Academic News

Putting people at the centre of digital innovation

The Centre for Digital Humanities was born out of the realisation that the humanities are central to creating equitable digital futures for South Africans.  “As digital humanists, we understand that technology exists within a network of human and more-than-human relationships,” says Prof. Janelize Morelli.  “True digital…

Graduate publishes groundbreaking research on sustainable feed for indigenous chickens

The North-West University (NWU) continues to make strides in pioneering research that addresses sustainability and food security challenges across southern Africa. This year, Melokuhle Queeneth Magagula, a distinguished MSc graduate in Animal Science from the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, has earned both national and…

Agricultural economist appointed as secretary/treasurer of AEASA

The Agricultural Economics Association of South Africa (AEASA) has appointed Dr Lindikhaya Myeki, a senior lecturer in the School of Agricultural Economics and Extension at the North-West University (NWU), as secretary and/or treasurer.

Dr Myeki’s appointment, effective from 1 October 2025, was confirmed by the AEASA management…

Siyakhula Sibasha Science Shop celebrates the learning and development of all participants

On Friday, 31 October, the Siyakhula Sibasha Science Showcase brought community leaders, academics and young innovators together at the Khaya Ibhubesi Conference Centre in Parys. The event celebrated the achievements of all participants in the flagship project, ‘Reimagining Community Education Post-Covid-19: Mobilising Youth as Community Assets…

Study shows nitrogen fertiliser impact on fodder beet yield and nutrition

Fodder beet is gaining attention as a key livestock feed crop in South Africa, and new research from the North-West University (NWU) shows how nitrogen fertiliser and planting season shape its growth and nutritional value.

Zabesuthu Sithokozisiwe Mngomezulu investigated how two fodder beet varieties respond to different nitrogen levels…

Study calls for inclusion of yeast monitoring in South Africa’s groundwater safety regulations

By Gofaone Motsamai

When water gushes from a rural borehole, many see purity, but beneath that clear stream could lie invisible fungal organisms capable of causing serious infections. To protect public health, South Africa should introduce inclusive microbial monitoring, according to a North-West University (NWU…

Professor honoured for contribution to mental health advocacy

Efforts to strengthen mental health awareness and policy in South Africa were in focus as Prof Leepile Sehularo from the North-West University (NWU) received the “Special Impact Mental Health Award” during the first Keturah Mental Health Awards in South Africa.

“I am honoured to receive this award,” said Prof Sehularo. “It reflects the…

NWU Research Paper featured in Institute of Physics collection

After long days of teaching English in South Korea, Marcel van der Westhuizen would often find himself pondering the biggest questions imaginable: How will the universe ultimately end? His persistence and curiosity have now paid off.

The Institute of Physics (IOP) has published a special collection of papers featuring the research paper…

Law student selected for 2025 academic exchange in Amsterdam

By Gosego Phutieagae

Visiting some of the world’s most famous justice system landmarks is high on the itinerary of Thabang Mnculwane, a North-West University (NWU) Faculty of Law student, who is spending five months in Amsterdam on an academic exchange programme.

Mnculwane, a final-year LLB student,…

Researcher studies traditional plants for natural pest control

When farmers face pests that damage their crops, many turn to chemical sprays. They often do not realise that indigenous plant-based practices can protect crops naturally, and that pest-control solutions already exist within traditional farming knowledge.

The use of chemicals is one of the common ways of managing pests. However, these…