Looking beyond the classroom: local learners discover the world of astronomy

For 24 local school learners, the chance to explore the stars came a little closer to home when they were introduced to astronomy as part of their preparation for this year’s South African Physics Olympiad (SAPHO).

Hosted at the North-West University (NWU), the learners took part in an introductory astronomy session designed to give them…

Better waste management can protect South Africa’s wild spaces

Waste in South Africa’s protected areas is more than a litter problem. Poor waste practices in South Africa’s protected areas threaten biodiversity, pollute sensitive habitats and weaken conservation efforts. New research shows that better planning, infrastructure and human behaviour can turn the situation around.Prof…

Africa must brace for a powerful El Niño

Africa must brace for a powerful El Niño that could bring punishing heat and drought to the south, while triggering excessive rainfall and flooding in parts of the east.

A severe El Niño could threaten harvests, water supplies, household budgets, public health and electricity…

NWU researchers honoured at prestigious NRF Awards

Two North-West University (NWU) scholars have received national recognition for research addressing two defining challenges of the modern age: the impact of HIV on African communities and the growing influence of artificial intelligence on journalism.

Prof. Monray Williams and Soligah…

Feedlot Challenge takes Animal Sciences students from classroom to cattle pens

The North-West University (NWU) is taking Animal Sciences learning beyond the classroom through its Feedlot Challenge, a practical initiative giving students first-hand experience of commercial cattle production and the realities of the livestock industry.

The programme, which involves…

It is time for the South African Blue Crane to spread its wings as a national icon

More than 99% of the world’s Blue Cranes live in South Africa, yet our national bird remains one of the country’s most underused tourism assets.

The Blue Crane is a living part of South Africa’s heritage, yet the species’ ‘Vulnerable’ status shows that national-symbol status does not…

Nepal’s Himalayan tragedy: Climate catastrophe or warning failure?

The horror, the horror. On 26 August, catastrophic flash floods devastated settlements and communities around Rasuwa, close to Nepal’s border with Tibet, high in the Himalayas. The nightmarish scenes, captured by CCTV cameras and witnessed across the globe, showed thousands of tonnes of ice, water, mud and debris…

Researchers earn national fellowships at Women in Science Awards

Two North-West University (NWU) researchers have received national recognition for work that could contribute to safer water, healthier honeybees and stronger communities.

Rebaone Mofokeng and Nolwandle Khumalo were awarded the DSTI-Prof. Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Fellowships at the 2026 South African Women in Science Awards on 20…

NWU-AgriSETA project gives Mahikeng farmers accredited training

Small-scale farmers around Mahikeng often have farming experience but lack access to formal training. A skills project at the North-West University (NWU) is helping to close this gap through accredited training that gives farmers skills they can use to improve their farms and build sustainable businesses.

Lesego Molema breaks new frontiers on the national stage

The North-West University (NWU) is celebrating one of its own as Lesego Molema, a final-year student at the Mahikeng Campus, prepares to step onto the national stage for the second consecutive year.

Lesego, who is pursuing a BScHons degree in animal science, has once again been…