Research news

A decade of dialogue and discovery at the SSIRC Conference by Angeline Marokoane BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 11/25/2025 - 14:13 The 10th  Social Sciences  International Research Conference (SSIRC)held from 6 to 7 November 2025 at the Radisson Blu in Umhlanga, Durban, marked a significant milestone celebrating a decade of impactful dialogue, innovative research, and academic collaboration in the fields of social sciences and international research.

This landmark event brought together scholars, practitioners, and global experts dedicated to addressing pressing socio-economic challenges and shaping the future of these critical research disciplines.

Opening the conference on 6 November were two distinguished North-West University (NWU) professors from the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences: Prof. Ephrem Redda and Prof. Crizelle Els, Director of the WorkWell Research Unit. Prof. Redda is a Research Professor at NWU’s WorkWell Research Unit and serves as the SSIRC Organiser and Chair of the Reviewers Committee. Together, the two professors welcomed delegates with inspiring remarks that set the tone for a conference grounded in impactful academic inquiry and social relevance. Following closely, Professors Babs Surujlal, Executive Dean: Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences and Herman van der Merwe, Deputy Dean: Teaching and Learning delivered the keynote address titled "SSIRC: Celebrating a decade of impact and a future of possibilities," emphasising the transformative role the conference has played in socio-economic research and its future potentials.

Central to the conference was the theme of celebrating ten years of insightful contributions that have sparked innovation and driven knowledge in social sciences on an international scale. The gathering highlighted not only the passion and vision that propelled the conference’s inception but also charted a new chapter of academic excellence and groundbreaking discovery. This theme resonated through the rich programme, encompassing domains such as business management, finance, emerging technologies, human resource management, marketing, service excellence in higher education, law, and business resilience, reflecting the broad and interdisciplinary nature of social sciences today.

Prof. Redda adds that throughout the two days, the programme featured a diverse array of sessions that underscored key themes vital to both the South African and broader African contexts. He says, “Topics such as artificial intelligence’s impact on work–life balance, sustainable development financing, leadership in higher education, and the integration of emerging technologies showcased the conference’s commitment to addressing current and future socio-economic issues. The conference also facilitated rich discussions on how the social sciences intersect with international research arenas, fostering collaborative knowledge production and policy-relevant insights.”

The conference's deliberate spotlight on international research emphasised the importance of global perspectives and cross-border scholarly engagement, further amplifying the role of social sciences in tackling worldwide challenges through evidence-based approaches and innovative methodologies. This integrative theme promoted interdisciplinary collaboration that not only honours the conference’s legacy but also adapts to evolving academic landscapes and societal needs.

NWU’s professors played a pivotal role throughout the event, chairing sessions, presenting research, and steering critical conversations. Their involvement demonstrated NWU’s sustained dedication to advancing socio-economic and industrial research as a key contributor to academic excellence and societal development in the region.

 Dr Rajesh Sannegadu, from the University of Mauritius and Head of the Department of Management, will serve as a member of the Local Organising Committee for SSIRC 2026

Prof. Redda is a Research Professor at NWU’s WorkWell Research Unit

 Prof Herman van der Merwe, Deputy Dean: Teaching and Learning

Prof Babs Surujlal, Executive Dean: Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences

 

NWU Excellence Awards acknowledge staff excellence across disciplines by Willie du Plessis BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 11/21/2025 - 08:02

The North-West University (NWU) honoured its exceptional staff at the annual NWU Excellence Awards ceremony, held in Potchefstroom on 20 November.

More than 150 staff members received recognition for their outstanding contributions to the university’s key focus areas of teaching and learning, community engagement, and research and innovation.

Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor, congratulated the award recipients. “Your work elevates the reputation of the NWU and exemplifies our aspirations. You remind us that excellence is a deliberate choice, sustained through rigour and conviction.”

He added that the university finds itself at the forefront of an era in which artificial intelligence, data-driven systems and rapidly evolving technologies are redrawing the global academic landscape. “Yet amidst this seismic shift, one element remains clear: the primacy of human intellect, our curiosity, our judgement, and our imagination.”

Prof. Tyobeka says the NWU has chosen to confront this new epoch with purposeful intent. “The establishment of our Artificial Intelligence (AI) Hub stands as a clear assertion that we will not be spectators to change, but architects of the future. We are elated that our AI Policy and Strategy, now approved by Council, signals a university prepared to lead nationally and internationally with seriousness and purpose.”

NWU celebrates the best in teaching and learning

The university recognised top-performing lecturers across its faculties in eight categories for advancing teaching and learning excellence.

This year’s University Teaching Excellence Award (UTEA) recipients were Dr Nisa Ayob and Prof. At Lamprecht.

Dr Chilombe Banda and Dr Annemarie Wentzel each received an Innovation in Teaching and Learning Award. Prof. Kery Malherbe and Jessemaine Manickum received Teaching with Information and Communication Technology awards.

The recipients of the Novice Teacher Award were Dr Anja Haasbroek-Pheiffer, Dr Brigitte Language, Kgomotso Mathope, Dr Jaco Meyer, Amogelang Moila and Dr Jennifer Sheokarah.

The university presented Professional Staff awards to Dine du Preez, Robyn Bunt, Martie Mostert and Refilwe Matsie.

The Team Teaching Award went to Prof. Elma Marais, Prof. Carisma Nel and Dr Rochelle Marais Botha, as well as to Dr Cornelia Schrek, Lulama Mabala and Dr Yolanda Stevens.

Staff honoured for excellence in community engagement

Nine champions of community engagement received recognition across four categories. They are Prof. Mduduzi Cele, Prof. Lebogang Katata-Seru, Prof. Sithandiwe Mazibuko-Mbeje, Prof. Rhyme Setshedi and Prof. Zimbili Zondi.

Dr Louise Bezuidenhout and Dr Lucinda Sutton received the Engaged Research and Innovation Award, while Dr Kezell Klinck and Marinda Neethling received the Scholarship of Engagement Award and the Discipline-based Outreach Award respectively.

Researchers shine through expertise

Prof. Marius Nel and Prof. Christa Rautenbach each received a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Prof. Fazel Freeks earned recognition as the Most Productive Senior Researcher at the NWU, with Prof. Oladipo Olalekan David and Prof. Ruan Kruger being placed as first and second runners-up respectively.

The university presented the Most Productive Emerging Researcher Award to both Prof. Surani Horn and Dr Alexander Samuels.

Prof. Dimitr Bessarabov, Dr Johannes Erasmus and Prof. Kapil Moothi received recognition for their national and international memberships.

The university presented Top Inventor awards to Hanno Bijzet, Prof. Henning Krieg, Nico Mans, Heinrich Peters, Shriya Roopa and Derik van der Westhuizen.

Dr Mariette Fourie and Prof. Anné Verhoef each received an Innovation Impact Award, and Thembinkosi Magagula received the Creative Output Award.

The university awarded the Vice-Chancellor’s Medal to Nina du Toit (Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences), Padiso Matsole (Faculty of Health Sciences) and Janie du Preez (Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences). Margaretha Erns of the Faculty of Engineering received the S2A3 Bronze Medal.

Faculty Teaching Awards recognise excellence across faculties

The annual Faculty Teaching Awards, one of the flagship initiatives of the NWU, celebrate outstanding lecturers across the eight academic faculties at the university. The Centre for Teaching and Learning, in collaboration with the various faculties, leads the initiative, which highlights the commitment of the NWU to cultivating an environment in which teaching and learning thrive.

Earlier, exceptional academics received Faculty Teaching Awards from their respective faculties. These awardees represent the highest standards of commitment and quality in teaching, and the university proudly acknowledges their dedication.

See all the winners

View photos

Building leaders to tackle hunger and malnutrition across Africa by Willie du Plessis MOIRA MULLER Thu, 11/13/2025 - 09:11

For more than two decades, the African Nutrition Leadership Programme (ANLP) of the North-West University (NWU) has been shaping the future of nutrition leadership on the continent. Since its first programme in 2002, this flagship 10-day residential initiative, hosted annually at the NWU, has developed over 500 professionals from more than 40 African countries. This year alone this flagship programme will reach close to 50 professionals from 10 African countries.

Participants represent a wide range of sectors, including academia, non-governmental organisations and government departments, all united by a shared commitment to improving nutrition and public health across Africa.

A powerful network of change-makers

According to Dr Christine Taljaard-Krugell, the ANLP has built “an active, strong and deeply collaborative” network of professionals. This is one of the most effective platforms for driving change in nutrition across the continent.
The programme offers far more than a conventional training course. It is an intensive learning journey that combines reflection, teamwork and self-discovery. Participants are encouraged to “lead from where they stand”, developing the confidence and insight needed to influence change in their own organisations and communities.

Resilience and renewal

In 2019, the ANLP marked a major milestone by hosting two full 10-day programmes for the first time, responding to a growing demand for leadership development in the nutrition field. That momentum was soon tested by the COVID-19 pandemic, which challenged the programme to adapt and maintain its sense of connection.

Despite restrictions, a 2020 programme took place successfully with 24 participants (five men and 19 women) from 11 countries, even as some faced travel disruptions in South Africa and at Kenyatta Airport in Nairobi. The 2022 cohort was kept small, with 13 participants from nine countries. The programme returned to full strength in 2024, welcoming 24 participants (eight men and 16 women) from eight countries.

Participants consistently describe their ANLP experience as “transformative” and “life-changing”, a reflection of the continued focus of the programme on self-leadership, teamwork and practical impact.

Expanding reach and influence

Interest in the ANLP continues to grow, with over 400 applications having been received for the 2025 and 2026 programmes. Each programme accommodates around 30 participants, and to meet the increasing demand, two sessions will again be hosted in both years. A full evaluation is also underway to assess long-term impact and guide future development.

In addition, an online NWU short course, Leadership essentials in public health, led by Dr Cornelia Conradie, has been developed to expand leadership training in public health and strengthen progress toward the sustainable development goals (SDGs).

As Prof. Johann Jerling, director of the ANLP, notes: “Leading change in nutrition is, and will remain, central to what we do – it is essential to addressing our continent’s most pressing needs.”

 

 

Dr Cornelia Conradie

Dr Christine Taljaard-Krugell

Prof Johann Jerling

     

Dr Monray Williams is helping to lead Africa’s virology charge by Bertie Jacobs MARELIZE SANTANA Tue, 11/11/2025 - 10:04

The battle against HIV in sub-Saharan Africa has always been as much about systems and science as about the virus itself. Antiretroviral therapy has turned what was once a death sentence into a manageable condition.

Yet, as Dr Monray Williams of the North-West University (NWU) cautions, “millions of people still face barriers to prevention and treatment. Poverty, limited healthcare infrastructure, and social stigma continue to shape who gets care and who does not.”

The paradox is stark: Africa remains the global epicentre of HIV, yet it is also becoming a nerve centre of virological innovation. For decades, most HIV science has been dominated by research from the global North, focusing on the viral subtype B common in Europe and North America.

In southern Africa, however, subtype C – the continent’s dominant strain – tells a different story. “Even with significant investment,” says Dr Williams, “our outcomes remain uneven because proper management and sustainable implementation strategies have not always followed the funding.”

Dr Williams, a virologist and molecular neurobiologist, leads a research group at the NWU that seeks to untangle this imbalance both scientifically and structurally. His work examines the pathogenesis and neuropathogenesis of viral diseases, combining in silico analysis, in vitro experiments, and clinical studies.

Recently awarded a prestigious Fulbright Fellowship to continue his research in the United States, he represents a new generation of African scientists who are redefining the global research landscape from within.

“Our investigations explore how HIV-1 viral proteins, particularly in subtype C infections, affect inflammation, metabolism, and cardiovascular risk in both children and adults living with HIV,” he explains.

This focus on sequence variations in viral proteins such as Tat, Vpr, and Vif is more than academic curiosity. It goes to the heart of understanding why neurological complications persist even when viral loads are suppressed.

“We analyse cerebrospinal fluid and blood samples to identify biomarkers that can predict or monitor neurological complications,” says Dr Williams. “By identifying these molecular signatures, our goal is to support earlier diagnosis, improve treatment monitoring, and inform the development of therapies better suited to African populations.”

The intersection between virology and neurobiology is fertile ground. HIV does not merely weaken the immune system, it can also invade the brain, leading to cognitive impairment and neuroinflammation.

“Virology and molecular neurobiology are distinct fields of study,” Dr Williams explains, “but they intersect when studying how viruses invade neurons, alter neuronal function, and cause neurological damage.” Understanding that overlap, he argues, is key to treating a generation of patients living longer with HIV but still battling its hidden neurological consequences.

Progress, however, is not only about lab results, it is also about leadership and local innovation. Across the continent, African-led initiatives are reshaping HIV surveillance and care. Community health workers deliver treatment where hospitals cannot; mobile health platforms track patients and send medication reminders; and traditional healers, often trusted where doctors are not, play a vital role in reducing stigma and encouraging testing.

“When African-led initiatives are supported by strong governance and thoughtful investment strategies,” says Dr Williams, “they can reach millions of people and transform lives.”

That combination of local trust and scientific rigour is paying off. Recent clinical trials of lenacapavir – a twice-yearly injectable drug – reported zero new infections among women in South Africa and Uganda. Endorsed by the World Health Organization, it could revolutionise prevention by overcoming the adherence challenges that have plagued daily medication.

Meanwhile, African scientists such as Prof Thumbi Ndung’u, under networks such as the Sub-Saharan African Network for TB/HIV Research Excellence, are driving cure research and integrated care models that connect HIV treatment with tuberculosis, diabetes, and mental health care.

For Dr Williams, these advances signal a continental shift: “Africa is not just a site for research, it is a source of it.” But he is frank about the challenges. “The real progress against HIV in Africa will not come from science alone but from how we manage and invest in that science,” he says. Billions have been poured into programmes, yet results vary widely. “This is often not because of a lack of knowledge or innovation, but because of weak management structures, fragmented implementation, and short-term planning.”

His solution is unapologetically practical: sustained investment in research infrastructure, education, and scientific leadership paired with transparent governance and accountability. “Africa already has an extraordinary pool of researchers who are world leaders in virology, immunology, and neuroHIV science,” he says. “What we need now is the confidence and coordination to turn this knowledge into tangible impact.”

That call for confidence is more than rhetoric. Local research on subtype C is already improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment design. “When we generate our own data, build our own technology, and train our own scientists, we produce tools that reflect the real biological diversity and health realities of our continent,” says Dr Williams. “This is how we move from dependency to leadership in the global HIV response.”

As Africa’s laboratories and clinics grow more sophisticated, so too does its scientific voice. The continent that once bore the heaviest burden of the epidemic is now shaping the science to end it. “If we can align our resources, strengthen our health systems, and invest in people,” Dr Williams concludes, “then the vision of ending the HIV epidemic in Africa is within reach.”

In his quiet, empirical way, he represents what the future of global health could look like: rigorous, rooted, and unashamedly African.

Dr Monray Williams