NWU Faculty of Theology

📜 -- Unlocking the Scriptures: The Wonder of Ancient Greek --

Ever wondered what gets lost in translation? While modern translations are excellent, they can't always capture the original Greek’s unique wordplay, stylistic nuances, and deep cultural context. As the saying goes: Vertaler, verraaier ("Translator, traitor").

In a new Radio Pulpit podcast, Dr. Natasha Ferreira (Ancient Greek lecturer at NWU) shares how language and technology are deepening our understanding of the New Testament:
• Cultural Context: Why ancient customs - like reclining at tables instead of sitting on chairs - change how we read specific biblical terms.
• A South African First: NWU's exciting project to build a localized language-learning app designed specifically for South African students.
• Beyond Ministry: How ancient languages build a powerful foundation for careers in linguistics, history, museum curation, literature, and vocabulary building.

💡 Study Ancient Languages at NWU:
Whether you want to enhance your theological training or explore ancient history, the NWU School of Ancient Languages and Text Studies offers world-class programs.

🚨 APPLICATION DEADLINES FOR FUTURE LEADERS:
Ready to take the next step and join our Faculty? Don't miss these critical dates:
• Undergraduate Applications close on 30 August.
• Postgraduate Applications close on 30 November.
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🎧 Listen to the Podcast in Afrikaans on Radio Pulpit: https://iono.fm/e/1708647

🎓 To learn more and become part of our Faculty:
• Visit our Faculty Webpage: https://theology.nwu.ac.za/
• Undergraduate Applications: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/studies/apply
• Postgraduate Applications: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/postgraduate-studies/higher-degree-admissions

• Email us: [email protected]

"Technology is the medium (tool), not the message."

This was but one of the many thought-provoking statements shared during this year's annual AI for Theology event, held today (20 August 2026) at the University of Pretoria.
From Prof Charel du Toit's re-evaluation of the role of the human in AI interactions to Dr Natasha Ferreira's hands-on testing of AI's usefulness in learning ancient languages, and Prof Peter Nagel's philosophical deliberations that had us thinking deeper about the Divine and how we describe what AI means to us as humans in an ever changing world, each presenter brought something else to the table for us to contemplate. Prof Philip du Toit's deeper questions had us all engaged in the panel discussions.

We have many to thank for the successful completion of this event!
Prof Jaco Beyers, a big thank you to the UP Theology and Religion Faculty for hosting the very first of many hybrid iterations of this function. We appreciate your hospitality and enjoyed the use of a lovely venue for the occasion. To Prof Alfred Brunsdon, thank you for conducting the proceedings and making sure we were on time and guiding the discussions during the panel discussion.

We look forward to next year, where the Faculty of Theology at NWU - North-West University will be welcoming everyone once more!

As niks of niemand jou meer kan help nie, moenie van God vergeet nie!

So herinner Prof Elma Cornelius, dosent by die NWU se Vanderbijlpark Kampus, uit haar artikel aan Maroela Media op 17 August 2026 oor krag en weerbaarheid wat geloof aanbied in tye van nood en swaarkry.
Lees graag haar artikel hier: https://maroelamedia.co.za/leefstyl/rubrieke/geloof-maak-jou-sterk-en-weerbaar/

As jy ‘n persoon is wat wonder oor pastorale berading en graag wil aansluit by die NWU, loer na ons webblad en oorweeg om in te skryf as ‘n student.
- Voorgraadse aansoeke sluit, 30 Augustus 2026.
Leer meer hier: https://theology.nwu.ac.za/
Doen aansoek hier: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/studies/apply

- Nagraadse aansoeke sluit, 30 November 2026.
Leer meer hier: https://theology.nwu.ac.za/m-d-program
Doen aansoek hier: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/postgraduate-studies/higher-degree-admissions

Vir meer inligting, kontak ons gerus by [email protected]



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[English translation]
When nothing or no one else can help you, do not forget God!

This is the reminder offered by Prof. Elma Cornelius—a lecturer at the NWU’s Vanderbijlpark Campus—in her article for Maroela Media (17 August 2026) regarding the strength and resilience that faith provides during times of need and hardship.

Read her article here: https://maroelamedia.co.za/leefstyl/rubrieke/geloof-maak-jou-sterk-en-weerbaar/

If you are interested in pastoral counselling and would like to join the NWU, take a look at our website and consider enrolling as a student.

- Undergraduate applications close on 30 August 2026.
Learn more here: https://theology.nwu.ac.za/
Apply here: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/studies/apply

- Postgraduate applications close on 30 November 2026.
Learn more here: https://theology.nwu.ac.za/m-d-program
Apply here: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/postgraduate-studies/higher-degree-admissions

For more information, please contact us at [email protected]

We are always happy to receive feedback from our graduates, and the message from our new alumni, Dr Aniedi Akpan, was both heartfelt and appreciated!

"Dear Prof. Viljoen, Mrs. Annelize and Mrs. Nauma,

I am pleased to inform you that I received my PhD Degree Certificate last Friday. With this, my 20-year academic journey with NWU has been sealed with fulfilment.

I wish to most sincerely thank you for all the support and for believing sometimes more than I did that I would make it. With all the odds that I faced, if you and your respective offices were in any measure toxic, I am sure the story would not be what it is today. The kindness that I have enjoyed from NWU as a foreigner has cast a positive reputation of South Africa before me, and I believe that someday the State will overcome the unfortunate and recurrent violent vigilantism that ever so frequently creates diplomatic tensions.

This is me saying again, Thank you from the depth of my heart. May God bless you.

The fun part of this communication is attached herewith: that moment when I received, unwrapped, hugged and displayed my certificate here in Uyo, Nigeria.

I look forward to meeting you one on one someday soon. Thank you again.

Dr. Aniedi Akpan"

We too are proud that your hard work has paid off and hope that the knowledge and experience you acquired will serve you and your community well, Dr Akpan.

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If you too would like to become part of the NWU - North-West University and complete a degree in Theology, please visit our webpage linked below. Remember that applications take place online and the closing dates are as follow:
- Undergraduate degrees: 30 August 2026, apply here: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/studies/apply
- Postgraduate degrees: 30 Nov 2026, apply here: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/postgraduate-studies/higher-degree-admissions
- Faculty of Theology: https://theology.nwu.ac.za/

For more information, please contact: [email protected]

You would not say it’s the last day with the level of engagement that we experienced on the 4th day of the SASNES, LXXSA, and OTSSA 2026 annual meeting!

With this level of dedication we look forward to the teaching of Ancient Near Eastern, Ancient Languages, and Theological Studies.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all who participated and committed to an engaging four-day conference. Also, to each and every one of the organisers and hosting venues.

SASNES | Society for Near Eastern Studies
SXXSA | Septuagint research in South Africa
OTWSA/OTSSA | Old Testament Society of Southern Africa

If you would also like to explore the Bible and the languages of old, feel free to learn more about the NWU, Faculty of Theology here: https://theology.nwu.ac.za/

🎙️ Faith in Action: Beyond the Pulpit

Ever wondered how theology meets the challenges of everyday life?
In a recent podcast on Radio Pulpit, Professor Amanda du Plessis, Director of the School of Christian Ministry and Leadership at NWU, explores the profound impact of Practical Theology.

It is about more than just church ministry; it is about how faith engages with real-life experiences—like trauma, stress, and social challenges—to provide compassionate support and healing.
At the NWU Faculty of Theology, we are committed to providing an education that is academically rigorous and contextually relevant.

Our programs are designed to develop leaders who can:
- Think critically and lead compassionately
- Engage with complex social issues.
- Serve effectively in diverse environments beyond traditional church settings.
- Integrate faith with real-world challenges through a people-centered approach.

🚀 Ready to make a difference in society? Join a community focused on theological depth and practical application.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Undergraduate applications for next year close on 30 August.
Don't miss your chance to start your journey with us!

🎧 Listen to the Podcast on Radio Pulpit: https://iono.fm/e/1705573

🎓 To learn more and become part of our Faculty:
Visit our Faculty Webpage: https://theology.nwu.ac.za/
Undergraduate Applications: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/studies/apply
Postgraduate Applications: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/postgraduate-studies/higher-degree-admissions
Email us: [email protected]

A big word of thanks for another excellent conference day!

Our dream team of organisers looked great in their jackets and we thank those involved in making them a reality!

Themes of engagement ranged from various perspectives on change, divine pedagogies, biblical languages, and the decolonisation of theological instruction in an African context on this third day of the SASNES, LXXSA, and OTSSA 2026 annual meeting.

We wrapped it up with a wonderful game drive at the Lekwena Wildlife Estate. A special word of thanks to both Dr Chris van der Walt and Prof At Lamprecht for their organisation and guidance. 🐗🦌
One more day to go before this week of academic engagement comes to a close. All the best to the last speakers!

SASNES | Society for Near Eastern Studies
SXXSA | Septuagint research in South Africa
OTWSA/OTSSA | Old Testament Society of Southern Africa

If you would also like to explore the Bible and the languages of old, feel free to learn more about the NWU, Faculty of Theology here: https://theology.nwu.ac.za/

Connecting the past with the present as Day 2 of the SASNES, LXXSA, and OTSSA 2026 annual meeting was wrapped up with a tour of the historically significant Vredefort Dome.

In today’s presentations the delegates from across the world were able to reflect on the teachings of old as the Wisdom of Solomon (among other teachings) was revisited alongside rich engagements about the practice of Bible translations into various African languages.

We thank all for their involvement and participation during the day and hope for further discussions in Thursday’s hybrid session.

SASNES | Society for Near Eastern Studies
SXXSA | Septuagint research in South Africa
OTWSA/OTSSA | Old Testament Society of Southern Africa

If you would also like to explore the Bible and the languages of old, feel free to learn more about the NWU, Faculty of Theology here: https://theology.nwu.ac.za/

Warm conversations during a cold week of conferencing. Thus, the 2026 annual meetings of the SASNES, LXXSA, and OTSSA have kicked off on the NWU - North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus.

The conference serves the opportunity for researchers to showcase their findings and connect with colleagues on ancient topics of the Old Testament: from Akkadian hairstyles to investigating the social and symbolic context of hunting in Anatolia.

Today, we welcome the Keynote speaker, Prof Na’ama Pat El, from University of Texas, Austin as she informs us on the Linguistic Ecology of the Neo-Assyrian Empire and the Spread of Aramaic.

The diversity of the presentations is a true representation of the depth of research and possibilities for those pursuing a career in understanding the world of the Old Testament.

We look forward to the rest of the conference and the fruitful discussions yet to unfold!

SASNES | Society for Near Eastern Studies
SXXSA | Septuagint research in South Africa
OTWSA/OTSSA | Old Testament Society of Southern Africa

Want to know more about our Faculty of THeology? Visit us here: https://theology.nwu.ac.za/

🚀 What is the role of AI in the Future of Language Learning for Theological Higher Education?

Join the University of Pretoria, in collaboration with North-West University, as a we explore the intersection of technology and faith. We are excited to announce the first-ever hybrid edition of our seminar series, 'AI for Theology', with the theme: "Language Learning and Assessment in Theological Higher Education with AI".

This seminar brings together leading scholars to discuss how artificial intelligence is reshaping New Testament studies, the teaching of ancient Greek vocabulary, and even the theological implications of AI's "divinity". Whether you are a student, academic, or curious layperson, this is an essential conversation on the future of theological training.

📅 WHEN: Thursday, 20 August 2026
⏰ TIME: 09:00 – 12:30
📍 WHERE (Hybrid Format):
* In-person: UP Library Level 3, Merensky Auditorium, University of Pretoria (Limited to 90 registrations!).
* Online: Blackboard Collab (The link will be shared once you have registered).
💰 COST: Free

Don't miss out on presentations by Dr. Charel du Toit, Dr. Natasha Ferreira, and Prof. Peter Nagel, followed by an engaging panel discussion alongside Prof Philip du Toit.

🔗 REGISTER HERE: https://forms.gle/i8o2KhTyRhexNjjd7

For more information contact:
[email protected]
[email protected]