South Africa’s struggle to contain the spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is exposing a deeper problem than the outbreak itself. The country’s response remains firmly state-led, yet the state’s capacity to execute that response is increasingly in doubt.
When graduates apply their knowledge to solve real-world challenges, the results can be transformational, according to Prof. Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of North-West University (NWU).
According to North-West University (NWU) principal and vice-chancellor Prof. Bismark Tyobeka higher education institutions have a role to play in supporting governance reform at local municipalities - many of which are in disarray.
The NWU Eagles are flying high as they prepare to face UP Tuks in what promises to be a thrilling Varsity Cup final on Monday night.
Siviwe Tyobeka steps onto the stage at the Sanlam Auditorium. She walks with calm confidence, but behind it is a journey filled with effort and growth.
The nuclear sector remains an important economic growth driver that can support job creation, skills development and industrial expansion in South Africa, according to North-West University (NWU) principal and vice-chancellor Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka.
The role of nuclear science in energy security, skills development and national partnerships took centre stage when the North-West University (NWU) hosted its Nuclear Alumni Engagement in Sandton, bringing together graduates, industry leaders, government representatives and academics to strengthen collaboration in the sector.
Sunflowers stretching towards the sky and rows of green maize plants swaying in the breeze set the tone for a day rooted in growth, learning and possibility at Pienaarskamp Farm.
The North-West University (NWU) reaffirmed its commitment to internationalisation on 23 March 2026 by engaging in high-level discussions with the National University of Science and Technology MISIS in Moscow, aiming to expand its global academic and research footprint.
The engagement brought together senior academic and strategic leadership from both institutions, as well as representatives from the Department of Higher Education and Training, to explore areas of mutual interest. Discussions focused strongly on mining, materials science, engineering and emerging technologies.
Representatives from MISIS delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the university’s academic programmes and research strengths, including Mining Geology, Advanced Metallic and Materials Engineering, and Science and Materials of Solar Energy. The highlighted priority research areas included mining, metallurgy, materials science, biomedicine, and quantum technologies.
Dr Masamba Kah emphasised the institution’s commitment to high-impact research and noted its established collaborations with universities in South Africa. He expressed a clear interest in extending this network through formal collaboration with NWU.
NWU provided an institutional overview led by Ntsikie Kote-Nkomo, executive director for strategy and strategic projects (NWU), who outlined the university’s strategic priorities, research focus areas and its role in advancing socio-economic development.
Further academic engagement included a presentation by Dr Sihe Nhleko, director: Centre for Sustainable Mining, Faculty of Engineering (NWU), who detailed the work of NWU’s mining within the Faculty of Engineering, highlighting research outputs, training programmes and potential areas for collaboration, particularly in mining innovation and skills development.
The meeting was also attended by Professor Liezl van Dyk, executive dean of the Faculty of Engineering (NWU), and Professor Carlos Bezuidenhout, director of the Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management (NWU), who contributed to discussions on interdisciplinary collaboration. Prof. Bezuidenhout emphasised the importance of including agriculture in the partnership, citing its relevance to both research and socio-economic development.
Discussions also explored opportunities in nuclear science, an area aligned with the expertise of Professor Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor (NWU). Nuclear science was identified as a potential area for advanced research collaboration and capacity development.
Exploring international partnerships that matter
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and universities are central to solving South Africa’s skills crisis, bridging the gap between practical training and academic knowledge to drive economic growth.
It is within this context that the North-West University (NWU) and Vuselela TVET College held high-level talks on 23 March 2026, setting the stage for a strategic partnership aimed at reshaping skills development, strengthening research collaboration and expanding socio-economic impact.
Leading the engagement were NWU principal and vice-chancellor, Prof. Bismark Tyobeka, and Vuselela TVET College principal Priscilla Lehoko. The discussions focused on how the two institutions can combine their strengths to respond more effectively to the country’s urgent skills shortages.
Prof. Tyobeka made it clear that collaboration is no longer optional, but essential.
“We are intentional about building collaborative frameworks that respond to national priorities,” he said. “We are also able to direct resources from our budgets to support infrastructure upgrades where possible, ensuring that partnerships such as this one lead to real outcomes.”
He stressed that stronger alignment between universities and TVET colleges could unlock new postgraduate pathways while directly addressing the shortage of skilled artisans.
“There is a clear gap in skills, especially in artisan development,” Prof. Tyobeka said. “By formalising relationships and identifying priority areas, we can work together to close these gaps.”
He also pointed to the NWU’s planned School of Mines and Mining Engineering as a key opportunity, highlighting the critical role TVET colleges play in producing the technical skills required by the mining sector.
Speaking from a TVET perspective, Priscilla said the partnership could be a turning point in strengthening research and innovation capacity.
“Research and innovation are areas where universities can provide important support,” she said. “Our focus remains on technical skills development, and working with the NWU would strengthen our efforts.”
She highlighted the urgent need to expand student exposure to occupational programmes and improve employability through stronger partnerships. Infrastructure challenges, along with declining participation in mathematics and science, remain pressing concerns.
Ntsikie Kote-Nkomo, executive director for strategy and strategic projects, brought a broader economic lens to the discussion, calling for collaboration that directly responds to industry and value-chain demands.
“We must continue asking what our economy needs and how we respond together,” she said. “Entrepreneurship is still underdeveloped, and we need to position it not only as an alternative to employment, but as a driver of economic participation.”
She pointed to the NWU’s growing entrepreneurship ecosystem as a platform that could support high-performing TVET students and artisans, while also calling for greater recognition of TVET institutions' role in the economy.
The conversation also opened the door to broader partnerships, including collaborations with local municipalities to strengthen service delivery by improving technical skills pipelines.
Nkosinathi Tom, director for strategic partnerships, highlighted existing connections between student leadership structures at the two institutions and proposed formalising these engagements, including opportunities for Vuselela student leaders to participate in the NWU’s Student Leadership Academy.
Both institutions agreed that formalising the partnership would unlock structured collaboration across key areas, including skills development, infrastructure support, entrepreneurship, and student development.
Strengthening pathways for the next generation
The principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka, recently participated in the Nuclear Forum at the Africa Energy Indaba, one of the premier platforms on the continent for dialogue on energy security, policy and innovation.
The Africa Energy Indaba brings together policymakers, energy experts, academics and industry leaders from across Africa and beyond to deliberate on sustainable energy solutions that can drive economic development while addressing the growing energy demands of the continent.
Prof. Tyobeka’s participation in the Nuclear Forum underscores the ongoing commitment of the NWU to contributing to national and continental discussions on energy sustainability, innovation and skills development.
Nuclear energy and socio-economic development
During the forum, Prof. Tyobeka highlighted the significant socio-economic impact that nuclear energy development could have for South Africa and the African continent.
“The development of a robust nuclear energy programme presents a major opportunity for socio-economic advancement. It has the potential to create thousands of high-tech jobs across multiple disciplines, including engineers, welders and technicians,” said Prof. Tyobeka.
He emphasised that nuclear infrastructure investment could stimulate broader economic growth across the value chain.
“The economic multiplier effect of nuclear energy is substantial. Every rand invested in nuclear development generates significant returns across the economy, strengthening local industries and contributing meaningfully to gross domestic product.”
Prof. Tyobeka also emphasised the importance of ensuring that the transition towards new energy technologies is inclusive and fair.
“A just transition must remain central to our energy planning. As the energy sector evolves, we must ensure that workers currently employed in coal-based industries are supported and empowered to transition into emerging sectors such as nuclear energy. No one should be left behind.”
A sovereign energy future
In concluding his remarks, Prof. Tyobeka reflected on the strategic importance of nuclear energy in strengthening the long-term energy security and technological independence of South Africa.
“The nuclear future of South Africa should be built on a balanced, multi-vendor and multi-site approach that strengthens energy security while building local capabilities and skills,” he said.
He concluded with a strong call to action for policymakers, industry and academia to work together to address energy poverty through sustainable and advanced energy technologies.
“Winning the fight against energy poverty through the peaceful atom must remain a shared national priority.”
Prof. Tyobeka’s participation in the Africa Energy Indaba highlights the role of the NWU in contributing thought leadership to critical national conversations, while reinforcing the importance of collaboration between academia, government and industry in shaping Africa’s energy future.
Prof. Bismark Tyobeka delivers his presentation at the Nuclear Forum of the Africa Energy Indaba.
Koeberg’s latest milestone shows why nuclear power remains central to South Africa’s energy future.
Koeberg’s performance suggests Eskom may be rebuilding the public confidence it once lost.
As the only operational nuclear plant in Africa, Koeberg continues to anchor the continent’s nuclear energy ambitions.
Koeberg Nuclear Power Station.
Image source: https://www.eskom.co.za
This week, Unit 2 of Eskom’s Koeberg Nuclear Power Station marked 365 days of uninterrupted operation. During this period, Unit 2 supplied about 946 MW to the national grid while achieving a 99.4% Energy Availability Factor.
According to Prof. Bismark Tyobeka, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), this is an achievement worth recognising. It not only demonstrates South Africa’s readiness to pursue its nuclear energy goals outlined in the 2025 Integrated Resource Plan, but also cements the country’s reputation as the continent’s nuclear energy leader.
Prof. Tyobeka is the former CEO of the National Nuclear Regulator and chairperson of the Ministerial Expert Panel on Nuclear.
“The uninterrupted operation of Unit 2 at the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station for 365 days provides reassurance and living proof that nuclear energy is a reliable, clean baseload source of electricity generation. It demonstrates that the decision to include nuclear power in the Integrated Resource Plan was a sound one, grounded in scientific and technical analysis.
“It also shows that, as a nation, we can transition our ageing coal power stations through the deployment of nuclear technologies such as small modular reactors without compromising the baseload stability of our electricity system. With nuclear energy in the mix, the nation’s grid can be supported by a stable and reliable supply of electricity, operating around the clock, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,” Prof. Tyobeka said.
He added that the milestone has another important implication:
“At the same time, this achievement demonstrates that the Eskom team has begun to restore the confidence that the nation had lost in them. Their performance at Koeberg shows that we have engineers and technicians with the necessary expertise and capability to play a central role in a future nuclear new build programme in South Africa.”
Koeberg’s success also bodes well for the country’s future ambitions.
“Koeberg has once again shown that we have the nuclear capacity and capability to help stabilise our electricity grid. This is so important if we look at our industrialisation goals and the establishment of trade corridors that rely on this stability. We must be honest about the mistakes Eskom has made, but we must also give credit where it is due and Koeberg’s sustained delivery should be lauded,” he said.
Prof. Tyobeka also noted how South Africa is currently the only country on the continent producing grid electricity from a commercial nuclear power station, with Egypt’s El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant the only other commercial nuclear plant currently under construction on the continent. Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and Rwanda are all in different stages of nuclear regulatory and programme development.
Prof. Tyobeka said: “We have set an example for the rest of Africa to follow. Now we must continue to lead. Koeberg has shown that we can.”
There was a calm sense of purpose at North-West University (NWU) as a high-level delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia arrived to explore future collaboration. Warm greetings were exchanged, discussions began with focus and intent and a shared optimism demonstrated the significance of the moment.
The visit, led by His Excellency Soliman Abdullah Alhomidan, Commercial Attaché of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to South Africa and representative of the General Authority for Foreign Trade, sought to explore potential strategic collaborations between the NWU and leading Saudi universities and industry partners.
The discussions form part of broader engagements aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reform agenda. , which has placed strong emphasis on higher education, healthcare innovation, mining development and digital transformation.
For the NWU, the visit represented more than an official engagement, it was an important step in strengthening global partnerships with tangible impact.
Welcoming the delegation, Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, expressed appreciation for their direct engagement.
“We value the effort to come and see us,” he said. “At the NWU, we are always looking for new ways to expand, but we do not pursue expansion for its own sake. We expand where we can make a meaningful impact.”
Prof. Awie Kotzé, executive dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, highlighted the potential in the university’s developing medical school. He spoke about shared opportunities in clinical training, health sciences research, and specialised fields such as sports medicine, noting that partnerships with well-resourced institutions can enhance capacity on both sides.
In mining and engineering, Prof. Liezl van Dyk, executive dean of the Faculty of Engineering, described the potential collaboration as a significant opportunity to address the complex challenges currently facing the mining and mineral beneficiation sectors. The planned School of Mines and Mining Engineering could benefit significantly from joint research, scholarships, and industry engagement with experienced partners.
The Saudi delegation spoke openly and proudly about the changes that their country has made over the past 10 years. They shared how they have improved in areas such as infrastructure, digital systems and research. The delegation expressed strong interest in partnering with institutions that combine academic excellence with industry relevance.
The morning concluded with a shared lunch, where conversations continued in a lighter, warm atmosphere. Before that, Prof. Tyobeka took the opportunity to highlight a cause close to his heart: the urgent need for more veterinary students in South Africa.
“South Africa faces significant challenges in veterinary care and in training sufficient numbers of professionals,” he said. “I hope that through collaborations like these, we can create opportunities for students to study veterinary science and, in the process, make a real difference for people and animals across the country.”
Silvanus Welcome, director for development and fundraising, summed up the day in a way that truly captured its spirit. He emphasised that that partnerships are not defined by agreements alone, but by sustained collaboration that delivers measurable societal benefit.
The North-West University (NWU) is proud to announce the appointment of internationally acclaimed marathon champion, Tete Dijana, as a protection officer at its Mahikeng Campus, effective 1 April 2026.
Tete, a three-time Comrades Marathon champion, has become a symbol of endurance, discipline, humility and excellence in South Africa and beyond. His remarkable athletic achievements have inspired millions, and his journey reflects resilience and determination of the highest order.
The principal and vice-chancellor, Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka, welcomed Tete to the NWU community.
“We are deeply honoured to welcome Tete to the NWU family. His appointment reflects our belief that excellence is not confined to titles or accolades, but is embodied in character, discipline and service. Tete’s presence at our Mahikeng Campus has and will continue to inspire both staff and students, reminding us that greatness and humility can walk hand in hand.”
The appointment is testament to the NWU’s commitment to recognising and embracing individuals who exemplify the university’s core values of responsibility, integrity, accountability and perseverance.
While Tete’s achievements on the international athletics stage have brought immense pride to the nation, his new role affirms the dignity of work and the university’s appreciation for every member of its community who contributes to a safe and enabling learning environment.
Prof. Tyobeka further noted that: “Protection officers are the custodians of safety on our campuses. They are often the first point of contact for students and visitors. To have an individual of his stature join this critical function is both a privilege and a powerful statement about service and community.”
Prof. Tyobeka also emphasised that endurance and excellence are not values reserved for the athletics arena alone, but are foundational to the life of an academic institution.
“Universities, like marathon runners, operate in the realm of endurance. Academic success requires sustained focus, intellectual stamina, resilience in the face of complexity, and the courage to pursue excellence over the long distance. Tete’s journey mirrors the discipline, perseverance and consistency that define scholarly achievement. His presence among us symbolises the alignment between athletic endurance and academic excellence — both demand commitment, sacrifice and an unwavering pursuit of purpose.”
While Tete is employed as a protection officer, the NWU would, without doubt, leverage on his athletics skills and experience, and involve him in the development of student athletes for high-performance sport especially athletics.
The NWU looks forward to formally welcoming him when he assumes his duties on 1 April 2026.
Tete Dijana and Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka
The North-West University (NWU) is positioning itself at the forefront of South Africa’s evolving mining landscape, with a strategic focus on critical minerals, smart mining technologies and sustainable sector development. Through the establishment and expansion of its School of Mines and Mining Engineering, the University is aligning its academic, research and partnership agenda with national and global priorities in mineral security, industrialisation and economic resilience.
By Letlotlo Lebeko
This vision was underscored when Prof. Bismark Tyobeka, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), engaged with industry leaders and policymakers at the Investing in African Mining Indaba in Cape Town from 09 to 11 February 2026. Reflecting on the engagement, he emphasised that platforms of this nature serve as catalysts for the kind of strategic networking and collaboration that directly support the NWU School of Mines and Mining Engineering’s broader ambitions to become a key contributor to the future of mining in South Africa and beyond.
The Mining Indaba focused on several themes, including critical minerals, infrastructure and industrialisation, and investment. Prof. Tyobeka highlighted that the topic of critical minerals generated robust discussion, with key questions such as: “What is the definition of a critical mineral?”, “What is the definition of a strategic mineral?” and “What is the difference between the two?” While there was no standard definition of either term, Prof. Tyobeka emphasised that “the consensus was that we were talking about the same thing. These terms mean different things to different people.”
“The USA prioritises its defence systems; therefore, what is a strategic mineral to them will be one used in the manufacturing of weapons and in associated technologies. For South Africa, strategic minerals are those that anchor our economic development — minerals such as platinum, gold and coal, which we can use as ‘bargaining chips’ in trade tariff negotiations, for example. If you look at Europe, what is critical to them is advancing their technology, and they invest heavily in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. In China, strategic minerals are those that sustain development, large-scale industrialisation and advanced manufacturing, and minerals that can advance their geopolitical foothold, where they barter with other countries to strengthen investments and partnerships.”
The Vice-Chancellor indicated that the role of the NWU School of Mines and Mining Engineering would be “to unearth undiscovered gems that are critical minerals in South Africa and break new ground on the different uses of these minerals; therefore making NWU a critical asset for the country’s future economic advancement and positioning us as a key stakeholder in the economic development agenda”.
Regarding the manner in which the NWU would leverage platforms such as the Mining Indaba to build strategic partnerships, attract research funding and drive innovation, Prof. Tyobeka highlighted that, when considering the entire mining industry value chain, partnerships with Mintek and other research bodies such as the Council for Geoscience would advance the discovery of more minerals and make these minerals more attractive to investors. Moreover, the NWU School of Mines’ research capacity would help fill gaps in the resource databases of these research bodies. “The School of Mines will open pathways for multifaceted partnerships, both locally and globally,” added Prof. Tyobeka.
The NWU School of Mines and Mining Engineering is expected to ensure that its academic programmes develop future-ready graduates. Prof. Tyobeka is of the view that the School must demonstrate that the economy can continue to benefit from the mining sector in a sustainable manner. Considering the skills gap that exists in the sector, the workforce needs to be trained in smart mining practices without hindering day-to-day business operations.
“We do not plan to simply produce miners; we plan to develop thought leaders and industry captains. Supporting entities of the NWU, such as the Unit for Continuing Education (UCE) and the Business School, will help address these skills gaps by providing short learning programmes (SLPs) and other related skills development initiatives.”
Looking ahead 10 to 20 years, what legacy does Prof. Tyobeka hope the NWU School of Mines and Mining Engineering will leave for the North West province and for South Africa?
“Firstly, in 10 years, students from the North West province will have the opportunity to study in their home province, be employed there, and contribute to the development and growth of their communities. That, to me, is a legacy. Secondly, the existence of the School of Mines in this significant mining complex of our country — the North West province, in towns such as Rustenburg — will help address the critical issue of mine safety. It will ensure reduced levels of mine-related deaths by developing a highly skilled workforce capable of absorbing smart mining technologies. Lastly, I hope that the NWU School of Mines will serve as a vehicle through which communities receive awareness about responsible and sustainable mining. The School will be at the centre of advocating sustainable mining practices, supporting the revitalisation of mines and mining communities, while simultaneously taking those communities along on the journey.”
It is safe to say that the NWU School of Mines and Mining Engineering is set to become a cornerstone of sustainable mining, innovation and community empowerment in South Africa’s mining future.
A renewed sense of focus and institutional purpose marked the official opening of the 2026 academic year at the North-West University (NWU) on Friday, 13 February.
The ceremony, broadcast live from the Potchefstroom Campus to Mahikeng and Vanderbijlpark, signalled not only the start of lectures and registrations, but also served as a reaffirmation of the commitment of the university to excellence, transformation and societal impact.
Proceedings began with a formal welcome by the vice-principal and senior deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning, Prof. Linda du Plessis, who set a tone of unity across the three campuses of the institution. She emphasised shared responsibility and collaboration in navigating the complex realities facing higher education.
A solemn moment of silence followed, grounding the event in reflection and shared humanity. The gesture underscored a culture of compassion and collective accountability, reminding staff and students that academic achievement rests on community, dignity and mutual respect.
The principal and vice-chancellor, Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka, formally declared the 2026 academic year open, greeting audiences across Mahikeng, Potchefstroom and Vanderbijlpark in multiple languages to reinforce the vision of “One University”.
Reflecting on 2025, he described the year as demanding but productive, commending staff for concluding the academic cycle with integrity and ensuring readiness for the new term. “Resilience and adaptability define who we are as an institution,” he said. “Even when circumstances shift, our mission remains steadfast.”
The vice-chancellor highlighted the extraordinary demand for higher education in South Africa, revealing that the NWU had received more than 480 000 applications for 2026. The figure reflects both confidence in the institution and the aspirations of young South Africans seeking opportunities. However, he pointed out the broader systemic challenge: public universities collectively can accommodate only a fraction of qualified applicants each year.
Within these constraints, 11 800 first-year spaces had been allocated across the three campuses. The allocation demonstrates growth while simultaneously exposing the capacity pressures confronting the higher education sector.
Student funding and financial processes remain critical priorities. Prof. Tyobeka acknowledged challenges arising from delayed national funding guidelines and financial clearance systems. In response, the university had implemented extended registration deadlines, operational financial registration committees and targeted internal bursary support for students in need.
A significant announcement during the address was the introduction of a full-cost bursary scheme for academically deserving honours degree, master’s degree and doctoral students from households earning below R600 000 annually. The initiative strengthens postgraduate access and reinforces institutional commitment to equity and academic progression. “Our institutional promise remains clear and unwavering. It all starts here,” Prof. Tyobeka said.
The vice-chancellor also noted further developments and milestones.
Infrastructure development continues apace, with projects of R2,27 billion currently being implemented. These projects include new medical school facilities, enhanced student support centres, upgraded residences and expanded digital systems aimed at modernising the academic environment and improving operational efficiency.
Globally, the NWU maintained its position in the 801 – 1 000 band in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings among more than 2 000 universities worldwide. Strong subject performances in Law, Psychology, Medical and Health Sciences, Arts and Humanities, and Business and Economics reflect sustained academic momentum.
In a notable milestone, the university became the first in South Africa to adopt a formal artificial intelligence policy approved by Council, positioning it at the forefront of responsible AI integration in higher education.
Looking ahead to 2026, strategic priorities include establishing a School of Mines and Mining Engineering, advancing the Desmond Tutu Medical School, expanding Veterinary Sciences and strengthening entrepreneurship and international partnerships. Emphasis was also placed on staff well-being, employment equity and upskilling to ensure a future-ready workforce.
Following the formal opening, long service awards ceremonies were held across campuses to honour employees who have dedicated many years to the institution. The celebrations recognised loyalty, institutional memory and sustained contribution, highlighting the individuals whose commitment underpins stability and growth.
NWU principal and vice-chancellor, Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka, formally declares the 2026 academic year open.
The inaugural 2026 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings for the sub-Saharan Africa region place the North-West University (NWU) among the top seven institutions in the region.
This latest impressive performance in the rankings follows as the NWU, guided by its strategy of Taking the NWU forward: 2024 and beyond, continues to strengthen its position as a globally engaged, research-intensive and socially responsive institution with an impactful presence in Africa. The result shows how the strategic priorities of the university are translating into measurable impact across the higher-education landscape.
The QS World University Rankings for sub-Saharan Africa underscore the standing of the university among the leading institutions in both regional and international contexts. QS published this new ranking on 12 February 2026.
According to QS, the 2026 edition of the rankings includes 69 institutions across 21 African locations. In South Africa, 14 universities were evaluated. The NWU achieved an overall score of 80, positioning it firmly among the best-performing institutions in the region.
The NWU delivered particularly strong performances in several key indicators. The university achieved a score of 97,2 for its international research network, 95 for sustainability, and 93 for citations per paper. More solid performances include an employer reputation score of 72 and an academic reputation score of 66,1.
In the QS Global World University Rankings published in June last year, QS placed the NWU among the top eight universities in South Africa and among the top 16 in Africa. The global rankings encompassed 1 501 universities across 105 locations worldwide.
Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, says the 2026 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings for the sub-Saharan Africa region clearly shows the growing reputation of the NWU and its impact in the region. He believes that this standing will further be cemented with the new initiatives by the NWU such as the establishment and proposed establishment of future-fit academic schools, including the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine, the School of Mines and Mining Engineering, and the School of Veterinary Sciences. These and other cross-sectoral projects reinforce the emphasis of the university on internationalisation, partnerships and societal impact.
For more information about the continued strong performance of the NWU in global rankings, visit www.nwu.ac.za/rankings. To learn more about the QS World University Rankings for sub-Saharan Africa, visit: https://www.qs.com/insights/qs-world-university-rankings-sub-saharan-af…
The vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka, is representing the university at the 2026 Investing in African Mining Indaba, taking place from 9 to 12 February at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
As one of the most significant events on the global mining calendar, the Mining Indaba serves as a premier platform to showcase the expertise of South Africa in sustainable and innovative mining. This event attracts international investors, policymakers, mining executives and industry leaders, creating strategic opportunities for collaboration and investment in the sector.
Prof. Tyobeka’s participation underscores the commitment of the NWU in playing a transformative role in the mining future of South Africa. Central to this vision is the establishment of the NWU School of Mines and Mining Engineering, including a dedicated campus in Rustenburg, a region at the heart of the country’s mining activity.
“It is an honour to attend the Mining Indaba, representing the North-West University as we articulate a transformative vision for mining education at a national level,” said Prof. Tyobeka.
“During this important event, I am engaging with distinguished industry leaders and stakeholders to champion the establishment of the NWU School of Mines and Mining Engineering. This strategic initiative stands as a priority for our university and aligns seamlessly with the ambition of our nation to advance the mining sector as a fundamental driver of economic growth.”
The proposed School of Mines and Mining Engineering aims to bridge the gap between higher education and the mining industry by cultivating a highly skilled workforce equipped to meet the evolving demands of the sector. With sustainability, technological innovation and responsible mining practices at its core, the school will focus on cutting-edge research, industry-aligned curricula and partnerships that drive socio-economic development.
The mining sector in South Africa remains a cornerstone of the national economy. However, it faces complex challenges, including the need for digital transformation, environmental stewardship, community engagement and the integration of advanced technologies. The new initiative of the NWU seeks to respond directly to these challenges by producing graduates who are not only technically proficient but also socially conscious and innovation-driven.
“Cultivating a skilled workforce and promoting innovative research and development will enable us to position our country as a leader in the global mining landscape,” Prof. Tyobeka added. “Through collaboration, we have the opportunity to create
sustainable pathways for our students and effect meaningful change in this vital industry.”
By engaging with global stakeholders at Mining Indaba 2026, the NWU is positioning itself as a key academic partner in shaping the future of mining education in South Africa and on the continent. The Rustenburg Campus will serve as a strategic hub, strengthening ties between academia, the industry and local communities, while contributing to regional development and transformation.
As discussions at the Mining Indaba focus on sustainable investment, technological innovation and responsible resource development, the vision of the NWU for its School of Mines and Mining Engineering aligns closely with national priorities and the broader agenda of sustainable development.
Prof. Tyobeka concluded: “I eagerly anticipate sharing insights and updates as we work together towards a prosperous future for mining in our nation.”
Through bold leadership and strategic partnerships, the NWU continues to advance its mission of academic excellence, societal impact and industry relevance reinforcing its role in driving the economic and developmental aspirations of South Africa.
Prof. Bismark Tyobeka with Patrice Motsepe, mining magnate and businessman.Minister of Trade Industry and Competition, Parks Tau with NWU VC Prof. Bismark Tyobeka and Mining magnate and businessman Patrice Motsepe
The North-West University (NWU) recently hosted the deputy minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, and officials from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), along with representatives from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), as part of a national assessment of the readiness of universities for the 2026 academic year.
The visit took place on 6 February at the Potchefstroom Campus of the NWU and formed part of the State of Readiness programme of the DHET. This programme monitors higher-education institutions across the country, with a specific focus on areas such as first-year registration processes, student accommodation and funding-related challenges.
During the visit, the NWU management and staff presented a comprehensive operational readiness briefing. The presentations covered key areas, including NSFAS-related matters, student access, campus safety and registration processes. The visit highlighted the systems and plans that are in place to support students at the start of this academic year.
Deputy minister Gondwe also engaged directly with students and staff and toured several campus facilities. These included the NWU Science Centre and the construction site of the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine, and the Protection Services of the university also received a visit. During the tour, she had the opportunity to meet and address students to hear first-hand about their experiences of the admission and registration process.
She expressed her appreciation for the quality of the infrastructure and facilities at the university and commended the NWU for its readiness efforts. The deputy minister further offered the support of the DHET to the institution in its preparations.
Prof. Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, welcomed the visit, noting that it offered an important opportunity to show the planning and governance processes of the university. He reaffirmed the focus of the institution on ensuring a smooth start to the 2026 academic year.
“We are ready for the 2026 academic year,” he said. “Our priority remains creating an enabling environment for teaching, learning and research.”
Prof. Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor, welcomes Dr Mimmy Gondwe, deputy minister of Higher Education and Training.
Prof. Linda du Plessis, senior deputy vice-chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, deputy minister of Higher Education and Training, and Prof. Bismark Tyobeka.
Today, the North-West University (NWU) and JB Marks Local Municipality held a strategic engagement aimed at deepening cooperation and advancing shared developmental priorities within the municipal area.
The meeting, hosted at the NWU Potchefstroom Campus, brought together senior leadership from both institutions to reflect on existing collaborations and to chart a forward-looking programme of action that responds to the social and economic needs of local communities.
Central to the discussions was the implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NWU and JB Marks Local Municipality. The MoU provides a structured framework for cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including safety and security, infrastructure development and maintenance, research and innovation, skills development, economic growth initiatives, agricultural advancement, water and sanitation, capacity building, and programmes addressing gender-based violence and femicide.
Speaking after the engagement, the Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the NWU , Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka emphasised the NWUs commitment to being a society-centric university that partners meaningfully with government and communities to address real-world challenges.
“This partnership underscores our continued commitment to improve the quality of life for NWU staff, students, and the broader JB Marks community ,” added Prof. Tyobeka. “Through joint initiatives, knowledge exchange and targeted community programmes, we are determined to contribute positively to sustainable development within JB Marks Municipality and beyond.”
The Municipality welcomed the collaboration, noting the value of aligning municipal priorities with academic expertise and innovation.
“This partnership enables us to leverage the intellectual and technical resources of the university to strengthen service delivery and accelerate local development,” Executive Mayor of the J.B. Marks Municipality, Councillor Gaba Thithiba Ka Qhele stated. “Working together, we can build capacity, create opportunities, and deliver tangible benefits to our communities.”
Both parties agreed to establish a Joint Technical Team to oversee the implementation of agreed projects, monitor progress, and ensure measurable outcomes. Regular engagements will be held to review priorities and assess impact.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to translate the partnership into practical programmes that promote inclusive growth, social cohesion, and improved service delivery for the residents of JB Marks.
NWU and JB Marks Local Municipality unite for community impact.