The North-West University (NWU) is showcasing its impactful research projects and programmes during its biennial Research and Innovation Week.

This year’s theme is “Research and innovation for sustainable impact”. The event is taking place from 18 to 22 September.

Research and Innovation Week is organised by the NWU’s Research Support department, in collaboration with faculties. They also use the event to conduct roadshows across campuses, taking research support services to the users.

“The main objective of Research and Innovation Week is to exhibit the work of our researchers and postgraduate research programmes. Through this we aim to enhance excellence and visibility and encourage networking and collaboration across entities and faculties,” says Prof Nnenesi Kgabi, the NWU’s director for Research Support.

The event is hosted in a hybrid format that comprises in-venue components spread across campuses. The in-venue events include panel discussions, seminars, workshops and inaugural lectures. Other faculties will also conduct open day activities.

The jam-packed event offers an array of impressive research-related happenings. Some of the highlights include presentations by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) on international nuclear programmes and scholarship opportunities.

A host of expert speakers will share their knowledge. They will discuss topics as diverse as artificial intelligence, the future of South Africa in a precarious political environment, and renewable energy and its just energy transition, among other things.

“I am excited that for the first time since 2017 we see faculties working together with support departments across all campuses with one goal in mind ― to promote NWU researchers and research programmes,” says Prof Nnenesi.

Research Support will also host the Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) competition, and the Postdoctoral Poster Competition. The Postdoctoral Poster Competition is open to postdoctoral students from all the faculties. For more information about this exciting competition or to enter, contact Mpe Meintjes at 018 299 4856. Click here to view the full programme, or phone Rose Kgantsi at 018 389 9036 for more information.

Prof Nnenesi Kgabi, the NWU’s director for Research Support.