By Jalize Fourie
The Faculty of Humanities at North-West University (NWU) took a bold step into the future of research and innovation with the official launch of its Centre for Digital Humanities (CDH) on Friday, 19 September, at the Riverside Sun Hotel in Vanderbijlpark.
The launch was the highlight of the Faculty’s Spring School Programme, which ran from 17 to 19 September under the theme “Rethinking humanities: Research in the age of AI.” Over three dynamic days, scholars, experts, and participants explored how digital transformation and artificial intelligence are reshaping the humanities.
The programme opened with Prof Bryan Carter from the University of Arizona, who captivated the audience with a thought-provoking discussion on digital futures and the ways in which AI can revolutionise research, teaching, and outreach in the humanities.
Day two saw Prof Paul Arthur from Edith Cowan University dive into human stories hidden in data, focusing particularly on digital interpretations of slavery and migration. His presentation highlighted the power of digital tools to uncover, preserve, and reimagine histories that continue to shape the present.
The closing day brought the momentum to a powerful finale, with three interactive workshops covering qualitative data analysis and AI, the intersection of AI and graphic design, and the development of new theoretical frameworks. These workshops paved the way for the official unveiling of the Centre for Digital Humanities (CDH).
At the launch, a distinguished panel discussion reflected on how digital humanities can shape humane and sustainable futures. The panel was led by Prof Janelize Morelli, director of the newly established centre, alongside renowned experts including Dr Bryan Carter, Prof Paul Arthur, Prof Tunde Ope-Davies, Prof Liandi van den Berg, Prof Blessed Ngwenya, and Mr Christiaan Steyn. Together, they stressed the importance of fostering digital connections, integrating AI responsibly, and positioning the CDH as a hub for collaboration and innovation.
The CDH is strategically aligned with global initiatives such as UNESCO’s Culture and Digital Technologies Agenda and the Digital Heritage Lab’s inclusivity vision. Its three key focus areas ethical digital heritage, multimedia and transmedia storytelling, and bridging the digital divide – aim to enhance graduate employability, strengthen research productivity, and build powerful partnerships locally and internationally.
In her closing remarks, Prof Morelli, the director of the new Centre for Digital Humanities reminded attendees of the balanced approach needed in digital innovation: “Technology is not a saviour, but it’s also not a villain. It is a support tool that, when embraced, can help bridge gaps and advance human-centred digital innovation.”
With its launch, the NWU Centre for Digital Humanities signals a new era of interdisciplinary research and academic exploration one where technology and humanity meet to build inclusive, sustainable, and innovative futures.
Prof Paul Arthur (Edith Cowan University) Prof Blessed Ngwenya (NWU - Optentia), Prof Liandi van den Berg (NWU TELIT-SA) Prof Janelize Morelli, the director of the new Centre for Digital Humanities, Prof Tunde Ope-Davis (University of Lagos) Prof Bryan Carter (University of Arizona) and Mr Christiaan Steyn (IP lawyer Steyn IP)
Prof Janelize Morelli, the director of the new NWU Centre for Digital Humanities
