Natural and Agricultural Sciences News
New discovery lands NWU researcher a spot in top science publication
When magnetic fields and long strokes of hot gas known as jets interact, the jets become bent. This is an important discovery and, for his contribution to it, Prof James O Chibueze has earned a space in the prestigious research publication Nature.
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NWU researcher excels in a male-dominated research area
Ntokozo Happy Msiza, a North-West University (NWU) researcher and PhD student in the subject group Animal Sciences, has broken new ground when she completed a MSc degree in pasture science, a scarce skill and male-dominated field of study.
When…
The link between industrial engineering and the agricultural sector
The agricultural industry is facing numerous and significant challenges. To remain competitive and sustainable, it needs to find ways to constantly improve.
Industrial engineering can address a number of the challenges faced by the agricultural sector, but due to the lack of…
Government commits to find solutions for unemployed IKS graduates
The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, has expressed government’s commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to find solutions to unemployment for graduates within the indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) sector.
The Minister was speaking at a two-day virtual summit hosted by North-West…
Mother and son doing first year at university together
With a 25-year age gap between them, mother and son Susan and Janu Fouche have both been accepted to do their first year at the Potchefstroom Campus of the North-West University (NWU).
Forty-three-year-old Susan is studying towards a social work qualification, while her 18-year-old son is pursuing a degree in computer and…
NWU rewards exceptional lecturers
The North-West University (NWU) celebrated the torchbearers of its teaching excellence during a virtual event. The best-of-the-best lecturers of 2020 were acknowledged for their work in taking teaching and learning to higher levels during the annual Teaching Excellence Award (TEA) ceremony, which was streamed online on 25 March. The NWU is…
NWU researcher collaborates in international fungi study
The fungus that spoils bread does not work alone. It has guests hidden deep within its cells – bacteria – with whom it has a mutually beneficial relationship that can be positive or negative for humans. Understanding and modifying this relationship can have a profound impact on the food, medical and agricultural industries. This is the focus of…
NWU lecturer uses information technology to make a difference
Chuku Taole, North-West University (NWU) Information Technology (IT) lecturer and Vanderbijlpark Campus alumnus, is committed to making a positive and lasting difference in the Lethabo Power Village where he grew up.
For the past few years, the former NWU Student Representative Council member, together with a group of former…
NWU study: how indigenous fruit trees can benefit food security
“Indigenous fruits have long been collected from the wild for human consumption and other purposes. This concept of ‘one tree, many uses’ speaks to how indigenous fruit trees are valued for many things other than just their fruits.”
This is…
Young NWU lecturers making mathematics fashionable
North-West University (NWU) lecturers Tshepiso Mahura (28) and Thokozani Jele (27) have much in common.
Working at the Vanderbijlpark Campus, these best friends are both young academics from disadvantaged backgrounds, both pursuing their PhDs, and both taking the road less travelled – mathematics.
Thokozani – who…