The Faculty of Health Sciences held its annual Research and Innovation Awards on 12 November 2025, recognising outstanding academic and research excellence across various disciplines. The event acknowledged researchers and research bodies that have made exceptional contributions to innovation, impact and scholarship at the North-West University (NWU).

This annual event has become a highlight on the faculty calendar – a moment to acknowledge the dedication, collaboration and perseverance driving health sciences research that matters.

Recognising exceptional achievements

This year’s awardees reflect the growing national and international reputation of the faculty for conducting impactful research. Among the key highlights:

· Prof. Leepile Sehularo received the National and International Recognitions and Memberships Award for his outstanding contributions to mental health and community engagement.

· Prof. Siedine Coetzee, DST/NRF Albertina Sisulu Research Chair in Nursing Science, was recognised for her upgrade to Tier 1 and a five-year extension of her research programme.

· Prof. Marlien Pieters received recognition for a five-year extension of the MRC Extra-Mural Research Unit for Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease.

· Prof. Ruan Kruger (HART) stood out with multiple accolades, including for Most Productive Senior Researcher and Most Sustainable Productive Researcher (2020–2024).

· Prof. Suranie Horn (OHHRI) was named Most Productive Emerging Researcher, while the OHHRI research entity itself was recognised as the Most Productive Research Entity for 2024.

· The Centre of Excellence for Nutrition (CEN) won the award for the Entity that made the most significant contribution to the generation of external income, with Prof. Johann Jerling (CEN) receiving individual recognition in the same category.

Celebrating impact and innovation

These awards reflect the strong research culture in the faculty, as well as its drive to address real-world health challenges through innovation, collaboration and excellence.

Speaking at the event, Prof. Jeanetta du Plessis, deputy dean for Research and Innovation, emphasised the importance of recognising not only output, but also sustainability, mentorship and societal impact: