Human Interest

Research looks at natural solutions for exposure to health-harming toxins

Prof Sithandiwe Mazibuko-Mbeje from the North-West University (NWU) recently returned from a sabbatical in Ancona, Italy, where she conducted groundbreaking research in toxicology.

Over seven months, Prof Mazibuko-Mbeje delved into a crucial yet often overlooked area of study: the impact of toxins on human health, particularly in the development of diseases like cancer and obesity.

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Prof Bismark lauds Springboks as Newsmaker of the Year

The World Cup winning Springboks were named the 2023 Newsmaker of the Year by the National Press Club on Wednesday 17 April. The event is sponsored by the North-West University (NWU) and was held at the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens. Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, lauded the Springboks for their immense achievements and their contributions to nation building, whilst also highlighting the integral role the press plays in working democracy.

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Researcher uses artificial mussels to monitor water pollution

Water pollution is a significant environmental issue with far-reaching impacts on society. It is not confined to local or regional boundaries and is exacerbated by climate change, leading to human health risks.

In dealing with such unprecedented risks to our water resources, what is needed is innovation – the kind of innovation embodied by the Water Research Group of the Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management at the North-West University (NWU).

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Ethics first: workshop guides postgraduate students on using AI responsibly

Artificial intelligence (AI) plays a significant role in the transformation and advancement of technology, and in this rapidly evolving digital world it is critical to know how to use it ethically.

The Alumni Relations Office of the North-West University (NWU) chose to impart relevant career advice regarding AI to the full-time NWU postgraduate students on Tuesday, 9 April.

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Optentia symposium emphasises the importance of balancing technological progress with ethical considerations

The Optentia research unit of the North-West University (NWU) recently hosted a symposium on technology, humanity and ethics, emphasising the importance of balancing technological progress with ethical considerations and human rights to ensure advancements support sustainability and individual well-being.

Optentia director Prof Ian Rothmann says the event aimed to bring together researchers, practitioners, and policymakers from various fields to collaborate towards a more equitable and humane technological future.

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Voter education: key issues explored prior to the general elections

Political commentator Mike Sham recently hosted a voter education event in collaboration with the Potchefstroom Student Campus Council (SCC) of the North-West University (NWU).

Mike Sham, as well as the students of the NWU who were present at the event, questioned the various political representatives in attendance about their manifestos and the reasons behind the parties’ request for votes.

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World Intellectual Property Day celebrations launched

The North-West University (NWU) recently hosted the media launch for the World Intellectual Property Day (WIPD) celebrations in partnership with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC), the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), the National Intellectual Property Management Office (NIPMO), the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), and the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA).

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NWU Eagles YG to face Shimlas YG in FNB Young Guns Final

The North-West University (NWU) Eagles Young Guns (YG) are heading to the FNB Young Guns Final after defeating FNB UCT Ikeys YG 31-24 at the Fanie du Toit Sports Grounds on Monday, 15 April.

A rather slow start from the NWU Eagles YG saw the home team nearly getting punished by a missed penalty kick from the Ikeys full back, Monray Daars. Soon afterwards, Jamaine Dampies’ dazzling solo run gave the NWU Eagles YG the lead. UCT Ikeys YG responded with a close-range try from Ali-Amjad Osman.

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