FNAS

Expert helps strengthen South Africa’s response to radiological crime scenes

North-West University (NWU) nuclear forensics expert Dr Tebogo Kupi has added his expertise to national efforts to strengthen the response by South Africa to incidents involving radioactive and nuclear materials.

Dr Kupi recently took part as an expert in the National Workshop on Radiological Crime Scene Management. The workshop ran from 31 August to 4 September 2026 in Centurion, with practical sessions held at the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa).

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Relocated telescope opens wider window on the universe

Shedding light on a subject is usually positive, but when it comes to the stars, the North-West University (NWU) is giving scientists a clearer view of the night sky by moving its 20-inch optical telescope off the bustling, light-polluted Mahikeng Campus.

The Mahikeng Astronomy Observatory (MAO) 20-inch optical telescope has moved from the fast-developing Mahikeng Campus to the university’s Molelwane Farm, where there is much less light pollution. 

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Looking beyond the classroom: local learners discover the world of astronomy

For 24 local school learners, the chance to explore the stars came a little closer to home when they were introduced to astronomy as part of their preparation for this year’s South African Physics Olympiad (SAPHO).

Hosted at the North-West University (NWU), the learners took part in an introductory astronomy session designed to give them a glimpse into a field of science that is not formally taught as part of the school curriculum.

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Better waste management can protect South Africa’s wild spaces

Waste in South Africa’s protected areas is more than a litter problem. Poor waste practices in South Africa’s protected areas threaten biodiversity, pollute sensitive habitats and weaken conservation efforts. New research shows that better planning, infrastructure and human behaviour can turn the situation around.

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NWU researchers honoured at prestigious NRF Awards

Two North-West University (NWU) scholars have received national recognition for research addressing two defining challenges of the modern age: the impact of HIV on African communities and the growing influence of artificial intelligence on journalism.

Prof. Monray Williams and Soligah Solomons were honoured at the National Research Foundation (NRF) Awards ceremony in Gqeberha on Thursday, 3 September.

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It is time for the South African Blue Crane to spread its wings as a national icon

  • More than 99% of the world’s Blue Cranes live in South Africa, yet our national bird remains one of the country’s most underused tourism assets.

  • The Blue Crane is a living part of South Africa’s heritage, yet the species’ ‘Vulnerable’ status shows that national-symbol status does not guarantee survival.

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