The degree and the broken promise of mobility

South Africa's higher education system continues to expand at a time when the economy into which it feeds remains largely unchanged. Universities are expected to serve as engines of social mobility, offering individuals a path out of poverty and into the middle class.

Professor leads landmark international book on the future of non-chicken poultry production

A new upcoming book by Prof. Caven Mguvane Mnisi as lead editor and fellow researchers is repositioning ostrich, quail, waterfowls and other non-chicken poultry at the centre of discussions about food security and sustainable farming systems.

Published by Elsevier, Non-chicken…

Nuclear physicist joins NWU to steer applied radiation research

Renowned nuclear physicist Prof. Siyabonga Majola has joined the North-West University (NWU) as the new head of the Centre for Applied Radiation Science and Technology (CARST). His appointment means one of South Africa’s emerging leaders in nuclear science is at the helm of a centre positioned at the intersection of…

NWU maintains strong global standing in CWUR rankings

The forward-looking strategy of the North-West University (NWU) continues to deliver results. According to the 2026 edition of the outcome-based Global 2000 list by the Center for World University Rankings (CWUR), the NWU ranks in the top 4,1% of universities worldwide. The CWUR published the latest rankings on 1 June…

How TikTok and YouTube are helping keep Setswana culture alive

A Setswana proverb shared on TikTok, a traditional wedding blanket draped over a bride’s shoulders in a music video and folktales narrated through podcasts may seem like ordinary digital content. However, new research from the North-West University (NWU) reveals that these online spaces are becoming powerful tools for…

AI is teaching us the wrong lessons about happiness

Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming more than a tool. Increasingly, people are turning to AI for advice, companionship and emotional reassurance. Chatbots are helping users navigate personal challenges, offering encouragement and, in many cases, validating their feelings and beliefs.

Indigenous plant study opens new path in cancer treatment research

A plant long used in traditional medicine is now at the centre of research that could shape future cancer treatment options in South Africa and beyond.

Researchers at the North-West University(NWU) are investigating the anti-cancer potential of Lessertia frutescens, commonly known as cancer bush, after…

Kgodiso Development Fund partners with NWU to advance climate-resilient farming in the North West

The Kgodiso Development Fund (KDF), in partnership with the North-West University (NWU), is making significant progress on a flagship agricultural development initiative aimed at supporting emerging commercial farmers and strengthening food security in South Africa.

The NWU -Kgodiso…

South African Sign Language dissemination event: Promoting inclusion in digital spaces

The South African Centre for Digital Language Resources (SADiLaR) hosted at the North-West University (NWU), in collaboration with its Child Language Development node at Stellenbosch University, will host a South African Sign Language (SASL) dissemination event on 29 May 2026.

The event is aimed at advancing…

Harnessed energy offers a new path for smallholder poultry farmers

Smallholder poultry farmers who adopt harnessed energy systems such as solar and wind power could improve production efficiency and reduce long-term operational costs, according to research conducted by Ella Mogashoa during her master’s study at the North-West University (NWU).

The…