Hope Batumile, a second-year NWU student, was crowned Miss GBV North West.</p> </div> Tue, 04 Mar 2025 08:01:15 +0000 BELINDA BANTHAM 30634 at https://news.nwu.ac.za Vanderbijlpark Campus celebrates student athletes at USSA homecoming event https://news.nwu.ac.za/vanderbijlpark-campus-celebrates-student-athletes-ussa-homecoming-event <span>Vanderbijlpark Campus celebrates student athletes at USSA homecoming event</span> <div class="field field--name-field-writer field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field--item">by <a href="https://news.nwu.ac.za/news-team#Zeno">Zenoyise John</a></div> <span><span lang="" about="/user/32504" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">BELINDA BANTHAM</span></span> <span>Thu, 02/27/2025 - 14:58</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>The North-West University's (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus was recently alive with excitement and pride as the campus hosted a University Sports South Africa (USSA) homecoming event.</p> <p>This occasion, dedicated to honouring the remarkable achievements of student athletes who showcased exceptional talent in the recent USSA tournament, was the brainchild of Tinyiko Mazwaya, Student Campus Council (SCC) Sports Officer for 2024/25.</p> <p>The event featured not only formal awards, but also engaging games organised by the SCC, adding to the festive atmosphere that coincided with Valentine’s Day.</p> <p>The occasion brought together various sporting codes and celebrated the accomplishments of students who excelled both as teams and individuals. The highlight of the day was the ladies’ soccer team, who proudly clinched victory in the Section B tournament. Additionally, accolades were given to standout players: Philile Mafuleka received the award for Best Goalkeeper, Palesa Paedi was named Best Player of the Tournament, Mdabazi Mathebula was honoured for Top Goals, and Thabang Marou received the title of Best Coach.</p> <p>The ladies’ netball team also celebrated their victory in the Section B tournament, while the men’s basketball team made headlines by finishing fourth overall in the competitive Section A tournament. This was an impressive feat that positioned them as one of the top university teams in South Africa. Among their ranks, Moyo Nyalungu and Nkosinathi Masina were selected for the national team, further highlighting the calibre of talent present on campus.</p> <p>Beyond team sports, the event recognised individual achievements across various disciplines. Athletes from e-sports, karate, chess and bodybuilding were celebrated for their dedication and prowess. Specifically, the accolades included recognition for three e-sports players, five karate competitors, six chess players, and 15 bodybuilders, illustrating the diverse sporting talent.</p> <p>According to Tinyiko, the goal was to celebrate athletes and create a vibrant, supportive campus culture where all students felt valued for their achievements.</p> <p>"Many students are unaware of the various teams' participation in prestigious leagues and tournaments, leading to a disconnect between the athletes and the broader campus community. The USSA homecoming aimed to bridge this gap by fostering awareness and appreciation for the hard work and dedication of our student athletes," he explains.</p> <p>He also emphasises that the university plays a vital role in supporting athletes by providing platforms for them to showcase their talents.</p> <p>"I hope the message resonated with the athletes: their dreams are valid, and with dedication and hard work, they can achieve greatness," he adds.</p> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-4"><img alt="1" class="img-responsive" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" id="" src="/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/images/Ussa1-STORY_0.png" title="" /></div> <div class="col-sm-4"><img alt="2" class="img-responsive" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" id="" src="/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/images/Ussa2-STORY.png" title="" /></div> <div class="col-sm-4"><img alt="1" class="img-responsive" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" id="" src="/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/images/Ussa3-STORY.png" title="" /></div> <p>The NWU’s Vanderbijlpark Campus recently hosted a University Sports South Africa homecoming event, honouring the remarkable achievements of student athletes who showcased exceptional talent in the recent tournament.</p> </div> </div> Thu, 27 Feb 2025 12:58:59 +0000 BELINDA BANTHAM 30630 at https://news.nwu.ac.za Vanderbijlpark Campus hosts 'Find your next Y presenter' talent search https://news.nwu.ac.za/vanderbijlpark-campus-hosts-find-your-next-y-presenter-talent-search <span>Vanderbijlpark Campus hosts &#039;Find your next Y presenter&#039; talent search</span> <div class="field field--name-field-writer field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field--item">by <a href="https://news.nwu.ac.za/news-team#Zeno">Zenoyise John</a></div> <span><span lang="" about="/user/32504" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">BELINDA BANTHAM</span></span> <span>Thu, 02/27/2025 - 11:27</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>The Arts and Culture Department of the North-West University's (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus, in collaboration with YFM, recently held a "Find your next Y presenter" talent search.</p> <p>This presenter search is part of the festive activities leading up to the annual First-Year Carnival Celebrations, which will take place next month. The carnival is organised each year by the Student Representative Council (SRC) at the campus and aims to celebrate new friendships and diverse cultures.</p> <p>The talent search event attracted a large crowd of students eager to showcase their abilities, with more than 500 participants auditioning to demonstrate their presenting skills. However, only four talented individuals will be selected to advance in the process. The event also featured renowned YFM radio presenters, including Karen Mtetwa, who provided feedback to those performing live on air and offered support to the auditioning participants.</p> <p>According to Bongani Qosombo, one of the event organisers, the event was designed to uncover fresh talent and provide a platform for students to share their skills.</p> <p>"This event embodies the university's commitment to fostering innovation, excellence and social responsibility. The First-Year Carnival provides the perfect backdrop for students to express themselves, explore their creativity, and connect with like-minded individuals. YFM, a youth radio station in Johannesburg, is dedicated to empowering young people and providing a platform for self-expression, making this collaboration a natural fit," said Bongani.</p> <p>SCC Arts and Culture Officer Oratilwe Modisane was excited about seeing the students shine on stage.</p> <p>"This event would not have been possible without the invaluable support of YFM and the dedicated NWU community. Their commitment and enthusiasm were crucial in making this event a success. We are immensely grateful for their contributions and are eager to continue collaborating in the future.</p> <p>“The partnership between YFM and the NWU benefits both the university and its students. YFM gains access to fresh talent, while NWU students receive exposure, mentorship and growth opportunities. This collaboration enhances the university's reputation and provides a platform for students to showcase their skills," he said.</p> </div> Thu, 27 Feb 2025 09:27:29 +0000 BELINDA BANTHAM 30621 at https://news.nwu.ac.za A poem born from emotion, belonging and pride https://news.nwu.ac.za/poem-born-emotion-belonging-and-pride <span>A poem born from emotion, belonging and pride </span> <div class="field field--name-field-writer field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field--item">by <a href="https://news.nwu.ac.za/news-team#Steve">Steve Maphakathe</a></div> <span><span lang="" about="/user/32504" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">BELINDA BANTHAM</span></span> <span>Tue, 02/25/2025 - 12:26</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>With a pen in hand, first-year student Nompumelelo Mphoreng enjoyed the sunrise over the North-West University (NWU) Vanderbijlpark Campus as it created golden reflections on the river. As a fresh voice in the NWU community she found herself fascinated by the essence of her new home.</p> <p>The result? A poem titled A Symphony of Knowledge and Unity, that blends the NWU’s dynamic personality, stunning scenery and academic excellence. For Nompumelelo, the inspiration came naturally. Something deep inside her was awakened by the energising spirit of first-year orientation, the warmth of new friendships, and the overwhelming sensation of belonging.</p> <p>"Experiencing the university’s rich history, diverse culture and academic spirit moved me to capture its essence in poetry," she shares. "The poem reflects the respect for the NWU’s legacy, its cultural richness and the beauty of its surroundings."</p> <p>After she had spent a day taking in the sights and tales of the NWU, she started writing and the words began to flow. Pure emotion was captured in the poem without any overthinking.</p> <p>Nompumelelo found inspiration for the poem’s line, “Through open books and minds that spark ideas,” during their orientation visit to the Vanderbijlpark Campus Library and lecture halls.</p> <p>“The tour made me reflect on a search for knowledge and the individuals who have already travelled the path I am about to embark on.”</p> <p>The message conveyed by Nompumelelo’s poem speaks to the whole NWU family. It talks of pride, diversity, unity, belonging and the quest for knowledge – values that elevate the NWU above its status as an academic institution.</p> <p>"The NWU is more than a university; it is a home where people from different backgrounds come together to learn, grow and support each other," she reflects. "I want readers to feel pride in the NWU’s history and achievements, to be inspired by its beauty, and to embrace the feeling of belonging."</p> <p>When Nompumelelo performed the poem at the official first-year reception on 8 February, students and staff experienced a wave of nostalgia and unity. Several Student Campus Council (SCC) members said it brought back happy memories, reminding them that the NWU is more than just a location but a way of life.</p> <p>For Nompumelelo, poetry serves as an outlet between individuals, feelings, and experiences, in addition to being an art form. "Poetry allows me to share complex emotions and personal experiences that others can relate to. It creates a safe space for connection, even among those with different backgrounds. Writing about my residence, for example, helps others feel part of that experience – it strengthens our sense of community," she expresses.</p> <p>Her poem stands as a tribute to the diverse voices that make up the NWU’s student body, and is a reminder that the university’s legacy lives on in each person who walks its halls.</p> <p>She hopes it will be remembered as a heartfelt expression of what makes the NWU special – its history, its people, and the lifelong imprint it leaves on every student.</p> <p>"I hope it evokes nostalgia, especially for alumni, as a reflection of the university’s lasting impact. More than anything, I hope it captures the greatness of the NWU – a place that stays in your heart long after you leave."</p> <p>Nompumelelo intends to continue expressing her thoughts through writing and taking readers on a journey: “Writing poetry is something I truly enjoy; it will always be a creative outlet for me to continue writing about the different places and my experiences,” she says.</p> <p>With each word penned, Nompumelelo has not only authored a poem, but she has also imprinted a piece of the NWU’s soul into the pages of history. And just like that her words will stand the test of time, serving as a constant reminder to all NWU students – both current and former – that they will always have a place to call home. Read the full poem here:<a href="https://news.nwu.ac.za/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/images/NWU%20Poem%20~%20Mpumi%20The%20Poet%20.pdf"> NWU Poem ~ Mpumi The Poet </a></p> <p><img alt="1" class="img-responsive" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="559" id="" src="/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/images/Mpumi%20the%20Poet.jpg" title="" width="419" /></p> <p>Meet Nompumelelo “Mpumi”, the poet.</p> <p> </p> </div> Tue, 25 Feb 2025 10:26:06 +0000 BELINDA BANTHAM 30618 at https://news.nwu.ac.za NWU students join prestigious incubation programme https://news.nwu.ac.za/nwu-students-join-prestigious-incubation-programme <span>NWU students join prestigious incubation programme </span> <div class="field field--name-field-writer field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field--item">by <a href="https://news.nwu.ac.za/news-team#Steve">Steve Maphakathe</a></div> <span><span lang="" about="/user/32504" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">BELINDA BANTHAM</span></span> <span>Thu, 02/20/2025 - 09:40</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Three North-West University (NWU) innovators have earned a place in the highly competitive Emerging30 Innovators Programme, an initiative led by the Young African Entrepreneurship Institute (YAEI). Their journey began during the 2024 Youth Innovation Challenge, held as part of the YAEI &amp; ABSA Entrepreneurship Week on the Potchefstroom Campus.</p> <p>This challenge provided a platform for young entrepreneurs to pitch their groundbreaking ideas, ultimately paving the way for their participation in the prestigious 12-month incubation programme.</p> <p>The Emerging30 Innovators Programme is designed to equip young businesspersons with critical business skills, strategic mentorship, and essential resources to transform their ideas into sustainable ventures.</p> <p><strong>Innovators shaping the future</strong></p> <p>Ntando Nceka, who was a final-year BA Public Governance student majoring in Public Administration when he participated in the challenge, pitched his innovative solution, BOOKSMART. This is an online platform that simplifies the process of securing student accommodation, acting as both a “finder” for students and a “feeder” for landlords.</p> <p>“The app connects students with suitable accommodation options while simultaneously offering landlords a streamlined platform to market and manage their properties,” says Nceka. “Being recognised as one of the top 30 innovators has validated my solution and reinforced my commitment to addressing this challenge.”</p> <p>Martin Maupa, a second-year BCom Economic Sciences and International Trade student, is at the forefront of revolutionising maintenance management with his venture, Cerrar Solutions. His idea aims to modernise outdated maintenance systems and eliminate prolonged service delays.</p> <p>“The inspiration for Cerrar Solutions came from my experience as a maintenance artisan trainee in the mining industry,” explains Maupa. “I noticed how inefficiencies in maintenance processes led to extended downtime for mining equipment and infrastructure repairs. Cerrar Solutions leverages technology to ensure quicker reporting, scheduling and resolution of maintenance issues.”</p> <p>Faith Matilo, who pursued a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management in 2024, is redefining learning and development through Bright Spark Media. This firm creates customised training programmes and educational content tailored for students, corporate organisations and schools.</p> <p>“We bridge traditional learning methods with modern media-driven solutions that enhance knowledge retention and promote active learning,” says Matilo. “Our approach makes education more engaging, accessible and impactful across different learning environments.”</p> <p><strong>Business growth and innovation</strong></p> <p>The Emerging30 Innovators Programme is not just about individual success, it also fosters economic development by empowering young entrepreneurs to drive change in their respective industries.</p> <p>Programme representative Nomthandazo Shabangu expressed excitement about the impact of such initiatives.</p> <p>“The fact that NWU students excel in this space is a testament to their potential and the effectiveness of platforms like the Youth Innovation Challenge in nurturing entrepreneurship.”</p> <p>Looking ahead, the selected entrepreneurs are eager to maximise the opportunities presented by the incubation programme. “I am excited to refine my business model, enhance operational processes and develop scalable solutions,” says Matilo.</p> <p>Nceka echoes similar enthusiasm: “I look forward to building valuable relationships with stakeholders in my industry and gaining deeper insights into business development.”</p> <p>Maupa adds: “My goal is to leverage the skills and knowledge from the programme to secure vendor numbers with three targeted mines. This step is crucial for establishing long-term partnerships, enhancing our credibility, and positioning Cerrar Solutions as a trusted service provider in the public and mining sectors.”</p> <p>With their eager entrepreneurial drive and the support of the Emerging30 Innovators Programme, these NWU students are well on their way to making a lasting impact in their industries and beyond.</p> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-4"><img alt="1" class="img-responsive" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" id="" src="/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/images/Martin%20Maupa%20.jpg" title="" /><p>Martin Maupa</p> </div> <div class="col-sm-4"><img alt="2" class="img-responsive" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" id="" src="/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/images/Faith%20Matilo.jpg" title="" /><p>Faith Matilo</p> </div> <div class="col-sm-4"><img alt="3" class="img-responsive" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" id="" src="/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/images/Ntando.jpeg" title="" />Ntando Nceka</div> </div> <p> </p> </div> Thu, 20 Feb 2025 07:40:09 +0000 BELINDA BANTHAM 30608 at https://news.nwu.ac.za Student a top 10 finalist in Nedbank & Old Mutual Budget Speech Competition https://news.nwu.ac.za/student-top-10-finalist-nedbank-old-mutual-budget-speech-competition <span>Student a top 10 finalist in Nedbank &amp; Old Mutual Budget Speech Competition</span> <div class="field field--name-field-writer field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field--item">by <a href="https://news.nwu.ac.za/news-team#Angeline">Angeline Marokoane</a></div> <span><span lang="" about="/user/32504" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">BELINDA BANTHAM</span></span> <span>Wed, 02/19/2025 - 11:29</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Sizwe Mazibuko, a second-year BSc Quantitative Risk Management student at the North-West University (NWU), has been named a top 10 finalist in the prestigious 53rd Nedbank &amp; Old Mutual Budget Speech Competition.</p> <p>This competition serves as a platform for the brightest economic minds in South Africa to engage with critical financial issues, fostering solutions that contribute to the nation’s economic growth.</p> <p>The competition is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing economics-related studies at recognised South African institutions. It challenges participants to explore thought-provoking questions with real-world relevance, pushing them to apply their academic knowledge to pressing economic challenges.</p> <p>As an undergraduate finalist, Sizwe tackled the question: “Discuss the impact of public debt on government finances in developing economies, focusing on South Africa”.</p> <p>This topic required participants to analyse the complexities of public debt and its implications for economic stability, fiscal policy, and long-term growth in developing nations, particularly South Africa. Given the country’s ongoing economic challenges, Sizwe’s insights into sustainable debt management and financial policy would have been crucial in shaping discussions at the event.</p> <p>The finals are taking place from 17 to 20 February 2025, bringing together some of the country’s most promising economic scholars.</p> <p>Sizwe’s achievement in reaching the final round is a testament to his analytical abilities, dedication, and passion for economic problem-solving. His success highlights the importance of nurturing young economic thinkers who will play a key role in shaping South Africa’s financial future.</p> <p>As the nation grapples with economic uncertainties, students like Sizwe represent a new generation poised to contribute innovative solutions to national and global economic challenges.</p> <p><img alt="1" class="img-responsive" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="767" id="" src="/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/images/Sizwe-Mazibuko-STORY.jpg" title="" width="542" /></p> </div> Wed, 19 Feb 2025 09:29:22 +0000 BELINDA BANTHAM 30605 at https://news.nwu.ac.za Two-week long coding school explores data science and computational thinking https://news.nwu.ac.za/two-week-long-coding-school-explores-data-science-and-computational-thinking <span>Two-week long coding school explores data science and computational thinking </span> <div class="field field--name-field-writer field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field--item">by <a href="https://news.nwu.ac.za/news-team#Steve">Steve Maphakathe</a></div> <span><span lang="" about="/user/32504" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">BELINDA BANTHAM</span></span> <span>Mon, 02/17/2025 - 08:36</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Over the past two weeks, from 27 January to 7 February, registered postgraduate students from the North-West University (NWU), alongside other participants from across the Southern African Development Community (SADC), engaged themselves in the fields of data science and computational thinking. In a world of data-driven decision-making, they acquired vital skills that will influence their futures.</p> <p>Now in its 15th year, the Centre for High Performance Computing (CHPC) Coding Summer School – held in collaboration with the National Institute for Theoretical and Computational Sciences (NITheCS) – focused on “Foundations of Data Science and Computational Thinking”. This initiative aimed at training researchers in the fundamentals of scientific computing and data science.</p> <p>The school, which was accommodated across all three campuses of the NWU and at various universities and research sites across the country, offered a comprehensive programme comprising daily lectures, interactive code-along tutorials and hands-on assignments. Furthermore, esteemed professionals from diverse science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines delivered insightful presentations. At the conclusion of the programme, qualified participants were awarded certificates of completion.</p> <p>Dr Daniel Mojalefa Moeketsi, senior lecturer at the School of Physics and Centre for Space Research at the NWU, underscored the significance of this initiative. He said, “This summer school not only empowers students to effectively utilise high-performance computing resources but also enables them to tackle complex data challenges in their respective fields.”</p> <p>He further emphasised: “In addition to enhancing individual expertise, this training drives the overall growth and innovation of computational sciences in South Africa. Its relevance extends to both the Fourth Industrial Revolution(4IR) and the emerging Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR) due to its focus on computational skills, data science and artificial intelligence.”</p> <p>The curriculum was structured to provide an in-depth learning experience. The first week focused on essential topics such as data science with Pandas, Python best practices, workflow management, and extract, transform and load (ETL) processes. In addition, students studied exploratory data analysis (EDA) and the fundamentals of Bash scripting. Building on this foundation, the second week saw the students exploring machine learning, artificial intelligence, probability theory, statistics and computational thinking.</p> <p>The summer school attracted 76 students across the NWU’s three campuses: 36 from the Potchefstroom Campus (comprising 20 local students and 16 from the Development in Africa with Radio Astronomy (DARA) project), 37 from the Mahikeng Campus, and five from the Vanderbijlpark Campus.</p> <p>Reflecting on his experience, Donovan Rooi, a PhD student in Health Sciences, expressed his enthusiasm: “As a student from the Faculty of Health Sciences, I was unsure about attending, but I can confidently say that participating in this coding summer school was a great decision. The</p> <p>content was delivered in a clear way with practical examples for every topic. My Python coding and computational thinking have grown beyond theoretical work, and I can now proudly attempt solving real-world public health challenges. I am grateful for this opportunity.”</p> <p>Similarly, Kgaugelo Ledwaba, a BSc Honours student in Physics, highlighted the impact of the programme on his academic journey: “The skills, techniques and insights gained will enhance my research. I particularly enjoyed the code-along sessions and team-building exercises, which not only extended my knowledge but also facilitated meaningful engagements with fellow participants.”</p> <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-4"><img alt="1" class="img-responsive" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" id="" src="/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/images/Mahikeng%20Campus.jpeg" title="" /><p>The young minds were lit up by the possibilities of data science on the Mahikeng Campus.</p> </div> <div class="col-sm-4"><img alt="2" class="img-responsive" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" id="" src="/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/images/Students%20on%20the%20Potchefstroom%20Campus.jpg" title="" /><p>Students on the Potchefstroom Campus.</p> </div> <div class="col-sm-4"><img alt="3" class="img-responsive" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" id="" src="/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/images/Vanderbijlpark%20Campus%20.jpg" title="" />The participating students in attendance on the Vanderbijlpark Campus are, from the left, Luke Coetzee (junior lecturer at the School of Computer Science and Information Systems), Tanja Eksteen, Katleho Tsotetsi, Leemisa Moleko, Karabo Khumalo and Mzukisi Soboyisa.</div> </div> </div> Mon, 17 Feb 2025 06:36:04 +0000 BELINDA BANTHAM 30599 at https://news.nwu.ac.za Student participates in Russia-Africa media collaboration https://news.nwu.ac.za/student-participates-russia-africa-media-collaboration <span>Student participates in Russia-Africa media collaboration </span> <span><span lang="" about="/user/32504" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">BELINDA BANTHAM</span></span> <span>Fri, 01/31/2025 - 08:18</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p class="text-align-right"><strong>By Tiyiselani Precious Miyambu</strong></p> <p>Gofaone Motsamai, a master’s student with the Indigenous Language Media in Africa (ILMA) research entity at North-West University’s (NWU) Mahikeng Campus, has applauded resolutions taken at International Media Forum for Young Practitioners: Russia-Africa.</p> <p>The forum, hosted at the People’s Friendship University of Russia (RUDN) Institute of World Economy Business Hall in Moscow, gathered more than 200 registered participants, with about 150 attending in person. Attendees represented more than 20 countries, including South Africa, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Russia, Cameroon, Egypt, Tanzania and Uzbekistan. The theme of the forum was “Through the prism of education and communications”.</p> <p>Gofaone took part in a roundtable discussion on media literacy as an instrument for combating disinformation, highlighting the role of agenda-setting in South Africa’s national media systems and explained how media influences public perception, shaping societal narratives.</p> <p>“Media literacy is a crucial tool for combating fake news and stereotypes,” he noted. “We must advocate for comprehensive educational campaigns that equip audiences with critical evaluation skills.”</p> <p>He described the forum as a platform for fostering deeper collaboration between media professionals from Russia and Africa. “Participants engaged in forward-looking discussions aimed at strengthening partnerships between Russian and African media outlets,” he said. “These included proposals for mutual training initiatives, cultural exchanges, and addressing stereotypes that undermine accurate portrayals of both regions.”</p> <p>The event also featured a masterclass on the second day, where technologies like virtual reality and 360-degree filmmaking were explored for their potential to modernise storytelling and preserve cultural heritage.</p> <p>Key outcomes of the forum included resolutions to promote the teaching of African languages in Russian schools and the introduction of Russian language education in</p> <p>African institutions, furthering two-way cultural exchanges. Highlighting these resolutions, Motsamai said: “The promotion of African languages in Russian schools and the teaching of Russian in African institutions are significant steps toward strengthening cultural ties and mutual understanding. Initiatives like these pave the way for deeper collaboration and cultural exchange between our regions.”</p> <p>He also applauded the recognition of the Sputnik Africa project for amplifying African voices through the use of native languages in media. “Projects like Sputnik Africa play a vital role in ensuring diverse African narratives are heard globally. By incorporating indigenous languages, they reflect the true richness of African societies.”</p> <p>Reflecting on the experience, he said that the forum has reinforced the importance of collaboration across borders in tackling global media challenges. “It was inspiring to witness collective efforts aimed at empowering media practitioners to combat disinformation and promote cultural understanding.”</p> <p><img alt="Gofaone Motsamai" class="img-responsive" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" id="" src="/sites/news.nwu.ac.za/files/images/Gofaone-STORY%2BICON.png" title="" /></p> <p>Gofaone Motsamai.</p> </div> Fri, 31 Jan 2025 06:18:20 +0000 BELINDA BANTHAM 30562 at https://news.nwu.ac.za