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.

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.

North-West University (NWU) academic Prof Leepile Sehularo addressed the contentious issue of marijuana legalisation in South Africa during his inaugural lecture on 20 September 2023.

Under the theme "Legalisation of marijuana: The debate continues," Prof Sehularo provided a thorough examination of the profound implications of the ongoing debate.

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.

By Menziwa Msibi

The Centre for Health and Human Performance (CHHP) at the North-West University (NWU), in collaboration with Autism South Africa and the South Africa-Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions (SA-ACAPAP) hosted the eighth National Autism Symposium from 8 to 10 September in Potchefstroom.

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.

The new Covid-19 subvariant EG.5 – also known as Eris – has made its way into South Africa with the first case reported in Gauteng in mid-August.

This after it crossed the borders of China, the United States, South Korea, Japan, Canada, Australia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, France, Portugal and Spain.

Dr Hazel Mufhandu, senior lecturer and virologist at the North-West University (NWU), tells us more about Eris.

A recent study conducted by Dr Joan Dikobe from the North-West University’s (NWU’s) School of Nursing Science sheds light on the lived experiences of nurses as they cared for patients diagnosed with Covid-19.

As frontline healthcare workers, they are fundamental to the healthcare system, and play a crucial role in ensuring the continuity and quality of care to the patient.

Dr Dikobe says the study aimed to examine the physical, psychological, and social experiences of nurses as they provided care to Covid-19 patients in the North West province.

In an intriguing joint announcement, the Walter Sisulu and North-West universities unveiled the astounding results of their preclinical trials for a groundbreaking combination vaccine against tuberculosis (TB) and Covid-19. The universities reported an unprecedented 100% protection in vaccinated animals – a significant step forwards in the unrelenting battle against tuberculosis, one of the world's most devastating diseases.

The lack of qualified nurses is placing a stranglehold on the public health sector in South Africa, but through its commitment to bettering the lives of all South Africans, the North-West University (NWU) is helping to loosen this suffocating grip.

A recent study by the South African Nursing Council (SANC) estimates that there is only one nurse for every 218 patients in the country, with a need for tens of thousands more.