Project Team Wants All University Students to Have Access to Indigenous African Languages
University students who have a mother tongue other than English should not be at a disadvantage compared to those who do speak English at home. This is why it is important to level the language playing field.
The North-West University (NWU) is one of four tertiary education institutions in South Africa to work with three European universities to facilitate and promote the use of indigenous African languages as mediums of instruction in tertiary education.
Known as BAQONDE, the project name stands for Boosting the Use of African Languages in Education; A Qualified Organised Nationwide Development Strategy for South Africa. It is a collaborative capacity-building project that seeks to provide all university students with access to the use of African languages so that they can reach their full potential. The word “baqonde” means “(let them) understand” in the Nguni languages of South Africa.
Evaluating the Potential Of South African Medicinal Plants As A Treatment For Depression
North-West University (NWU) academic Dr Makhotso Lekhooa is investigating the possibility that an indigenous plant can be used to treat depression.
This research is very applicable as the World Health Organisation (WHO) indicates that 4,4% of the global population suffers from depression, while in South Africa this percentage amounts to 4,6 %.
Moreover, South-Africa also has a poor response rate, with less than 50% of patients achieving remission and battling adverse side effects.