NWU IMPLEMENTS QUIET TIMES AND STUDY SPACES FOR EXAM SEASON

November 1, 2025 10

Abygail Smit

@Abysmit06

While most students at North-West University (NWU) are fantasizing about their festive holiday, the NWU is actively ensuring they have a comfortable environment to study and perform their best during examinations.

The NWU has once again implemented its quiet times rule, giving students designated timeslots during the day when they can study without distractions. This rule applies across residences, allowing students to review their academic work peacefully in their rooms. In addition, the university has established a campus-wide “no events” period, during which no actions or events may be held by any society or club within the NWU or on campus.

The quiet times restriction and no-events period, during which students are expected to be quiet and respectful, are as follows:

• 00h00–12h00

• 14h00–17h00

• 19h00–00h00

To further support students, the university has opened additional facilities to reduce library congestion. From 27 October until 18 November, Building E8 (rooms G36–G40) is available for academic use. The library is also open until midnight on weekdays and until 14h00 on Saturdays.

An online article published in June 2024 by StudyHacks.org, via Dr Zam’s Academy, highlights the benefits of a quiet study environment. Firstly, a quiet space improves focus by eliminating distractions. Secondly, it enhances learning and retention of information. Thirdly, it promotes productivity and reduces stress; having a quiet place to work is an invaluable tool for success. Lastly, a quiet study environment encourages critical thinking due to the absence of interruptions.

Although these measures may seem small, they reassure NWU students that the Student Academic Chapter (SAC) is serious about supporting education. By providing opportunities for excellence, fully functioning libraries, and quiet spaces, the NWU ensures students can study effectively while maintaining a respectful environment for others.

Examinations are a stressful time for many students, but with the right facilities and the SAC supporting you, the only other obstacle is yourself. Luckily, the cafeteria is stocked with Red Bull, water, snacks, and meals to fuel those long study sessions.