Research

Study finds crop rotation boosts soil health

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 08:17:41 +0000

Study finds crop rotation boosts soil health

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 06/11/2025 - 10:17

Farmers looking to improve soil health and crop yields may find a solution in crop rotation, according to a study by North-West University (NWU) researchers. The study, published in the International Microbiology Journal, reveals that the rotation of crops leads to a more diverse and beneficial microbial community in soil.

Researchers Ayomide Emmanuel Fadiji, Jerry Onyemaechi Kanu, and Prof Olubukola Oluranti Babalola used advanced genetic techniques to compare soil microbes in two different farming systems. They are mono-cropping, where maize is planted in the same field every season, and crop rotation, where different crops are grown in different seasons.

Findings showed that crop rotation resulted in a richer microbial community, with beneficial bacteria such as Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Proteobacteria, as well as fungi like Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. Archaea such as Euryarchaeota and Thaumarchaeota were also more prevalent in rotated fields.

Jerry emphasises the importance of these microbes. "Soil microbes play a crucial role in plant health and productivity. A diverse microbial community can improve nutrient availability, support plant growth, and even help control harmful pathogens."

The research also found that soil from crop rotation systems maintained a better balance of beneficial microbes, leading to improved soil fertility over time. "Our results suggest that farmers who practise crop rotation are likely to see long-term benefits in terms of soil health and increased crop yields," Jerry adds.

The findings highlight the importance of sustainable farming practices. Healthy soil supports better crop production, reduces the need for chemical fertilisers, and helps maintain environmental balance.

The researchers hope their study encourages more farmers to adopt crop rotation. "Sustainable farming is essential for food security and environmental conservation. Crop rotation is a simple yet effective way to achieve that," Jerry concludes.

This study provides valuable insights for farmers and agricultural policymakers, reinforcing the benefits of crop rotation for long-term agricultural success.

Jerry Onyemaechi Kanu.

Groundbreaking study gives frogs and reptiles indigenous names

MOIRA MULLER — Thu, 29 May 2025 10:16:52 +0000

Groundbreaking study gives frogs and reptiles indigenous names

by Bertie Jacobs

MOIRA MULLER Thu, 05/29/2025 - 12:16

Researchers have created a comprehensive list of indigenous names for frogs and reptiles in order to promote inclusive conservation
People are far more likely to protect what they can name
South Africa’s indigenous languages have long been marginalised in science
The inclusion of indigenous names in biodiversity literature is not only good science, but also democratic

Frogs, snakes and lizards rarely take centre stage in the worlds of language policy and biodiversity, but then again, South Africa is no ordinary place. A new study published in the African Journal of Herpetology offers a compelling insight into how indigenous knowledge and scientific taxonomy can coexist to make conservation truly inclusive and effective.

The study, titled Naming South African frogs and reptiles in nine indigenous languages, is a multilingual feat led by Dr Fortunate Phaka of the North-West University (NWU), alongside collaborators from Belgium and across South Africa. It addresses a significant yet overlooked issue in South African science: the near-total absence of frogs and reptiles named in the country's nine official indigenous languages.

The problem is more than linguistic. Scientific names, which are often in Latin or Greek, are intended to be consistent across the globe, but they are largely incomprehensible to the local communities who live among the species and who are often central to their conservation. This disconnect can be more than a minor inconvenience, it can result in miscommunication, poor policy implementation, and a general lack of public engagement with biodiversity efforts.

Phaka's research is groundbreaking in both scope and intent. Using online surveys, social media outreach and field interviews, the team compiled a list of over 4 800 indigenous names for all 543 species of frogs and reptiles officially recognised in South Africa, extending the names originally used to group multiple species together. These names span the country’s linguistic diversity and include languages such as isiZulu, Xitsonga, isiNdebele and Tshivenda. Where no specific name for a species existed, the researchers created new names based on familiar descriptive traits, as scientists do with newly discovered organisms.

Why does this matter? Firstly, it makes conservation more accessible. People are far more likely to protect things they can name, especially if those names are rooted in their own language and cultural understanding. For example, a Xitsonga speaker may not relate to the scientific name Ptychadena anchietae, but the name “Mabhruku”, inspired by the frog’s long legs and springy leap, may inspire a different kind of curiosity and care.

Moreover, the research reveals that indigenous naming systems often reflect an intuitive ecological logic. For instance, the Xhosa and Zulu words Ixoxo and Isele group frogs based on the texture of their skin. While not strictly scientific, this classification still captures a meaningful distinction. This folk taxonomy often aligns with scientific classifications at higher taxonomic levels (family or genus), though rarely at the species level. The mismatch, or “under-differentiation”, as the authors describe it, is not due to a lack of insight, but rather reflects the observational priorities of communities whose engagement with these animals is shaped by cultural, utilitarian or ecological familiarity.

The implications stretch beyond taxonomy into social justice and language policy. South Africa’s indigenous languages have long been marginalised in science, a space still dominated by English and, to a lesser extent, Afrikaans. As Phaka argues, including indigenous names in biodiversity literature is not only good science, but also democratic. It enables speakers of these languages to engage with conservation as informed contributors rather than passive recipients. In short, it is a step towards epistemic equity.

The fact that this project emerged from a collaboration between the North-West University and international institutions such as Hasselt University speaks to the global relevance of local knowledge. While the frogs and reptiles are mostly endemic to South Africa, the model of integrating folk and formal taxonomies and embedding local languages in scientific discourse is exportable. Countries ranging from Brazil to Pakistan have grappled with similar issues, and Phaka’s work could serve as a valuable template.

There is still work to be done. Why do some species have names, while others don’t? What role do cultural taboos, visibility, and perceived usefulness play in shaping folk taxonomy? These are questions for future research. In the meantime, however, the simple act of naming a frog, lizard or snake in a language that has endured generations is a profound act of cultural and scientific synthesis.

Ultimately, it turns out that what you call a frog does matter. Especially when that name could be the key to saving the species.

• Dr Fortunate Phaka can be contacted at 071 463 6065 and mafetap@gmail.com.

Digital lifeline: how a community newspaper keeps language alive

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 23 May 2025 17:57:21 +0000

Digital lifeline: how a community newspaper keeps language alive

by Mafumane Tlhapi

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/23/2025 - 19:57

Can a digital platform save a language from fading away?

A recent study by Phenyo Mokgothu, a master's graduate and communication practitioner with the North-West University (NWU), has shown that digital community newspapers can indeed preserve language and culture, even in the shifting landscape of online media.

"Every issue is published in an indigenous language, it’s not just about news; it’s about preserving local indigenous language," says Mokgothu, who led a study examining the role of digital community newspapers in safeguarding indigenous languages and cultural heritage in South Africa.

Mokgothu’s research, titled “The role of digital community newspapers in indigenous languages and culture preservation: The case of Seipone Madireng”, found that digital community newspapers do more than report local stories; they serve as cultural anchors for their readers. "We wanted to understand how users see the role of this platform. They told us it reflects their daily experiences and traditions in a way that national outlets do not," Mokgothu says.

The study also revealed that community newspapers promote cultural preservation through active community engagement, bilingual advertising and educational initiatives. "Publishing advertisements in both English and the indigenous language bridges cultural gaps and ensures inclusivity," Mokgothu adds. The research highlighted that this approach not only strengthens community bonds but also promotes pride in linguistic heritage.

Investing in digital literacy could boost newspapers’ sustainability

However, Mokgothu’s findings also pointed to significant challenges faced by community newspapers, including limited financial support, weak digital infrastructure and minimal visibility in mainstream media. Accessibility issues and the imbalance between cultural preservation and technological adaptation were also noted. Despite these barriers, Mokgothu remains optimistic. "There is a clear link between digital access and cultural survival. Community media must be part of future language strategies," he says.

To overcome these obstacles, the study recommends investing in digital literacy programmes to equip indigenous communities with the necessary digital skills, enhancing community engagement through regular feedback, and collaborating with government bodies, cultural organisations and educational institutions for financial sustainability. According to Mokgothu, such collaborations could provide critical funding and resources to support digital community newspapers that protect indigenous languages.

The findings suggest that sustaining indigenous languages in the digital age demands more than community effort; it requires broader investment and strategic support.

More about Phenyo Mokgothu

Phenyo Mokgothu is a chartered public relations practitioner (CPRP) member of PRISA and a corporate communications practitioner at the North-West University (NWU). He has more than ten years of experience in the field of marketing and communication. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Corporate Communication. An Honours degree in Media and Journalism, a master’s degree in communication and currently pursuing a PhD in Communication.

Phenyo Mokgothu

How to make young people part of the solution to tackling crime in communities

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 22 May 2025 07:58:34 +0000

How to make young people part of the solution to tackling crime in communities BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 05/22/2025 - 09:58

By Gofaone Motsamai

As South Africa continues to grapple with high levels of crime, a North-West University (NWU) researcher has highlighted the critical role young people can play in prevention efforts when supported and included in meaningful ways.

Dr Kgomotso Bosilong, a research support coordinator at the NWU and a recent PhD graduate, is focusing her research on how to make the nation’s youth part of the solution to crime.

With more than 12 years of research experience at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), she has contributed to initiatives aimed at enhancing the criminal justice system through technology-driven solutions. Her efforts are aimed at empowering local communities and law enforcement agencies to foster safer living conditions.

Untapped agents of change

Dr Bosilong believes the youth are not just victims or perpetrators of crime, but also untapped agents of change within their communities. She says young individuals often express a desire to participate in enhancing the safety of their communities. However, they frequently experience feelings of exclusion or insecurity and lack trust in protective systems.

Her recent study focused on youth perceptions of crime and their participation in crime prevention activities. She found that crimes such as robbery, rape, substance abuse and knife violence are often linked to patterns learned during childhood and adolescence.

“These behaviours reflect gaps in support during a young person’s formative years,” she explains. “Intervening early in a child’s life can reduce their chances of becoming involved in crime later on.”

However, fear of victimisation, unemployment and poverty, as well as a lack of trust in law enforcement, are some of the barriers that discourage youth from engaging in prevention activities.

“Young people feel vulnerable,” says Dr Bosilong. “Without the assurance of safety and without opportunities for growth, they are left idle and exposed to negative influences.”

Existing community structures such as community policing forums (CPFs) and neighbourhood patrols show potential but often lack the resources and support needed to make a long-term impact.

To tackle these challenges, her research suggests the establishment of community-based collaborations that offer mentorship, early intervention programmes, skills training and recreational opportunities. These initiatives would enable young individuals to play a proactive role in enhancing community safety and fostering social unity.

Partners in building safer communities

Dr Bosilong emphasises that solutions must be designed with young people, “We need to involve youth as partners in building safer communities. When they feel heard and supported, they are more likely to become part of the solution.”

While her study focused on Mmabatho Extension 39, a South African peri-urban residential community in the Mahikeng Local Municipality (MLM), North West Province, she believes the insights are widely applicable. “Across South Africa, young people are ready to contribute. What is missing is the structure, trust and investment to help them lead change,” Dr Bosilong concludes.

Dr Kgomotso Bosilong

Call for climate-smart cattle breeding to promote food security

MARELIZE SANTANA — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 08:10:15 +0000

Call for climate-smart cattle breeding to promote food security MARELIZE SANTANA Tue, 04/29/2025 - 10:10

By Gofaone Motsamai

Heat stress is among the most urgent climate-related challenges affecting beef cattle productivity, requiring South African cattle breeders to adopt climate-smart strategies to bolster food security under changing environmental conditions.

“Heat stress is becoming a major threat to livestock productivity,” said Prof Giel Scholtz of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) in an online guest lecture hosted by the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences on 24 April 2025.

Prof Scholtz is a specialist researcher in applied animal breeding at ARC Animal Production and a researcher focused on sustainable livestock systems.

He explained that when humidity levels rise above 80%, the temperature threshold for heat stress in beef cattle drops from 30°C to 27°C. This heat stress reduces feed intake, delays growth, impairs fertility and affects meat quality.

Heat stress can also lead to reproductive inefficiency in both male and female cattle, Prof Scholtz said. “If the temperature goes above 27°C, semen quality decreases and some sperm die. It takes eight weeks for new sperm to be formed, meaning even one day of extreme heat can influence bull fertility.”

He presented data showing how indigenous breeds such as the Afrikaner and Nguni are more resilient than exotic breeds. “In 2015/16, the hottest and driest year recorded, Angus and Simmental types showed a 70% decrease in growth rate during heat waves, while the growth rate of Afrikaner and Nguni only dropped by 9%.”

The importance of feed efficiency under climate pressure was also raised. “We saw bulls eating less but weighing more, probably due to increased water intake,” he noted. “Nguni bulls increased water intake by up to 50%, while the Afrikaner bulls did not change their water intake at all.”

Prof Scholtz stressed the importance of using indigenous or adapted breeds for future breeding strategies. “Our indigenous breeds are our heritage for food security,” he said. “They are better adapted to survive and reproduce under harsh environments.”

He concluded the lecture by calling for new breeding priorities focused on smaller body size, lighter hair colour, darker skin pigmentation and the effective use of crossbreeding. “We need animals that are resilient, that recover quickly, and that can bounce back after extreme climatic events.”

Prof Giel Scholtz

Researchers explore the environmental impact of HIV-ARVs on South Africa’s water systems

MARELIZE SANTANA — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:12:14 +0000

Researchers explore the environmental impact of HIV-ARVs on South Africa’s water systems MARELIZE SANTANA Fri, 04/04/2025 - 14:12

By: Gofaone Motsamai

NWU researchers have completed a groundbreaking study that sheds light on the environmental implications of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) in South Africa’s water resources. The report, “Quantification, fate, and hazard assessment of HIV-ARVs in water resources”, was submitted to the Water Research Commission (WRC) and is the most comprehensive study to date on the issue.

The research was conducted by the NWU’s Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management and the Africa Unit for Transdisciplinary Health Research. The team of experts included Prof Suranie Horn, Prof Rialet Pieters, Prof Henk Bouwman and Prof Petra Bester, among others. Their collaborative effort combined expertise from environmental, health and social sciences to address this pressing issue.

The study revealed significant concentrations of ARVs in water sources, particularly downstream of wastewater treatment plants. The drugs most frequently detected were lopinavir and efavirenz, with concentrations at some sites far exceeding global norms. This is attributed to South Africa’s large-scale HIV treatment programme, the most extensive of its kind worldwide.

The research highlighted alarming effects on aquatic ecosystems and wastewater management systems. Freshwater snails exposed to ARVs exhibited altered embryonic development, while bacteriophages – viruses critical to controlling bacteria in wastewater treatment – were significantly impacted.

Such disruptions could lead to bacterial bloom and reduced water quality. The report noted: "The consumption of any type of exogenous drug by any organism in sufficient quantities may intervene with the regulation of metabolic systems and bring about adverse effects. The presence of antiretrovirals in water can be considered a hidden or latent risk."

Further, the study highlighted the potential risks for human health: "Humans are also exposed to these compounds via drinking water, and at concentrations exceeding calculated hazard quotients. Although not found in this study, humans and other organisms may potentially ingest antiretrovirals and their breakdown products via aquatic organisms such as fish."

The team employed state-of-the-art analytical methods, including liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry, to quantify ARV levels in water. Their work also involved biological assays to assess the toxicological impacts of ARVs on non-target organisms and hazard assessments to evaluate risks to human health.

The findings

The study found that concentrations of ARVs in some water sources exceeded acceptable thresholds, posing potential long-term health risks to humans. The research team emphasised that current wastewater treatment processes are inadequate for removing these bioactive compounds, highlighting the need for technological advancements.

The report presented to the WRC includes several key recommendations. These include developing regulatory guidelines for ARV concentrations in water, improving wastewater treatment technologies, and conducting further research to understand the long-term ecological and human health impacts of these pharmaceuticals. In addition, the team advocates a multidisciplinary approach to address the intersections of public health and environmental sustainability.

This research marks a pivotal step in addressing the environmental consequences of pharmaceutical pollution. By documenting the unintended impacts of ARV treatments, the team has provided critical insights to policymakers and environmental scientists. Their work underscores the importance of balancing the need for widespread HIV treatment programmes with the necessity of protecting South Africa’s water resources and ecosystems.

This study sets a benchmark for future research, placing the NWU at the forefront of addressing environmental challenges linked to public health initiatives.

Indigenous agricultural practices promote food security

MARELIZE SANTANA — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:09:05 +0000

Indigenous agricultural practices promote food security

by Oscar Mosiane

MARELIZE SANTANA Fri, 04/04/2025 - 14:09

Although indigenous agricultural practices play a major role in enhancing food security in local communities, they are still undervalued, overlooked and regarded as old fashioned. A master’s student at the NWU is conducting research that could help to give indigenous agricultural practices a place in the sun.

Thato Hazel Seemise, a master’s student in indigenous knowledge systems at the Mahikeng Campus, is studying the indigenous agricultural practices used to enhance food security among the Batswana of Moruleng in the North West province.

Since food security (having access to an adequate amount of nutritious food) is a basic need, Thato says that understanding indigenous knowledge associated with indigenous agricultural practices is fundamental to promote food security at household level.

These practices have the potential to gear the agricultural sector towards sustainable agricultural production, which promotes at least three United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These are SDGs 1 (No poverty), 2 (Zero hunger) and 12 (Responsible consumption and production).

“Indigenous agricultural practices are significant for small-scale farming worldwide, as they are crucial in guaranteeing food abundance, community well-being and economic benefit,” Thato says.

She further adds that regardless of the challenges, indigenous agricultural practices remain the shield in preventing food insecurity within the Bakgatla-Ba-Kgafela in Moruleng.

“Documenting, disseminating and recognising these practices deserves special attention. There is a need for policymakers to stimulate the utilisation of indigenous agricultural practices and acknowledge their contribution to the agricultural sector.”

Thato Hazel Seemise

Albertina Sisulu Research Chair will continue to shine its light on nursing

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 07:34:48 +0000

Albertina Sisulu Research Chair will continue to shine its light on nursing

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 03/25/2025 - 09:34

In a nod to the North-West University’s (NWU’s) outstanding research abilities, the Albertina Sisulu Research Chair in Nursing Science has been upgraded by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and will continue for another five years under the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI).

The SARChI extension followed a successful evaluation process in which the chair, led by Prof Siedine Knobloch Coetzee, underwent a two-phase peer review. Independent experts assessed the chairholder’s report and supporting documents, after which an evaluation panel, composed of researchers from multiple disciplines, deliberated on the findings. The panel recommended continued funding.

The NRF also upgraded the chair’s status to Tier 1, a designation for researchers with international recognition in their field.

Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, the NWU’s deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, says the chair’s upgrade underscores its contributions to the university’s research output.

“This achievement strengthens the NWU’s standing in health sciences research. It is a testament to the work being done to advance nursing science and train researchers who will shape the future of the field.”

The NRF has emphasised the importance of institutional support in ensuring the chair’s long-term sustainability and the NWU is expected to provide resources to sustain the chair’s impact beyond the current funding cycle.

The SARChI programme, launched in 2006 by the Department of Science and Technology and managed by the NRF, aims to grow South Africa’s research capacity by retaining top scholars and generating new knowledge. The initiative supports public universities, research councils and national research facilities with a focus on scientific advancement and transformation in the knowledge economy.

Prof Siedine Knobloch Coetzee

Research and Innovation Colloquium showcases NWU’s commitment to multidisciplinary collaboration

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 06:52:06 +0000

Research and Innovation Colloquium showcases NWU’s commitment to multidisciplinary collaboration

by Belinda Bantham

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 03/18/2025 - 08:52

“To expand beautiful ideas of working together across disciplines.” These were the words of Professor Jeffrey Mpahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for Research and Innovation at the North-West University (NWU), as he captured the essence of the university's Research and Innovation Colloquium that was held at Sun City from 02-04 March 2025.

The colloquium began on Sunday evening with a reception and networking dinner hosted by the NWU principal and vice-chancellor, Professor Bismark Tyobeka. This opening event provided a platform for academics and industry leaders to engage in discussions about the pivotal role of research in driving societal transformation and promoting sustainable development.

Over the course of two days, various faculties from the NWU showcased their research initiatives, all aligned with the colloquium’s central theme: Research and Innovation for Society and Sustainable Development: Embracing Inter-, Multi- and Transdisciplinary Approaches and Industry Partnerships. This platform highlighted the university's commitment to making a meaningful social impact, fostering international collaboration, and advancing sustainable growth.

The programme directors for the first day were Prof Nnenesi Kgabi, chief director of Research and Postgraduate Support, and Dr Mathew Moyo, chief director of Library and Information Services. The day commenced with a presentation from the Faculty of Health Sciences, themed From Laboratories to Communities: Multidisciplinary, Transdisciplinary and Sustainability Challenges in Health Sciences Research. This session emphasised how the faculty’s research extends beyond the confines of laboratories to address real-world health challenges.

Next, the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences presented their session, titled Creating Futures: Bold Ventures in Multi- and Trans-Disciplinary Research, outlining the faculty’s forward-looking approach to research that anticipates future economic and management trends.

Following this, the Faculty of Law, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Theology delivered presentations centred on Faculty Themes on Fostering Multidisciplinary and Transdisciplinary Research and Innovation, underlining their combined efforts in driving research to address societal challenges.

A highlight of the first day was an insightful presentation by Prof Anne Verhoef, director of the NWU Artificial Intelligence Hub, titled Research in the Era of AI. Prof Verhoef provided a thought-provoking assessment of how artificial intelligence reshapes the research landscape.

The second day, led by programme director Mrs Bibi Bouwman, began with presentations from the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences and the Faculty of Humanities, also centred on Faculty Themes on Fostering Multidisciplinary and Transdisciplinary Research and Innovation

Following this, Dr Janine Chantson facilitated a session titled Innovations for Shaping a Sustainable Tomorrow: Aligning Research to Market Needs, which explored the importance of tailoring research outcomes to meet real-world demands. In her closing remarks, Dr Chantson stated, “The most exciting things that lie ahead will happen at the intersection of our different fields.”

The TTIS (Technology Transfer and Innovation Support) segment featured presentations such as Leveraging on NWU Enterprises and From Campus to Community: Technology and Knowledge Transfer for Societal Impact, delivered by Dr Andrew Bailey, acting director of Research Contracts and Innovation at the University of Cape Town. This session emphasised the university’s role in transforming research into tangible community benefits.

In addition, topics such as The Role of Universities in Innovation-Driven Industrial Development and the importance of intellectual property were explored, including a deep dive into the National Intellectual Property Management Office and the Intellectual Property Act.

The colloquium concluded with remarks from Prof Jeffrey Mpahlele, who congratulated all the faculties and presenters on their insightful contributions. He expressed his pleasure at seeing the faculties extending offers for collaboration, stating, “This will expand the NWU’s international footprint.”

NWU Research and Innovation Colloquium kicks off with a networking dinner

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:18:11 +0000

NWU Research and Innovation Colloquium kicks off with a networking dinner

by Belinda Bantham

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 03/03/2025 - 11:18

The Research and Innovation Colloquium of the North-West University (NWU) commenced in Sun City last night with a reception and networking dinner hosted by the university’s principal and vice-chancellor, Professor Bismark Tyobeka. The event brought together academics and industry leaders to discuss the strategic role of research in driving societal transformation and sustainable development.

Mr Clement Manoko, the NWU's executive director of Corporate Relations and Marketing, served as the programme director for the evening. In his opening remarks, he expressed hope that the research outcomes shared during the colloquium would have a tangible impact on communities.

The deputy vice-chancellor for Research and Innovation, Professor Jeffrey Mphahlele, explained the purpose of the gathering, expressing his delight that this event was finally taking place. He emphasised that he eagerly anticipated the knowledge exchange that would take place over the coming days. During the event, attendees were also treated to a video showcase highlighting selected NWU research and innovation successes across various research entities.

In a keynote address, Professor Tyobeka reaffirmed the NWU’s commitment to nurturing research excellence that not only advances academic knowledge but also addresses pressing societal challenges. He underlined the university's diverse research ecosystem, which includes nine research chairs, eight hosted research entities – five of which are centres of excellence – 11 research units, 19 research focus areas, and eight research niche areas.

"Our research and innovation initiatives are strategically aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)," Professor Tyobeka noted, adding that the NWU has implemented impact measurement frameworks to track its contributions towards sustainable development and social justice. These frameworks ensure that the NWU's research efforts translate into measurable benefits for communities, industries and policymakers alike.

In her address, Dr Ndivuhwo Luruli, chief strategist from the National Research Foundation (NRF), encouraged academics to take advantage of the numerous funding opportunities available, urging them not to limit their aspirations. She emphasised the importance of partnerships in driving research excellence and transforming lives.

Over the next two days, various NWU faculties will present their research initiatives, all centred on the colloquium’s theme: Research and Innovation for Society and Sustainable Development: Embracing Inter-, Multi- and Transdisciplinary Approaches and Industry Partnerships. The discussions are set to deepen the university's commitment to meaningful social impact, international collaboration and sustainable growth.

Kicking off the NWU Research and Innovation Colloquium, vice-chancellor Professor Bismark Tyobeka hosted a networking dinner at Sun City.

Research

Study finds crop rotation boosts soil health

Groundbreaking study gives frogs and reptiles indigenous names

Researchers have created a comprehensive list of indigenous names for frogs and reptiles in order to promote inclusive conservation

People are far more likely to protect what they can name

South Africa’s indigenous languages have long been marginalised in science

The inclusion of indigenous names in biodiversity literature is not only good science, but also democratic

Digital lifeline: how a community newspaper keeps language alive

How to make young people part of the solution to tackling crime in communities

Call for climate-smart cattle breeding to promote food security

Researchers explore the environmental impact of HIV-ARVs on South Africa’s water systems

Indigenous agricultural practices promote food security

Albertina Sisulu Research Chair will continue to shine its light on nursing

Research and Innovation Colloquium showcases NWU’s commitment to multidisciplinary collaboration

NWU Research and Innovation Colloquium kicks off with a networking dinner