Welcome

The mission of the Optentia Research Unit is to develop and organise knowledge for the optimal expression of individual, social and institutional potential, with a specific interest in the African context. The research unit utilises the inputs from multiple disciplines: Economics, Educational Sciences, Employment Relations, Human Resource Management, Information Technology, Philosophy, Psychology (Work and Organisational Psychology, Educational Psychology, Counselling Psychology, and Clinical Psychology), Risk Management, Social Anthropology, Social Work, and Sociology. We study the optimisation of the potential of people and institutions by focusing on pathways from precarity to capability and optimal functioning. Optentia's research is organised into six programmes. Read more about Optentia in this pamphlet. 

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Symposia

Optentia Usiba 2025! - 22 to 25 April 2025

A premier writing retreat for Master’s and PhD students and early-career researchers.
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17th International Federation on Ageing Conference - 09 to 12 September 2025

Join us for an insightful and impactful event dedicated to exploring the diverse dimensions of ageing and its implications on society. As the world’s population continues to age, it’s imperative that we come together to address the challenges and opportunities associated with this demographic shift. Our conference features thought-provoking keynote addresses, inspiring symposiums, skill-building workshops, interactive oral and poster sessions and most importantly the voices of older people from around the globe. Go to the following link for mor
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Recent news

Optentia Writing Retreat to Strengthen Research Capacity at NWU

From 22 to 25 April 2025, the Optentia Research Unit at North-West University will host a writing retreat at the scenic Khaya Ibhubesi Conference Centre in Parys. A total of 62 par...Read article

Prof. Curwyn Mapeling joins Optentia

Holding the roles of associate professor in psychology, registered clinical psychologist, and contributing member of the Optentia Research Unit, Curwyn Mapaling directs his efforts towards strengthening resilience and other aspect...Read article

Strengthening Academic Mentorship: Optentia’s Short Course Participants Share Insights

The Optentia Research Unit recently hosted a reflective meeting with academic mentors and mentees who completed the Short Courses for Academic Mentors and Mentees. Participants shared their experiences, highlighting the programme&...Read article

Guiding the Next Generation: Optentia’s Mentorship Momentum

The training of academic mentors and mentees at universities is critical today due to several pressing challenges in higher education, including supporting early career academics, enhancing student success and retention, building ...Read article

Newsletter, December 2024