Groundbreaking study gives frogs and reptiles indigenous names

Researchers have created a comprehensive list of indigenous names for frogs and reptiles in order to promote inclusive conservation People are far more likely to protect what they can name South Africa’s indigenous languages have long been marginalised in science The inclusion of indigenous names in biodiversity literature is…

Celebrating a legacy in numbers: Honouring Prof Jamshid Moori

Phenyo Mokgothu and Keaoleboga Motshabi

“I built this department from the ground up – and now I return to see the seeds have grown into a forest.” These were the heartfelt words of Prof Jamshid Moori as the North-West University (NWU) celebrated his legacy and his 80th birthday during a special mathematics…

NWU and University of Lincoln bring game-based learning to life with Arcademia

In an exciting move that promises to reshape how we think about education, the North-West University (NWU) has joined hands with the University of Lincoln in the UK to bring Arcademia, a dynamic, game-based learning initiative, to South Africa.

This collaboration stems from a formal memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the…

Uninvited winter guests: why green stinkbugs are taking over your home

By Gofaone Motsamai

The unusual presence of green stinkbugs in offices, homes and public buildings is no cause for concern, according to Professor Johnnie van den Berg from the Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management at North-West University (NWU).

“There have been surges in the numbers of many…

New discovery could help crops survive harsh climates

Unpredictable rainfall and rising temperatures are threatening crop production across Southern Africa. A groundbreaking discovery by a North-West University (NWU) researcher could pave the way for stronger, more resilient crops capable of withstanding harsh weather and environmental stress.

Dr Moichwanetse Tsholofelo, who recently…

Jiu-Jitsu champion bags PhD

Dr Elvis Moyo has fought his way to victory on the mats – and now he's done the same in the classroom. The South African Jiu-Jitsu champion has earned a PhD in applied radiation sciences from North-West University (NWU).

Dr Moyo received his doctorate during a graduation ceremony at the NWU's Mahikeng Campus on 9 May 2025.

His…

How Africa should adapt to climate change

Africa is getting the short end of the stick as climate change is tightening its grip on the continent, although it has only contributed about 3% (at most) of global carbon emissions since the Industrial Revolution.Africa is the most vulnerable continent to the effects of climate change, with droughts, floods, extreme heatwaves, and shrinking…

Shaping the future of sustainable agriculture

The School of Agricultural Sciences at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus is preparing a new generation of agricultural professionals through a combination of academic training, practical experience and sector-focused initiatives.

Comprising four core disciplines, namely agricultural economics and extension, animal…

Of ants and men: Africa’s new trafficking problem

They might be small and largely inconspicuous, but ants are becoming big business for a growing market of enthusiasts. In April, Kenyan authorities intercepted two Belgian teenagers, a Vietnamese national, and a local accomplice as they attempted to smuggle 5 400 live queen ants out of the country.

Their illicit cargo, consisting mainly…

Learners enjoy hands-on robotics and coding experience

Whatever shape the future takes, robotics and coding are likely to be part of it. Fifty primary school learners from the Mahikeng area had the opportunity to learn basic coding and robotic skills during a training programme at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus from 22 to 24 April.

The group of Grade 6 and 7 learners…