The School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management at the North-West University (NWU) continues to make a meaningful difference beyond the classroom through community engagement initiatives that inspire young people to believe in their potential and pursue their dreams.

On 5 August 2026, the school, in partnership with the South African Board for People Practices (SABPP) Student Chapter, visited Matlaba Primary School following an invitation from teacher Melita Molokwane. The initiative was organised to motivate and encourage Grade 7 learners after concerns were raised about declining academic performance and low learner morale.

The community engagement programme was coordinated by Kholiswa Mogoeng, community engagement convener for the School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management. Under her leadership, the programme brought together academics, professionals and students who shared messages of hope, resilience and personal responsibility.

Addressing the learners under the theme “Step by step: building character, achieving excellence”, Donald Molema, a social worker from Student Counselling and Development, emphasised the importance of character in achieving long-term success.

“Strong character leads to lasting success,” he told the learners, encouraging them to make responsible choices, practise self-discipline, respect others and seek support whenever they face personal or social challenges. He reminded them that resilience, honesty, integrity and perseverance are essential building blocks for both academic achievement and personal growth.

Dr Deborah Mokgojwa followed with an inspiring message titled “Dream big, work hard and never give up”. Encouraging learners to look beyond their current circumstances, she reminded them that their future is shaped by the choices they make today.

She urged learners to remain committed to their education, emphasising that dedication, consistency and hard work can open doors to opportunities regardless of their background.

The importance of creating safe learning environments was highlighted by Dr Thatoyaone Modisenyane, who addressed bullying, substance abuse and their impact on academic performance. He encouraged learners to reject negative influences, report incidents of bullying and build a culture of kindness, respect and mutual support in their school community.

Closing the programme, Phemelo Manhique reinforced the key messages of the day by encouraging learners to dream boldly, remain disciplined and make positive life choices. He reminded them that determination, perseverance and respect for others are essential ingredients for success.

As programme director, Kholiswa challenged the learners to become disciplined, respectful and responsible members of both their school and their community. Drawing from her own journey as a product of a public school, she encouraged learners not to allow their circumstances to define their future.

“It is possible to become someone in life. You do not need to attend a private school to become a lawyer, a medical doctor or any other professional. You do not need to come from a wealthy family to attend university. What you need is determination, discipline, hard work and the courage to believe in yourself.”

The programme reflected the commitment of the university to empowering communities through education while creating opportunities for students and staff to make a positive social impact.

The school acknowledged the invaluable contribution of the SABPP Student Chapter, honours and master's-degree students, academic assistants and staff members from the School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management, whose dedication ensured the success of the initiative.

Special appreciation was also extended to Dr Dorcas Lesenyeho, deputy director of the school, for her unwavering support of community engagement initiatives, and to Lydia Mokgosi, the school administrator, for coordinating the preparation of promotional materials and refreshments.

The school further expressed its gratitude to Tshegofatso Molemane and the Department of Nursing for providing transport, enabling the team to travel to Matlaba Primary School and successfully deliver the outreach programme.

Concluding the event, Kholiswa reminded everyone that nurturing the next generation requires a collective effort.

“It takes a village to raise a child. When parents, teachers, the university and the community work together, we create an environment in which every child has the opportunity to succeed.”

Through initiatives such as this, the NWU continues to demonstrate its commitment to community engagement by inspiring young people, strengthening schools and contributing to the development of resilient, confident and future-ready citizens.