The North-West University (NWU) strengthened its international research profile through successful participation in the 2026 BRICS Postgraduate Forum, held from 9 to 11 June 2026 at the University of Campinas in Brazil.
The forum, convened by the BRICS Research Institute in partnership with RUDN University, brought together approximately 100 master's degree, doctoral and postdoctoral researchers from across the Global South under the theme, “BRICS and Sustainable Development in a Multipolar World: Governance, Innovation and Market Transformation”.
The NWU delegation comprised postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows who showcased their research, engaged with leading international scholars and participated in discussions on governance, innovation, sustainability and market transformation in BRICS nations.
The participation of the university reflects its continued commitment to research excellence, postgraduate development, internationalisation and meaningful global engagement.
A highlight of the forum was the outstanding performance of the NWU researchers, with two delegates receiving prestigious Best Paper in Session awards.
Thabo Rakuba received the Best Paper in Session Award in the master's degree category, recognising the quality and impact of his research contribution. Padiso Matsole was honoured with the Best Paper in Session Award in the PhD category, further demonstrating the high standard of postgraduate research produced at the NWU.
Reflecting on her experience, Padiso, a PhD candidate in the Faculty of Health Sciences subject group Physiology and a member of the Hypertension in Africa Research Team, said the forum provided far more than an opportunity to present research.
“The fifth Postgraduate Forum in Brazil was an enriching experience that provided a valuable opportunity to network with researchers from diverse academic backgrounds. The forum extended beyond academic engagement, facilitating cultural exchange and enabling participants to learn and appreciate different cultures. These interactions fostered meaningful connections and created opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration,” she said.
“A notable highlight of the trip was receiving the Best Paper in Session – PhD award, which was a significant honour and recognition of my research. Looking ahead, the connections established during the forum have enabled continued engagement with researchers from various institutions and disciplines. These relationships provide a foundation for ongoing academic exchange and potential future research collaborations.”
She added that participation in international platforms such as the BRICS Postgraduate Forum not only strengthens individual research careers but also contributes to the global visibility of NWU research and fosters collaborations that can address shared challenges across the Global South.
Thabo described the forum as a transformative academic experience.
“Participating in the BRICS Postgraduate Forum was both an honour and a valuable learning opportunity. Presenting my research alongside scholars from different countries exposed me to diverse perspectives and innovative approaches to addressing global challenges.
“Receiving the Best Paper in Session award was an unexpected but deeply rewarding recognition of the hard work and dedication invested in my research. The forum provided an excellent platform for academic exchange, networking and collaboration, and I am grateful for the opportunity to represent the NWU on an international stage,” he said.
“The experience has inspired me to continue pursuing impactful research and to build on the connections established during the forum. I believe these engagements will contribute significantly to my academic growth and future collaborative opportunities.”
These achievements underscore the growing reputation of the university for producing researchers capable of competing and excelling on international platforms.
The forum provided participants with opportunities to present research findings, attend panel discussions, participate in networking sessions and engage in knowledge-sharing initiatives focused on sustainable development and innovation.
Prof. Nnenesi Kgabi, chief director for Research and Postgraduate Support, previously highlighted the significance of the participation by the university, noting that the forum demonstrates the growing strength and international standing of the postgraduate and postdoctoral programmes of the institution.
Participation in the forum is expected to create new opportunities for international collaboration, enhance research visibility and contribute to the strategic goal of the university of strengthening its global academic footprint.
As the BRICS+ network continues to play an increasingly influential role in global research and development, the NWU remains committed to fostering impactful partnerships that advance knowledge creation, innovation and sustainable development.
From left are Dr Oluwasola Babatunde Sasere, Thabo Rakuba, Dr Manyanga Wilbert, Padiso Matsole, Dr Mavhuru Luck, Dr Tshepang Mofokeng, and Dr Olawuni Oluwagbenga Abiola.
