As the Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) pandemic tightens its grip in the Gauteng, North West and the Free State provinces,  the impact is spreading far beyond farms, placing pressure on South Africa’s beef industry, food security and jobs across the agricultural economy.
Dr Kaya Myeki from the School of Agricultural Sciences at North-West University (NWU) said the absence of a centralised, real-time livestock disease database makes it difficult to quantify losses in monetary terms. Yet the effects across the livestock value chain are already apparent.

Molelwane farm, the agricultural farm of the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus, has recorded a significant milestone following the successful harvest and sale of watermelons to the OK outlet at The Crossing Mall, demonstrating how practical student training can directly contribute to revenue generation for the university.

In 2001, the North-West University (NWU) established and launched a teaching, learning and research programme in Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) at its Mahikeng Campus that was accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

In 2009, discussions and planning commenced between the NWU, the National Indigenous Knowledge Systems Office in the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the SAQA, holders of indigenous knowledge, practitioners and other stakeholders to review the curriculum with a view to expanding its scope.

Aflatoxin contamination continues to challenge poultry producers across the globe, posing risks to bird health, farm profitability, and food safety. 

In an innovative study at the North-West University (NWU) by MSc researcher Nonsindiso Masuku explored the use of green-engineered nanoparticles to protect broiler chickens against aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), one of the most dangerous natural toxins found in feed.

An opinion piece by Prof Simon Letsoalo

Understanding the true state of biodiversity in sub-Saharan Africa has long been a challenge, especially for those responsible for shaping environmental policies. A major new study published in the prestigious Nature journal now offers much-needed clarity.

When we think about anniversaries, 15 years is traditionally known as a crystal anniversary, and the symbolism of crystal is both beautiful and unique. Crystal represents clarity and transparency, reflecting the trust and openness that have grown over the years in a partnership. It also signifies care, strength and beauty, showing that even with its delicate nature, crystal is enduring, elegant, and able to last generations — just as we hope this collaboration will.

The Centre for Space Research (CSR) at the North-West University (NWU) recently hosted a highly successful Radio Astronomy Advancement Programme (RAAP) workshop – an annual initiative funded by the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) and the National Research Foundation (NRF).

 By Prof Roelof Coetzer

The North-West University (NWU) continues to build on its reputation as an innovative, globally engaged institution committed to excellence and societal relevance. This commitment is driven by its strategy, Taking the NWU forward: 2024 and beyond. This is once again affirmed in the latest Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Sustainability Ranking, which highlights our growing impact in addressing critical environmental, social and governance priorities aligned with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals.