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.
Yet growing evidence suggests that this constant affirmation may come at a cost.
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 laboratory studies showed activity against several forms of cancer, including drug-resistant small cell lung cancer and colorectal cancer.
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.
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 (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 Koach Ndlovu
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 and psychiatric research. “When you get notified of a ranking like this, it counters any doubt or negative thinking about the impact of your work.”
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 impact of the NWU on psychological research.
A moment of reflection for Prof. Rothmann
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.
The handover forms part of the Department's contribution to South Africa's just energy transition, the hydrogen economy and the country's long-term net-zero carbon ambitions.
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 of the North-West University (NWU).
Prof. Tobie van Dyk will receive the Jacques van der Elst Prize.