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April 2026

Welcome to the first edition of the North-West University's newsletter, Research@NWU for 2026.
The aim of this newsletter is to showcase research projects, researchers and related events.

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The Hollywood adaptation of Project Hail Mary has brought Ryland Grace's journey beyond the stars to a global audience. For those of us drawn to a certain kind of science fiction, its appeal runs deeper than spectacle. I am not interested in space battles or intergalactic romance.

What captivates me are stories about humanity confronting existential threats – climate change, energy scarcity, even the lifecycle of our sun – and choosing collaboration over collapse.

Mining has long formed the bedrock of civilisation, yet in many respects it remains stuck in the Stone Age.

The future demands a decisive shift to the digital age. By integrating predictive analytics and autonomous systems, we can move beyond legacy constraints, thus, transforming operational efficiency into long-term environmental and economic resilience.

In South Africa, that transition is lagging.

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The element that fuels the stars could power SA's future

It is the most abundant element in the universe, also the simplest and lightest. It is the cornerstone of life and the fuel that powers the stars.

Feed study may rewrite the business case for quail farming

Quail farming in South Africa could shift from a niche activity to a broader part of food supply as new local research challenges the feeding rules that have guided farmers for decades.

NWU scholars shape the conversation, at home and beyond

At a time when public discourse is increasingly fragmented, the ability to offer clarity grounded in research rather than rhetoric has become a scarce commodity.

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bible

Building Africa's next generation of nutrition leaders

Nutrition challenges and solutions were once again brought into sharp focus when the NWU recently hosted the African Nutrition Leadership Programme (ANLP).

Prof. Babalola among 63 fellows elected to the American Academy of Microbiology

The American Academy of Microbiology has elected Prof. Olubukola Oluranti Babalola from the NWU and 62 peers to the Class of 2026.

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Please share your comments and input by sending an email to
the newsletter editor, bertie.jacobs@nwu.ac.za