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.

By Gosego Phutieagae

Healthy soil produces strong plants, purifies water, prevents flooding and captures carbon dioxide. Depleted soil, on the other hand, has dire consequences for biodiversity, food security and climate resilience.

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus is leading the conversation on what needs to be done to ensure sustainable soil management and food security.

By Gosego Phutieagae

As the world commemorates International Diabetes Day on 14 November, the Mahikeng Campus of the North-West University (NWU) reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening awareness on diabetes prevention and management. In the weeks leading up to the global observance, the Obesity and Metabolic Disease Research Group (OMDRG) at the Biochemistry department in Mahikeng, under the leadership of Prof. Sithandiwe Mazibuko-Mbeje, hosted a successful Diabetes Awareness Drive on 23 October 2025.

While cities in Africa expand rapidly and the pressure for economic growth is increasing, the protected areas on the continent face a complex challenge: how to conserve nature and empower people.

At the North-West University (NWU) the Protected Areas Research Group, led by Prof. Reece Alberts, Prof. François Retief, Prof. Claudine Roos and Prof. Dirk Cilliers, is working to find exactly that balance.

The Agricultural Economics Association of South Africa (AEASA) has appointed Dr Lindikhaya Myeki, a senior lecturer in the School of Agricultural Economics and Extension at the North-West University (NWU), as secretary and/or treasurer.

Dr Myeki’s appointment, effective from 1 October 2025, was confirmed by the AEASA management committee following a nomination that recognised his commitment, professional integrity and contribution to the field of agricultural economics in South Africa, The appointment is for a two-year renewable term.

Fodder beet is gaining attention as a key livestock feed crop in South Africa, and new research from the North-West University (NWU) shows how nitrogen fertiliser and planting season shape its growth and nutritional value.

Zabesuthu Sithokozisiwe Mngomezulu investigated how two fodder beet varieties respond to different nitrogen levels during winter, spring, and autumn. The study focused on growth traits, yield, and nutrient profiles.

By Gofaone Motsamai

When water gushes from a rural borehole, many see purity, but beneath that clear stream could lie invisible fungal organisms capable of causing serious infections. To protect public health, South Africa should introduce inclusive microbial monitoring, according to a North-West University (NWU) study.

Recognising prior learning in indigenous knowledge (IK) will ensure that people and communities who have preserved traditional knowledge for generations are included in South Africa’s national innovation agenda.

This is the intention of the national Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), which in partnership with the North-West University (NWU) and several other universities, is facilitating the development of norms and standards for IK as a discipline.

After long days of teaching English in South Korea, Marcel van der Westhuizen would often find himself pondering the biggest questions imaginable: How will the universe ultimately end? His persistence and curiosity have now paid off.