Youth

NWU students present research on traditional cannabis use at international conference

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 08:03:14 +0000

NWU students present research on traditional cannabis use at international conference BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 06/27/2025 - 10:03

By Gofaone Motsamai and Phenyo Mokgothu

Cannabis is much more than a plant for South Africa’s traditional healers; it is part of a spiritual practice and a tool for healing in our communities, according to five postgraduate students from the North-West University’s (NWU) Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences.

They presented their research at the Maiden Annual International Conference on Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Restorative Development in Africa. The conference, held from 20 to 22 May 2025 in Entebbe, Uganda, brought together scholars and practitioners to explore the role of indigenous knowledge in sustainable development.

The Institute of African Studies and the Africa Indigenous Knowledge Research Network (AIKRN) hosted the conference, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.

Homing in on Magogoe Village

The NWU delegation consisted of Phimelo Segooa, Busi Sebea, Masego Segapo, Welile Kunene and Tlamelo Lekwene from the Mahikeng Campus. They presented a paper exploring the knowledge and use of cannabis among traditional health practitioners (THPs) in Magogoe Village, located in South Africa’s North West Province.

Their research highlighted that although cannabis has long been used around the world for its fibrous properties, in South Africa, THPs have traditionally used the plant for medicinal, spiritual and ritual purposes. The study aimed to document how THPs understand and apply cannabis in their healing practices and to examine the challenges they face in doing so.

Using an exploratory design grounded in Indigenous Wholistic Theory, the researchers conducted qualitative interviews and a focus group with 12 THPs. The findings reveal that THPs rely heavily on ancestral knowledge and lived experience to guide their use of cannabis. However, this knowledge is rarely documented and remains largely oral.

“Traditional health practitioners are custodians of generations of knowledge that’s passed down through experience and ancestral instruction,” said Sebea. “What we found is that cannabis is much more than a plant – it’s part of a spiritual practice and a tool for healing in our communities.”

Receiving guidance from ancestors

The study found that THPs use cannabis to treat a variety of illnesses and often administer it according to spiritual instructions from ancestors. Preparation and cultivation methods vary widely and are closely tied to individual practitioners’ beliefs and rituals.

“This research taught us that indigenous knowledge is sophisticated and rooted in cultural identity,” said Segapo. “It must be preserved and integrated into broader conversations about healthcare and policy.”

The study contributes to broader discussions on the role of traditional knowledge in health and development policy, and calls for more inclusive research approaches that respect and incorporate indigenous worldviews.

Postgraduate students who presented at the at the Maiden Annual International Conference

Celebrating purpose, passion and progress with Khululwa Shibani

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 12:14:52 +0000

Celebrating purpose, passion and progress with Khululwa Shibani

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 06/26/2025 - 14:14

As South Africa commemorates Youth Month – a time to reflect on the courage, resilience and vision of young people – we turn the spotlight on Khululwa Nosipho Shibani. At just 29, she is not only shaping young minds as an educator at Christiana School for the Blind and Partially Sighted, but also contributing to groundbreaking community research. Her journey reflects the spirit of Youth Month: bold leadership, unwavering dedication, and a passion for building a better, more inclusive future.

Here, she shares her remarkable journey:

What did you study at the NWU?

In 2016, I enrolled for a Bachelor of Education in Senior and FET Phase at the NWU, majoring in Geography and Mathematics. I completed my studies in 2019.

What is your current profession/occupation?

I am currently an educator at Christiana School for the Blind and Partially Sighted, and a community researcher in the North West Province, assisting the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Health Sciences with research focused on motherhood and albinism.

What gives you the most joy in your current position?

What I love most about my job is my learners – how extraordinary and talented they are. Discovering their abilities and unique gifts each day gives me the motivation to look forward to tomorrow.

What is your fondest memory from your time at the NWU?

My fondest memories are those I created while serving in leadership roles: hosting meaningful events, participating in them, and learning from other leaders who shared best practices. I also treasure the memories made with student political leaders, some of whom went on to serve in the Students’ Campus Council.

Apart from your studies, what are some of the most important things you learned at the NWU?

Strong leadership practices.

What inspires you?

I am most inspired by women in leadership, those who lead by example. These women have cultivated inclusive, diverse working environments in their institutions and continue to make waves, proving how great leadership can help build a strong and safe nation. The institutions they have led continue to grow and flourish. I would like to mention Ms Agnes Rasesemola, Circuit Manager of the Boitshoko Local Education Office in the Bojanala District, North West, and former Principal of Sunrise View Secondary School; and Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town.

What makes you positive about our country’s future, what doesn’t, and what would you like to change?

Our country may face many complex challenges that make it difficult to see its unique growth. Despite the rise in youth unemployment and crime, we must also recognise the positive developments in sport, academia and beyond. South Africa is home to prestigious institutions like the NWU, which are introducing programmes aimed at addressing our pressing social challenges through research. Our sportspeople are making their mark globally, showcasing their God-given talents in both sports and the arts. In recent months, our country has also stood as a symbol of peace, harmony and stability. With strong leadership, South Africa has the potential to become a powerful force on the global stage.

If you could give one message to our country’s youth on how to succeed in life, what would it be?

The youth must begin to prioritise their future – as individuals, community members and patriots. They should take the time to learn about our country’s history to better understand present-day affairs. Young people must become vocal advocates against the social ills affecting our communities and stand up to anything that hinders their progress. Those who have succeeded in their careers must take responsibility to lead – and as they rise, they must uplift others. It is time to take mental health seriously and stop relying on substances to cope. Success has no shortcuts; it demands hard work, determination and resilience. The youth should view life through the lens of reality rather than through social media filters. They must understand their purpose, knowing that we are all here for a reason and that life, ultimately, has no manual.

Khululwa Nosipho Shibani.

Balancing spreadsheets and ambition: Cimoné Louw’s journey of purpose and perseverance

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 12:01:03 +0000

Balancing spreadsheets and ambition: Cimoné Louw’s journey of purpose and perseverance

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 06/26/2025 - 14:01

In celebration of Youth Month – a time to recognise the boldness, creativity and grit of South Africa’s emerging leaders – we spotlight Cimoné Louw, a dynamic 26-year-old whose career path proves that precision, purpose and passion are a powerful combination.

What did you study at the NWU?

I studied Forensic Accounting at the North-West University.

What is your current profession/occupation?

I am a forensic accountant at StoneTurn and the owner of a small business called Cfisticated.

What gives you the most joy in your current position?

The unpredictability of each day is what excites me. Every investigation is different, and I love uncovering financial truths. It keeps me on my toes.

What is your fondest memory from your time at the NWU?

Wow, there are so many to choose from! But one memory that really stands out is the R20 “Platsak Ontbyt” my best friend and I had every morning at De Jonge Akker between classes. I miss that so much now.

Apart from your studies, what are some of the most important things you learned at the NWU?

I learnt what a huge privilege it is to study and attend university – something I once took for granted until I met so many fellow students who relied on bursaries, juggled extra jobs or worked to pay off student loans. NWU also taught me the importance of networking at social gatherings.

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by hard-working people who rise above difficult beginnings, who refuse to let their circumstances define them, and who remain determined to succeed.

What makes you positive about our country’s future, what doesn’t, and what would you like to change?

Our tenacity and great sense of humour make me hopeful – we are incredibly hard-working, know how to hustle, and we’re a fun nation too!

On the downside, my line of work gives me a front-row seat to the magnitude of fraud and corruption in our country, which is deeply discouraging. If I could change one thing, it would be to recover the public funds lost to fraud and corruption, hold those responsible accountable, and invest that money into our communities – particularly in children’s education and wellbeing.

If you could give one message to our country’s youth on how to succeed in life, what would it be?

I believe success favours those who work hard. Believe in yourself. Network with people. Seize opportunities and take action. Most importantly – do not have a victim mentality!

Cimoné Louw

Debate union stands tall at UFS debate and public speaking competition

RONEL ROSCHER — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 08:56:57 +0000

Debate union stands tall at UFS debate and public speaking competition RONEL ROSCHER Wed, 06/25/2025 - 10:56

By Phenyo Mokgothu and Gofaone Motsamai

Five speakers from the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus Debate Union proved their strength at a national debate and public-speaking competition held at the University of the Free State.

“We chose the speakers from the internal public-speaking competition, and they showed they have what it takes to compete at national level,” says Sandile Mbizeni, chief adjudicator of the Debate Union.

The team participated in the debate and public-speaking categories of the competition, held from 2 to 5 May 2025. They reached the semi-finals in the debate category, while in public speaking, Boiketlo Nkosi, Paballo Mokgathi and Botho Sifumba progressed to the final round where they competed against each other for the top spot. Botho took first place, Paballo came second and Boiketlo third.

“The title of best judge in public speaking came to the Mahikeng Campus as well,” says Sandile. “Liso Ngxoza was declared the best public-speaking judge of the competition, while in debate, I was honoured as the second-best debate judge.”

This year’s results build on a successful 2024. Sandile and Chevaure Du Pokoy coached participants for the Jozi Rumble Tournament, where Lethabo Mathatho and Makhosini Dlamini placed second in the novice debate category. Thato Katametsi secured second place in public speaking. Sandile also served as an adjudicator in the public-speaking finals at that tournament.

Sandile also coached Jeremiah Mokoena and Boiketlo Nkosi at the 2024 Southern African Debate Championship. The two reached the quarter-finals in debate, while Boiketlo made it to the semi-finals in public speaking.

Building on these achievements, the Mahikeng Campus Debate Union is ready to show up, speak up and represent the NWU with pride and confidence at future competitions.

The Mahikeng Campus Debate Union is on a roll.

NWU law student selected for national Siyaphumelela Scholars programme

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 08:15:28 +0000

NWU law student selected for national Siyaphumelela Scholars programme

by Mafumane Tlhapi

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 06/17/2025 - 10:15

A final-year law student at North-West University (NWU) Potchefstroom Campus has been chosen for the 2025 Siyaphumelela Scholars programme, a national initiative focused on student success and leadership in higher education.

Musa Bizani and four other students from the University of Cape Town, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of the Witwatersrand and University of the Western Cape will attend the Siyaphumelela Conference at the Indaba Hotel and Conference Centre in Fourways, Johannesburg, from 8 to 11 July 2025.

“This programme aligns with the kind of leadership and communication skills I’ve been working to refine as a student leader and aspiring legal practitioner,” says Bizani. “It’s also a space where I can help represent the NWU student voice in national conversations about student success.”

Coming from a previously underrepresented background, he aims to show how a combination of institutional support and student activism can lead to academic progress and institutional transformation.

“I want to share how holistic engagement through leadership, mentorship and community involvement has shaped my university experience,” he says. “It’s not just about helping students survive university but about building systems where they are empowered to thrive.”

The Siyaphumelela Scholars programme is an experiential learning initiative aimed at developing leadership, higher-order thinking, and interpersonal communication. Through the programme, Bizani hopes to strengthen his ability to advocate for social justice and prepare for his intended LLM studies next year.

“The ability to communicate clearly and with purpose is essential in both legal and academic environments,” he says. “This programme is a tool that will help me become more effective in those spaces.”

If selected by the Achieving the Dream (ATD) panel, Bizani could also participate in the DREAM Scholars programme and represent South Africa at the DREAM 2026 conference in Portland, Oregon in the USA, from 2 to 6 March 2026.

Musa Bizani will represent the university at the 2025 Siyaphumelela Conference in Johannesburg as part of the Siyaphumelela Scholars programme.

Campus radio is where Refilwe first found her voice

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 08:32:41 +0000

Campus radio is where Refilwe first found her voice

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 06/06/2025 - 10:32

There is no better launchpad for a broadcasting career than campus radio, as Refilwe Palagangwe can confirm.

Better known as “Thee Iron Lady” because of her unshakable strength, discipline, and purpose, Refilwe has used her voice to chart a course through the intersecting worlds of radio, marketing and public speaking.

“Everything I do is rooted in message delivery,” she says. “Whether on stage, on air or behind a campaign, if it connects, it works.”

Her career began at North-West University (NWU) FM, where she learned the basics of broadcasting while studying BCom Marketing at the Mahikeng Campus.

She also wrote for The Album campus newspaper and held leadership roles, including marketing head of the Black Management Forum.

From there, she moved to community radio at Kopanong FM before landing a spot as a producer on YOU FM, a commercial station where she used to contribute to the Business Hour programme. The show offers market insights and conversations with entrepreneurs. “It’s not just about airtime, it’s about creating value for the listener,” she says.

Off-air, Refilwe’s voice has found new arenas. As a voice-over artist, she works on corporate narrations and commercials. As an MC or programme director, she’s led national events such as the NBA Royal Bafokeng Gala Dinner and panel discussions for Women’s Day. “Each platform demands something different,” she says. “What stays constant is clarity.”

Behind the scenes of some big brands

Her marketing credentials include stints at Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa, the Mahikeng Digital Innovation Hub and the North West Parks and Tourism Board. These roles, she says, shaped her understanding of brand communication and strategy. “Being behind the scenes gave me insight into how brands operate and how they speak to their audiences.”

She credits the NWU not just as the starting point of her career, but as a space that cultivated her confidence. “Speaking to first-year students at the NWU about self-leadership felt like coming full circle.”

Refilwe sees voice work not only as a service, but as a business. She manages bookings, partnerships and productions under her own brand, Thee Iron Lady. “It’s not about waiting for opportunities,” she says. “It’s about building your own platform and being ready when people start listening.”

In addition to her commercial radio work, Refilwe produces and hosts Business Time with Refilwe Palagangwe, a show that airs every Monday on Mahikeng FM. The programme highlights entrepreneurship and economic issues relevant to local communities.

She also serves as sales and marketing coordinator for the North West Parks and Tourism Board’s Hotel Schools Division, overseeing operations in Mahikeng and Taung.

Most recently, she qualified for the prestigious Voice of Cepacol® search, a milestone she sees as another step in building one of South Africa’s most recognised voice brands.

From construction sites to graduation gown

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 09:13:39 +0000

From construction sites to graduation gown

by Angeline Marokoane

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 06/05/2025 - 11:13

When Mongezi Prince Mbamba walked across the graduation stage at the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU) on 21 May 2025, it was not just a degree he carried – it was the weight of years of sacrifice, resilience and unyielding faith.

Born into a humble background and raised by a single mother alongside two siblings, Mongezi’s path to becoming a qualified social worker was anything but straightforward. After matriculating in 2016, with dreams in hand but no clear direction, he faced an uncertain future. What followed was an unplanned gap year in 2017 – marked by hardship, determination and the first steps in a journey that would test and ultimately define him.

“I worked wherever I could to support myself and my family,” Mongezi recalls. He began as a general worker on the Curro Vanderbijlpark construction site and later found employment at West Pack Lifestyle. In 2020, fate took an unexpected turn when he became part of the team constructing the A1 Administration Building at the NWU – the very institution that would soon become his academic home.

Despite repeated rejections from universities, Mongezi never gave up. He leaned on faith and perseverance, applying year after year. In 2021, at the age of 22, his long-held dream finally materialised: he was accepted into the Bachelor of Social Work programme at the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the NWU.

University life brought its own set of challenges. As the oldest child and family breadwinner, Mongezi had no financial safety net. He worked tirelessly to make ends meet – washing cars, sneakers and carpets for fellow students, and taking retail jobs during the holidays, including at the One by One Supermarket in Vanderbijlpark. With little money for textbooks, he relied heavily on the university library and the generosity of others.

“I could not afford to go home during holidays,” he says. “I stayed in student accommodation with the help of my landlord and found ways to survive.”

Through every hurdle, he remained steadfast. “This degree tested me in every way – mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually. But that pressure became my fuel,” Mongezi says. His efforts were not limited to the classroom. He threw himself into late-night study sessions, group projects, academic competitions and spiritual growth.

In his second year, he joined a faith-based student fellowship. “We were brothers in Christ, supporting one another in our studies, our lives and our purpose,” he shares. That support, he believes, was instrumental not only in his graduation, but in shaping the man he has become.

Mongezi credits much of his success to key mentors along the way. “Jason Beukes and Naledi Lehutso were like parents to me,” he says. “They provided everything, from study materials to clothes for practicals. Their kindness opened doors I did not know existed.”

As part of his qualification, Mongezi completed three major practical placements that brought theory to life:

· Polokong Children’s Village – Focusing on children and youth services before its closure.

· Emthonjeni Satellite One Centre – Hands-on group work practice.

· Department of Social Development, Sebokeng – Where he excelled in case and community work, earning second prize for a community project at a student social work conference.

“These experiences gave me real insight into what social work truly is. They deepened my passion and prepared me to serve with confidence and integrity.”

Now a qualified social worker, Mongezi is actively seeking employment or internship opportunities. He brings with him not only a solid academic foundation and practical experience, but a mission: to uplift the vulnerable, speak for the voiceless, and offer hope to those often forgotten. Quoting the scripture that carried him through, he reflects:

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13

His message to others? “To anyone still trying, still hoping, still fighting – do not give up. Your journey may take longer. It may look different. But if it is meant for you, nothing can stop it. Trust God. Trust yourself. And never stop dreaming.”

Mongezi Prince Mbamba and his family.

NWU Eagles punch ticket to nationals

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 06:49:10 +0000

NWU Eagles punch ticket to nationals BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 06/02/2025 - 08:49

Keaoleboga Motshabi

The North-West University (NWU) Eagles Aerobics team has qualified for the national championships of the South African Sport Aerobics Fitness and Hip-hop Federation (SASAFF). This comes after their recent showing at the provincial championships held at the Kagiso Community Centre in Krugersdorp, Gauteng, on 10 and 11 May 2025.

The team earned scores above the required 6,5 mark, advancing to the next round of the competition. In the FISAF Fitness Step Teams – Adult category, the NWU Eagles scored 6,9. Team members were Keketso Motumiseng, Itumeleng Nthako, Kopano Tlapu, Thembile Manzana and Tsaone Lobeko.

Two athletes, Thembile Manzana and Kopano Tlapu, secured scores above 7 in the Aero-Start Individual – Adult category. In the FISAF Novice Individual – Adult (Males) category, Itumeleng Nthako scored 7,2.

The team chairperson, Itumeleng Nthako, noted that the qualification shows the group’s focus and ability to adapt during preparation. “Achieving this milestone has motivated the team to push beyond their current boundaries and strive for excellence at national level,” he said.

The team aims to compete strongly at the national event, focusing on performance goals and applying lessons from their current training cycle.

NWU Eagles qualify at SASAFF provincial championships, head to national championships.

Setlogolo sa Bahurutshe booManyane leads the revival of Setswana culture

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 30 May 2025 08:02:11 +0000

Setlogolo sa Bahurutshe booManyane leads the revival of Setswana culture

by Oscar Mosiane

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/30/2025 - 10:02

As the African continent marks Africa Month Africa Day on 25 May, a remarkable story of cultural resilience and leadership is unfolding in the North West Province.

Khumo Feni, a graduate from the first cohort of the Bachelor of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (B.IKS) programme at the North-West University (NWU), is taking centre stage in the documentation and preservation of Batswana indigenous knowledge systems (IKS).

Rooted in the traditions of the Batswana people and armed with academic training in Indigenous methodologies, Khumo is leading a groundbreaking provincial initiative to record, protect and revitalise the rich heritage of her community. Her work highlights the critical role women play in the custodianship of culture and knowledge.

Born in Taung, in the heart of the North West, Khumo was raised under the Baphuduhucwana Traditional Council, a culture-rich royal council situated in the UNESCO-declared Maropeng Cradle of humankind.

The Batlhaping ba ga phuduhucwana are amongst the few practitioners of go tlhatlhela Bojale and Bogwera Indigenous rites of passage, which are essentially long-standing education systems of Setswana culture in North West. Her grandmother, a Setswana language expert, cultural practitioner and oral historian from Mokgareng Village, was one of her first teachers, imparting Setswana knowledge that would later result in a distinction symbol for Setwana in her matric in 2012.

“Our knowledge was never lost; it was simply not digitised,” Khumo says. “I feel called to honour the voices of our grandmothers, borakgadi and magosi, by making sure that our stories, customs and wisdom are documented in our own languages.”

Her efforts form part of a broader provincial programme supported by the Department of Science and Innovation, in partnership with traditional authorities and research institutions.

At the core of this work is the systematic documentation of Batswana indigenous knowledge, including traditional healing practices and plant-based medicine, oral histories and praise poetry (lobolo, dithoko and difela), and indigenous food security systems.

What makes Khumo’s work unique is her community-based approach. Rather than extracting information, she works collaboratively with elders, traditional leaders and local youth. Her motto, “Moseka phofu yaabo ga a swe lentswe”, reflects her belief that indigenous knowledge must remain in the hands of those who live it. “As a Motswana grandchild, I carry the responsibility of protecting our ways,” she says. “Women have always been the silent archives of our traditions through song, storytelling, nutrition and healing. Now we are becoming the authors too.”

Inspiring a new generation

Her leadership has inspired a new generation of young IKS scholars who are being trained in indigenous research and decolonial scholarship methods under her mentorship. Many see her not just as a scholar, but as a cultural warrior, preserving identity in an age of globalisation.

“She has made us proud to be ambassadors of IKS, and always emphasises the need for us to commodify intellectual property embedded in our indigenous knowledge” says Bokamoso Nkunyane, a student under Khumo’s mentorship and herself a published author and poet.

Quinton, a fourth-year B.IKS student under her mentorship, adds: “She’s teaching us that meta-science is embedded in our culture and our elders’ knowledge.”

In honour of Africa Day, which celebrates the richness and diversity of African heritage, Khumo reminds us that IKS are not relics of the past but blueprints for the future. Her work reinforces that African solutions to African problems already exist within our communities, whether in data management and cybersecurity, healthcare access, conflict resolution, governance, social cohesion and moral regeneration, and climate change.

Khumo Feni

TELIT-SA and FEMS ignite dialogue on E-Learning and AI with Dr Badrul Khan

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 29 May 2025 06:02:12 +0000

TELIT-SA and FEMS ignite dialogue on E-Learning and AI with Dr Badrul Khan

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 05/29/2025 - 08:02

In a landmark session that brought together forward-thinking academics and institutional leaders, the Technology Enhanced Learning and Innovative Training and Education in South Africa (TELIT-SA), based within the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (FEMS) at the North-West University (NWU), hosted internationally acclaimed e-learning pioneer Dr Badrul Khan for a powerful conversation on the future of education in a digital age.

Titled “Reimagining E-Learning and AI in Higher Education”, the hybrid session, held both in-person at the Potchefstroom Campus and online via Zoom, delved into the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation in reshaping teaching and learning at the tertiary level.

Widely regarded as the father of modern e-learning and president of McWeadon Education, Dr Khan introduced participants to his 8-Dimension e-Learning Framework, a globally respected model that supports the strategic development and implementation of effective online and blended learning environments. He also led a dynamic dialogue on how AI can be harnessed within these frameworks to enhance, not replace, human-centred teaching.

“We are not merely digitising content. We are redefining how learners engage, reflect, and grow,” said Dr Khan. “AI, when used ethically and purposefully, has the potential to support educators in creating deeply personalised and responsive learning journeys.”

Prof Liandi van den Berg, director of TELIT-SA, highlighted the pivotal role of AI in advancing adaptive, student-focused learning models.

“We are witnessing a shift from static content delivery to dynamic, personalised learning ecosystems,” she said. “The key question is how to integrate AI meaningfully and responsibly into curricula. Dr Khan’s model offers a critical framework for doing just that – enabling institutions to adopt blended learning while balancing innovation with inclusivity.”

Prof Herman van der Merwe, deputy dean for teaching and learning in the faculty, emphasised that Dr Khan’s engagement with TELIT-SA underscores the faculty’s broader mission.

“Our goal is to empower lecturers – especially in the field of commerce – with research-informed, inclusive, and innovative practices that meet the evolving needs of our students and society,” said Prof van der Merwe. “As South African higher education responds to the demands of the digital age, engagements like this help guide us toward building sustainable, agile, and impactful learning environments.”

The event forms part of TELIT-SA’s ongoing initiatives to promote research-driven digital teaching innovation, with a strong focus on AI integration, blended learning strategies, and digital literacy within higher education. It also strengthens the university’s position as a thought leader in future-focused pedagogy.