Women

Five women later – We need more than warnings about women’s safety!

There is a particular kind of exhaustion that comes from being repeatedly told to be more careful. Be more vigilant. Don’t walk alone. Don’t run alone. Avoid isolated places. Tell someone where you are going. Keep your phone with you. Dress modestly – I am not quite sure how a 6-month-old baby in diapers can do this – yet they can be violated in this country!

 

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Elsunet du Plessis' netball journey reaches a new milestone

What do you get when someone refuses to limit herself to just one role in sport? In Elsunet du Plessis’ case, you get a player, sport scientist, lecturer, sport manager and coach who has now added another national role to her growing list of achievements.

She has been appointed as the South African under-19 caretaker assistant coach for the upcoming Region 5 Games, which will take place in Mozambique from 4 to 13 December 2026.

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Researchers earn national fellowships at Women in Science Awards

Two North-West University (NWU) researchers have received national recognition for work that could contribute to safer water, healthier honeybees and stronger communities.

Rebaone Mofokeng and Nolwandle Khumalo were awarded the DSTI-Prof. Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Fellowships at the 2026 South African Women in Science Awards on 20 August 2026. Rebaone received the Master’s Fellowship, while Nolwandle received the Doctoral Fellowship.

For Rebaone, the award is recognition of a research journey built on perseverance and support.

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Young mothers find a voice through Temba community dialogue

Young mothers in Temba are helping to shape research about their own lives, rather than being treated only as research subjects.

This approach is at the centre of “Her Voice, Her Strength”, a five-year community engagement and research programme led by Dr Lungisile Shange from the subject group Population Studies and Demography at the North-West University (NWU).

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Research chair aims to take results from the laboratory to the community

South African researchers are increasingly looking for innovative ways to improve health outcomes, particularly as the country faces rising rates of obesity, diabetes and other metabolic diseases. A new research chair, the first for biochemistry at the North-West University (NWU), aims to make an impact on the lives of people suffering from metabolic ailments. 

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