Meet our researchers

Researchers across the faculties at the NWU continue to produce exciting work in their fields of expertise.

We introduce the work of two researchers - Prof Anja Franken and Dr Suranie Horn, both from the Occupational Hygiene and Health Research Initiative (OHHRI).

Experts mentor future health professionals

A group of executives from Afrocentric Group visited the North-West University (NWU) on Wednesday, 24 July, in their quest to meet with students who are recipients of their bursary scheme. 

Afrocentric Group is currently funding 12 NWU students studying pharmacy and nursing in recognition of their academic excellence. In addition…

Engaged Scholarship Impact Indaba - a convergence of minds and ideas

The Faculty of Health Sciences at North-West University (NWU) recently hosted an Engaged Scholarship Impact Indaba at the Vanderbijlpark Campus.

The dynamic one-day hybrid-event brought together community champions - including academics, community leaders, practitioners and students - to explore the potential of engaged scholarship.…

New insight into enzyme for HIV/Aids drug development

Without the help of a particular enzyme, HIV/Aids cannot replicate itself and take over the body’s cells. Dr Andrew Motsilanyane, a recent PhD graduate from the North-West University (NWU), has been targeting this enzyme, HIV-1 protease, in research that could open up new possibilities for drug development.

His work focuses on the…

Faculty of Health Sciences to host one-day Engaged Scholarship Impact Indaba

On 18 July the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Faculty of Health Sciences will host the Engaged Scholarship Impact Indaba, a dynamic one-day event dedicated to exploring the intersections of academic research, community engagement and societal impact.

Taking place at the Vanderbijlpark Campus, this event is set to attract scholars,…

Academic a finalist in M&G 200 Young South Africans

Dr Monray Williams, a senior lecturer in the subject group Biochemistry at the North-West University (NWU), has been announced a finalist in the Mail & Guardian 200 Young South Africans for 2024 in the Science, Technology, and Innovation category.

This annual feature by the Mail & Guardian newspaper celebrates 200 young South…

Newborn screening saves lives at the North-West University

They are vital hours and every one of them matters. They are the window that can change the course of a child’s life for the better, and the North-West University (NWU) is ensuring that those first 24 to 72 hours after birth is optimised to safeguard newborn health.

For Dr Ilse du Preez, acting director of the Centre for Human…

Toxic fungi and mycotoxins threaten Africa's food security

Africa is facing a challenge in ensuring food security due to contamination of agricultural products by toxic fungi and their byproducts, mycotoxins, amid climate change.

This is according to Prof Mulunda Mwanza, who delivered his inaugural lecture at the North-West University (NWU) on 6 June 2024.

"Mycotoxins are toxic…

Academic, student and alumnus win big at Nursing Awards

The North-West University (NWU) made a significant mark at the North West Provincial Nursing Awards held on 23 May 2024 at the Sun City Convention Centre.

The event, organised by the North West Department of Health, recognised outstanding contributions and excellence in the nursing profession. These awards also show appreciation for the…

Nurse survey reveals concerning trends in South African healthcare

Nurses should be celebrated for countless reasons. They play a crucial role in the healthcare system and touch the lives of individuals and communities in profound ways.

Nurses Day, observed annually on 12 May, commemorates the anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. This year, amidst the ongoing…