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. 

Watch the Optentia video

Symposia

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
More Information

Recent news

In the spotlight: Prof. Ian Rothmann

My greatest hope is that my contributions create ripple effects – opening doors for others, laying foundations for future breakthroughs, and helping shape a more just and resilient world for future generations.

...Read article

Book launch marks a milestone in ethical caring discourse

In a powerful affirmation of compassion as a catalyst for social change, the Optentia research unit at the North-West University (NWU) and the Quality in Nursing and Midwifery (NuMIQ) research focus area co-hosted the hybrid launc...Read article

Growth, connection, and contribution: The key to cutting edge research

At Optentia, we understand that producing cutting-edge research is about individual excellence and creating an environment where academics can thrive. Growth, connection, and contribution do not happen automatically - they require...Read article

Book launch - Relational caring: a soft voice in transforming society

The Optentia Research Unit and the NUMIQ Research Focus Area recently hosted  a book launch of a newly published book “Relational Caring and Presence Theory in Health Care and Social Work: A Care-Ethical Perspective&rdq...Read article

Newsletter, May 2025