Vice-chancellor news

Mining the future: The NWU’s leap into critical minerals and smart mining MOIRA MULLER Thu, 02/19/2026 - 09:41

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.

Prof. Bismark Tyobeka
Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the North-West University

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.

 

NWU opens 2026 academic year with renewed vision and purpose by Zenoyise John BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 02/16/2026 - 12:22

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.

QS ranks the NWU among the top 7 in sub-Saharan Africa BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 02/12/2026 - 13:05

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…

NWU vice-chancellor champions new School of Mines and Mining Engineering at Mining Indaba 2026 by Oscar Mosiane BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 02/12/2026 - 09:04

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 NWU highlights its readiness for the 2026 academic year during visit by deputy minister BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 02/06/2026 - 15:11

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.

 

NWU and JB Marks Local Municipality strengthen partnership for community impact BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 02/05/2026 - 15:34

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. 

Why the maths behind matric pass rates do not add up by Bertie Jacobs BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 01/27/2026 - 13:25

South Africa’s celebrated matric pass rates do not reflect the reality of a “leaking pipeline” that serves neither the country’s ailing economy nor the future prospects of matriculants.

At the centre of this dilemma is what might be called a pass-rate hostage crisis. Schools, under pressure to maintain high headline results, increasingly steer weaker learners away from gateway subjects, most notably Mathematics, to protect their overall performance figures.

The result is a system that rewards statistical success rather than substantive learning. High pass rates create the impression of progress, even as the pool of pupils equipped with the skills the country desperately needs continues to shrink.

According to Prof. Linda du Plessis, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning at North-West University (NWU), pass rates have become an artificial measure of success, concealing deeper systemic and provincial failures.

“We must be honest: a high pass rate does not necessarily mean that learning has improved deeply and sustainably,” she says.

Prof. du Plessis notes that the reluctance to steer learners towards gateway subjects such as Mathematics, Accounting and Physical Science fails to address the scarce skills the country needs and the areas where job opportunities are most abundant.

“Fewer learners choose Mathematics, and this costs South Africa dearly. It also has serious long-term consequences for economic growth. In 2024, only 6.3% of the matriculation cohort achieved a quality pass in the subject. This places the future of STEM careers - science, technology, engineering and mathematics - under severe pressure.

“The causes are well known: weak foundation skills, low self-confidence, curriculum overload and limited support in overcrowded classrooms. By the time Mathematics becomes optional, many learners abandon it because it feels safer.

“In 2025, 464 public schools did not offer Mathematics at all. These challenges are not reflected in headline pass rates. Without earlier and more effective intervention by the Department of Basic Education, the system continues to deprive learners of future opportunities.”

She adds that subject-choice guidance itself is part of the problem. “As soon as a school comes under pressure, learners are encouraged to change subjects at the first sign of difficulty. This undermines self-esteem and has lasting consequences for post-school careers.”

South Africa’s youth unemployment sharpens the stakes.

“Among young people aged 15 to 24, unemployment stood at 50.3% in 2015. A decade later, it has risen to 62.4%, which is almost two out of every three young people,” Prof. du Plessis explains. “For those aged 25 to 34, the rate has increased from 31.4% to 40.4%, excluding even those who have already tried to gain a foothold in the labour market.”

In 2025, only 34% of candidates wrote Mathematics, with the majority opting for Mathematical Literacy. More learners took Mathematics, yet performance deteriorated: the pass rate fell from 69% in 2024 to 64% in 2025. Accounting declined from 81% to 78%, while Physical Science improved marginally to 77%.

“This confirms that weak foundations in the early grades continue to block access to key gateway subjects such as Mathematics, Physical Science and Accounting,” Prof. du Plessis says. “These subjects determine access to scarce skills and higher education.”

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has echoed this diagnosis, arguing that the real crisis lies not in Grade 12, but in the early years of schooling. Only 42% of children aged four to five are developmentally “on track”, meaning most arrive in Grade 1 already behind.

Just 63,000 learners - less than 7% of the Grade 12 cohort - achieved more than 50% in Mathematics in the most recent year. Only a narrow slice of matriculants, in other words, emerges with strong performance in the subjects that matter most.

Nowhere is the gap between headline success and substantive achievement more visible than in the North West province. In Accounting, the overall pass rate remained superficially strong, yet the share of learners achieving marks above 40% - a more meaningful threshold for further study and workplace readiness - fell from 55.7% in 2024 to just 49.3% in 2025, dropping below the halfway mark. Physical Science tells a similar story: the proportion of candidates reaching 50% or more declined from 28.6% to 24.5% over the same period. Mathematics, the most critical gateway of all, shows the sharpest erosion. In 2024, nearly 30% of learners cleared the 50% threshold. A year later, only 24.8% of the 10,601 candidates who wrote the subject did so. The pattern is consistent across disciplines: pass rates hold, but quality collapses.

The province’s weak system throughput is also a warning sign. With a throughput rate of just 53.6% - the worst in the country - almost one in every two learners who entered Grade 1 in 2014 failed to reach Grade 12, underscoring an education system that is not merely underperforming, but structurally in crisis.

In the North West, the pipeline is not merely leaking, it is quietly emptying.

What, then, is the solution?

According to Prof. Bismark Tyobeka, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of NWU, there is a substantial and growing need for technical and skills-oriented education. Strengthening and elevating the status of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, he argues, is essential.

“These institutions play a central role in supporting economic growth and job creation. South Africa must focus on expanding and improving post-school education and training opportunities, strengthening skills development programmes, and ensuring closer alignment between school subject choices and post-school education and training pathways,” he says.

The post-school system, however, currently reflects what he describes as an “inverted pyramid”.

“A well-functioning system should have a broad base of vocational and technical learners in TVET and community colleges, with fewer students at the narrow peak in academic universities. Instead, South Africa’s universities enrol around 1.07 million students, while TVET colleges serve about 564,000 learners and Community Education and Training colleges around 120,000.

“Together, these vocational and community institutions enrol far fewer learners than the university sector alone.”

This imbalance carries significant labour-market consequences. TVET and vocational pathways are designed to produce the intermediate and technical skills the economy urgently needs. Yet the current distribution continues to favour academic study over practical training.

“Rebalancing the system is essential to address skills shortages, improve employment outcomes and support economic growth,” Prof. Tyobeka says. “Increasing TVET participation, elevating the status of technical education, and aligning learners’ subject choices more closely with labour-market needs would help correct this inverted pyramid. The malfunctioning of the TVET sector remains a major contributing factor.”

The late management theorist Eli Goldratt once observed: “Tell me how you will measure me, and I will tell you how I will behave.” South Africa’s Basic Education system has taken that lesson to heart, and learned the wrong one.

“As long as headline pass rates remain the dominant measure of success, schools will continue to optimise for appearances rather than outcomes. What should matter instead is how many learners emerge with strong performance in gateway subjects, how many progress through the system without falling behind, and how closely subject choices align with the skills the economy actually demands,” says Prof. Tyobeka.

Until those metrics change, the pipeline will continue to leak. The numbers will keep “adding up” on paper, even as the country’s supply of engineers, technicians and skilled professionals quietly runs dry.

South Africa does not suffer from a shortage of certificates. It suffers from a shortage of skills.

 

Prof. Bismark Tyobeka

Prof. Linda du Plessis

Applications and admissions at the North-West University 2026 MOIRA MULLER Wed, 01/21/2026 - 21:33

The North-West University (NWU), a South African public higher education institution, whose policies and rules are governed in accordance with the supreme law of the country – the South African Constitution – has the responsibility and accountability to ensure access and success of students. 

As a public institution, the university recruits and admits qualifying students, regardless of their origin (village/township/town/region), race, religion, or gender.

The applications for admission at the NWU are free of charge for all prospective students.  The above principles apply to staff recruitment and employment. 

Since the release of the Grade 12 results, we have experienced an unprecedented volume of enquiries and requests regarding late applications for the 2026 academic year. Many of these enquiries originate from the Mahikeng and surrounding communities.

We acknowledge the hope, anticipation, and anxiety that accompany this important milestone in the lives of prospective students and their families. Access to higher education represents opportunity, aspiration, and a better future, and we recognise the deep emotional investment attached to these applications.

However, it is important to reiterate the realities governing admissions at all South African public universities. There are limited spaces available for universities including the NWU to admit all students. As communicated previously, we received more than 420 000 applications for the 2026 academic year, while there are only 11 800 spaces available for first-year students across our campuses. As a result, late applications cannot be accommodated under any circumstances. To this end, we will not allow any walk-in enquiries for applications. 

The number of first-year students who can be accepted is guided by enrolment targets approved by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), as well as programme-specific capacity limits and subject requirements. Consequently, some applicants whose results may satisfy the requirements of their preferred degrees/programmes may be unsuccessful in securing admission spaces and applicable criteria.

We are diligently finalising admission decisions in strict accordance with our admission policies, as approved by the NWU Council. This process is conducted with integrity, fairness, and transparency, and is beyond reproach.

We have noted allegations circulating among some interest groups/structures suggesting that preference is being given to applicants from outside the North West Province. These allegations are categorically false, mischievous and divisive.  The North West Province constitutes the second largest source of students across the NWU’s three campuses, and on the Mahikeng Campus in particular, students from the North West remain in the majority. As a public institution, we carry a constitutional and legal obligation to operate as a national university, serving all South Africans equally. 

While we appreciate the disappointment and uncertainty of unsuccessful prospective students and their parents we must emphasise that capacity constraints are not unique to the NWU but are a national reality across all 26 public universities. In this context, the NWU has adopted a zero-tolerance approach to the harassment, intimidation, or threatening of staff members who are executing their duties with professionalism, commitment, and integrity. Members of the public are urged to refrain from accessing offices and making demands or confronting staff about the applications. Such actions are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

We respectfully appeal to all stakeholders – students, parents, community leaders, and staff – to exercise patience and understanding while we execute the admission and registration processes. 

The majority of final offers have already been issued. Applicants who remain uncertain about their admission status are strongly encouraged to verify their application status online by logging into their profile dashboard at: https://applynow.nwu.ac.za/OnlineApplication/ 

Applicants who have received provisional acceptance may also contact the NWU through the following official channels:

Email: studies@nwu.ac.za 
WhatsApp: +27 (0)60 070 2606
SMS line: 31750
NWU Call Centre: 0860 169 698

Information regarding the 2027 application period will be communicated in due course. Prospective students are urged to apply within the published application window to avoid a recurrence of the current situation.

The university remains committed to academic excellence, fairness, and the responsible stewardship of opportunity, while continuing to serve students, staff, and communities with dignity and respect.

Thank you
Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka
NWU Principal and Vice-Chancellor 

Condolences: Vanderbijlpark school transport tragedy MARELIZE SANTANA Tue, 01/20/2026 - 13:40

The North-West University (NWU) conveys its deepest condolences to the families, teachers, classmates, and the basic education community affected by the recent scholar transport accident in Vanderbijlpark. This tragic event has robbed our country of potential and promise - innocent young lives cut short and dreams permanently shattered. 

As part of the Vanderbijlpark community, we stand in solidarity with the affected families, schools, and the basic education department in the Sedibeng District and Gauteng Province in general. We are, once again, called upon to review and improve scholar and public transport in our country to ensure maximum road safety. 

Our relevant experts and staff are already participating in offering the necessary support services to the affected families and schools. We are ready to offer any further counselling and psychological support that may be needed. 

We extend our thoughts and prayers to all those affected and trust that, through unity, support, and solidarity, they will have strength to deal with this tragic loss. 

May their souls rest in peace. 

Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka
NWU Principal and Vice-Chancellor 

Celebrating 15 Years of Finnish–South African Atmospheric Collaboration at NWU by Belinda Bantham BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 12/02/2025 - 15:37

When we think about anniversaries, 15 years is traditionally known as a crystal anniversary, and the symbolism of crystal is both beautiful and unique. Crystal represents clarity and transparency, reflecting the trust and openness that have grown over the years in a partnership. It also signifies care, strength and beauty, showing that even with its delicate nature, crystal is enduring, elegant, and able to last generations — just as we hope this collaboration will.

With these words, Finnish Ambassador Pekka Metso opened a day that felt connected in more ways than one. It was rainy and cold in Potchefstroom, much like the familiar weather in Finland, and that was not the only thing the two countries shared as they gathered to celebrate 15 years of Finnish–South African atmospheric research collaboration at the North-West University (NWU).

Finland is a country defined by its pristine natural landscapes, deep forests, and a culture that treats nature with reverence. It is a place where innovation is not pursued for prestige, but for the wellbeing of people and the planet. This spirit of thoughtful progress and care for the environment has shaped its long-standing partnership with South Africa and NWU. For more than a decade, this collaboration has been guided by a shared belief that scientific discovery should improve lives, protect the earth, and unlock possibilities for future generations.

The visit began in the office of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka, who reflected on the importance of international cooperation in solving global environmental challenges. “Today’s engagement reaffirms our conviction that scientific cooperation across borders is essential to understanding and safeguarding our planet.”

Prof. Tyobeka described Welgegund as one of the most advanced atmospheric observation stations on the African continent and an asset of global scientific significance. He explained that over 15 years, this collaboration has delivered invaluable long-term data that strengthens evidence-based policymaking, agricultural planning, environmental leadership, and climate resilience. Its globally unique datasets continue to shape international research and inspire new partnerships. “Welgegund stands as a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when institutions commit to mutual respect and long-term strategic collaboration,” he said.

Drawing on his own experience as a nuclear scientist and engineer, Prof. Tyobeka added: “I have always admired how atmospheric scientists work with phenomena that cannot be enriched, contained, or shielded behind concrete, yet still produce data of extraordinary precision. Every scientific discipline carries its own elegance, its own mysteries, and its indispensable contribution to humanity.”

During his address, Ambassador Metso reminded attendees that the relationship between Finland and South Africa is not only strong, but thriving. He emphasised that bilateral relations “could not be better” and noted that the Finnish President will soon visit South Africa for the upcoming G20 Summit, a symbol of the nations’ growing closeness. “Science is the heart of what ties us together, and I look forward to building these ties for years to come,” he added.

The day concluded with a tour of the Welgegund Atmospheric Observation Station, where the delegation explored the technology, expertise, and research that have defined this partnership. Surrounded by panoramic landscapes, state-of-the-art instruments, and globally unique atmospheric datasets, it was a powerful reminder of what thoughtful collaboration, curiosity, and care for the planet can achieve.

The celebrations did not end in Potchefstroom. The following day, the programme continued in Pretoria, where the Finnish Embassy hosted the South African partners—first with an intimate gathering at the embassy, followed by a full day of presentations by all collaborating institutions at the CSIR International Convention Centre.

All thanks and acknowledgement go to the Atmospheric Chemistry Research Group, led by Prof Pieter van Zyl, Professor of Atmospheric Chemistry and Group Leader at the North-West University, and to Dr Miroslav (Micky) Josipovic, senior lecturer in Atmospheric Chemistry and Station Manager of the Welgegund Atmospheric Field Station. They provided the delegation with valuable insight into the site’s instrumentation, long-term datasets, and the environmental conditions that contribute to Welgegund’s global scientific significance.

About the Welgegund Atmospheric Observation Site

Located approximately 35 km from Potchefstroom, the Welgegund station was established through cooperation between the NWU and the University of Helsinki. The site was deliberately positioned in a transition zone between dry and wet regions—an area where climatic changes can be observed quickly. It is regionally representative of the South African interior and is influenced by major air pollution sources including the Johannesburg–Pretoria metropolitan area, the Vaal Triangle, the western Bushveld Complex, and the Mpumalanga Highveld.

The station provides comprehensive long-term atmospheric measurements, including meteorology, radiation, trace gases (such as sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, ozone, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds), and advanced aerosol data. These measurements inform climate models, air quality studies, and research on aerosol effects on the radiation balance—an area where southern Africa has limited long-term datasets.

The site was made possible through the support of local farmers, notably Mr Diederik Hatting of the farm Kromdraai, who provided land and infrastructure. Welgegund now forms part of international research networks, including projects of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and the International Global Atmospheric Chemistry (IGAC) programme, expanding access to state-of-the-art scientific data for researchers and students.

 

Delegation to visit Australia and New Zealand to strengthen international partnerships by Phenyo Mokgothu MOIRA MULLER Wed, 11/12/2025 - 13:56

Nontsikelelo Kote-Nkomo, executive director for strategy and strategic projects in the office of the NWU vice-chancellor.

International relevance remains the North-West University’s (NWU’s) goal.

To this end, Nontsikelelo Kote-Nkomo, executive director for strategy and strategic projects in the office of the vice-chancellor, will be leading a delegation to Australia and New Zealand from 15 to 30 November 2025.

This forms part of the university’s strategic drive to expand its international footprint and to strengthen academic collaboration with leading international institutions. 

Earlier this year, representatives from Lincoln University in New Zealand visited the NWU as part of the partnership and collaboration that commenced in 2024.

The NWU delegation includes representatives from the faculties of Health Sciences, Natural and Agricultural Sciences, and Engineering. They will engage with the University of Western Australia and the University of Melbourne, as well as Lincoln University and the University of Otago in New Zealand. These universities are ranked among the world’s top 500 universities according to the Quacquarelli Symonds World University Rankings. 

The visit will explore partnerships in areas such as engineering, mining, agriculture, astronomy, space science, sustainability, and high-performance sport. These fields reflect the NWU’s academic and research priorities and provide avenues for staff and student exchanges, collaborative projects, and shared research initiatives.

Knowledge knows no boundaries

Nontsikelelo emphasises that the mission is a key component of the NWU’s commitment to international engagement.

“Internationalisation is central to the NWU’s strategy. We believe that through global partnerships, we can best serve our province, our country and our continent. Knowledge knows no boundaries, and our growth depends on the exchange of expertise on a global scale,” she says.

The NWU’s internationalisation strategy seeks to harness global expertise, foster collaboration, and enhance research capacity across disciplines. This exchange of knowledge empowers the university to be part of addressing pressing socio-economic challenges while ensuring that its staff and students engage with international thought leaders.

The visit aims to deepen the NWU’s participation in international academic networks, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and promote innovation across teaching and research. By engaging with leading universities, the NWU will gain insights into best practices that can inform institutional development and enrich the university’s academic culture.

This will enable the NWU to reach new audiences, unearth opportunities, and position itself as an internationally competitive, research-driven African institution.