Tackling perinatal mental health in rural areas

A two-year initiative aimed at improving the screening and management of perinatal mood disorders in rural communities is being piloted in the North West.

The project, Capacity Building in Managing (Perinatal) Mood Disorders in Rural South Africa (CaBu-PeriMooD), was introduced…

The Centre of Excellence in Indigenous Knowledge Systems’ journey to greatness

In 2001, the North-West University (NWU) established and launched a teaching, learning and research programme in Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) at its Mahikeng Campus that was accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

In 2009, discussions and planning commenced between the NWU, the National Indigenous…

Research unveils green nanotechnology to protect broilers from aflatoxin toxicity

Aflatoxin contamination continues to challenge poultry producers across the globe, posing risks to bird health, farm profitability, and food safety. 

In an innovative study at the North-West University (NWU) by MSc researcher Nonsindiso Masuku explored the use of green-engineered nanoparticles to protect broiler chickens against…

Red meat and its role in South Africa

An opinion piece by Prof Simon Letsoalo

Few sectors in South Africa carry as much historical, cultural and economic importance as the red meat industry. For many communities, livestock is not just a mere commodity but a symbol of wealth, social status, identity and food security. Yet, in recent years, red meat…

Psychosocial support in schools: An urgent educational priority

By Dr Khido Ramadie

The decision of the Department of Basic Education to invest in psychosocial support for learners and educators is both timely and necessary.

Schools increasingly face the effects of anxiety, trauma, socioeconomic hardship and behavioural challenges that directly undermine teaching and…

NWU alumnus honoured at Icons of Africa Awards

What began as a digital footprint in South Africa has grown into a continental voice, one strong enough to earn North-West University (NWU) alumnus John Nchoe an honorary award at the prestigious Icons of Africa Awards.

Nchoe, a social media entrepreneur who holds a BA and BA Honours in Communication from the NWU, was recognised for his…

Study examines link between faith, stigma and HIV treatment in South Africa

A milestone reached on World AIDS Day has focused new attention on how faith communities influence South Africa’s response to HIV. On 1 December 2025, a PhD study focusing on HIV stigma in religious settings was formally completed when the degree was awarded, marking the completion of research that examined a long-standing barrier to treatment…

Postgraduate students claim top honours in Virtualise Your Thesis Competition

By Mzwandile Ndlovu

Two postgraduate students from the North-West University (NWU) were awarded top honours at the national Virtualise Your Thesis (VYT) Competition.

Christa Matlou from the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences and Makatu Mashanyu from the Faculty of Engineering represented the…

NWU study shows promise for new parenting education programme in the NICU

A new pilot study led by Prof. Welma Lubbe, director of NuMIQ in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the North-West University (NWU), has highlighted the potential benefits of a structured parenting education programme for mothers of preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). The findings were published on 1 December 2025 in the…

New study sheds light on biodiversity loss across sub-Saharan Africa

Understanding the true state of biodiversity in sub-Saharan Africa has long been a challenge, especially for those responsible for shaping environmental policies. A major new study published in the prestigious Nature journal now offers much-needed clarity.

The research paper, “A place-based assessment of biodiversity intactness in sub-…