Research News

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…

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…

Research and Postgraduate Support celebrates prestigious global certification

The Research and Postgraduate Support (RPS) directorate at the North-West University (NWU) celebrated the university’s successful attainment of the Good Financial Grant Practice (GFGP) Platinum Tier certification during an event held in Mahikeng on 22 April.

By Oscar Mosiane and…

Ranking places researcher third in neuroscience in South Africa

The 2026 edition of the ranking of the Best Scientists in Neuroscience by Research.com places Prof. Brian Harvey from the subject group Pharmacology at the North-West University (NWU) among the three most cited researchers in the field in South Africa.

Prof. Harvey says this accolade highlights his decades of work in neuropharmacology…

Research.com names researchers among the best psychology scientists

The 2026 ranking edition of the leading global platform, Research.com, places three of the researchers of the North-West University (NWU) among the best scientists in the field of psychology.

The inclusion of Prof. Ian Rothmann and extraordinary professors Prof. Bouwien Smits-Engelsman and Prof. Linda Theron in the list underscores the…

DSTI hands over key hydrogen and energy innovation facilities at North-West University

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) marked a significant milestone in South Africa's clean energy transition with the official handover of two strategic energy research, development and innovation (RDI) deployments at the North-West University (NWU) Potchefstroom Campus.

Prof. Louis du Preez to receive prestigious Havenga Prize

His name is synonymous with groundbreaking research and innovation, with many honours over the years acknowledging the impact of his work. Now, another prestigious honour will soon be awarded to Prof. Louis du Preez, amphibian conservationist and amphibian parasite diversity expert of the School of Biological Sciences…

NWU researcher to be honoured with the Jacques van der Elst Prize

Prof. Tobie van Dyk will receive the Jacques van der Elst Prize.

On 2 October, Prof. Tobie van Dyk will stand on the stage in Pretoria to receive a prestigious award in the humanities, the Jacques van der Elst Prize, presented by the Suid-Afrikaanse Akademie vir Wetenskap en Kuns…