Health Sciences

First-of-its-kind colloquium focuses on health sciences and sustainable community partnerships

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Faculty of Health Sciences hosted its first Community Engagement Colloquium on the Vanderbijlpark Campus on 2 and 3 October.

The purpose of this colloquium - titled "Health sciences and partnerships for sustainable communities" - was to bring together academics, practitioners, and community members to start a conversation about the ways in which they can work together to improve health outcomes for communities.

Submitted on Tue, 10/10/2023 - 10:57

Academic to lead preclinical GLP toxicity hub for pharmaceuticals development

South Africa and the North-West University (NWU) are stepping up to develop the African continent’s capabilities to develop its own human vaccines.

The glaring disparities in vaccine access during the Covid-19 pandemic has led to South Africa taking significant strides to bridge the gap between the global north and the African continent's vaccine development needs.

Submitted on Thu, 10/05/2023 - 11:38

Master’s student shines in FameLab competition

Carla Horn, a master's degree student in nursing sciences at the North-West University (NWU), stood out in the FameLab competition held on 21 September at the National Research Foundation Auditorium in Pretoria.

Securing her a spot among the top 10 participants, Carla’s presentation focused on how our government healthcare system can prepare itself to deliver effective patient care and save lives in the event of disasters, specifically based in obstetric wards or maternal wards.

Submitted on Wed, 10/04/2023 - 08:31

Shaping future drug development with ethical approaches

In the realm of pharmaceutical research Prof Chrisna Gouws, a professor at the Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™) of the North-West University (NWU), is leading a significant charge towards transforming drug development.

Her work in animal-free testing methods revolutionises how pharmaceuticals are researched, tested and ultimately approved. This focus draws on her expertise in biochemistry, cell-culture models and herb-drug interactions, all of which have culminated in a mission to advance humane and effective pharmaceutical testing.

Submitted on Wed, 09/27/2023 - 15:44

Students showcase their action netball skills.

Action netball is a thrilling and dynamic variation of traditional netball that has recently gained popularity. This fast-paced sport combines the core principles of netball with elements of basketball, making it an exciting and engaging game for participants and spectators alike.

No longer just a sport for women, men and women now play this fast-paced sport.

Submitted on Fri, 09/22/2023 - 09:22

Staff member and student impress at pharmaceutical conference

North-West University (NWU) academic Prof Lesetja Legoabe and student Monique Labuschagne had an impressive showing at the 42nd Academy of Pharmaceutical Science of South Africa (APSSA) Conference.

Prof Legoabe from the Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences received the best publication award for his work titled "Investigation of Quinolone‐Tethered Aminoguanidine as Novel Antibacterial Agents".

Monique, who is affiliated with the NWU’s Preclinical Drug Development Platform, received the best poster award in recognition for her research.

Submitted on Tue, 09/19/2023 - 14:57

Empowering high school learners through holistic wellness

Holistic wellness entails achieving a sense of well-being by balancing the physical, emotional, mental, social, and spiritual aspects of life. It is about recognising that these different areas are interconnected and that neglecting one can impact the others.

For high school learners, holistic wellness is crucial as it provides a foundation for healthy growth and development. When students are supported in all these areas, they are better equipped to navigate the challenges and pressures they face.

Submitted on Mon, 09/11/2023 - 08:44