The South African Socio-Economic and Industrial Research Conference (SSIRC), held from 6 to 7 November 2025 at the Radisson Blu in Umhlanga, Durban, marked a significant milestone celebrating a decade of impactful dialogue, innovative research, and academic collaboration in the fields of social sciences and international research.

This landmark event brought together scholars, practitioners, and global experts dedicated to addressing pressing socio-economic challenges and shaping the future of these critical research disciplines.

The North-West University (NWU) and its AI Hub are continuing to strengthen the institution’s digital capacity through an incentive programme aimed at encouraging academic staff to complete the AI and Assessment course. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the office of the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, the AI Hub, the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL), and People and Culture.

 By Prof Roelof Coetzer

• The Centre for Digital Humanities was born out of the realisation that the humanities are central to creating equitable digital futures for South Africans. 
• “As digital humanists, we understand that technology exists within a network of human and more-than-human relationships,” says Prof.

The North-West University (NWU) continues to make strides in pioneering research that addresses sustainability and food security challenges across southern Africa. This year, Melokuhle Queeneth Magagula, a distinguished MSc graduate in Animal Science from the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, has earned both national and international acclaim for her innovative research on the development of sustainable poultry feed.

The Agricultural Economics Association of South Africa (AEASA) has appointed Dr Lindikhaya Myeki, a senior lecturer in the School of Agricultural Economics and Extension at the North-West University (NWU), as secretary and/or treasurer.

Dr Myeki’s appointment, effective from 1 October 2025, was confirmed by the AEASA management committee following a nomination that recognised his commitment, professional integrity and contribution to the field of agricultural economics in South Africa, The appointment is for a two-year renewable term.

On Friday, 31 October, the Siyakhula Sibasha Science Showcase brought community leaders, academics and young innovators together at the Khaya Ibhubesi Conference Centre in Parys. The event celebrated the achievements of all participants in the flagship project, ‘Reimagining Community Education Post-Covid-19: Mobilising Youth as Community Assets to Reduce the Educational Divide in a South African Township”, which ran from 2023 to 2025.

Fodder beet is gaining attention as a key livestock feed crop in South Africa, and new research from the North-West University (NWU) shows how nitrogen fertiliser and planting season shape its growth and nutritional value.

Zabesuthu Sithokozisiwe Mngomezulu investigated how two fodder beet varieties respond to different nitrogen levels during winter, spring, and autumn. The study focused on growth traits, yield, and nutrient profiles.

By Gofaone Motsamai

When water gushes from a rural borehole, many see purity, but beneath that clear stream could lie invisible fungal organisms capable of causing serious infections. To protect public health, South Africa should introduce inclusive microbial monitoring, according to a North-West University (NWU) study.

Efforts to strengthen mental health awareness and policy in South Africa were in focus as Prof Leepile Sehularo from the North-West University (NWU) received the “Special Impact Mental Health Award” during the first Keturah Mental Health Awards in South Africa.

“I am honoured to receive this award,” said Prof Sehularo. “It reflects the collective effort of professionals, students and partners who are committed to building stronger mental health systems. Our work must continue to centre on inclusion, access and collaboration.”