SU and Shoprite partnership empowers first cohort of data science graduates
Stellenbosch University May 23, 2025
A long-standing partnership between Stellenbosch University (SU) and the Shoprite Group has enabled the first cohort of graduates in the Data Science programme to engage with real-life business challenges from the retail industry. For their final year project in the Computer Science Division, for example, Günther Tonitz and Steffan... Read more
Scientists tackle one of Africa’s most destructive invasive trees
ResearchStellenbosch University May 23, 2025
A major new book on the ecology and management of one of the most destructive invasive weeds in Africa,is now available online. The book, titled The Ecology and Management of Invasive Prosopis Trees in Eastern Africa, is the outcome of a large, decade-long collaborative research project involving six universities... Read more
New study finds emerging pathogen inside brown locusts
ResearchUniversity of the Free State May 23, 2025
A new study by researchers from the University of the Free State (UFS), the National Health Laboratory Service, and the University of Venda has confirmed for the first time that common brown locusts are carriers of pathogenic yeasts that can cause severe infections in humans – especially in people... Read more
In today’s digital age, traditional qualifications alone are no longer sufficient to meet the demands of the local economy – practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and technological fluency are now also essential to develop work-ready job seekers and entrepreneurs with in-demand skills needed by the local economy. In response to... Read more
Distinguished teachers’ award for UKZN musicologist
AchieversUniversity of KwaZulu-Natal May 10, 2025
Dr Andrew-John Bethke is the recipient of the University’s 2024 Distinguished Teachers’ Award (DTA), which recognises academics who demonstrate exceptional innovation in teaching, transformative learning outcomes, and sustained contributions to education. These achievements, supported by rigorous evidence in teaching portfolios, highlight a commitment that goes above and beyond regular... Read more
Cutting off parasite’s energy supply could help fight malaria
ResearchStellenbosch University April 25, 2025
In 2023, malaria caused 597 000 deaths worldwide, according to the World Health Organization, with most occurring in Africa, where the deadliest malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, is most prevalent. Once inside an infected person’s body, the parasite relies on glycolysis—breaking down glucose (a sugar)—to produce energy and stay alive. A... Read more
SA, China establish record-breaking 12,900 km ultra-secure quantum satellite link
Must-ReadStellenbosch University April 1, 2025
Scientists from South Africa and China have successfully established the world’s longest intercontinental ultra-secure quantum satellite link, spanning 12,900 km. Using the Chinese quantum microsatellite Jinan-1, launched into low Earth orbit, this milestone marks the first-ever quantum satellite communication link established in the Southern Hemisphere. In this demonstration, quantum... Read more
New report offers insight into SA teens’ smartphone habits
ResearchStellenbosch UniversityWestern Cape March 12, 2025
Today’s teenagers are the first generation to grow up with constant online connectivity. As smartphones become more ingrained in their lives, what do we know about how they use them? A new research report by academics at Stellenbosch University sheds light on this question by providing empirical evidence of... Read more
New report shows opportunities for work, study after matric remain limited
Stellenbosch UniversityWestern Cape March 11, 2025
What are the actual job prospects for young South Africans once they have matriculated? To what extent are recent matriculants finding jobs or transitioning into post-school education and training (PSET) opportunities? These are the critical questions explored in a new report by researchers at Stellenbosch University (SU). Titled “School... Read more
Technically-gifted coach set to elevate Madibaz women’s football
Eastern CapeNelson Mandela UniversityVarsity Sports March 9, 2025
New Madibaz women’s football coach Nolitha Mhlomi is determined to elevate the status of the code at Mandela University in Gqeberha. The 27-year-old took the reins this month and is eager to advance her career and women’s football at the institution. The former player’s initial goal is to ensure... Read more
