Understanding the true state of biodiversity in sub-Saharan Africa has long been a challenge, especially for those responsible for shaping environmental policies. A major new study published in the prestigious Nature journal now offers much-needed clarity.

Today marks the opening of proposal presentations for the inaugural cohort of the PhD Hub for Africa, an ambitious pilot initiative of the North-West University (NWU) Business School to reimagine doctoral education for the continent.

Over two days, Friday, 28 November and Monday, 1 December 2025, 24 doctoral candidates will present their research proposals as the culmination of a four-month Bridging Phase. Those who meet the academic requirements will proceed to full enrolment in the PhD in Business Administration programme in 2026.

This landmark event brought together scholars, practitioners, and global experts dedicated to

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.