Research news

To the stars with Prof Abebe BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 07/15/2025 - 14:21

Prof Amare Abebe, research director at the Centre for Space Research, was recently appointed as the new president of the African Astronomical Society (AfAS). AfAS is the continent's primary professional body promoting astronomy research, education and outreach. It also plays a key role in positioning Africa as a global hub for astronomical excellence, driving innovation and inspiring future generations across the continent.

Watch as Prof Abebe outlines his vision for AfAS, why Africa should invest more in space research and what the NWU's Centre for Space Research is doing to help the country, and the continent, reach for the stars.

Pioneering Family and Child Forensic Unit to protect vulnerable children

The NWU has launched a ground-breaking Family and Child Forensic Unit (FCFU) within the Centre of Health and Human Performance’s Care2Kids centre, a first-of-its-kind initiative that brings hope and healing to families navigating trauma and complex legal matters.

Spearheaded by Prof Cornelia Wessels, a pioneer in the field of forensic social work, the unit is the latest evolution in NWU’s long-standing commitment to child protection and evidence-based social work. The foundation for this specialised discipline was laid when the NWU became the first university in South Africa to offer a master’s degree in forensic practice for social workers.

The FCFU offers evidence-based forensic assessments and therapy to children and parents, with the court as the primary client. Services include expert guidance in divorce cases and sensitive support in cases involving sexual abuse. The unit works closely with prosecutors, legal professionals, and the broader justice system to ensure a child-centred, multidisciplinary response.

In divorce cases, the unit provides therapy, mediation, and parental guidance, with a strong emphasis on communication and emotional reintegration, especially in families with neurodiverse children. In sexual abuse cases, the unit addresses a critical gap in

South Africa’s legal landscape by delivering forensic assessments that are admissible in court and designed to support successful prosecutions.

Beyond its vital service to the community, the FCFU also plays a significant academic role by supporting postgraduate training and research, both nationally and internationally. Rooted in the principle of acting in the best interest of the child, the NWU’s new unit is not only a beacon of professional excellence but a compassionate lifeline for those most in need.

To the stars with Prof Abebe BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 07/15/2025 - 14:21

Prof Amare Abebe, research director at the Centre for Space Research, was recently appointed as the new president of the African Astronomical Society (AfAS). AfAS is the continent's primary professional body promoting astronomy research, education and outreach. It also plays a key role in positioning Africa as a global hub for astronomical excellence, driving innovation and inspiring future generations across the continent.

Watch as Prof Abebe outlines his vision for AfAS, why Africa should invest more in space research and what the NWU's Centre for Space Research is doing to help the country, and the continent, reach for the stars.

Pioneering Family and Child Forensic Unit to protect vulnerable children

The NWU has launched a ground-breaking Family and Child Forensic Unit (FCFU) within the Centre of Health and Human Performance’s Care2Kids centre, a first-of-its-kind initiative that brings hope and healing to families navigating trauma and complex legal matters.

Spearheaded by Prof Cornelia Wessels, a pioneer in the field of forensic social work, the unit is the latest evolution in NWU’s long-standing commitment to child protection and evidence-based social work. The foundation for this specialised discipline was laid when the NWU became the first university in South Africa to offer a master’s degree in forensic practice for social workers.

The FCFU offers evidence-based forensic assessments and therapy to children and parents, with the court as the primary client. Services include expert guidance in divorce cases and sensitive support in cases involving sexual abuse. The unit works closely with prosecutors, legal professionals, and the broader justice system to ensure a child-centred, multidisciplinary response.

In divorce cases, the unit provides therapy, mediation, and parental guidance, with a strong emphasis on communication and emotional reintegration, especially in families with neurodiverse children. In sexual abuse cases, the unit addresses a critical gap in

South Africa’s legal landscape by delivering forensic assessments that are admissible in court and designed to support successful prosecutions.

Beyond its vital service to the community, the FCFU also plays a significant academic role by supporting postgraduate training and research, both nationally and internationally. Rooted in the principle of acting in the best interest of the child, the NWU’s new unit is not only a beacon of professional excellence but a compassionate lifeline for those most in need.

The allure of stardom: How celebrity casting is shaping musical theatre BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 07/15/2025 - 12:43

Musical theatre, a vibrant blend of song, dance and drama, has long been a playground for the audacious and the talented. Star and celebrity have always been a staple for glittering marquees of Broadway to the neon-lit stages of the West End, however this has in recent decades become a contentious issue as celebrity as a concept has undergone tremendous change. When looking to fill seats in theatres the phenomenon of casting TV and film stars has become a defining feature, sparking debates as intense as a show-stopping ballad.

The roots of this star-centric approach stretch back to the early 20th century, when impresarios like Andrea Charlot and Charles B. Cochran leveraged the fame of popular performers to fill theatres. Charlot, known for showcasing extraordinary British talent on a shoestring budget, famously collaborated with Noël Coward to stage intimate, actor-led productions. In contrast, Cochran’s lavish spectacles featured the celebrities of his day, often imported from film and radio – a strategy that earned him the moniker ‘the British Ziegfeld’.

Dr Michelle Pretorius, a senior lecturer at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) School of Music and author of a recent study on the topic, explains that the distinction between ‘star’ and ‘celebrity’ is crucial to understanding this evolution. “Stars are performers known for their craft, whose reputations rest on their talent and ability to command the stage,” she says. “Celebrities, on the other hand, are public figures who have transcended their original medium, leveraging their fame across platforms. They are, in a sense, human brands – able to sell tickets as much by virtue of their name as by their talent.”

Her study titled “The changing nature of celebrity in musical theatre: The development of star casting” was published in the journal Celebrity Studies and notes how this commercial power has become an increasingly attractive asset for producers navigating the high-risk economics of musical theatre.

For example, stars like Ethel Merman, whose brassy voice and onstage magnetism made her a Broadway icon, or Mary Martin, who transformed from a little-known film actress into a household name with her roles in South Pacific and Peter Pan, exemplify this star power. In contrast, celebrities often bring pre-packaged fan bases, social media followings, and tabloid-ready personal lives – potent ingredients in a marketing cocktail designed to fill seats and drive ticket sales.

But the path from stage to stardom is no longer the only route to fame. The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw a seismic shift as reality television emerged as a celebrity factory. Shows like The X Factor and America’s Got Talent catapulted ordinary people to global fame, often with little more than a knack for high drama and a few catchy choruses.

Dr Pretorius notes that this shift has fundamentally altered the casting landscape, creating a “new breed of celebrity, groomed for instant mass appeal.”

However, not all in the theatre community have embraced this trend. Traditionalists argue that the art form risks losing its integrity, becoming a mere vehicle for stardom rather than a showcase for true theatrical talent. They worry that the emphasis on celebrity over skill dilutes the craft, leading to productions where vocal finesse and stage presence take a back seat to brand appeal.

Yet, the financial lure of celebrity casting remains compelling. As theatre struggles to recover from pandemic shutdowns and fierce competition from streaming platforms, the draw of a ready-made audience can be a lifeline. For every sceptical critic, there is a delighted producer counting the box office returns of a hit show bolstered by a marquee name.

As the curtain rises on a new era of musical theatre, the debate over celebrity casting is unlikely to fade. Whether a temporary trend or a lasting evolution, the question remains: Can musical theatre balance the glitter of celebrity with the grit of true talent, or will it risk becoming a sideshow in the circus of modern celebrity culture? Only time will tell.

Dr Michelle Pretorius.

The allure of stardom: How celebrity casting is shaping musical theatre BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 07/15/2025 - 12:43

Musical theatre, a vibrant blend of song, dance and drama, has long been a playground for the audacious and the talented. Star and celebrity have always been a staple for glittering marquees of Broadway to the neon-lit stages of the West End, however this has in recent decades become a contentious issue as celebrity as a concept has undergone tremendous change. When looking to fill seats in theatres the phenomenon of casting TV and film stars has become a defining feature, sparking debates as intense as a show-stopping ballad.

The roots of this star-centric approach stretch back to the early 20th century, when impresarios like Andrea Charlot and Charles B. Cochran leveraged the fame of popular performers to fill theatres. Charlot, known for showcasing extraordinary British talent on a shoestring budget, famously collaborated with Noël Coward to stage intimate, actor-led productions. In contrast, Cochran’s lavish spectacles featured the celebrities of his day, often imported from film and radio – a strategy that earned him the moniker ‘the British Ziegfeld’.

Dr Michelle Pretorius, a senior lecturer at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) School of Music and author of a recent study on the topic, explains that the distinction between ‘star’ and ‘celebrity’ is crucial to understanding this evolution. “Stars are performers known for their craft, whose reputations rest on their talent and ability to command the stage,” she says. “Celebrities, on the other hand, are public figures who have transcended their original medium, leveraging their fame across platforms. They are, in a sense, human brands – able to sell tickets as much by virtue of their name as by their talent.”

Her study titled “The changing nature of celebrity in musical theatre: The development of star casting” was published in the journal Celebrity Studies and notes how this commercial power has become an increasingly attractive asset for producers navigating the high-risk economics of musical theatre.

For example, stars like Ethel Merman, whose brassy voice and onstage magnetism made her a Broadway icon, or Mary Martin, who transformed from a little-known film actress into a household name with her roles in South Pacific and Peter Pan, exemplify this star power. In contrast, celebrities often bring pre-packaged fan bases, social media followings, and tabloid-ready personal lives – potent ingredients in a marketing cocktail designed to fill seats and drive ticket sales.

But the path from stage to stardom is no longer the only route to fame. The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw a seismic shift as reality television emerged as a celebrity factory. Shows like The X Factor and America’s Got Talent catapulted ordinary people to global fame, often with little more than a knack for high drama and a few catchy choruses.

Dr Pretorius notes that this shift has fundamentally altered the casting landscape, creating a “new breed of celebrity, groomed for instant mass appeal.”

However, not all in the theatre community have embraced this trend. Traditionalists argue that the art form risks losing its integrity, becoming a mere vehicle for stardom rather than a showcase for true theatrical talent. They worry that the emphasis on celebrity over skill dilutes the craft, leading to productions where vocal finesse and stage presence take a back seat to brand appeal.

Yet, the financial lure of celebrity casting remains compelling. As theatre struggles to recover from pandemic shutdowns and fierce competition from streaming platforms, the draw of a ready-made audience can be a lifeline. For every sceptical critic, there is a delighted producer counting the box office returns of a hit show bolstered by a marquee name.

As the curtain rises on a new era of musical theatre, the debate over celebrity casting is unlikely to fade. Whether a temporary trend or a lasting evolution, the question remains: Can musical theatre balance the glitter of celebrity with the grit of true talent, or will it risk becoming a sideshow in the circus of modern celebrity culture? Only time will tell.

Dr Michelle Pretorius.

The soil sleuths of the Highveld: Why local knowledge still matters BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 07/15/2025 - 12:38

Soil – humble, overlooked and often taken for granted – is one of the most vital resources on Earth. Yet, understanding its complex chemistry remains a scientific challenge, particularly in the vast, varied landscapes of South Africa.

A recent study by Anru-Louis Kock, Prudence Dimakatso Ramphisa-Nghondzweni and George Van Zijl from the North-West University (NWU) has brought this challenge into sharp focus. Their work, published in the European Journal of Soil Science, explores the promise and pitfalls of using mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy to assess soil quality in the Western Highveld region – a cornerstone of the country’s agricultural economy.

Spectroscopy, in essence, is the art of making invisible details visible. It measures how light interacts with matter, revealing the chemical composition of a sample without the need for messy, time-consuming lab work. In theory, this should be perfect for soil analysis – quick, cost-effective and eco-friendly. But as the authors of this study discovered, the reality is more complex.

Soil spectroscopy has long been championed as a game-changer for precision agriculture – the practice of tailoring crop inputs to the exact needs of the soil. However, as Anru-Louis and his colleagues reveal, the one-size-fits-all approach to soil analysis favoured by global databases like the Open Soil Spectral Library (OSSL) often falls short when applied to local contexts. "Global models, while impressive in scope, struggle to capture the unique characteristics of South African soils," Anru-Louis explains. "Our study clearly shows that if you want accurate predictions for key soil properties like pH, calcium and magnesium, you need locally calibrated models."

The team’s study used 979 soil samples from the Western Highveld to create locally calibrated MIR models. These models significantly outperformed their global counterparts, achieving prediction accuracy with R² values exceeding 0,76 for critical soil properties like pH, calcium and magnesium – a feat the OSSL models could not match. The problem, as the researchers point out, is that global databases simply lack the depth of local knowledge needed to accurately interpret the soil spectra of this diverse region.

The Western Highveld, known for its nutrient-poor, highly variable soils, presents a unique challenge for soil scientists. It is a region where farmers grow maize, wheat and sunflowers in conditions that range from dry, sandy plains to heavier clay soils, each with its own mineral profile. This variability can significantly affect crop yields and nutrient uptake, making precise soil analysis essential for sustainable farming.

"The OSSL models consistently underpredicted key soil properties," notes Dimakatso. "They lacked the nuanced understanding of our local soils, which meant they couldn’t provide the reliability needed for precision agriculture." This finding, while disappointing

for proponents of global data-driven agriculture, reinforces a critical point – that local context still matters, even in a world increasingly dominated by big data.

The study also highlights the importance of investing in local soil libraries. "Without locally calibrated models," George adds, "farmers could be making decisions based on inaccurate data, potentially leading to poor crop performance and financial losses. Our work is a step towards building a comprehensive South African soil spectral library that can support smarter, more sustainable farming practices."

As global agriculture grapples with the twin challenges of climate change and population growth, local data will remain essential for making accurate, region-specific decisions. The work of Anru-Louis, Dimakatso and George serves as a timely reminder that even in the age of artificial intelligence and machine learning, sometimes the best insights come from the ground up.

From left are Anru-Louis Kock, Prudence Dimakatso Ramphisa-Nghondzweni and George Van Zijl.

The soil sleuths of the Highveld: Why local knowledge still matters BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 07/15/2025 - 12:38

Soil – humble, overlooked and often taken for granted – is one of the most vital resources on Earth. Yet, understanding its complex chemistry remains a scientific challenge, particularly in the vast, varied landscapes of South Africa.

A recent study by Anru-Louis Kock, Prudence Dimakatso Ramphisa-Nghondzweni and George Van Zijl from the North-West University (NWU) has brought this challenge into sharp focus. Their work, published in the European Journal of Soil Science, explores the promise and pitfalls of using mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy to assess soil quality in the Western Highveld region – a cornerstone of the country’s agricultural economy.

Spectroscopy, in essence, is the art of making invisible details visible. It measures how light interacts with matter, revealing the chemical composition of a sample without the need for messy, time-consuming lab work. In theory, this should be perfect for soil analysis – quick, cost-effective and eco-friendly. But as the authors of this study discovered, the reality is more complex.

Soil spectroscopy has long been championed as a game-changer for precision agriculture – the practice of tailoring crop inputs to the exact needs of the soil. However, as Anru-Louis and his colleagues reveal, the one-size-fits-all approach to soil analysis favoured by global databases like the Open Soil Spectral Library (OSSL) often falls short when applied to local contexts. "Global models, while impressive in scope, struggle to capture the unique characteristics of South African soils," Anru-Louis explains. "Our study clearly shows that if you want accurate predictions for key soil properties like pH, calcium and magnesium, you need locally calibrated models."

The team’s study used 979 soil samples from the Western Highveld to create locally calibrated MIR models. These models significantly outperformed their global counterparts, achieving prediction accuracy with R² values exceeding 0,76 for critical soil properties like pH, calcium and magnesium – a feat the OSSL models could not match. The problem, as the researchers point out, is that global databases simply lack the depth of local knowledge needed to accurately interpret the soil spectra of this diverse region.

The Western Highveld, known for its nutrient-poor, highly variable soils, presents a unique challenge for soil scientists. It is a region where farmers grow maize, wheat and sunflowers in conditions that range from dry, sandy plains to heavier clay soils, each with its own mineral profile. This variability can significantly affect crop yields and nutrient uptake, making precise soil analysis essential for sustainable farming.

"The OSSL models consistently underpredicted key soil properties," notes Dimakatso. "They lacked the nuanced understanding of our local soils, which meant they couldn’t provide the reliability needed for precision agriculture." This finding, while disappointing

for proponents of global data-driven agriculture, reinforces a critical point – that local context still matters, even in a world increasingly dominated by big data.

The study also highlights the importance of investing in local soil libraries. "Without locally calibrated models," George adds, "farmers could be making decisions based on inaccurate data, potentially leading to poor crop performance and financial losses. Our work is a step towards building a comprehensive South African soil spectral library that can support smarter, more sustainable farming practices."

As global agriculture grapples with the twin challenges of climate change and population growth, local data will remain essential for making accurate, region-specific decisions. The work of Anru-Louis, Dimakatso and George serves as a timely reminder that even in the age of artificial intelligence and machine learning, sometimes the best insights come from the ground up.

From left are Anru-Louis Kock, Prudence Dimakatso Ramphisa-Nghondzweni and George Van Zijl.

Two tracks, one path, as NWU alumna navigates cybersecurity and songwriting by Mafumane Tlhapi BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 07/11/2025 - 08:08

Information Technology Security and music composition are not as far removed from each other as they might seem. Ask Bonolo Phiri, North-West University alumna.

Bonolo studied Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at the NWU Vanderbijlpark Campus, and completed her degree in 2017. She begins her mornings reviewing security policies. By evening, she is in the recording studio, layering vocals on an Afro-house track. As she advances in both fields, Phiri is reaching new frontiers by merging cybersecurity with creative expression, two industries seldom explored in parallel. “The modules I studied at the NWU, such as computer science and Design analysis, shaped how I approach both my professions,” Phiri says. “I apply the same discipline to risk assessment and composition.”

During the day, Phiri works in the corporate environment Gauteng, Johannesburg (Midrand). She documents and reports security incidents in weekly meetings to facilitate threat identification and effective response. She leads the development of security policies and procedures to strengthen governance practices throughout the organization.

After hours, she performs at events, works as a voice-over artist for advertising campaigns, or collaborates with international producers. In 2024, she contributed to Chicken Licken’s “Snack Rappin” campaign, voicing one of its promotional wraps.

She currently has a released single with Afro-house international DJ, Zulu Mageba and a project to be released where she is featured by the South African famous music duo, Black Motion.

“Working in the studio requires the same level of preparation and awareness as a boardroom,” Phiri says. “You need to read the room, understand the risks and know your role.” She also mentors young people with an interest in either the arts or cybersecurity, and advises aspiring entertainers not to abandon their academic goals.

“Never leave your studies for the microphone,” she says. “The entertainment industry has highs and lows; education offers stability.” That perspective, she notes, was shaped during her time at the NWU.

“As a student, I learnt how to carry myself in meetings and on stage. That balance is what keeps me moving forward.”

 NWU alumna Bonolo Phiri balances risk assessments by day and rhythms by night.

Two tracks, one path, as NWU alumna navigates cybersecurity and songwriting by Mafumane Tlhapi BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 07/11/2025 - 08:08

Information Technology Security and music composition are not as far removed from each other as they might seem. Ask Bonolo Phiri, North-West University alumna.

Bonolo studied Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at the NWU Vanderbijlpark Campus, and completed her degree in 2017. She begins her mornings reviewing security policies. By evening, she is in the recording studio, layering vocals on an Afro-house track. As she advances in both fields, Phiri is reaching new frontiers by merging cybersecurity with creative expression, two industries seldom explored in parallel. “The modules I studied at the NWU, such as computer science and Design analysis, shaped how I approach both my professions,” Phiri says. “I apply the same discipline to risk assessment and composition.”

During the day, Phiri works in the corporate environment Gauteng, Johannesburg (Midrand). She documents and reports security incidents in weekly meetings to facilitate threat identification and effective response. She leads the development of security policies and procedures to strengthen governance practices throughout the organization.

After hours, she performs at events, works as a voice-over artist for advertising campaigns, or collaborates with international producers. In 2024, she contributed to Chicken Licken’s “Snack Rappin” campaign, voicing one of its promotional wraps.

She currently has a released single with Afro-house international DJ, Zulu Mageba and a project to be released where she is featured by the South African famous music duo, Black Motion.

“Working in the studio requires the same level of preparation and awareness as a boardroom,” Phiri says. “You need to read the room, understand the risks and know your role.” She also mentors young people with an interest in either the arts or cybersecurity, and advises aspiring entertainers not to abandon their academic goals.

“Never leave your studies for the microphone,” she says. “The entertainment industry has highs and lows; education offers stability.” That perspective, she notes, was shaped during her time at the NWU.

“As a student, I learnt how to carry myself in meetings and on stage. That balance is what keeps me moving forward.”

 NWU alumna Bonolo Phiri balances risk assessments by day and rhythms by night.

Prof Ankit Katrodia champions NWU’s global footprint in Europe by Zenoyise John BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 07/11/2025 - 08:06

Prof Ankit Katrodia, associate professor in the WorkWell research unit at the School of Management Sciences of the North-West University (NWU), recently undertook an enriching academic tour across Poland and Romania.

His participation in this European engagement was made possible through some of the external funding from the Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies – Bucharest in Romania and reflects the growing commitment of the NWU to international collaboration and academic exchange.

During his three-week journey in May 2025, Prof Katrodia took part in international conferences, delivered guest lectures, and served as a visiting professor at leading academic institutions. His presence not only strengthened the academic visibility of the NWU abroad but also opened doors for lasting partnerships and joint research opportunities.

From 12 to 16 May, Prof Katrodia attended the 2nd International Conference on Social Contexts of Science at the Faculty of Management, Wrocław University of Science and Technology in Poland. The event ran concurrently with International Staff Training Week and brought together scholars from across Europe. Reflecting on his time there, Prof Katrodia shared: “It was inspiring to exchange perspectives with global scholars and contribute to conversations around the evolving social impact of science. These platforms not only enhance our research but also open doors for future collaborations that can benefit both students and staff at the NWU.”

Following his engagements in Poland, Prof Katrodia travelled to Cluj-Napoca, Romania, from 19 to 24 May. At the Babeș-Bolyai University – one of Romania’s premier academic institutions – he lectured students and took part in dynamic academic exchanges. He also presented his research at an international conference hosted by the Faculty of Business.

“The students were highly engaged, and the discussions were rich and reflective,” he noted. “It is energising to witness the passion for learning across different academic cultures. The level of dialogue in Cluj reaffirmed the universal value of critical thinking and innovation.”

The final leg of his tour took him to the Bucharest University of Economic Studies from 26 to 31 May, where he served as a visiting professor. During this period, Prof Katrodia engaged with faculty members, participated in curriculum exchange sessions, and explored opportunities for collaborative research between the NWU and Romanian institutions. “This visit was not only a platform for teaching but also provided a mutual learning opportunity. The commitment to academic excellence in Romania echoes the values we uphold at the NWU,” he said.

Prof Katrodia added that his European academic journey highlighted the dedication of the NWU to global engagement, research excellence and the pursuit of meaningful international partnerships. He said his contributions abroad continue to reinforce the position of the NWU as a globally connected institution with a vision for innovation, collaboration and internationalisation.

Prof Ankit Katrodia recently undertook an enriching academic tour across Poland and Romania

Study questions the political inclusion of Malawi’s disabled on airwaves by Mafumane Tlhapi BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 07/07/2025 - 09:16

Persons with disabilities in Malawi may be tuning in to community radio, but their political voices are not adequately covered.

A recent study led by Dr Muyanga Ziba has raised questions about the role of community radio in promoting the political participation of persons with disabilities in Malawi. Using Mzimba Community Radio Station as a case study, the research found that while general programming for people with disabilities exists, there is no dedicated content focused on political engagement.

“There is a noticeable gap in programming that targets political inclusion,” said Dr Ziba. “The absence of dedicated political content for persons with disabilities means they are not fully represented in public discourse.”

The research focused on four constituencies, namely Mzuzu, Mzimba North, Mzimba Solola and Mzimba East, using listening clubs, focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. The study drew from theoretical frameworks, including disability theory, framing theory, participatory theory and muted group theory.

Participants reported facing systemic barriers to political participation, including abuse, social exclusion and a breakdown of traditional support systems. Some said even close friends and relatives discouraged their involvement in politics.

“Many of us are seen as incapable,” said one participant from Mzimba Solola. “Even if you speak up, people laugh at or ignore you.”

The study also highlighted how stereotypes are perpetuated through media messaging and the lack of tailored political content. Respondents called for media reform that moves beyond generalised information to targeted, inclusive content.

To address these issues, Dr Ziba recommends that Mzimba Community Radio Station adopt journalism practices rooted in ubuntu and Africanisation. “Western media models do not always fit our context,” he said. “We need approaches that are grounded in our values and communities.”

The study also advocates for journalism of attachment, urging reporters to connect with communities rather than report from a distance. A new participatory communication framework has been proposed to ensure that voices from marginalised groups in villages are not only heard but also represented.

Peace journalism and ubuntu journalism are further recommended to create an environment conducive to political participation by persons with disabilities.

“This is not just about airtime,” Dr Ziba said. “It is about access to platforms that shape democracy.”

Dr Ziba (Middle) with his supervisors Dr Quantro Mgogo (Left) and Dr Tshepang Molale (Right)

Academic shares expertise on sustainable agriculture by Phenyo Mokgothu BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 07/01/2025 - 13:43

Prof Olubukola Oluranti Babalola from the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Microbiology subject group recently visited the National Potato Innovation Centre in Scotland. She delivered a seminar on her pioneering research into rhizosphere microbiomes and their role in developing sustainable agroecosystems.

Her seminar, held in Invergowrie on 23 June, attracted researchers and scientists interested in innovative approaches to agricultural sustainability. Prof Babalola’s presentation outlined how microbial communities in soil can be harnessed to support long-term soil health and food production.

The National Potato Innovation Centre’s mission is to carry out research that helps future-proof the potato industry while supporting economic resilience and growth. It is based at the James Hutton Institute, which is known throughout the world for its work on the environment, agriculture, food security and sustainability.

Prof Babalola also shared insights from her international engagements. She serves as vice-president of both The World Academy of Sciences and the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World, roles that underline her commitment to advancing global scientific collaboration.

Reflecting on the experience, Prof Babalola described her visit as intellectually enriching and personally uplifting. “Engaging with passionate, forward-thinking scientists has reminded me why collaboration across borders matters so much in advancing science.”

Her visit highlights the NWU’s commitment to global research partnerships and to advancing solutions that address critical challenges in agriculture and environmental sustainability.

Prof Olubukola Oluranti Babalola with researchers at the National Potato Innovation Centre in Scotland.