North-West University (NWU), established on 1 January 2004 through the merger of the University of North-West, Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education, and Vista University’s Sebokeng Campus, symbolizes reconciliation and nation-building. This successful merger has led to financial stability, improved student success rates, and increased research output.
NWU offers a diverse range of academic programs, integrated with community engagement and innovation, across its three campuses. The university is committed to global collaboration, fostering international student and staff exchanges.
The university’s mascot, Eagi, embodies NWU’s values of success, aspiration, and ethical conduct, reminding the community to continuously strive for excellence. As the University Anthem states, NWU is where knowledge grows and students are prepared to make their mark on the world.
Physical address
North-West University Potchefstroom
Campus11 Hoffman Street
Potchefstroom2531
Contact Details
Tel:
0860 169698 (0860 1mynwu)
Switchboard
(+27 18) 299 2713
(+27 18) 299 1102
Kimera Govender: Miss Earth South Africa Finalist
Kimera Govender’s journey from North-West University (NWU) graduate to finalist in the Miss Earth South Africa competition reflects her dedication to environmental sustainability and community impact. A 2023 graduate with a BSc in environmental science, majoring in zoology and geography, Kimera’s time at NWU played a pivotal role in shaping her path toward becoming an advocate for the environment.
During her time at the NWU Potchefstroom Campus, she not only excelled academically but also took on leadership roles, including serving as the finance and sponsorship coordinator for the Student Academic Chapter in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences. These experiences set her apart, earning her recognition such as Sponsorship Member of the Year.
Advocating for Sustainability
Now as a finalist in Miss Earth South Africa, Kimera has translated her passion for the environment into action. Her initiatives include tree planting, recycling projects, environmental education programmes, and supporting communities through volunteering efforts. Additionally, she works on projects focused on helping women and children affected by abuse and trafficking.
Leading by Example
Kimera’s efforts demonstrate the importance of sustainability in everyday life, urging individuals and communities to adopt eco-friendly habits. Her journey from NWU to Miss Earth South Africa serves as a reminder of how education and leadership can contribute to positive change.
Her work is a testament to the idea that small, consistent efforts can make a substantial impact, both in her community and for the environment.
Kimera Govender’s inspiring journey from NWU to the national stage as a Miss Earth South Africa finalist is a testament to her dedication to both her community and the environment. As she continues to champion sustainability and lead by example, her impact is already being felt. We wish her all the best in the Miss Earth South Africa competition and look forward to seeing the positive change she will undoubtedly continue to inspire.
#TheGoToGuy #potchgazette #stroomstories #potchefstroom
Water for the Future: NWU’s International Water Week Makes a Splash
North-West University (NWU) made a bold statement about the importance of water conservation and sustainability. From 26 to 30 August, the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (FNAS), alongside the Water Research Group, the Safety, Health and Environment Department, and the Green Team, hosted International Water Week. This week-long initiative raised awareness about the critical need for clean water and protecting water sources for future generations.
The event featured three key community engagement activities, organized by the FNAS Zoology subject group, each focused on educating and inspiring action. A river clean-up at the Trimpark, a Fish Day at Vyfhoek Primary School, and a citizen science project provided the perfect platforms for NWU students and the local community to get involved in meaningful environmental efforts.
Community Action: A River Clean-Up at Trimpark
The week began with action. On Monday, 26 August, students and volunteers from NWU, along with the university’s Green Team, rolled up their sleeves and headed to the Trimpark for a river clean-up. By the end of the day, they had collected around 100 bags of waste from the banks and waters of the Mooi River.
This clean-up was more than just a feel-good event. It served as a stark reminder of how human activity directly impacts local water bodies. The waste collected, including plastics and other pollutants, not only harms the environment but also affects the local wildlife that depends on clean water for survival.
Engaging Young Minds: Fish Day at Vyfhoek Primary School
On Wednesday, 28 August, NWU took their message to the next generation. Grade 7 learners from Vyfhoek Primary School were treated to a fun yet educational Fish Day, where they learned about fish migration, anatomy, and aquatic ecosystems. The learners rotated through eight different stalls, each one offering a unique hands-on learning experience.
Tshenolo Masilo, a zoology master’s student, was among the educators, teaching the learners about the dangers fish and other organisms face due to pollution. The day’s success was reflected in the feedback from the learners themselves. Some even expressed their admiration and gratitude, proving that education is a powerful tool for fostering future environmentalists.
Empowering the Community: Citizen Science Shop on the Mooi River
International Water Week concluded on Friday, 30 August, with a citizen science shop held along the Mooi River. This initiative invited community members to actively participate in monitoring and testing the river water. Equipped with testing kits from WaterCan, the participants were shown how to assess the quality of the water themselves.
NWU students further enriched the experience by demonstrating the South African Scoring System version 5 (SASS5) method, a technique that uses macroinvertebrates to assess water quality. The data collected from these organisms helps to indicate the level of pollution in the river, with certain species being more sensitive than others.
This citizen science project was a true collaboration between the university and the local community, offering participants the chance to not only learn but also contribute to protecting their water resources.
The Road Ahead: Continuing the Push for Water Sustainability
The efforts by NWU and its partners during International Water Week underscored the importance of clean water for all. Through practical action and educational outreach, they have not only raised awareness but have empowered individuals—young and old alike—to take ownership of their role in protecting our most vital resource.
Water sustainability is a global challenge, but as the events of this week have shown, local efforts can have a powerful impact. The clean-up of the Mooi River, the education of young learners, and the involvement of community members in citizen science are all stepping stones towards a more sustainable future.
Water Week may be over, but the lessons learned and actions taken will continue to ripple through the community, serving as a reminder that the future of water lies in our hands.
#TheGoToGuy #potchgazette #stroomstories #potchefstroom
NWU Vier 20 Jaar van Grootsheid Met Boomplanting Tydens Arbor Week
🌲🌱 🌲🌱 🌲🌱 🌲🌱 🌲🌱
In viering van Arbor Week het die Noordwes-Universiteit (NWU) se gemeenskap op al drie kampusse—Mafikeng, Potchefstroom en Vanderbijlpark—saamgekom om 20 bome🌳 op elke kampus te plant. Hierdie spesiale inisiatief simboliseer 20 jaar van NWU se ryk nalatenskap en beklemtoon die universiteit se verbintenis tot 'n groener toekoms vir die volgende generasie.🍃
Om hierdie mylpaal te merk, is die Karee-boom,🌲 wat uniek is aan die Noordwes-provinsie en ook vanjaar se boom van die jaar is, gekies. Twee variëteite, Searsia lancea (Karee) en Searsia leptodictya (Berg Karee), is geplant—met 10 van elke variëteit per kampus.
Met elke boom wat geplant word, word 'n belegging gemaak in 'n groener, volhoubare toekoms. Hierdie simboliese gebaar dien as 'n herinnering aan NWU se verbintenis tot die omgewing en hul voortdurende impak op die gemeenskap.Hier is op 20 bome vir 20 jaar van grootsheid!
🌱☀️ 🌱☀️🌱☀️🌱☀️🌱☀️
#ArbourWeek2024 #20YearsOfGreatness #PotchGazette #TheGoToGuy #StroomStories #Potchefstroom #SkoolKompas
NWU Eagles Dominate in Varsity Netball 2024 Opener
🏐🦅 🏐🦅 🏐🦅 🏐🦅 🏐🦅
The NWU Eagles soared to a stunning 85-49 victory over the Madibaz in their Varsity Netball 2024 opener. 🦅 From the first whistle to the last, the Eagles dominated the court,showcasing true NWU spirit.
A Commanding Performance
The Eagles kept their opponents under pressure throughout the match, displaying top-tier skill and teamwork. With a combination of strong defense, precise shooting, and cohesive play, the NWU team left the Madibaz with little room to fight back.🏐🦅
Consistent Determination and Spirit
This victory is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Eagles. They’ve proven themselves to be a formidable team in this season’s Varsity Netball competition. 🏐Congratulations to the entire team—you’ve made NWU proud! We look forward to more victories in the season ahead.
🎖️🦅 🎖️🦅 🎖️🦅 🎖️🦅 🎖️🦅
#MyNWU #NWUEagles #VarsityNetball2024 #ShowYourColours #VarsitySports #PotchGazette #TheGoToGuy #StroomStories #Potchefstroom #SkoolKompas