South Africa

31 January 2023

‘Accidental Administrator’ Wants Action to Halt Corruption

Professor Sakhela Buhlungu, the vice-chancellor of South Africa’s University of Fort Hare, survived an apparent assassination attempt earlier in January. He remains determined to stay at the institution, but is deeply frustrated about the lack of action from various authorities, despite evidence relating to alleged corrupt activities. Read more

African Varsities Engage in Agro-Food Systems

A grouping of major African universities, the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) is set to engage governments on strengthening Africa’s agri-food systems in the Post Covid-19 era at their 18th annual meeting set for today. Read more

Although Universities Offer a Welcoming, Highly Supportive Environment, New Entrants will Need to Put in Serious Work to Succeed 

As public universities prepare to receive a new cohort of fresh school leavers on their campuses for the 2023 academic year, the Chief Executive Officer of Universities South Africa (USAf), Dr Phethiwe Matutu, has assured the Class of 2022 that they will be entering a welcoming, highly supportive and potentially life-changing environment. Read more

AU’s ‘Neocolonial Entanglement’ Undermines HE Policies

To regain legitimacy as a leading continental organisation, the African Union (AU) needs to decolonise itself and rely more on its member states to refocus its regional higher education policy processes towards African issues instead of excessive financial dependency on external actors which could manipulate policy processes towards donor interests. Read more

Bodyguard of University of Fort Hare Vice-Chancellor Shot Dead in ‘Assassination Attempt’

Mboneli Vesele, the bodyguard of University of Fort Hare (UFH) vice-chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu, was shot dead on Friday night in what is suspected to have been an assassination attempt. Read more

Campus Turns into Killing Fields

Tender fraud and the hiring of hit men to deal with perceived competitors and whistleblowers in South Africa’s institutions of higher learning has lifted the lid on the underhand and dodgy dealings following the execution-style and brazen killing of the University of Fort Hare (UFH) vice-chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu’s bodyguard. Read more

Changes Coming for Science, Engineering and Technology Subjects…

Minister of Higher Education and Training Blade Nzimande says that South Africa’s universities and Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges are ready for the wave of new students entering the system in 2023. Read more

Concerns Over Bed Shortages and Space Challenges in Tertiary Institutions

There is a shortage of more than 400000 beds for student accommodation at South African universities, with rural-based tertiary institutions and TVET colleges being worst affected. Read more

Education System isn’t Equipping Learners with Right Skills for Jobs

Persistently high unemployment in South Africa is a structural problem that the central bank doesn’t have the tools to address and should be dealt with by changing the nation’s education policy, South African Reserve Bank governor Lesetja Kganyago said. Read more

Education System Must Provide Learners with More Choices

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for the broadening of learner access to technical and vocational subjects in order to provide them with more choices and better guidance, as well as mitigate the dropout rate. Read more

Foundation Calls on Private Funding to Support Disadvantaged University Students

The Foundation for Education and Social Justice released a statement on Tuesday, saying students with historical debt needed to be given a chance to register for the 2023 academic year. Read more

Illegal Colleges Decrease Due to the Co-Operation with SAPS – Higher Education

The Higher Education and Training Department says co-operation between law enforcement has led to a decrease in the number of illegal colleges operating in the country. Read more 

Increase in Demand for Places, Financial Aid

Universities in South Africa are finalising first-year applications as, on 16 January, the quality assurance body, Umalusi, approved the results of the school-leaving examination written at the end of 2022. Read more

Innovation Needed from State and Varsities to Support Internationalisation in Higher Education

As universities take stock of the changes brought about by the Covid pandemic and rebuild relations with student and other stakeholder bodies, ensuring continuity, as well as growth in student enrolments, is crucial… Read more

Journalism and PR Might Soon Vie for the Same Stories

A study by Stellenbosch University and the City University of London has revealed that the relationship between South African science journalists and scientists, who are sources of information, is complex. Read more

Nzimande Warns Students, Parents Against ‘Fly-By-Night’ Colleges Offering Fake Qualifications

Higher Education, Science, and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande has warned students and parents against illegal colleges that lure and mislead future students into believing they offer qualifications recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). Read more

Overqualification: A Symptom of Qualification-Job Mismatch

According to UNESCO’s International Institute for Educational Planning, countries in Sub-Saharan Africa are severely affected by qualifications and skills mismatches, making it hard for employers to find suitable job applicants, or develop the ability to forecast potential skills imbalances. Read more

Perception of TVET Colleges Discouraging Student Enrollment

Over 900 000 learners set for the 2022 matric exams and those who progressed carry with them the prospects of getting a seat at one of the 26 universities, 50 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) or the scores of independent institutions across South Africa. Read more

Plagiarism Accused Unisa Student in Race to Clear his Name

A University of South Africa (Unisa) first-year student from Limpopo is running out of time to prove that he did not cheat during his online assessment in the June/July 2022 exam period. Picture: Henk Kruger/African News Agency (ANA). Read more

Plagiarist Academic Edward Mitole Now Claims He is a ‘Spook’ Lying Low

‘Plagiarist professor’ Edward Yusuf Mitole has threatened to slap The Citizen with a R10-million lawsuit for exposing his lies about being a University of South Africa (Unisa) professor and former president Jacob Zuma’s political advisor. Read more

Price of Knowledge Rises for Varsity Students

Unfunded students will have to dig deeper into their pockets this year as most universities have hiked tuition and hostel fees by 5.1% and 7.1% respectively, …Read more

Professor Proposes Agri, Household Waste is the Answer to More Electrification

Aprofessor from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology has identified household and agricultural waste in South Africa as a valuable source of clean energy that can be deployed in communities, complexes and individual homes at a lower cost and with a faster return on investment than solar power. Read more

Push for Universities to Have Centralised Ombuds System

The department of higher education, science and innovation is investigating the possible establishment of a university ombuds office in the university system. Read more

‘SA Not Likely to Have Covid-19 Outbreak Like China’

The University of KwaZulu-Natal bioinformatics scientist, Prof. Tulio de Oliveira, says that at this stage, “South Africans should just wait and see how the situation unfolds”. Read more

SA, Turkey Deepen Science, and Innovation Ties

South Africa and Turkey have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), agreeing to advance cooperation in science and innovation. Read more

Society-Centred Institutions Require Cultural Shift in HE

Universities must focus on equipping their students with leadership as well as technical skills and foster collaborative and experimental forms of learning and knowledge-production that can provide practical solutions to development challenges at scale, according to Arturo Condo, … Read more

Society-Centred Institutions Require Cultural Shift in HE

Universities must focus on equipping their students with leadership as well as technical skills and foster collaborative and experimental forms of learning and knowledge-production that can provide practical solutions to development challenges at scale, according to Arturo Condo,… Read more

South African Universities have been ‘Engulfed by Corruption’

The apparent assassination attempts on one of South Africa’s top university leaders, in which his bodyguard was killed, has highlighted the threat of corruption that appears to have firmed its grip on the country’s tertiary education sector. Read more

Stellenbosch Must Tackle Overprivileged Indifference to Become More Inclusive

e report on racism at South Africa’s Stellenbosch University (SU) by retired constitutional court Judge Sisi Khampepe received wide media coverage. Read more

Stellenbosch University partners with Harvard Law School’s Institute for Global Law and Policy

The aim of the GSA is to invest in the next generation of scholars by placing them in conversation with their global peers, thereby strengthening their ability to think in new ways about global issues that the world faces… Read more

Study Shows Race Bias in Employment of Science Graduates

If you are a white natural science graduate in South Africa, the chances are that you will find a job faster than your black and coloured counterparts. And if you graduate from more recognised or prestigious universities, you are likely to have easier access to internships and, ultimately, employment. Read more

Three Arrested in Connection with Missing TVET Lecturer

A woman and two men appeared in the Dzanani Magistrate’s Court on charges of kidnapping and robbery, following the disappearance of Takalani Jimmy Mukwevho (45), a lecturer at the Vhembe TVET College. Read more

Türkiye Opens Research Center at South African University

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Tuesday inaugurated the Maarif Türkiye Research Center at the University of Pretoria in South Africa’s executive capital. Read more

Two Women University Vice-Chancellors to Tackle Gender-Based Violence in Higher Education

Two women university vice-chancellors will be championing the fight against the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) within the higher education sector. Read more

UCT Says Talks are in Place to Avert Planned Staff Protest Over Wages

The employees have resolved to down tools next week over wage demands. UCT’s academic union wants at least 6%, compared to the institution’s offer of a 3% pay increase. Read more

UCT Students Lead the Way in Sectors of Green Awards Event

University of Cape Town (UCT) walked away with top honours in the property and engineering categories in the eighth annual Greenovate Awards that encourage sustainability in the SA built environment. Read more

UJ and the DSI Launch SA’s First 3d Printed Building

The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), in partnership with the University of Johannesburg (UJ), has successfully launched SA’s first ever ‘printed’ building using a 3D concrete printer. Read more

UKZN Researchers ‘Sea’ Potential to Generate Electricity

A designer kite with turbines and linked to a grid which draws current from the sea is hoped to provide an alternative energy source. Read more

UKZN Warns of Scams

“These scams claim to provide help with regards to acquiring financial assistance, student accommodation, registration and places in academic programmes. The university does not charge for these services,” said UKZN executive director of corporate relations Normah Zondo. Read more

UKZN Warns Students of Registration Scams

The University of KwaZulu-Natal is warning students and parents to be on the lookout for potential scams and fraudsters targeting prospective students. Read more

UMP Student Develop Multipurpose SmartD App

The SmartD app is user-friendly and will enable people to shop in the comfort of their home. Read more

University Proud After Graduate Creates Job-Hunting App that Requires No Data

MUT said that a mobile app to help South African graduates seeking employment may just be what the doctor ordered to curb the high unemployment rate in South Africa. Read more

Universities Raising Money to Help Support Poor, Missing Middle Students 

Several universities and their students have over the past few years put the plight of those who cannot afford to study at the forefront, developing fundraising measures to help the youth realise their dreams of acquiring an academic qualification. Read more

Ushering in a Bright Future for the University of the Free State

At the University of the Free State we have a clear vision of where we want to be within the next few years, leading up to the year 2034, when the university will be 130 years old. Read more

Western Cape Universities Say Vaccination is not Mandatory…

The University of the Western Cape, along with other universities in the province, has said it no longer requires students to be vaccinated against Covid-19 for them to be allowed on to campus. Read more

 

31 December 2022

120 School Girls Benefit from Coding and Robotics Training Programme in eThekwini 

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) in collaboration with Lenovo Southern Africa is offering a Coding and Robotics Training programme to 120 schoolgirls from 15 schools in the eThekwini area. Read more

#FeesMustFall Book Captures Key Moment in Student Politics

A colourful, retrospective, celebratory, sometimes jarring, but pertinent coffee table book, which captures the violent intensity of the 2015 #FeesMustFall student movement that shook South Africa, was released by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) in November. Read more

Action Urgent to Eliminate Bottlenecks to Self-Employment

Africa needs to adopt a holistic approach if it is to build a strong culture of youth entrepreneurship and help tackle the current youth unemployment crisis gripping many countries on the continent. Read more

Are Humour Studies Emerging in African Universities?

Are humour studies emerging in African universities? I answer quickly, somehow, perhaps! But, I shall also add, not in a pronounced way. Which ‘Africa’ is implied by this question and why, one may ask? In this article, my focus is on Sub-Saharan Africa, from the Cape to the Coast, better called ‘Bantu Africa.’ Read more

Comedy in Africa Used to ‘Get Even’ with Political Elite…

In the Western academic tradition, the study of humour has developed from the time Plato (428-348 BCE) taught students in Athens how to inject irony into political debate into a subject that through the centuries has attracted the attention of scholars in anthropology, film production, literature, political science, philosophy, psychology, religion and sociology. Read more

Common Mental Disorders an ‘Enormous’ Burden on Students

To what extent are common mental disorders among university students in Sub-Saharan Africa contributing to academic failure, effectively leading to skills shortages and mismatches in human resources and capacity with the labour market needs in the region? Read more

CUT Student Develops First Sand-Cast Ceramic Art in Africa

A Master’s in Studio Art and Design student at the Central University of Technology (CUT) in Free State, Sylvester Zanoxolo Mqeku, will showcase his award-winning sand-cast ceramic art at his upcoming solo exhibition titled Birth of the Alter Natural. Read more

Cutting-Edge Climate Change Curriculum Enters Phase Two

The Southern African Regional Universities Association (SARUA) Climate Change Steering Group recently endorsed the finalised version of a climate change and sustainable development curriculum and digital ecosystem, which SARUA revised and which will be updated, under phase two, in 2023. Read more

Chinese Company Donates R1.15-Million to Fund Students at Wits University

A leading Chinese telecommunications company has donated R1.15-million (about US$65,274) to help students studying information science at Wits University in South Africa. Read more

Employability Should be a Marker of Success for TVET Colleges Says Minister

On Tuesday, Statistics South Africa revealed a morsel of good news in that the unemployment rate – both official and expanded – decreased by one percent point. Read more

If You Look, you will Find Opportunities for Further Study

I am a 44-year-old woman from Eastwood, a traditionally coloured residential area in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, one of South Africa’s nine provinces. I went to school at Eastwood Primary and Eastwood High School in the city. Read more

Internships, Job Shadowing Enhance Graduates’ Employability

Four universities in Africa are among the 250 universities globally that have been ranked by the Global Employability University Ranking and Survey 2022, or GEURS for producing employable graduates, … Read more

Lenovo, DUT Unite to Advance Coding, Robotics Skills 

PC vendor Lenovo SA, in partnership with the Durban University of Technology (DUT), has launched the Robogirl 2022 programme aimed at preparing young female learners for the fourth industrial revolution and beyond. Read more

Master’s Degree in the Bag, Despite Many Obstacles

She is a full-time radiographer as well as the primary parent to her three children, but Anelisa Moyo possessed enough discipline to see through her master’s degree in radiography. Read more

New Initiative Puts Cities at Frontline of Climate Change

A unique multi-level governance initiative that taps the research, innovation and engagement capacity of universities to help cities cope with climate change has been welcomed. However, some African experts say its success will depend on sufficient investment in universities, …Read more

Online Learning for Ambitious Entrepreneurs

A Nelson Mandela University (NMU) graduand with an eye for development has set her sights on doing her bit to launch Bay entrepreneurs to the next level. Read more

President Calls on Forum to Use Science to Improve People’s Lives, Fight Inequality 

President Cyril Ramaphosa shone a spotlight on how science can play a role in improving people’s lives and addressing the challenges facing the world including disease, climate change and food insecurity. Read more

Quality Assurance Networks Should Work Towards Harmonisation

The need to harmonise higher education systems, including quality assurance, to support the sustainability of the continent’s developmental transformation was emphasised by Ghana’s Deputy Minister for Education, … Read more

Report Shows Better Research Profiles and Ongoing Challenges

Despite making notable progress in their quest to become research-oriented institutions over the past seven years, universities allied to the African Research Universities Alliance, or ARUA, largely remain undergraduate universities, in what could be a reflection of the general state of institutions across the continent. Read more

Specialist Training of Health Workers is Urgent

Some universities in Eastern and Southern African countries have programmes for health workers offering advanced degrees that are not accredited by professional bodies, a situation that is misleading to potential candidates who would want to be recognised as specialists in their fields. Read more

Stellenbosch, Teesside to Advance Green Hydrogen 

Stellenbosch University (SU) has teamed up with Teesside University in England to advance the use of green hydrogen as an energy source. Read more

Stellenbosch University Allocates R12m for Green Hydrogen Research

Stellenbosch University has allocated R12 million for research into green hydrogen, which has been touted by the South African government as an energy source that can help lower carbon emissions in sectors such as steel and aviation. Read more

Stellenbosch University Denies Changes to Language Policy Commission Recommendations

Stellenbosch University has dismissed claims that some recommendations of the recent Justice Khampepe report have been overturned due to political intervention. Read more

Stellenbosch University’s Wim de Villiers: ‘Urination Incidents will Happen Again’ 

Steelenbosch University rector and vice-chancellor Wim de Villiers speaks to James de Villiers about why the university will not be reviewing its language policy despite a recent recommendation by Justice Sisi Khampepe, … Read more

Strong Leadership Needed to Confront Academic Xenophobia

The presence of xenophobic practices in South Africa’s higher learning institutions can be blamed on a lack of strong leadership in the universities, which has turned a blind eye on the vice by allowing expediency to prevail over merit. Read more

Students’ Low Condom Use Continues to Drive HIV Infections

Are sexual relationships with older partners, who are more likely to insist on having sex without the use of condoms, one of the high-risk drivers that promote and encourage the transmission of human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, among university students across Sub-Saharan Africa? Read more

Twenty (20) Winners of RUFORUM Young African Entrepreneurs Competition 2022…

The Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) is pleased to announce the 20 winners of the 2022 RUFORUM Young African Entrepreneurs Competition. The competition attracted 136 applications from 16 countries in Africa. Read more

UCT VC Phakeng Denies Sick-Leave Account, Student Assaults Academic…

The governance crisis at the University of Cape Town continues to spiral, with Vice-Chancellor Mamokgethi Phakeng and Council Chair Babalwa Ngonyama now at loggerheads over claims that Phakeng has been hospitalised due to stress. Read more

UKZN Co-led Study Shows Improvement in South African Children’s Physical Activity

Co-led by Professor Rowena Naidoo from the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Discipline of Biokinetics, Exercise and Leisure Sciences, the report indicates that children’s physical activity moved up to a B grade, despite the global Covid-19 pandemic – placing the country ahead of the nearly 50 other nations in the Global Matrix 4.0. Read more

UKZN Professor Karim Elected to Head World Academy of Sciences

University of KwaZulu-Natal pro vice-chancellor for African Health, professor Quarraisha Abdool Karim, has been elected president of the World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). Read more

UNESCO Builds the Capacity of African Journalists on Reporting Science

In the run up to the 2022 World Science Forum (WSF), the UNESCO Regional Office for Southern Africa partnered with the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Stellenbosch University, South Africa’s Department of Science and Innovation to train over 100 journalists and communication professionals from across Africa … Read more

UNESCO Launches Training on a Systems Thinking Tool to Promote Inclusive Education

To UNESCO every learner matters equally. The mission of its education sector is to “Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all”. Read more

Universities can Share Language Resources, Notwithstanding Their Ongoing Pursuit of a Competitive Edge

It was time to stop talking and start implementing. This was the view of speakers at the second Vice-Chancellors’ (VC) Consultative Colloquium on the revised Language Policy Framework for Public Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Read more

University of Mpumalanga Wins Prestigious Standard Bank Award 

The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) recently won the Top Women Business Icons 202: an Honorary Legends of Empowerment and Transformation Award at the 2022 Standard Bank Top Women Awards at Emperor’s Palace in Gauteng. Read more

Why Universities Need to Start Sharing Language Resources 

Even though universities thrive on competition, they need to stop competing in every single innovation. If, say Rhodes University is doing something about developing isiXhosa, and so are Stellenbosch University and the University of Cape Town, … Read more

Wits Mining Accredited for Another Five-Year Regular Cycle 

The high academic standard at Wits University’s School of Mining Engineering has once again been confirmed by its recent accreditation by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). Read more

Wits Alumnus and Biologist Expert Sive Honored for Her Contribution to Science

Learning about the development of frogs at Wits University in the late 1970s sparked an interest in the young student Hazel Sive that led to her now being considered a world-renowned expert in the study of facial deformities as well as fundamental mechanisms underlying face and brain formation. Read more

 

30 November 2022

African, Asian, and Australian Deans’ Standpoints on Research Impact Seem to Converge

The recent Higher Education Leadership and Management (HELM) Summit 2022 included a session where three universities’ deans from three different time zones discussed the challenges of mid-level managers in higher education, moderated by another dean in a fourth time zone. Read more

Business Schools for Climate Leadership Initiative Launched

Six leading African business schools launched the Business Schools for Climate Leadership Africa (BS4CL Africa) initiative to build a collaborative framework for climate action that can transform business education curricula to match the needs and adapt to the realities of the African continent. Read more

Cancer Researchers Must Broaden the Focus of Their Work

Cancer research in Africa has increased over the past decade, but those gains were unevenly distributed as just 13 out of 54 countries on the continent produced 90% of the research, with Egypt and South Africa contributing two-thirds of the peer-reviewed contributions about cancer, … Read more

Climate Action is a Key HE Mandate and in Need of Funding

As the Sharm el-Sheikh climate summit, COP27, unfolds, the higher education community is grasping the opportunity to put some of their demands on the conference table in Egypt, including calls to strengthen educational and research capacities of universities and research centres to tackle the impact of climate change. Read more

Climate Change and SDG Education to Target Million Youths

An estimated million African university students are set to benefit from a digital education programme on climate change and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2023-24. Read more

Degree Fraud, Scandals and Maladministration: What’s Happening at SA Universities?

South African universities are experiencing a legitimacy crisis, with several institutions facing allegations of fraud, maladministration and irregular appointment processes. Read more

DUT is at the Forefront of Higher Education, Technological Training, Research, and Innovation

The Durban university of technology (DUT) is a globally recognised University based in KwaZulu-Natal, comprising of seven campuses, with five in Durban and two in Pietermaritzburg, … Read more

Education Activist Calls for 50% Pass Mark for All Grades

Various organisations and education activists have been vocal about the controversial 30% pass rate to be scrapped as they believe it affects the South African educational system. Read more

Electric Buses for University of Johannesburg as Solar Power Initiative Grows

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) solar power initiative now produces 15% of the institution’s energy consumption, with electric buses now moving students around campus.Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the university, Professor Marwala congratulated the institution for its drive for clean energy. Read more 

First African Civil Engineer Inducted into Wits Wall of Fame

Dr Solomon Lefakane, the first African to obtain a Civil Engineering degree in 1961, is the first Wits alumnus to be inducted into the Engineering Wall of Fame. Read more

Forum Launches to Fight Crime in Universities

The scourge of crime and gender-based violence (GBV) in the Universities led the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Buti Manamela, and the SAPS to launch the Campus Community Forum in Walter Sisulu University (WSU), last week. Read more

Funding of HE: Replace Monologues with Candid Conversations

In a recent article in University World News, it was reported that Zimbabwe’s minister of higher and tertiary education blamed universities for the widely bemoaned low levels of state funding. Read more

Head of University of the Free State Business School Suspended After Planning Diversity Training

On 14 October, the University of the Free State (UFS) website published a glowing article about the UFS Business School and its new strategic vision under director Dr Udesh Pillay, who had been in his position for just over a year. Read more

HELM Summit 2022 Explores Innovative Leadership Development for Higher Education…

Shifting global parameters and heightened uncertainties highlight our universally shared vulnerability and point to how interconnected we are as a society: economically, socially, politically, and culturally. A new breed of leaders and managers with a new set of skills is needed to navigate these turbulent waters. Read more

How to Develop and Nurture Academic Leaders at Our Universities

Academic leadership is one of the most important foundations for success in our universities. However, leadership and management in academia presents its own challenges with many promoted to higher positions without proper training or a clear understanding of the complexity of the roles they are expected to fulfil. Read more

Global University Leaders Exchange Leadership Attributes, Challenges and Opportunities

How can universities be a driving force for change in broader sciety and what role should their leaders play in our ever developing world? Read more

How Universities are Transforming Their Language Policies and Why This is Critical 

Language has the power to change higher education in this country and lead to better social cohesion. Read more

Initiative Elevates Women’s Key Role in Climate Adaptation

Egypt’s COP27 presidency launched the African Women’s Climate Adaptive Priorities (AWCAP) initiative for promoting the integration and involvement of women in finding smart and innovative solutions to the consequences of climate change and to ensure a green transformation in Africa. Read more

Intervarsity Social Impact Award Winner Makes Mathematics Fun, Interactive and Affordable

There are 13 million students in South Africa, 63% of them without basic mathematics. “That is why there is a shortage of critical skills in South Africa,” Ms Munashe Dzikiti, told judges at the 4th annual EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity 2022 finals… Read more

Linguists Cautiously Back ‘Official’ National Languages

African linguists have voiced support, with a need for caution, over a proposal adopted by several African countries to give their national languages the same status as official ‘colonial’ languages such as French and English. Read more

Low Climate Literacy Among Women, Youth Hampers Resilience

“The US$100 billion pledge for climate finance made about a decade ago appears to be a pipedream. Needless to say, closing finance gaps and increasing the flow of climate finance by billions of dollars per year from both public and private sector is critical,” says Joyce Kimutai, climate scientist and principal meteorologist at the Kenya Meteorological Department, … Read more

Mathematics Teacher Practice During the 4th Industrial Revolution

Teaching Practice (TP) is a vital component of teacher education and training because it provides student teachers with an opportunity to gain experience in the workplace and to apply theory to practice. Good teachers are among the most important factors contributing to student achievement in the classroom. Read more

MUT Students Call for Tight Security After Fatal Residence Stabbing 

Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) students want stricter security measures at their student residences citing safety concerns.In July this year, 23-year-old student Xolile Mbatha was stabbed to death by her boyfriend Sanele Mlambo – who was granted access to her residence. Read more

Night of Drama as Deputy Chair Withdraws ‘in Protest’, Council Members Resign 

The University of Cape Town’s council has yet again failed to appoint an independent panel, led by a retired judge, to investigate allegations of misconduct against the vice-chancellor, Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, and council chair Babalwa Ngonyama. … Read more

Our universities are Caught in the Snare of a Leadership crisis – Dr Bernadette Johnson

South Africa’s universities have not suddenly arrived at where they are beset with challenges across the board. There have been many other incidents of corruption, maladministration, and violence over the past 30 years. Read more

Project Embeds SDGs in Curricula, Identifies Best Practices

Several universities in South Africa, together with a Greek institution and one in Cyprus as partners and funded by the European Union (EU) have been working on a project to embed the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into higher education curricula. Read more

Rhodes Business School Partners with eLearnAfrica to Develop a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).

Recognized as one of the leading business schools for its focus on sustainability and ethical leadership, Rhodes Business School has entered into a partnership with eLearnAfrica to develop a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), … Read more

Rising Graduate Unemployment Leads to Uptake in Entrepreneurship

According to PWC, even those with tertiary education are facing an uphill battle in finding employment, with about one in ten people who are unemployed in South Africa having a tertiary education. Read more

SA’s Indigenous Languages Must all be Fully Developed and Featured in Digital Resources…

Although South Africa has 11 official languages, we may be drifting into a world of monolingualism, especially when it comes to finding information online, says Professor Vukosi Marivate. Read more

SA’s Chinese Embassy Awards 59 University Students for Tackling Socio-Economic Issues

University students from across South Africa were recognised by the People’s Republic of China embassy in SA after entering an essay contest. Read more

SA Universities are Reimagining Postgraduate Supervision in Diverse Ways

The student-supervisor relationship at universities is changing. It is no longer bound to the model where the post-graduate is the apprentice of the supervisor. Now the approach is towards group supervision, cohort training and sharing of resources. Read more

SA Universities Feature in Top 500 on World Rankings List

South African universities’ global standing has dropped slightly, but seven of the country’s universities continued flying the flag high in the 2022/23 Best Global Universities ranking. Read more

Stellenbosch University Admit ‘Much More to do’ to Combat Racism at Institution

Stellenbosch University Rector and Vice-Chancellor Professor Wim de Villiers has received the report of the independent Khampepe inquiry into alleged racism at the institution. Read more

Stellenbosch University to Host Race and Transformation Conference

Following the release of the Khampepe Commission of Inquiry report into racism at Stellenbosch University (SU), the university in partnership with Nelson Mandela University and Bath University will host a Race and Transformation in Higher Education Conference… Read more

The Gap Universities are Having to Fill Regarding Student Mental Health Issues 

Student mental health issues in South Africa are escalating; but who should be providing the necessary care and treatment – universities or government? Read more

The New Crisis Hitting Schools in South Africa

A study conducted by a professor of Respiratory Medicine at the University of Cape Town (UCT) shows alarming vaping trends among matriculants of affluent schools in South Africa, with the expert calling for the speedy implementation of vaping regulations.  Read more

The Linguistic Revolution at the University of KwaZulu-Natal

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is one of the country’s pioneers in developing a language policy, a process that started in 2004 and culminated in isiZulu being given official status alongside English. Read more

The Politics of Visual Redress at Stellenbosch University

Changing the visual culture at a university that was closely associated with apartheid (Stellenbosch University in South Africa) is particularly vexatious. It is central to the institution’s attempt to grow an institutional ethos and culture based on norms of inclusiveness, restitution, and redress. Read more

The Role of PanSALB in Upholding Multilingualism in SA’s Society

In order to effectively elevate the status of South Africa’s indigenous languages, they have to be transformed into, and used as, languages of learning… Read more

Twenty (20) winners of RUFORUM Young African Entrepreneurs Competition 2022…

The Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) is pleased to announce the 20 winners of the 2022 RUFORUM Young African Entrepreneurs Competition. The competition attracted 136 applications from 16 countries in Africa… Read more

UCT in ‘Racist’ Split over Phakeng, Ngonyama Probes 

There seems to be divided voices at UCT on the investigation against vice-chancellor, Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng and UCT council chairperson, Babalwa Ngonyama. Read more

UCT Partners with German-Based Company to Decarbonise Aviation

The University of Cape Town (UCT) has partnered with Germany’s Helmholtz Centre for Materials and Energy in a three-year research project.The aim of the partnership is to develop ways of decarbonising the aviation sector by creating sustainable aviation fuels. Read more

UKZN Students Address Ocean Pollution

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), in collaboration with Ecohealth, the Department of Health and Refilwe Matlotlo non-profit organisation, hosted a beach clean-up at Durban Harbour to put to use the knowledge they acquired from the recent COP27 conference at Sharm el-Sheikh, in Egypt. Read more

UKZN ENT Registrar Awarded for Research Presentation at National Congress

A medical registrar in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal was lauded for her award-winning presentation at the South African Society of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery 58th National congress recently. Read more

UKZN’s Dr Maistry Wins First Place at National Congress

Maistry scooped first place for her excellent study titled ‘Peak Expiratory Flow Rate Monitoring in Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis (RRP).’ Read more

UJ in Bold Move to Cut Carbon Footprint with New Electric Bus Service

Something significant happened in the streets of the City of Joburg on 1 November 2022. That’s when students from the University of Johannesburg boarded its newest electric bus. Read more

UNISA’s School of Business Leadership Pioneers Integrated, Future-Focused, Continental Business Model

South Africa is not a silo, and a world of business opportunities lies just beyond our borders. According to Professor Pumela Msweli, this is something that many South African entrepreneurs and business leaders must still realise. Read more

University Leaders Could Benefit from a Global  Perspective

It is imperative that leaders in higher education have a global perspective beyond their national borders and building networks and communities of leaders is one of numerous ways to achieve this. Read more

Universities need to equip leaders to deal with an unscripted future

The University of Cape Town’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, said she wondered if young people these days were smarter than in her own youth days, …Read more

University of Pretoria Improves Global Ranking in Overall Reputation

The university is now ranked 382 globally in overall reputation, compared with 514 in 2021. The rankings are based on a survey carried out between November 2021 and February 2022, which garnered 29 399 responses from 147 countries. Read more

University of Pretoria Scientist in Fight to Save Antarctic’s Southern Ocean

A University of Pretoria macro-ecologist has joined a global campaign to save the Southern Ocean around the Antarctic which scientists say needs urgent protection… Read more

University of Pretoria to launch pioneering Centre for Asian Studies in Africa 

Our current moment is often referred to as the Asian century. Whereas different meanings are attributed to this term and experts disagree as to how accurately it describes our times, there is no doubt that it touches upon a very significant global transformation… Read more

University of Limpopo Students Dance Their Way into History Books

A ballroom and Latin dance couple, Happy and Adelaide Hlungwani from the University of Limpopo, etched their dance moves in the history books of the World Dance Championships Amateur League (WDC AL) and Dutch Open Amateur Latin Championship when they won gold and bronze medals in their debut international act. Read more

University Partnership Brings joy to Nelson Mandela Bay School Playgrounds

From grey and drab to colourful and inviting – Nelson Mandela University’s human movement science and architecture departments, together with Mandela University alumnus and architect Jacques Theron, have completed enhancements to a playground and ablution facility… Read more

University Rankings are an Unscientific and Socially Damaging Billion-Dollar Game…

Yale and Harvard have both announced that they are withdrawing from the US News & World Report university rankings. Harvard Law School Dean, John Manning, said it had become “impossible to reconcile our principles and commitments with the methodology and incentives”. Read more

Universities Should be Dynamic, ‘Transformative Spaces’

Universities in Africa need to be more dynamic and open to new initiatives as they seek to deliver on their mandate of advancing the domestic, social, and economic development of their societies, according to Teboho Moja, professor of higher education at New York University, USA. Read more

UNZA Ranked 6^th Best University in Africa

The University of Zambia (UNZA) has been ranked 6th best university in Africa from 156 universities in 20 countries by the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings. Meanwhile, at the global level, UNZA has been ranked in the 501-600 position out of 1,799 participating universities. Read more

UP’s Digital Lab to Develop Future-Fit, Employable Students

The University of Pretoria (UP) has unveiled the Digital Capability Laboratory, aimed at equipping the institution’s students with “future-fit” digital skills. Read more

VCs from Africa, Europe Discuss Building Scientific Capacity

Vice-chancellors and university presidents from more than 30 universities across Africa and Europe met for the first summit between the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), and The Guild of European Research-Intensive Universities early in November. Read more

VUT Strengthens Ties with Kenya’s Maasai Mara University… 

On Thursday, 8 November 2022, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) and Maasai Mara University (MMARAU) from Kenya strengthened their ties and formalised their longstanding relationship by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two universities. Read more

We Cannot Afford not to Embrace and Implement Multilingualism Says Professor Madadzhe

Studying African languages in institutions of higher education does not mean abandoning English. It simply recognises languages as an integral part of humanity, as communication instruments… Read more

What Knowledge Matters in Health Professions Education?

Knowledge matters in education, but some kinds of knowledge matter more. And knowledge that really matters is powerful. Powerful knowledge defines a field of study and determines what is taught within that field. Read more

Wits University to Make Multimillion-Rand Upgrades to Planetariu

Wits University’s received a R75 million donation to transform Johannesburg’s 62-year-old planetarium into an upgraded digital dome. The digital dome will promote scientific research, artificial intelligence, and the digital arts… Read more

Wits Young Scientist Wins Globally for Groundbreaking Research

Tamlyn Sasha Naidu, a post-doctoral fellow at the University of the Witwatersrand, recently wowed the Falling Walls Science Summit audience in Berlin with her groundbreaking research and won the main prize in the 2022 world finals with her presentation on “Breaking the Wall of Acid Mine Drainage”. Read more

Woman Engineering Student Scoops Science Award in Berlin

Tamlyn Sasha Naidu from the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in Johannesburg, South Africa, was this year’s breakthrough winner of the emerging talents at the Falling Walls Science Summit held in Berlin, Germany. Falling Walls is the unique global hub connecting science, business and society. Read more

Women Scientists Lead Way with 4IR Solutions

Women researchers are shinning the spotlight on education, health and unemployment problems besetting poor communities and how South Africa can harness the power of technology to find solutions to those challenges. Read more

WSU Receives Financial Donation to Help Clear Students’ Debt 

Walter Sisulu University (WSU) recently welcomed a donation of over R4.5 million from Steinmüller Africa to relieve the burden of student debt, which amounts to R1.5 billion. According to WSU records, 72% of the university’s registered students are on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Read more

WSU Rocked by Plagiarism Scandal

Walter Sisulu University (WSU) has been rocked by accusations that its strategic plan has been plagiarised from another university. Large sections of the university’s Vision 2030, which came into being in 2020, was allegedly copied from the Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Vision 2030, … Read more

 

31 October 2022

5 UKZN Academics Named Members of the Academy of Science of SA, and 1 Admitted into South African Young Academy of Science

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has congratulated six of its top scholars who have been named in the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) and South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS). Read more

24 Students Expelled from MUT After Torching of Building During Protest

The expulsion of 24 students fingered for the recent torching of one of the buildings at the Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) should serve as a warning that the institution will not put up with any form of violence and destruction of property. Read more

African HE Can be More Competitive Through 4IR Technologies

Universities across Africa need to embrace the new technologies being forged under the Fourth Industrial Revolution, or 4IR, to expand their educational capacity and produce relevant new knowledge, according to Tshilidzi Marwala, outgoing vice-chancellor of the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in South Africa. Read more

ASSAf Honours Top Academics

Twenty-nine of the country’s leading scholars and scientists were inaugurated as Members of the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) at the annual Awards Ceremony last night (19 October 2022). Read more

Can SA Universities be Incubators of ‘Societal Good’?

The university’s role in societal development has an ambiguous legacy. Some argue that universities have failed miserably in fulfilling their third mission, or quadruple helix task, of promoting societal impact, development, innovation, and engagement. Read more

Decolonised Education is Still a Radical Idea

The profoundly radical idea of decolonisation came to command the attention of our country’s 26 public universities in 2015 and 2016, beginning with successful student protests the presence of a prominent statue of arch-imperialist Cecil John Rhodes on the University of Cape Town campus. Read more

Durban University of Technology Celebrates Being in top 5 in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) was ranked in the top 5 of all universities in South Africa in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Read more

Fort Hare Joins Ranks of World’s Top Universities

The University of Fort Hare has received a prestigious global accolade by one of the world’s most trusted university ranking agencies. Recently, the Times Higher Education World University Rankings published its annual report of the world’s top universities for 2023, listing 15 SA institutions among them. Read more

Govt Launches National Biosecurity Hub at University of Pretoria

The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) on October 11 launched the National Biosecurity Hub, at the University of Pretoria’s (UP’s) Future Africa campus, to support the prevention and reduction of crop and animal disease in South Africa. Read more

Higher Education May Face Serious Funding Challenges…

The Financial and Fiscal Commission says the Department of Higher Education is likely to face serious funding challenges for students in tertiary institutions. Read more

Higher Education Should Promote More ‘Hard-Hand Skills’ for Prosperity

Last month the department of higher education and training released a Draft Policy for the Recognition of South African Higher Education Institutional Types. In the main, the policy seeks to articulate more sharply the three different types of higher education institutions that SA has, … Read more

Holberton School: New CEO to Expand Africa Network

Bucher on October 1st took over the management of Holberton School, the network of schools specializing in the training of high-level IT developers around the world. Read more

How did we stray from the simple principle of right and wrong? – Prof Jonathan Jansen

How does a university fall apart? Our research points to a simple and consistent finding: when the leadership of an institution violates its own rules with respect to academic governance. Read more

How to Tackle Research Agreements with Industry Partners

There is an understanding and agreement among scholars, higher education institutions and industry on the importance and benefits for universities and industry to engage in collaborative research. Read more

Insubordination, Bullying and Harassment Claims Divide Varsity

The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) council is divided into two opposing factions. One supports vice-chancellor and principal, Professor Dan Kgwadi. The other is behind Refilwe Buthelezi, the chair of the council, who resigned on Wednesday. Read more

Intra-Africa Mobility for Training Agribusiness and Food Systems Scientists for African Agriculture (TAFSA)… 

About TAFSA ProgramIntra-Africa Mobility to Train Agribusiness and Food System Scientists for African Agriculture (TAFSA) is funded by the European Union (EU). The program is run by 5 African Universities… Read more

Join War Against Those Who Discredit Science

The African scientific community has to be part of global efforts to combat misinformation and disinformation against science that is threatening future progress that the world can make through scientific research breakthroughs. Read more

Private Tertiary Institutions Want to be Called Universities

JSE-listed Stadio and AdvTech, which own tertiary institutions and offer courses accredited under the same system as public universities, want to be able to call themselves universities to help them compete better and assist graduates in job hunting. Read more

Medical Graduates Idling with Degrees 

They were sent to study medicine abroad with promise of work at home. After spending six years training in Russia, the last thing a group of medical students expected was to join the growing list of unemployed graduates in South Africa. Read more

MUT Study Reveals Gender Disparity in Science Research

Social, behavioural and policy interventions are needed to support women to succeed in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. This was suggested in a study by Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) academics, comparing women’s disparity in science research… Read more

Nelson Mandela University First University to Legally Operate Drones 

Nelson Mandela University became the first university in South Africa to legally operate drones. This achievement brought it a step closer to realising its vision of offering a diverse range of life-changing educational experiences for a better world. Read more

New Cinematography Institution to Boost Film Industry

The first-ever tertiary training institution for cinematography in the Central Africa sub-region, the Higher Institute of Cinema and Audiovisual Professionals of Central Africa (ISCAC), has opened in Cameroon. Read more

Number of Ranked Universities in Africa Increases to 97

African universities have made dramatic progress in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2023 as, for the first time, 97 universities from 17 countries, up from 71 last year, have been rated to be part of the best universities globally, with 10 of them in the top 500. Read more

Reflections on the Race Inquiry at Stellenbosch University

On Sunday morning, 23 October, I woke to the news that another Stellenbosch University student, the third male student in 2022, urinated on a fellow student’s belongings. Read more

Report on Alleged ‘Capture’ at UCT is Mischievous, Unethical and Misleading

The article under the headline “Dark days: Accusations of capture and governance instability rock UCT” (3 October 2022) contains a litany of claims that are either incorrect, misleading or unethical. Read more

SA Doctorates Get the Third Degree: On Par with Other Countries, but Room for Improvement

A review by the Council of Higher Education on the state of doctoral degrees finds that South African institutions are on par with international universities, but says there is room for improvement. Read more

SA Students Struggle to Finish Higher Education Courses…

One of the challenges facing higher education in South Africa is that many students don’t complete their degrees or take a long time to finish their studies.Professor Tawana Kupe highlighted the problem at the Times Higher Education World Academic Summit in New York last week. Read more

SA Universities Advanced in Finding Solutions to Global Challenges…

South African universities were well represented at the Times Higher Education World Academic Summit in New York this past week. The summit saw hundreds of delegates from universities around the world meet up to discuss the future of higher education and its impact on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Read more

SA Varsities Embrace the Cloud

South African universities and other institutions of higher learning embrace a new Cloud-driven future of education. Among these is the University of Limpopo, which in 2018 began revamping its enterprise architecture, ushering its ailing information technology infrastructure into a new world of efficiency. Read more

Science Champion Wants to See More Young Women in STEM

A 25-year-old student from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in South Africa has been channelling her love for science into nearby communities where she is raising awareness about careers for women in science and providing information to girls about fields of study in the sciences. Read more

Skills to Tackle Climate Change Should be on Agenda at COP27

The capacity-building aspect of climate change should be addressed when climate science activists, researchers and politicians gather for the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP27, in Egypt from 6-18 November. Read more

South Africa’s Telescope Designed to Study Birth of Universe

South Africa is home to part of one of the largest scientific endeavours in history. The Square Kilometer Array (SKA) is the world’s biggest telescope and the international project aims to probe mindboggling questions about the birth of our universe.

Stellenbosch’s R1bn Luxury Private Student Accommodation Development 

The development of a luxury new R1 billion private residence for students is on the cards for a prime site just a stone’s throw away from Stellenbosch University and will be launched to market later this month (October). Read more

Stellenbosch Theoretical Physicist Honoured with SAIP Gold Medal

In his career as a theoretical physicist, Prof Hendrik Geyer has always put up his hand for the big problems in physics – from developing a mathematical framework in the 1990s that has become fundamental to the building of quantum mechanical systems today, to building the field of physics in South Africa. Read more 

Stellenbosch Uni Hit by Yet Another Urination Scandal, the Third this year 

Stellenbosch University has been rocked by yet another urination scandal. Campus management says it’s been made aware of a severely intoxicated student who urinated in the room of fellow students at the Eendrag residence during the early hours of Saturday morning. Read more

‘Tertiary Institutions Need to Equip Future Generations with Coping Skills’

Rhodes University vice-chancellor Sizwe Mabizela says the Covid-19 pandemic taught us that we need to learn to navigate uncertainty and change… Read more

The Dire Struggles of Students from Low-Income Families

A study by a team of researchers from three universities has revealed the dire struggles South African university students from low-income families experience. This includes lack of funds to purchase electronic devices and clothing as well as being exposed to crime. Read more

The Transformation of the Knowledge Commons: Perspectives from the Global South.

The growing complexity and interdependence of multiple global development challenges call for more inter-disciplinary and forward-looking research and knowledge generation. Read more

Twenty (20) Winners of RUFORUM Young African Entrepreneurs Competition…

The Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) is pleased to announce the 20 winners of the 2022 RUFORUM Young African Entrepreneurs Competition. The competition attracted 136 applications from 16 countries in Africa… Read more

UCT Council Split on Investigation into Allegations Against Chair, VC 

The University of Cape Town council was split right down the middle on whether to appoint a retired judge to investigate allegations of capture and misconduct against Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng,… Read more

UKZN, CPUT Students Joint Runners Up in Annual Design Competition

A University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) student was a joint runner-up with a student from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) in the PG Bison 1.618 Education Initiative. Read more

UKZN Honours student to represent SA in 2023 World Slam Poetry Competition… 

A University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) student received R22 000 and will represent South Africa at the 2023 World Slam Poetry Competition in Brazil next year. Kwanele Nyembe, an Honours student in drama and performing arts, was crowned the National Poetry Slam champion during the recent Poetry Africa Festival. Read more

UKZN Hosts Climate Change Education Certificate Celebration

The School of Education’s Community Engagement and Extended Learning division hosted the Keep it Cool-Climate Change Education (KIC-CCE) certificate celebration on the Edgewood campus. Read more

UKZN Student Entrepreneurs Make Clean Sweep at Regional Competition

Four University of KwaZulu-Natal student entrepreneurs made a clean sweep at the regional round of the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Entrepreneurship Intervarsity Challenge hosted by Mangosuthu University of Technology in Durban recently. Read more

Understanding Just What Coaching is and the Different Forms it Takes 

There are many misconceptions about what coaching is and the various forms it can take. The field of coaching is diverse and covers many different areas of development. Read more 

Unisa Vice-Chancellor Puleng LenkaBula Accused of Causing Divisions at the Higher Learning Institution

The once glorious University of South Africa (Unisa) is a shadow of its former self, and the accusations of incompetence point to vice-chancellor Puleng LenkaBula. Read more

Universities South Africa’s Fundraising Project to Help Pay for Students’ Historical Debts …

In the face of mounting student debt at universities across the country, in August 2020, Universities South Africa (USAf) pledged to raise R1 billion in 24 months to help pay off students’ historical debts;… Read more

University of Mpumalanga’s Studentpreneurs Scoop Award in Malaysia 

The University of Mpumalanga’s (UMP) studentpreneurs won the Best Pitch Award at the Start-up Entrepreneurship Programme held recently at the Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation in Malaysia. Read more

UWN Celebrates 15 Years of Independent, In-Depth Reporting

University World News (UWN) passed another significant milestone this week – its 15th birthday – which is a moment for celebration of its achievements since its first edition on 14 October 2007. Read more

UWC Helps Teachers Make Math and Data Analytics More Exciting for Their Learners

With the growing demand for data scientists and analysts worldwide, learning subjects like maths and data analytics at school need to be more attractive and fun for pupils. Read more

Walter Sisulu University Student Wins SA-Sweden Essay Competition

Walter Sisulu University fourth year social sciences student, Philile Maseti, has used his good writing skills to earn himself a networking opportunity, after winning the SA-Sweden Essay Competition. Read more

Wits Gets R54m Funding to Put SA on Quantum Map

Wits University has secured R54 million in funding from the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), to kick-start the South African Quantum Technologies Initiative (SA QuTI). Read more

Wits to Kick-Start a National Quantum Technologies Initiative with R54 Million Funding

Wits University has led a national consortium that secured R54 million funding from the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) to co-ordinate a national quantum technologies initiative. Read more

Wits University International Lightning Conference Ends with a Bang, Just in Time for ‘Lightning Season’ 

For the first time in its 71-year history, the International Conference on Lightning Protection (ICLP), one of the most prestigious international lightning protection conferences, was hosted by an African city. Read more

WSU Moves to Upskill Academic Staff

Walter Sisulu University’s council chair, advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, has admitted that the majority of WSU lecturers fail to meet the minimum requirements for their posts but says steps are being taken to address the problem. Read more

WSU Now in a Better Place

Governance, finances better, but more focus needed on producing graduates who can find jobs, says outgoing council chair. Walter Sisulu University council chair Tembeka Ngcukaitobi is happy with the stability in the governance and finances of the university,  … Read more

Xenophobia is Threatening the Future of the SA University

One of the most serious threats facing higher education and the scientific enterprise in South Africa is the rising tide of xenophobia in the halls of academia. I did not think this was possible. Read more

 

30 September 2022

65-Year-Old PhD Gradate Doesn’t Believe in the Retirement Concept 

That was the relief and feeling of accomplishment expressed by 65-year-old Dr Mlamuli Mthembu, who graduated with a PhD in leadership studies from the University of KwaZulu-Natal this week. Read more

Another Stellenbosch University Student Suspended for Urinating on Roommate’s Chair

Stellenbosch University (SU) has suspended a student who urinated on his roommate’s chair at the Helshoogte men’s residence.This is the second urination scandal to hit the university this year. Read more

ARUA to Add Seven Centres of Excellence in the Next Year

The African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) will increase the number of Centres of Excellence it runs from 13 to 20 in the next 12 months in response to the need for increased university-led knowledge output in priority scientific areas. Read more

A Wits Professor Wants to Save Rhinos…

South Africa’s rhino population is dwindling, with the demand for the animals’ horns fuelling rampant poaching. Read more

Big Win for UKZN Student Entrepreneurs in Regional Round of Entrepreneurship Intervarsity Challenge

Four student entrepreneurs from the University of KwaZulu-Natal have won the regional round of the Entrepreneurship Intervarsity Challenge (EDHE). Read more

‘Change the Knowledge Economy into a Knowledge Democracy’

Although the prospect of a radical transformation of higher education remains dim under neo-liberalism, there is still much that could be done to help universities fulfil their public-good mandate more effectively, according to Laura Czerniewicz, former director of the Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching at the University of Cape Town in South Africa. Read more

CUT Solar Car Chasing the Sun to Cape Town

The Central University of Technology, (CUT) Free State’s solar car team “Seilatsatsi” will be competing in the 2022 Sasol Solar Car Challenge, marking the team’s second participation. Read more

Explore New Ways to Restructure Knowledge Production

As agents of social transformation, African universities should explore new ways of restructuring curricula, developing students, and producing knowledge, according to South African academic Cheryl de la Rey, who is now the vice-chancellor of the University of Canterbury in New Zealand. Read more

First Black SA Woman to Graduate with a PhD in Marine Geology – from UKZN 

Research conducted by the first black South African woman to graduate with a PhD in marine geology seeks to understand how coastlines respond to climate change and the consequences of future changes.Nonkululeko Dladla, received her PhD in marine geology… Read more 

Former UCT Student Named on ‘Rapist List’ Wins R300,000 in Damages

A former University of Cape Town (UCT) student has won damages claim against a woman who added his name to a widely-circulated UCT rapists list. Read more

Governance Systems Can aid Seamless Leadership Transitions

Moments of leadership transition reveal much about the governance systems and processes in an organization. The more robust the institutional arrangements are, the more seamless the transition. Read more

Harmonised Higher Education Could be a Game Changer

The implementation of the proposal by the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) that seeks to harmonise higher education systems in East Africa could be a much-needed game changer. Read more 

HE in Prisons Still ‘Patchy’ Despite Expansion of E-Learning

The COVD-19 pandemic’s expansion of online learning has created new higher education opportunities to teach Africa’s prison inmates, but even the administrators of some correctional facilities and government officials have been reluctant to take advantage of these options. Read more

Higher Education and Training on Worldskills Competition 2022 Special Edition

The WorldSkills Competition 2022 Special Edition (WSC2022SE) will see over 1,100 competitors from 57 countries and regions participate in 61 skill competitions which will be held between October and November 2022. Read more

Higher Education Department ‘Following All Cases’ of NSFAS Fraud 

Higher education minister Blade Nzimande said his department welcomes the proclamation signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa to allow the Special Investigation Unit to investigate maladministration and fraud at the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Read more

Industry Needs Technical Skills

To stimulate skills development, TVETSmart is shifting its focus towards more vocational and technical education.The campaign is funded through the German Ministry of Economic. Read more

It is Vital to Build Capacity in the Basic Sciences in Africa

This year is the centenary of the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics of which South Africa is one of the 13 founding members, and which has 60 member countries. It is also the International Year of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development. Read more

Mining and Minerals have had Limited Educational Benefits

The story of mineral discoveries and mining in Africa being a social curse for the continent is likely to persist after researchers at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank recently found no conclusive evidence of intergenerational mobility into higher education in most African countries and districts where extractions of mineral resources occur. Read more

More Than Half of South Africa’s Skilled Graduates Want to Leave the Country

About half of South Africa’s top earners and university graduates are considering emigration as citizens lose faith in the country’s future, the Social Research Foundation said, citing a survey it conducted. Read more

Network Wants to Make Impact by Providing 21^st-Century Skills

Academics have stressed the importance of ensuring African graduates secure jobs after their studies, ideally linked to the expertise they have gained during their courses. Read more

Network Will Support Implementation of Addis Convention

A group of African countries has launched the African Network of National Implementation Structures, a framework that will coordinate and campaign for the recognition of higher education qualifications, as well as facilitate academic mobility and inter-university cooperation across the continent. Read more

North West University Denies Suspending Student for Afrikaans Speech 

North West University has denied suspending a student at its Potchefstroom campus amid allegations of discrimination. The claim follows an incident where the head of one of the residences addressed an annual dining session in Afrikaans instead of English over the weekend. Read more

North-West University Enhances Access by Embracing Language Diversity

At the North-West University (NWU), language is not a barrier that impedes access to a tertiary education, but a tool that facilitates access to quality education for all university stakeholders. Read more

Nuclear Energy is Part of Our Future

South Africa is facing a myriad of energy challenges, compounded by a growing number of both external and internal forces. Answers to questions regarding our future prosperity are needed, and the North-West University (NWU) is committed to finding sustainable solutions to South Africa’s energy requirements. Read more

Outgoing UJ Vice-Chancellor Dreams Big About Africa

When outgoing University of Johannesburg (UJ) Vice-Chancellor Professor Tshilidzi Marwala relocates to Tokyo, Japan, next year, he has no intention to leave the African continent behind. Read more

Pretoria Student Murdered for Cellphone: Who was ‘Humble’ Thapelo Menwe?

Twenty-three-year-old student Thapelo Menwe was walking back to his Pretoria University residence in Hatfield in the early hours of September 10 when he was approached from behind by a man wielding a gun. Read more

Professor Unapologetic About Injecting Radioactive Material to Deter Rhino Horn Trade

University of Witwatersrand Professor James Larkin offers no apologies that his proposed experiment to inject live rhino’s horns with radioactive materials to discourage poaching may destroy the legal rhino horn trade, including rhino ranchers’ businesses. Read more

Ranking the 12 Best Universities in South Africa

Twelve universities from South Africa feature in the 2022-2023 list of the top 2,000 universities compiled by the Centre for World University Rankings (CWUR). Read more

‘Rebuild the Intellectual Community on the Continent’

Neo-liberalism has devastated African universities, turning them from vibrant centres of new thinking and academic comradeship into factories churning out marketable academic products and “saleable” students, according to leading Tanzanian scholar-activist Issa Shivji. Read more

Research on Food Security in Need of More Collaboration

African universities have been conducting most of their agricultural research focused on their home countries, but mostly lacking in a transdisciplinary or multidisciplinary approach. At the same time, collaborations are formed mostly with foreign counterparts rather than with colleagues at home or from elsewhere on the continent. Most of the work is conducted by male researchers. Read more

Research Shows Voluntary Commitments by Big Food Companies on Marketing Unhealthy Foods Don’t Work

New research from Wits University’s Centre for Health Economics and Decision Sciences, just published in Nature Food, shows that voluntary commitments by major food and drinks companies to take actions in support of public health don’t work. Read more

Rethink Internationalisation from Africa’s Perspective

In May 2020, during the first COVID-19 wave in South Africa, the International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA) noted in a position paper that the pandemic provided an opportunity to “critically examine traditional concepts, models and practices of internationalisation and to reimagine internationalisation from the perspective of South Africa, Africa and the Global South”. Read more

SA’s PhD Review: Its Relevance for Other Countries in Africa

Earlier in 2022, South Africa’s Council on Higher Education (CHE), which is responsible for the quality assurance of higher education qualifications, published a comprehensive review of doctoral education in South Africa. Read more

Samsung and Walter Sisulu University Power Up the Tech Skills of SA’s Youth

Samsung Innovation Campus programme aims to produce the future leaders of the fourth industrial revolution… Read more

Scientist Wants Everyone in Africa to Have Clean Water

She has spent countless days and nights in the lab, carefully analysing molecules and nanoparticles that can degrade different impurities and filter water. Her face brightens when she talks about water purification and decontamination in Africa. Read more

‘Signs of Life’: Thoughts on a ‘Not-Strange’ Postdoc Forum

The uncomfortable plight of postdoctoral research fellows (PDRFs), who are neither formally employed by their institutions nor categorised as students, and whose jobs are often open to casualisation, was highlighted during a national postdoctoral forum held in South Africa earlier this year. Read more

Skills Crisis in South Africa Can no Longer be Ignored 

The Department of Social Development says that the critical shortage of social workers in the country has hit crisis levels and can no longer be ignored.”I need to indicate that the shortage of social workers is now becoming a crisis that cannot be ignored anymore… Read more

South Africa is Facing a Deepening Student Financial Crisis and Experts Weigh in on Solutions to the Problem.

Clement Manyathela is joined by several experts on education in attendance at the AAHEFA 3rd International Conference on Financing Higher Education in Africa. Read more

South African Universities are Making a Shift – But There’s a Catch

The latest PwC Vice-Chancellor Survey for 2022 showed that universities are rapidly transforming to become more digitally aligned – making a big shift to virtual schooling- but access remains the biggest hurdle. Read more

Spoon-Feeding is Bad for Students…

The literature on higher education invariably refers to a vast majority of African universities as teaching-focused universities. This implies that African universities focus primarily on teaching rather than on research. Read more

Stellenbosch University vindicated by court ruling on pandemic language policy

Stellenbosch University (SU) has welcomed a Western Cape High Court judgment which declared that the university did not violate its language policy. Read more

Students Shut University of Mpumalanga’s Gates to Protest for Allocation of NSFAS Funds 

Enraged students took over the University of Mpumalanga’s (UMP) Mbombela Campus, demanding better services be provided by this institution and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Read more

Students Take the University of Zimbabwe to Court Over Fee Hike

Some students at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) have taken the higher learning institution and its vice-chancellor Paul Mapfumo to court challenging the recent increase in tuition fees. Read more

Testament to African Scientists’ Genomics Surveillance

The rapid expansion of genomics surveillance through a wide-ranging scientific collaborative network has enabled African scientists and public health institutions to illustrate how the SARS-CoV-2 variants reached and spread across the African continent in real time during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a study published in the journal Science. Read more

Thousands of Students Sign Petition to Increase National Student Financial Aid Scheme Allowance

Over 50,000 people – many of whom are university students – have signed a petition, imploring Minister of Higher Education Blade Nzimande and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to increase their monthly allowance. Read more

TUT Aims to Ensure Unemployed Graduates are a Thing of the Past

If the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) had its way, there would be no such thing as an unemployed graduate. Read more

UJ’s First Neurodiversity Centre to Also Cater for Underprivileged Communities in Soweto

The University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) Department of Educational Psychology in the Faculty of Education will launch the first Centre for Neurodiversity at a public higher education institution this Friday. Read more

Universities and Research Institutions in Ghana Urged to Develop and Operationalise Intellectual Property Policy

Universities and research institutions across the country are being urged to develop intellectual property policies for their organisations and put in place deliberate strategies and action plans for implementing the policies developed. Read more

University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Professor Receives Fellowship Award

University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Professor David Spurrett of the School of Religion, Philosophy and Classic (SRPC) was bestowed with the university’s fellowship award to recognise his achievement as an academic and contribution to his field of philosophy,… Read more

University of Limpopo Pays Accommodation Allowances After Violent Protests

After violent protests over student accommodation allowances on the University of Limpopo campus last week, the institution has raised funds for students who rely on financial aid. Read more

University of Limpopo Students Burn Guard House During Protest for Allowance 

University of Limpopo (UL) students embarked on a violent protest on Wednesday, setting alight a security guard house, uprooting the university’s fence and blockading roads that lead to the university. Read more

Value System Failure Requires Drastic Measures…

To help confront the widespread value system failure across Africa, including ethical challenges witnessed in leadership, governance and research, universities have to introduce measures such as establishing directorates of ethics and include ethics in the curriculum to teach students as future leaders the ethical way of doing things. Read more

Varsity’s Breakthrough in Prostate Cancer Treatment

The Department of Nuclear Medicine of the University of the Free State (UFS) accomplished a breakthrough in the treatment of patients with metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer (MCRPC), an advanced stage of prostate cancer, giving hope to affected patients. Read more

What can be Done About the Growth in Dissertation Mills?

Academic dishonesty is on the rise in universities in Africa – and globally – including dissertation fraud. Read more

Wits Mining Institute to Host Three-Day Technology Seminar 

The University of the Witwatersrand’s Mining Institute (WMI) is to host a three-day seminar on mining technology, from September 27 to 29, on the theme of ‘Turning research curiosity into twenty-first-century minerals industry performance, relationships and technology’. Read more

Wits to Name Landmark After a Mining Company…

Protesters say Sibanye-Stillwater is responsible for the “exploitation and destruction of communities and the murder of mine workers.” Read more

Wits University Celebrates 100 Years with Times Square Billboard in NY

Wits University has been celebrating their centenary year with many events, but this one was truly amazing. Read more

Woman Believed to be a Rhodes University Student Drowns in the Eastern Cape: NSRI

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) says a 19-year-old woman believed to be a Rhodes University student has drowned, in Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape. Read more

Young South Africans Need to Build the Future They Want

“We are here because we were not only prisoners of hope; we were willing to back our hope with action. Some of those people are Beyers Naudé, who paid for my education. Some of them are Charlotte Maxeke. The Constitution is a gateway to a better future. Read more

Young Scientists Want Machine Learning Revolution in Africa

Cameroon national Loic Elnathan Tiokou Fangang concluded his masters degree in mathematical sciences at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) earlier in 2022 and, as he awaits an opportunity to pursue a PhD in machine learning, he believes the dream of the institute’s founders – of producing the next Einstein – has already been accomplished. Read more

 

31 August 2022

10% of Rape Cases Reported Nationally Stem from Higher Education Institutions

Ten percent of all rape cases reported in South Africa come from institutions of higher learning.This according to Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande. Read more

African Seed Fund for Research and Education Launched by Imperial

Imperial has launched a wide-ranging new seed fund for research and education projects with partners in Africa.The College will provide funding for collaborations with partners at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) and members of the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA). Read more

All 26 Universities in South Africa Listed in New Global Ranking

A new global ranking of universities, using open data, has ranked all of South Africa’s universities based on the quality, quantity, and access to their web content. Read more

A New Entrepreneurship Support Tool for SA Universities is the Result of an International Partnership

A new Student Entrepreneurship Support (SES) Self-Assessment Tool, currently under development, could be the solution to evaluating the success and effectiveness of entrepreneurship programmes… Read more

A Sustainable World Requires Women Scientists to be Heard

“Excellent science and innovation require the talents of women and men. We need the complementary skills and values of both genders to create a balanced, holistic approach to leadership.” Read more

Cost and Quality Concerns Slow the Growth of Private HE

A lack of trust in the value of the qualifications and the quality of tuition offered by private higher education institutions are among the reasons why this sector has not grown to complement public higher education in South Africa. Read more

Concern Over Time PhD Candidates Take to Complete Studies

The time taken for doctoral students in South Africa to complete their degrees is a matter for serious concern, a study by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) has revealed. Furthermore, the substantial number of students who drop out before completion is also of great worry. Read more

Council Conducts Audit on WSU Staffing and Programmes After Accreditation Issues 

The Council on Higher Education conducted an institutional audit at Walter Sisulu University this week during which, among the issues scrutinised, were challenges on staffing capacity, infrastructure and postgraduate studies…Read more

CoHU, Global Scholars Interrogate Chronic Conditions and Suffering in Africa

The University of Dar es Salaam College of Humanities (CoHU), in collaboration with the Consortium of Humanities Centres and Institutes (CHCI), has held the eminent Global Humanities Institute 2022 to discuss chronic conditions and sufferings in Africa. Read more

Diversity-Related Questions Low on Africa’s Research Agenda

With the exception of South Africa, African academics are lagging behind the Global North in conducting research and publishing work done about diversity-related topics. Read more

Failures of Land Restitution and Possibilities for the Future

The struggle for freedom – first from British imperialism and later from apartheid, was a struggle for land. These were the words of South African lawyer and author, Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi SC, who delivered the Dr Phyllis Naidoo Memorial lecture at UKZN’s Westville campus. Read more

Gender-Based Violence and Femicide at TVET Colleges Spotlighted

With more university students profiled as victims of gender-based violence and femicide, victims within TVET colleges are seldom known.The TVET (Technical Vocational Education and Training) College Strategic Industrial Partnership Summit drew to a close… Read more

Higher Education Encourages Youth to Take up Artisan Careers

As the country continues to face economic challenges and a high unemployment rate, young people are encouraged to contemplate becoming artisans. This follows a heritage career expo held at the University of Mpumalanga which was organised by the Department of Higher Education, … Read more

How Can Institutions Play an Anchoring Role in Communities?

The evolution of the mission of universities from purely research and teaching institutions, so-called ivory towers of knowledge, to engaged universities, cognisant of and responsive to their local context and national developmental imperatives, has been a strategic objective of South African higher education’s transformation agenda for some time. Read more

How to Advance Your University’s Advancement Office

A major challenge facing universities in Africa is supplementing government funding of higher education with other sources of income. Private philanthropy can help institutions, which is why the establishment and strengthening of advancement offices are becoming increasingly important. Read more

Knowledge Co-Production a Prerequisite in Climate Change Battle

Universities can help to initiate discussions to strengthen the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and can promote the political accountability needed to attain them. Read more

Lack of Data Derails the Planning and Growth of Universities

A lack of reliable data across Africa has weakened policies to improve higher education across the continent, development experts argue. Read more

Macroalgae Project to Benefit Science and Communities

Marine farming in Mozambique and the country’s research capacity in the field of aquaculture are set to benefit from the work done by Dr Valera Dias, a senior lecturer at Eduardo Mondlane University’s department of biological sciences in Maputo and one of the 44 handpicked beneficiaries of the African Research Initiative for Scientific Excellence (ARISE) programme. Read more

NWU Host First of Its Kind Indigenous Astronomy Conference 

The North-West University (NWU) proudly hosted the inaugural three-day International Indigenous Astronomy Conference from 27-29 July 2022 at the Royal Marang Hotel in Rustenburg.During the conference the International Indigenous Astronomy Experts Society was also launched. Read more

Pan African University Grows, but Also Faces Challenges

The African Union-run Pan African University (PAU) has been attracting a growing number of postgraduate students since its establishment in 2012, and its research and development thrust has seen the registration of patents, the publication of academic articles and the establishment of innovation and entrepreneurship hubs. Read more

Passion drives universities’ entrepreneurship project, and it is paying off…

No membership fee is required to join the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) programme. Read more

Plans to Build 2 New Universities and More Colleges in South Africa 

A feasibility study is underway to make way for the new University of Science and Innovation in Ekurhuleni as well as a new crime Detection University in Hammanskraal. Read more

Questions About Math Teachers’ Training in Lockdown

A study has revealed that some first-year education students at universities did not participate in online class discussions, despite being logged on to their learning management systems. Furthermore, online assessments provided the leeway for the intensification of plagiarism and cheating. Read more

RUFORUM-MSC Business College Incubatees Perform

The YAFF award was introduced by the National Department of Agriculture Land Reform and Rural Development and forms part of the department’s strategy to develop 2500 youth owned enterprises country wide. Read more

SA Faces Research Funding Crisis

South Africa is in danger of falling behind in the fields of technology and innovation because less money is being spent on much-needed research, experts have warned. Read more

Science, Innovation Dept Envisions a Solid Hydrogen Economy by 2050

South Africa’s Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) views hydrogen as a key enabler of decarbonisation, particularly in the transport sector – heavy-duty trucking, shipping, aviation, and rail – and in major polluting industries such as steel, cement and chemicals manufacturing, as well as mining. Read more

SIU to Probe Alleged Corruption at University Of Fort Hare

President Cyril Ramaphosa authorised the Special Investigating Unit(SIU) to probe alleged corruption and maladministration at the university and the enrollment of honours students. Read more

Solar Pilot Project to be Launched at TVET Colleges to Combat SA’s Energy Crisis

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde and MEC Mireille Wenger have launched a new exciting new Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) qualification through Premier’s Council on Skills. Read more

Solution to Africa’s HE Problem Lies Beyond Campus Gates

The responsibility for producing an effective higher education system that can support Africa’s development should rest primarily with national governments and societies rather than the universities themselves, … Read more

South Africa-France Research Week Opens Up Possibilities for Stronger Research Collaboration…

The recently concluded France-South Africa Higher Education and Research Week yielded promising outcomes, given the high level of interest from both participating countries, the packed agenda and the recommendations made for ongoing mutual collaboration between French and South African universities… Read more

SA Universities Listed in New Global Ranking, UKZN’s Mining and Mineral Engineering Ranked First in the Country… 

All 26 of SA’s universities have been listed on a new global ranking of universities based on the quality, quantity, and access to their web content.Due to the web-based nature of the data collected, the “Webometrics Ranking of World Universities” ranking has covered over 31 000 higher learning institutes, … Read more

Speech Therapy Students Face Extra Year of Study…

A group of students studying speech-language therapy at the University of Fort Hare are accusing the institution of offering a low-standard course barring them from graduating. Read more

Standard Bank’s Universities’ Partnership Helps Build a New Generation of Entrepreneurs

Standard Bank’s investment in the Universities South Africa (USAf) Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) programme has led to the establishment of Economic Activation Offices (EAO) at 10 South African public universities. Read more

Stellenbosch University Researcher Wins Prestigious UK Scientific Award

University of Stellenbosch Biomedical Sciences Department Professor Novel Chegou has been awarded the Royal Society’s Africa Prize for 2022, the university announced on Wednesday. Read more

Stellenbosch University Student Expelled After Disciplinary Committee Finds Him Guilty of Sexual Misconduct 

A Stellenbosch University (SU) student has been expelled after the institution’s independent Central Disciplinary Committee found him guilty of sexual misconduct. Read more

Student Killed at Student Residence in Durban

A woman student at the Mangosuthu University of Technology died after being stabbed multiple times in her residence room, allegedly by someone whom she knew. Read more

Students from Africa May Soon Start to Return to China

China is preparing to welcome back students from Africa who have been unable to return to the country since they left following the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020. Read more

Students from Africa May Soon Start to Return to China

China is preparing to welcome back students from Africa who have been unable to return to the country since they left following the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020. Read more

Student Says, ‘No Hard Feelings’ But Father Wants to Fight on

The Stellenbosch student whose property was urinated on by a drunk fellow student has told Times LIVE Premium he harboured no bad feelings towards Theuns du Toit, who has since been expelled. Read more

Systemic Decolonisation Needs a Pan-African Approach

Mounting pressure for the decolonisation of higher education presents progressive opportunities for epistemic freedom and the emergence of universities that are authentic African universities, according to Sabelo Ndlovu-Gatsheni, the chair in epistemologies of the Global South at the University of Bayreuth, Germany. Read more

Talking My Language: Why African-Language Policy is Crucial in SA Universities 

UCT PhD candidate Naledi Maponopono is an expert on languages. Through her thesis research, she seeks to develop a monitoring and evaluation tool specifically targeted at government… Read more

These are the 8 Best Universities in South Africa – With one Shooting up the Global Rankings 

The ShanghaiRanking Consultancy has this week published its 2022 Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) highlighting what it deems to be the best 1,000 universities in the world – including nine located in South Africa. Read more

The University of the Western Cape Introduces an All-New Degree

The workplace is a dynamic environment. The university curriculum needs to be reevaluated in light of new employment paths. In light of this, the University of the Western Cape (UWC) is excited to announce the launch of a brand-new BCom and IS (Bachelor of Commerce and Information Systems) degree programme. Read more

They Need ‘Extra Support’: University Students, Staff’s Mental Health Under Spotlight After Suicides 

Two suicides at a Western Cape University have thrown the spotlight on the mental health challenges experienced by students and even staff. Stellenbosch University (SU) student Ky Rowe, 20, died on Tuesday at the Simonsberg men’s residence. Read more

Three Women Found Murdered at Durban Student Residences this Week

KwaZulu-Natal has started Women’s Month on a very sad note, with three families in mourning following the gruesome deaths of their daughters. This after the young women were murdered in separate gender-based-violence cases. Read more

True Transformation of HE Requires Deep Discussion and Time

Great care must be taken in transforming South Africa’s universities if they are not to be overtaken by ruin or subject to persistent, unresolved contestation, according to leading South African higher education policy specialist Saleem Badat. Read more

TUT Launches Gender Desk to Tackle Hate Crime Against Women

The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) has set up a gender-based violence framework in response to rising incidents of hate crime against women and girls in the country, as well as in institutions of higher learning. Read more

Two New Specialised Universities on the Cards for Gauteng

Access to education is on top of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande’s agenda.Nzimande announced a few days ago that the department will build the University of Science and Innovation in Ekurhuleni and the Crime Detection University in Hammanskraal outside Pretoria, …Read more

UCT Joint Research Project with University of Limpopo Seeks Solutions to TB

To boost drug discovery research capacity, UCT’s Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D) has partnered with the University of Limpopo (UL) on a project titled “TB Drug Discovery Hit to Lead Optimization”. Read more

UCT Professor Wins Award for Her Commitment to Safe and Secure Transport at ‘Science Oscars’

UCT professor in Transport Planning and Engineering at the Department of Civil Engineering, Marianne Vanderschuren, has won the Special Annual Theme Award: Basic Science and Sustainable Development at the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) South 32 Awards. Read more

UJ is SA’s First University to Use Blockchain to Safeguard Certificates Against Fraud

For students who gain their qualifications legitimately – who attend lectures, write assignments and sit for exams, often for several years – the certificates they receive at the end of their studies are proof of effort spent and knowledge gained. Read more

UKZN Ambassadors Encourage Mbizana Learners

Ambassadors from University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) visited two secondary schools in Mbizana last week, with the aim of motivating learners. They visited Marelane Senior Secondary School and OR Tambo Technical High School in Mbizana. Read more

Universities on Cannabis, Innovation Mission 

Two South African tertiary institutions have finalised partnerships in the past month that will boost research and innovation in Mzansi’s agri sector.The University of the Free State (UFS) has teamed up with ZZ2, a leading South African farming and fresh produce company, … Read more

Universities, TVET Colleges to Compete in MTN’s Campus Cup Challenge 

The 2022 edition of the MTN Business App of the Year competition aims to “reignite passion” for application development among the youth of South Africa through its standalone category…Read more

UWC Undertakes Social Responsiveness Initiative Through Health and Wellness Days

Bringing several faculties together, UWC has embarked on a community outreach initiative focusing on health and wellness in Bellville and Fisantekraal (Durbanville). Read more

Wits Business School’s Huge Turnaround

The days of false dawns for Wits Business School are over, says director Maurice Radebe. The brand image has been burnished, the school is helping shape important debates, student numbers are up and major corporates are returning to the fold for executive education. Read more

Wits Innovators Are Changing Lives with Medicine ‘ATMs’ and More

Wits University is home to a wellspring of talent from multiple disciplines, where life-changing innovation is incubated. Its students and academics are changing the world for good as they create solutions for the real issues people and communities face. Read more

Wits scientists Launch Book About Africa’s Largest and Longest Running Birth Cohort 

Over half of the women who had been part of Africa’s largest and longest-running birth cohort study felt overwhelmed by debt and reported intimate partner violence and depression compared to their mothers. Read more

‘Women in Africa are Real Climate Change Champions …’

“It is estimated that the waste sector in South Africa contributes 4.4% to the total greenhouse gas emissions. However, the nexus of waste and climate change is not explicitly quantified nor addressed in current policies at national and-or at local levels.” Read more

Women Judges and Lawyers Play an Invaluable Role in Fighting GBV… 

The South African Chapter of the International Association of Women Judges (SAC-IAWJ) will be hosting its annual Conference from 5-7 August 2022 at the University of South Africa. Read more

Young Illovu Woman- the First to Study and Graduate in Her Family 

Durban University of Technology cum laude graduate, Sinegugu Magutshwa hopes for a bright future after earning the prestigious Dean’s Merit Award for academic excellence for the degree of Bachelor of Education. Read more

 

31 July 2022

African Languages Pushed at South African Universities 

South African academics have urged institutions of higher learning to be progressive and implement the country’s Language Policy Framework for Public Higher Education Institutions, which came into effect earlier this year. Read more

Africa’s New Science Diplomacy Initiative to be Launched in Pretoria 

The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, will launch Africa’s new science diplomacy initiative in Pretoria on Friday. Read more

Challenges Confronting the Teaching of African Languages at South Africa’s Universities Require Dedicated Attention

The possibility of a shortage of supply of African languages teachers across South Africa’s education landscape by 2030 became a subject of fierce debate among members of Universities South Africa’s Community of Practice for the Teaching and Learning of African Languages (CoPAL)… Read more

Chartered Accountant Organisation Assures Students that Unisa’s Degrees are Accredited

The SA Institute of Chartered Accountants (Saica) assured former University of South Africa (Unisa) students their qualifications would not be withdrawn. Read more

CoViD-19 has Induced Shifts in Higher Education That Necessitate New Thinking …

At the recent Higher Education Leadership and Management (HELM) ENGAGE #8 event, blended learning, critical thinking and leadership attributes received dedicated focus. Read more

CUT Students Urged to Stand Firm Against Management

The EFF Student Command (EFFSC) has urged Central University of Technology (CUT) students to not succumb to alleged threats by the management of the institution. Read more

DSI, CSIR Launch Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa 

The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) on July 8 officially launched the Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa (SDCfA) initiative… Read more

First black Dentist at UWC Celebrates 32 Years of Excellence in Medicine

The first black dentist to graduate out of the University of the Western Cape (UWC) is celebrating 32 years of excellence in medicine. Read more

Gathering of Scientists, Stakeholders Hedge Hopes for Africa on Collaboration Efforts 

Academics, scientists and education stakeholders from across Africa are hedging their hopes for a better tomorrow for the continent on the success of collaborative efforts such as the Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa initiative (SDCfA). Read more

Government to blame for youth criticism of Mandela’s legacy, says Stellenbosch University academic

SA’s youth and university students are critical of former president Nelson Mandela’s legacy mainly due to the government’s failure to improve their lives. Read more

Graduate Into Management

Equipping the youth with the tools and skills to launch their careers is a task that requires a vast network of expertise and a variety of resources, and with 22 years of experience, Wits Business School’s Postgraduate Diploma in Management gives students a real head-start into management. Read more 

Health Ministry Negotiating with Cuba for Lesser Punishment for SA Students Over Kidnapping Incident 

Deputy Health Minister Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo says his department is in talks with the Cuban government to impose a lighter punishment for an Eastern Cape medical student who studied in Cuba. Read more

High Court Rules that Law Graduate Owing Varsity R15k can Practice Without Copy of His Degree

The MPUMALANGA Division of the High Court has declared as unconstitutional a rule that forced law graduates to produce copies of their qualifications before being admitted as attorneys or advocates. Read more

How Much It Costs to Study at South Africa’s Top Universities

South African universities could see a significant change in tuition costs with the department of higher education planning to create a new student funding model. Read more

How Universities Can Help Address Socio-Economic Challenges in South Africa

South African communities are beset by numerous problems that range from a lack of jobs to failing infrastructure. Some solutions could potentially be found if local universities were to play a greater socio-economic role in their neighbourhoods – a concept known as anchor institutions. Read more

Institutional Audit at WSU After Accreditation Issues

Walter Sisulu University is set to undergo an institutional audit by the council on higher education (CHE). A CHE representative visited the university last week to capacitate staff on accreditation issues. Read more

Japanese Universities Forum 5 Conference Echoes Mutual Trust in Collaboration for the Common Good

The opening session of the virtual South Africa-Japanese Universities (SAJU) Forum 5 Conference, yesterday, featured keynote lectures on the two countries’ perspectives towards open academic cooperation… Read more

Limpopo TVET College Lecturer Burnt to Death in Mob Attack 

A TVET college lecturer in Limpopo was on SaturMay attacked and burnt to death while transporting goats in Lebowakgomo. According to police, the 43-year-old had earlier bought the goats at Ga-Mphahlele village. Read more

Number of Students Suffering from Depression Rockets

A growing number of troubled students are seeking help from SA’s universities for mental health problems, with some institutions saying suicide-related calls have more than doubled compared with the first half of last year. Read more

NWU Principal and Vice-Chancellor Joins World Leaders in Nuclear Science for International Webinar

North-West University’s principal and vice-chancellor, Dr Bismark Tyobeka, has been invited by prominent global leaders in nuclear affairs to be a panelist in an international webinar on the role of nuclear and radiology safety in the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology. Read more

Professor Glenda Gray among most visible scientist during Covid

A study has found that South African Medical Research Council president and CEO, Professor Glenda Gray, was one of the most visible female scientist in South African media coverage during the first six months of the Covid-19 pandemic. Read more

Public Universities Face Tough Financial Decisions in Normalising Blended Teaching Post-COVID 

South Africa’s cash-strapped higher education system adapting to a post-pandemic blended teaching and learning model needs to rethink funding modalities. Read more

Restoring UCT’s Fire-Damaged Archives Likely to Take Years

After the flames that gutted the Jagger Library at the University of Cape Town (UCT) on 18 April 2021 were finally extinguished, the archives were thought to be lost. Read more

SA Research, Education Network Speeds Up

The South African National Research and Education Network (SA NREN) has been upgraded to help all connected South African universities, colleges, scientific councils, researchers and innovation centres to access faster connectivity quicker. Read more

Some African Cities Attractive for Studying Abroad, …

Three African cities, Cape Town, Cairo, and Johannesburg (in this order) are among the top 100 student-friendly cities for studying abroad, according to the 10th edition of the QS Best Student Cities Ranking 2023. Read more

South Africa is Minerally Positioned to Lead the World in Green Hydrogen Energy Generation

South Africa is home to 80% of the world’s reserves of platinum group metals (PGMs) that play a critical role in green hydrogen power generation. Read more

South Africa Needs More Skilled Tradesmen

South Africa needs more artisans such as bricklayers, diesel mechanics, instrument technicians, riggers, auto electricians and millwrights. The department of higher education, science & innovation says there is a high demand for tradesmen who are highly skilled and who primarily work in a technical field, …Read more

South Africa’s Top-Ranked University is Moving to a Hybrid Working Model 

After more than two years of significant disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the University of Cape Town (UCT) says it putting plans in place to return to normal face-to-face teaching and adopting a hybrid working model. Read more

South Africa’s University Pledges Support to Munah-Tech

The University of South Africa has pledged collaborative support to the newly opened Munah’s Pelham Youngblood school of technical and vocational training studies or Munah Tech, South Africa’s Ambassador to Liberia Prof. M. Iqbal Jhazbhay has disclosed. Read more

Stellenbosch University – an Overview

Known colloquially as ‘Maties’, Stellenbosch University (SU) aspires to be Africa’s leading research- intensive university, globally recognised as excellent, inclusive and innovative, and advancing knowledge in service of society. Read more

Stellenbosch University Expels Theuns du Toit Over Urinating Incident 

Stellenbosch University student Theuns du Toit has been found guilty of contravening clauses of the disciplinary code for students.This follows his suspension that stemmed from a video where he urinated on the belongings of a fellow black student, Babalo Ndwayana. Read more

Stellenbosch University Opens Undergrad Financial Aid e-Applications for 2023

Stellenbosch University’s Centre for Undergraduate Bursaries and Loans (CUBL) announced that prospective undergraduate students can now apply for funding. Applications are open until 30 September 2022. Read more

Student and Staff Surveys Chart a Way for Implementing Blended Teaching and Learning at Public Universities

A blended teaching and learning environment cannot succeed if students and staff do not all have access to reliable devices, network, internet connectivity and adequate data to engage fully in teaching and learning. Read more

Teens Arrested After Body of UFS Medical Student Found in River

Two teenagers were arrested in connection with the murder of a 26-year-old University of the Free State medical student, Mpumalanga police said on Tuesday. Police spokesperson Colonel Donald Mdhluli said community members discovered the body of Wiseman Mthunzi Zwane in a river…Read more

Tertiary Students Continue to Buckle Under Stress in the Wake of the Covid-19 Pandemic 

Reasearchers and analysts believe that we are only now starting to see the real impact that the Covid-19 pandemic has had on young people and students.Crowdfunding platform, Feenix, said its data shows that stress and anxiety are at a disturbingly high level, and something needs to be done about it. Read more

TVET Colleges Have ‘Failed to Promote Gender Equality’

The parliamentary portfolio committee on higher education, science and innovation has raised concern about the inadequate implementation of the human resources policies required to stimulate gender equality and transformation in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges. Read more

UCT Turns Page on Jagger Library’s Future Despite Year-Long Insurance Payout Delay 

The University of Cape Town’s Jagger Library, gutted by a fire that started on 18 April 2021, is being “reimagined”, but the funds necessary to rebuild the library, in whatever form that may be, have not yet been secured. Read more

UCT Vice-Chancellor in Top 10 List of Outstanding Individuals in Africa 

University of Cape Town (UCT) vice-chancellor, professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, has joined nine other people selected for the new Africa Education Medal.The award is in recognition of amazing work by the individuals on the continent in the field of education.  Read more

UCT Vice-Chancellor Seeks ‘Maths Genius’: ‘I Want to Pay for His Studies’

University of Cape Town (UCT) vice-chancellor Mamokgethi Phakeng has offered to pay for the studies of a “maths genius”, a young boy named Sibahle Zwane. Read more

UFS Drops Mandatory Covid-19 Vaccination Policy after Solidarity Threatens Legal Challenge

After holding onto its mandatory Covid-19 vaccination policy for a while, the University of the Free State (UFS) has decided to drop it.When the government lifted Covid-19 restrictions, UFS stuck to its policy of only allowing vaccinated people on campus, Read more

UKZN Students Make 2022 Top Young South Africans List

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) applauds and congratulates four students and an alumnus of the university who have made it onto the Mail & Guardian 2022 Top Young South Africans list. Read more

UJ Students Play Their Part on Mandela Day

A group of University of Johannesburg (UJ) students donated blankets and cooked for the elderly at an old age home on Monday as their way of giving back to the community on International Mandela Day. Read more

UJ to Host Symposium on How to Improve Child Well-Being

The University of Johannesburg will host a virtual symposium to share research findings and lessons learned from a community of practice model (CoP) supported by the National Research Foundation (NRF) to deliver care and support services for early grade learners in South African schools. Read more

Unisa Accounting Programme Ripped Apart

SA cohort of accounting postgraduates may find themselves battling to become chartered accountants due to the poor standard of their final assessments. Read more

Unisa Business School Goes Back to Basics

Once, its distance-learning capacity gave it a special place in the market. Now, with all business schools having gone online because of Covid, Unisa’s Graduate School of Business Leadership (GSBL) is devising new ways to create a separate identity. Read more

Unisa Docked Salaries of Workers who Were Not on Strike

The National Health Education Workers Union (Nehawu) on Friday claimed that the University of SA (Unisa) docked the salaries of non-striking workers last month.In a statement, the union claimed that deductions were made for no work no pay in 80% of the non-striking workers. Read more

Unisa Leaders Accused of Corruption, Abuse of Power

A document by a firm that is conducting an audit of Unisa for the 2021 financial year has revealed shocking allegations of corruption and maladministration at the embattled institution. Read more

Unisa Opens New Law Clinic in Parow, Plans to Open More

Unisa recently launched its first law clinic in the Western Cape to make legal services accessible to those struggling to obtain it.The Unisa Law Clinic in Parow, Cape Town… Read more

University of the Free State Shows Collaboration Can Create Real Social Impact

In a time of increasingly complex social challenges, it has become essential to join forces across a wide range of sectors and disciplines to find effective, lasting solutions.  Read more 

University of Pretoria Cannot Accommodate All 30 Religious Affiliations Due to Lack of Space 

The University of Pretoria (UP) does not have space to accommodate all 30 religious affiliations present in the institution as a result of the lack of available space on its campuses. Read more

University of Pretoria Faces Pushback Over Registration Fee Hike Proposal

The student representative council (SRC) at the University of Pretoria has rejected the institution’s proposed registration fee hike next year, calling it “harmful”. Read more

Universities Relax Covid-19 Vaccine Policies, but Students Warned to be Cautious

Students should remain cautious of universities’ relaxed Covid vaccine policies as they were not completely scrapped but “still lurking behind closed doors”, activists warned. Read more

USAf’s new Community of Practice for Postgraduate Education and Scholarship has been Hard at Work

With just over three months in existence since its inaugural meeting on 31 March, Universities South Africa’s newly founded Community of Practice for Postgraduate Education and Scholarship (CoP PGES), is starting to make its mark. Read more

UWC Honours Graduate Awarded for Research on Gentrification for Bo-Kaap Residents

Exploring the importance of place in human life, a UWC Honours graduate walked away as one of two winners in the Society of South African Geographers’ Outstanding Honours Research Award for his research around the long-term impact of gentrification for Bo-Kaap residents. Read more

UWC Sheds Light on How Food Gardeners Use Grey Water to Beat Food Insecurity

Researchers have long argued that grey water, which became popular after the slew of water restrictions introduced during previous dry winters and Day Zero periods, had the potential to contribute to food security if it was used to water domestic food gardens… Read more

Whose Responsibility is it to Inform Students They Don’t Meet the Doctoral Standard?

It is almost like an unsigned agreement that if you mark mine off well, I’ll mark yours off well. That is very disturbing. We sensed that could be happening. Read more

Wits University Appeals for Donations to Boost Research and Innovation

Wits University is appealing to former Witsies to donate money to boost its research and innovation as part of the centenary celebration. The university is celebrating hundred years of existence since formation in 1922. Read more

Wits University: How AWS Cloud Training Helped Avoid COVID Disruptions

Johannesburg’s University of Witwatersrand says that in 2020 in response to South Africa’s strict lockdown measures, it managed to move its entire learning management system (LMS), Sakai, to the cloud in just two months leveraging Amazon Web Services (AWS). Read more

 

30 June 2022

36 African Universities Represented on U-Multirank List

A total of 36 universities in Africa were among the 2,202 universities in 96 countries globally that had their performances assessed by U-Multirank, a ranking index that routinely analyses higher education institutions in terms of teaching and learning, research, knowledge transfer, international orientation and regional engagement. Read more

AAU Signs Cooperative Agreement with Nelson Mandela University of South Africa

Addis Ababa University (AAU) and Nelson Mandela University of South Africa signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work in collaboration within the areas of academic and research activities at AAU President’s Office

AU School of Public Health Organizes Research Launching Workshop

Addis Ababa University (AAU) School of Public Health organized research launching workshop for the project entitled “Engaging Adolescents in Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) in Ethiopia” … Read more 

All-women UCT engineering team wins JSE Investment Challenge with sound strategy

An all-female team of UCT students has won the JSE Investment Challenge in the “Speculator portfolio for universities” category, for March and April 2022. Read more

A Review to be Commissioned on SADC Qualifications Framework

Ministers who are responsible for education, training, science, technology and innovation from the member states of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are to meet in Lilongwe, Malawi, on 17 June to evaluate various initiatives in the sector, including the Southern African Development Community Regional Qualifications Framework (SADCQF). Read more

Bursaries Build Health Sector Skills, but Need Monitoring

The return-of-service or bursary schemes that provincial health authorities in South Africa use to assist students from disadvantaged backgrounds to obtain educational qualifications in the health sector could be improved by basing them on current and forecast health needs, a group of researchers has found. Read more

Central University of Technology Faces Maladministration Probe

The embattled Central University of Technology (CUT) in Bloemfontein in the Free State is being investigated after allegations of maladministration surfaced at the institution. Read more

Central University of Technology Uncovers Admission Fraud Syndicate, Suspends 8 Students

Central University of Technology (CUT) has suspended eight students who were allegedly admitted fraudulently for this academic year. Read more

CPUT Project on a Mission to Create Technopreneurs

Taking a concept from an idea in your head to fully executed is no easy task. And for students, access to finances makes it even more difficult. Read more

CUT Student Takes Part in Translating Medical Terms to Sesotho 

A bachelor of health sciences in medical laboratory student at the Central University of Technology (CUT) in Free State has participated and excelled in the national lexicon project held in Cape Town. Read more

Doctoral Study Explores the Drivers of Sexual Violence Against Women

Dr Josphine Hapazari, a part-time lecturer at the National University of Lesotho, was thrilled to graduate with a PhD in Sociology for her research that explored the drivers of sexual violence against women and the possible mitigation strategies that can be implemented to combat the scourge. Read more

DUT students in Pietermaritzburg Protest Against Writing Physical Exams 

Durban University of Technology’s Indumiso Campus in Pietermaritzburg closed after students protested against writing physical examinations. According to the institution, the violence erupted in the Midlands campus. Read more

Education Changemakers Leadership Training Programme Launched 

The launch ceremony for the Education Changemakers leadership training programme took place on Monday morning at University of South Africa (Unisa) Graduate School of Business Leadership in Midrand. Read more

‘Face Your Shortcomings in the Workplace and Study’

Discipline and adjusting to autonomy were big obstacles to overcome. In high school, we must show up and we are monitored in all ways with punitive measures for non-compliance. This all disappears abruptly [after leaving school], which I and other teenagers simply were not prepared for. Read more

Famous Sterkfontein Caves Deposit 1 Million Years Older Than Previously Thought

Fossils found at the Sterkfontein Caves in South Africa reveal nearly four million years of hominin and environmental evolution. Since research began at the site in 1936 with the discovery, by Robert Broom, of the first adult hominin of the genus Australopithecus, … Read more

First Continental Research Integrity Network Launched

The African Research Integrity Network (ARIN), a partnership to promote ethical research practices across the continent, was officially launched on Tuesday after years of operating as an informal body of practitioners. Read more

Frustrated TUT Students Protest Over Lack of Running Water, Electricity in Pretoria West Campus

Students from Tshwane University of Technology’s (TUT) Pretoria West campus continue with their protest action on Monday. They are demonstrating against a lack of running water and electricity. Read more

HE Should ‘Urgently’ Train Experts in Climate Change

African universities have a role to play in training graduates with the requisite skills in climate adaptation and mitigation to help entrepreneurs and policy-makers to understand what these involve in climate change. Read more

Higher Education on Track to Meet Targets but Graduates Struggle for Jobs 

Higher education minister Blade Nzimande says the sector is on track to achieve some of the crucial National Development Plan (NDP) targets, including increasing the number of university enrolments as well as graduates attaining doctorates or advanced qualifications. Read more

Invest Early in Children’s Mental Health – Or Risk a Generation

The 16th issue of the annual publication is titled “Children’s mental health: A catalyst for development”, and was launched on the eve of Youth Day in South Africa, and the Day of the African Child. Read more

Is the Emerging Open-Access Model Another Closed System?

The publishing industry is moving towards a business model of article processing charges-based open access (OA), which presents a barrier to researchers from the Global South, including those from countries in Africa. Read more

Launch of an Educational Programme for Freedom of Expression in Eastern Africa

Cartooning for Peace and Buni Media in Kenya launched a programme for civic education using press cartoons in partnership with UNESCO, the French Embassy in Kenya, the EU National Institutes of Culture (EUNIC) Kenya Network, the European Union in Kenya and select universities… Read more

MPs Reject Bill Aimed at Curtailing University Autonomy

Kenya’s parliament has rejected a legal framework that would have given the cabinet secretary for education sweeping powers in the appointment of vice-chancellors, deputy vice-chancellors, principals of university constituent colleges and members of university councils in public universities. Read more

Marshalling the Diaspora: Ethiopia’s ‘Unsung Model’

Ethiopia has a unique ‘model’ of deploying its intellectual diaspora – academics, researchers and high-level professionals – by integrating their competence, experience, knowledge and networks to help resolve societal questions in their home countries and advance knowledge-generation. Read more

Medical Community to Investigate Use of Traditional Medicine in Treatment of Covid-19

The University of Free State’s (UFS) Department of African Medicines Innovation and Technology Development Platform (AMITD) will play host to international and African visitors on Friday to look at how traditional medicine can be used to treat Covid-19. Read more

On Alienation and Agency: Language as a Double-Edged Sword

Nombulelo Shange was five years old when she learned the word ‘barbaric’. Her first-grade teacher used it to describe her on her first day at the predominantly white boarding school. Read more

Out of 100 Students, only 12 Go to University…

More and more students are dropping out of university than ever before – and the reasons are myriad, say experts.Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande said South Africa needed to produce more graduates if it was to meet its workforce needs. Read more

Protesting UKZN students arrested in Durban

Two university students were arrested on charges of public violence in Durban on Monday morning.According to eyewitnesses, there was a protest which affected traffic and businesses at the Seapoint Towers precinct, as students threw bottles and rubble from the top floors of the building. Read more

Rape, Sexual Harassment Claims ‘Fabricated’ Against UCT Professor …

A Western Cape health department probe has cleared a University of Cape Town professor who was accused of sexual harassment and rape.The department said it concluded an independent investigation after a UCT student levelled allegations against the professor, … Read more

Renowned Journal Rejects Papers That Exclude African Researchers

Respected global medical journal The Lancet will continue to reject papers with data from Africa that fail to acknowledge African collaborators, in the interest of building African research and of promoting integrity, equity and fairness in research collaboration, according to Senior Executive Editor Dr Sabine Kleinert. Read more

Researchers at UJ build RDP House in Just one Day Using 3D Concrete Printing 

The social housing backlog in South Africa is one of the biggest challenges faced by the government. Not enough houses are being built, and existing projects are not being completed fast enough, while budget constraints are a huge factor hindering the progress of social housing developments. Read more

SADC Concerned Over Implementation Delay of Women’s Charter

The Southern African Development Community, or SADC, has expressed concern over the failure by some countries in the region to fully implement the SADC Charter on Women in Science, Engineering and Technology, five years after it was approved by the regional bloc. Read more

‘SA Education System Needs a Review,’ Say Experts

Experts have called for a review of the education system after a recent study revealed that South Africa graduates are struggling to enter the workforce. This was one of the key findings published in A New Pathway 2030: Catalysing South Africa’s NSI for Urgent Scaled Social and Economic Impact. Read more

SA Scientists Jet Off to Tunisia’s Science Festival 

Two young South African scientists have been selected to compete at the International Festival of Engineering Science and Technology in Tunisia, to showcase their ground-breaking research projects, which focus on healthcare and the physics of sound. Read more

SA Universities Impress with Graduate Employability

South Africa can claim to be the home of the most successful higher education system in Africa, as seven of its 26 public universities were ranked among the top 1,000 universities globally in the 19th edition of the QS World University Rankings 2023, released on 8 June. Read more

Scholarly Writers, the Precariat, and the Right to Earn

The popular contention is that academic authors do not need royalties because they have day jobs, and possibly because their publications might be subvented by publication grants via their universities or research funders. Read more

South African Academics Push Back Against ‘Biased’ UK Visa Scheme

Academics have criticised a new visa scheme introduced by the United Kingdom which will offer work visas to people who have studied at the world’s top universities. Read more

South Africa’s Declining Mathematics Numbers a Concern

South Africa is still not addressing the root causes behind the decline in the number of learners taking mathematics or the decrease in the pass rate of those who do choose the subject, says professor Rashied Small, SAIPA executive… Read more

South Africa’s MeerKAT Radio Telescope Makes Unprecedented Discovery Yet Again

South Africa’s MeerKAT radio telescope array has again proven its worth with yet another unprecedented discovery: what appears to be an unusually slowly rotating radio-emitting neutron star. Read more

South African Robotic Telescope to Begin Search for the Afterglow of Cosmic Events 

A new optical telescope in South Africa that will measure the brightness of transient sources will begin operation in mid-July. Read more

South African Universities Rule Roost in Africa

South Africa can claim to be the home of the most successful higher education system in Africa, as seven of its 26 public universities were ranked among the top 1 000 universities globally in the QS World University Rankings 2023, released earlier this month. Read more

Spain Plans to Recruit More Students from Sub-Saharan Africa

Spain has embarked on an ambitious plan to attract international students and highly skilled workers from Africa as part of its new strategy, Focus Africa 2023, which aims to establish stronger academic, economic and diplomatic ties with African countries, especially those in Sub-Saharan Africa. Read more

Stellenbosch University Choir Rakes in Millions of Views for Two Stunning Renditions

The Stellenbosch University Choir is raking in millions of views, those of which extend long past the Stellenbosch Mountain and the quaint town of winery wonders, past the Cape and Her beauty and even the Rainbow Nation’s borders. Read more

Stellenbosch University’s Novel TB Diagnostic Test Boosts Rhino Conservation in Kruger Park 

About one in every seven rhinos in the Kruger National Park (KNP) showed evidence that they had been infected with Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis) – the pathogen that causes bovine tuberculosis (bTB). Read more

Student Protest Costs University R2 Million in Damages

The Mangosuthu University of Technology has blamed “hired hands” for the student protest that took place at the institution on Thursday, costing it R2 million in damages. Read more

Sustainability Research Needs Applied and Social Sciences

There is a need for dialogue between mainstream applied sciences on the one hand and the social sciences and humanities on the other if sustainability research is to come up with solutions to inspire the behavioural change needed to build future sustainable societies. Read more

Transdisciplinary Collaboration Critical for Future of Science

Calls for investment in transdisciplinary research in Africa in order to achieve progress in science and innovation as tools to tackle challenges impeding social and economic transformation of the continent have dominated proceedings at the Sustainability Research and Innovation Congress (SRI2022). Read more

Tanzania to Open Agriculture Colleges in Major Universities to Groom Experts 

The government of Tanzania has announced plans to open agriculture colleges in some of the country’s major universities to train experts in the field. Read more

Tax the Rich to Fund Free Higher Education

Central to the student protests was a call for a free-fee decolonised and Afro-centric, and inter-sectional higher education. Read more

Teacher Misconduct and Poor Performance Need Tough Laws

SA’s education legislation lacks teeth in regulating teacher misconduct and incompetence in the public basic education system, a Stellenbosch University study suggests. Read more

Tertiary Education Costs in South Africa on the Rise

In South Africa, the cost of tertiary education has been a hot topic of debate for many years. There have been numerous protests by students, who argue that the prices are too high and are preventing them from getting a higher education. Read more

The Lancet’ Journal Rejects Papers that Don’t Acknowledge African Researchers

Respected global medical journal The Lancet will continue to reject papers with data from Africa that fail to acknowledge African collaborators, in the interest of building African research and of promoting integrity, equity and fairness in research collaboration, … Read more

These are the 9 Best Universities in South Africa …

Quacquarelli Symonds has published its latest QS World University Ranking for 2023, showing that the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg has given way to a new number-two in South Africa. Read more

The University of the Witwatersrand Injects Entrepreneurial Thinking into Doctoral Training

The University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) is introducing a training programme in which doctoral students will, while pursuing their core programme, also undergo rigorous training to inculcate entrepreneurial thinking. Read more

TVET College Principals Called to Promote Work Placement 

Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, has warned that any college principal who does not promote work placement has no place in Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college system. Read more

UCT Acts Quickly to Prevent Further Disruptions and Ensure Safety of All Students

After the disruptions of exams on Monday, UCT put strict measures in place to safeguard students and staff against any future disruptions.The disruptions were not an official protest and the disrupters were neither staff nor students of the institution, … Read more

UCT Beefs Up Security After Mid-Year Exams Disrupted

The University of Cape Town on Tuesday said that its security guards have their eyes peeled for any more intruders on campus.Monday’s mid-year exams were disrupted by workers whom UCT claimed were not students or employed at the university. Read more

UCT CFO Vincent Motholo Reappointed as Saica chairperson 

University of Cape Town (UCT) CFO Vincent Motholo has been reappointed as chairperson of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (Saica). Read more

UCT’s Famed Library is Recovering After Being Devastated by a Fire

Even as they watched the flames in the Jagger Library being subdued, Nikki Crowster and her colleagues were not overwhelmed by a future that was suddenly unknown. “We were determined to get our library back,” she says today of the veld fire that swept down the slopes of Devil’s Peak and onto the upper campus of the University of Cape Town… Read more

UCT Offers Digital Bootcamp to Create Job Opportunities

The University of Cape Town (UCT) has introduced the UCT Digital Bootcamp, which will offer an additional pathway to employment for determined young people and help them unleash their digital potential. Read more

UCT Professor Amir Patel Combines Power of Robotics and AI to Doctor SA Wildlife 

A UCT professor is developing a method that combines robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) that will essentially conduct health check-ups on wildlife.This project, presented by associate professor Amir Patel, is set to be a trailblazer for ecology and conservation management in South Africa. Read more

UCT Still Ranked Best African University – But Its Score Keeps Dropping While UJ Climbs

The University of Cape Town is still ranked as the best in Africa, according to the latest QS World University Rankings, but its overall score continues to decline while the University of Johannesburg makes gains. Read more

Ugandan Epidemiologist Appointed to UN University Council

Dr Catherine Kyobutungi is a Ugandan epidemiologist who mainly works in healthcare systems research and capacity-building. She began her career journey as a medical officer in rural Uganda before becoming a lecturer at Mbarara University of Science and Technology. Read more

UKZN Medical Student Attends World Health Organization’s High-Level Meeting …

A University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) fourth-year medical student was one of only three medical students globally for the Changemaker Scholarship to attend the Youth Pre-World Health Assembly (Pre-WHA) and World Health Assembly (WHA) held at the World Health Organization’s (WHO)… Read more

UKZN Medical Student Represents South Africa at WHO Headquarters

A University of KwaZulu-Natal fourth year student, Mohamed Hoosen Suleman is flying the institution’s flag high on the global stage. He was selected for a prestigious changemaker scholarship in Geneva, Switzerland. Read more

UKZN OptometrySstudents Need Your Help

The University of KwaZulu-Natal is on a mission to assist the optometry students who say they cannot afford some of the expensive equipment required by the faculty. Read more

UKZN Scientist Gets Prestigious International Appointment Working Towards an HIV Cure 

A top scientist from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has been appointed by the International Aids Society (IAS) as co-chair of its ‘Towards an HIV Cure’ advisory board. Read more

UKZN Students Protest the Suspension of Cleaning Staff 

Classes have been disrupted at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Westville campus after students protested against the suspension of 300 campus cleaners by the university management. Read more

UKZN Warns of New Admissions Scam, with Scam Artists Posing as University Staff

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) says it has been alerted to a new scam in which potential students are offered enrolment at the university in exchange for a payment. Read more

UKZN Webinar to Explore Link Between Unemployment and Drugs in Era of Whoonga 

The University of KwaZulu-Natal College of Humanities is set to host a webinar looking at the connection between work/unemployment and drugs. Read more

Universities Must Think More Creatively About Future Employability of Their Graduates

The Dean of Science at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), Professor Nithaya Chetty, says although it is laudable that the South African higher education produces 3000 PhDs, annually, and that Government has set targets to double that output to 6000 by 2025, … Read more

University of Zululand student beaten to death by ‘vigilante mob’ on university premises 

A 27-year-old University of Zululand (UniZulu) student died after he was assaulted by an angry ‘vigilante mob’ at the tertiary institutions’ premises… Read more

(Un)Remembering Intergenerational Youth Struggles at Stellenbosch University…

A poster at a recent rally against racism at Stellenbosch University read “Still fighting the same fight you fought MAMA.” This poster signaled an exclamation worth pausing for reflection on Youth Day (16 June) in remembrance of the courage and sacrifice of the young people involved in the Soweto uprisings of 1976. Read more

VUT Students Left Stranded After Being Kicked Off Campus Following Protests, …

Some students at the Vaal University of Technology were left stranded when the institution ordered everyone to leave the campus after some buildings were destroyed by a fire during a protest on Wednesday night. Read more

VUT Suspends Classes After Students Burn University Building

The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) has suspended classes indefinitely after students yet again set up a major infrastructure in violent disruptions. Read more

Who Were the Expert Voices During the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Male scientists were the dominant expert voices in the media during the first six months of the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa in 2020. Women professors accounted for only 30% of those quoted. Read more

Wits Planetarium to Undergo Major Transformation in Bid to Establish Fully Digital Dome 

The Wits Planetarium has been a site of wonder and discovery for many children and adults alike and now the iconic building is set for a facelift.From July 1, the Planetarium will undergo a major transformation as part of the vision to establish a fully digital dome. Read more

Women in Leadership Programme – 2022 Edition Kicks Off  

The start of the 2022 Women in Leadership (WiL) programme, designed to embolden senior academic women leaders, inspired a new cohort of participants with confidence that they were embarking on a great leadership journey… Read more

WSU Graduate Triumphs After Being Abandoned and Sexually Assaulted

She was abandoned by her mother when she was only a week old and at just 14 years old she was repeatedly raped, but Andiswa Lugomo did not allow these misfortunes to dictate her path in life. Read more

WSU Historian’s New Book Looks at Butterworth as an Industrial Centre During Apartheid 

Dr Jongikhaya Mvenene does not just teach history to university students. He has written books on legendary figures who have helped shape the direction of the province.  Read more

 

31 May 2022

Africa’s First Cultivated Chicken Meat Harnesses UKZN Biotechnology Expertise

Stem-cell and skeletal muscle research emerging from the laboratories of biotechnology researchers in UKZN’s School of Life Sciences (SLS) has played a key role in the release of Africa’s first cultivated chicken meat as part of a partnership aiming to provide sustainable and affordable animal protein to meet the dietary needs of Africa’s growing population. Read more

African Scientists and Black Hole Discoveries

Sagittarius A* is the black hole at the centre of our galaxy, the Milky Way – and scientists have just unveiled the first image ever taken of it, thanks to a large international team known as the Event Horizon Telescope Collaboration. Only two members of that team, Roger Deane and Iniyan Natarajan, are from the African continent. Read more

African Scientists and Technology Could Drive Future Black Hole Discoveries

Astronomers have revealed the first image of the black hole at the centre of our galaxy, the Milky Way. The image was produced by the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) Collaboration, an international team made up of over 300 scientists on five continents – including Africa. Read more

Africa’s Higher Education Prospects and Challenges in 2022 

Higher education in Africa is key to its development. As the world becomes more interconnected, education becomes the key to sustainability. African governments are investing more in higher education. Read more

Blade Nzimande Tells Stellenbosch University not to be a ‘Sanctuary to Racists’

Higher Education Science and Innovation Minister, Blade Nzimande, has cautioned Stellenbosch University not to allow itself to be a “sanctuary to racists”. Read more

‘Burnout is a Real Phenomenon for African Professors’

Governments and universities in Africa must do more and join forces to create conducive academic and professional environments with conditions of service that will enable university professors to do their work and enhance their contributions to knowledge production. Read more

Can 4IR and Decolonisation Ideologies Co-Exist and be of Mutual Benefit in Higher Education?

The emergence of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) could potentially submerge the bellowing of decolonisation in higher education by previously marginalised groups, especially considering the ever-increasing inequality in South Africa. Read more

Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) Slams ‘Reckless’ UCT Vice-Chancellor Tweet

The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has reacted with dismay at UCT vice-chancellor Mamokgethi Phakeng’s apology over a tweet in response to a student who alleged she had been raped on campus by a professor at the institution. Read more

Community of Practice for the Teaching and Learning of African Languages Remains Determined to Achieve More in 2022

Universities South Africa’s Community of Practice for the Teaching and Learning of African Languages (CoPAL) has put together an elaborate plan of action aiming to realise tangible outcomes for 2022. Read more

Congratulations and Pledges for UKZN graduate

Pictures of a young man in tears during the University of KwaZulu-Natal graduation ceremony have been trending on social media with congratulations pouring in while others are pledging towards his future. Read more 

CUT Workers Chase Dreams

Two workers of the Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State, seized the opportunity to turn over a new leaf in their lives.The pair, Aletta Mhambi and Bafedile Mothae, have each graduated with a diploma in Office Management and Technology. Read more

Dental Technology Graduates Unable to Register 

A number of dental technology graduates from around the country are in limbo and unemployed after they could not register with the South African Dental Technicians Council (SADTC). Read more

‘Divorced Universities’ Could Thrive Through Community Bond

Unless African universities address community needs through the kinds of knowledge and graduates they are producing, their sustainability will come under threat as important local sources of funding and popular support are withdrawn, according to participatory research pioneer Rajesh Tandon. Read more

Doctor Receives Nearly R1 Million to Research Impact of Covid-19…

Dr Chioma Ohajunwa, a postdoctoral fellow at the Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies at Stellenbosch University, has received critical funding for her research on the impact of Covid-19 on indigenous communities. Read more

DUT Gears Up to Host Virtual Autumn Grad Ceremories, Celebrating the Class of 2021

The Durban University of Technology is gearing up to host the 2022 Virtual Autumn Graduation ceremonies Read more

DUT to Honour Actress Thembi Mtshali-Jones with Honorary Doctorate 

Singer, actress, playwright and producer Thembi Mtshali-Jones has expressed her gratitude to the Durban University of Technology (DUT) for honouring her with an honorary Doctorate in Visual and Performing Arts degree. Read more

Egypt Leads Research Field for the Second Year Running

For the second year running, researchers and academics in Egypt have published more peer-reviewed journal articles than their peers in other countries in Africa, according to 2021’s datasets from SCImago Journal & Country Rank, an online platform with some of the world’s most comprehensive citation and abstract databases of global journal research output. Read more

Embed Art in Local Cultures to Guard Against Foreign Sway

African artistic expression should be deeply rooted in local cultures and ought to reflect local cultural realities and context, targeting the African market first. In this way, domination by Western culture and globalisation, which have been spreading fast around the world, influencing every form of cultural expression, could be avoided. Read more

Fear of Covid Drove Many Teachers to the Brink, UWC Study Finds

Strategies needed to build resilience in educators, who were among the first to experience pandemic stress. After surviving Covid-19 complications that landed her in intensive care and on a ventilator for more than three weeks… Read more

First Images of Black Hole at Heart of Milky Way Galaxy Emerge

Astronomers have captured the first image of the supermassive black hole at the centre of the Milky Way galaxy.What makes this milestone even more significant, is the fact that two Wits University scientists are part of the international team. Read more

First of its Kind in Africa to Support Science Breakthroughs

South African universities need to be globally competitive to attract partnerships, investment and top academic staff and students. Read more

From Car Guard to PhD Candidate and Lecturer…

Fabrice Kapya used every cent he earned working as a car guard at Wonderpark Mall to pay off his studies. He started off with a degree in chemical engineering. Four years later he is an assistant lecturer at the University of Pretoria’s Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering. Read more

How Employable are South Africa’s Doctoral Graduates?

Doctoral education and training in any country is a lengthy and costly process. It is, therefore, imperative that policy-makers (including funding agencies) are informed about the return on such a (public) investment. Read more

Ignorance About Addis Convention Hampers Its Ratification

African education leaders are calling for more action to create increased awareness of the Addis Convention about the recognition of qualifications in higher education, noting that many countries were yet to ratify it nearly three years after it came into force. Read more

JHB Homeless Graduate Receives Opportunity to Complete Master’s Degree

There’s nothing better than hearing a real-life miracle – especially when that miracle is about a truly deserving person. We shared Gibson Nzimande’s story last week and since then, there has been an abundance of donations pouring in for him. Read more

HEFAALA Takes Stock of Academic Collaboration Post-COVID

A database that could capture the work that has been done at institutional, national and regional level to track academic collaborative modalities, including student mobility patterns, and plug the information gap on aspects such as internationalisation, was proposed at the end of the Third Higher Education Forum for Africa, Asia and Latin America (HEFAALA III) Symposium… Read more

How Can Internationalisation Regain Momentum in South Africa?

It is mandatory for each South African institution to develop its own policy and plan on internationalisation two years after the Policy Framework for Internationalisation of Higher Education in South Africa was published on 6 November 2020, and at a time when international student numbers are decreasing. Read more

Intra-Africa Mobility for Training Agribusiness and Food Systems Scientists for African Agriculture (TAFSA) Scholarship Advertisement for Cohort 2

The goal of TAFSA project is to enhance synergetic cooperation amongst selected Agricultural Universities in Africa. Specifically, the project aims at supporting these African universities with research and training of skillful and competent professionals to contribute to the improvement of food systems, and agribusiness… Read more

New €6.7m Project to Build Biodiversity Knowledge in Southern Africa 

This month saw the start of a €6.7-million (about R110-million) spatial biodiversity assessment, prioritisation and planning (SBAPP) project, which is expected to improve environmental planning and monitor the status of indigenous species and ecosystems in four Southern African Development Community (SADC)… Read more

NMU Cleaner Perseveres, Graduates with Two Diplomas

After she started working as a cleaner in 2015, this 32-year-old never dreamed that she would one day grace the stage at her very own graduation, let alone at the very same university where she scrubbed the floors for seven years. Read more

NMU IsiXhosa Students’ Poems Published as Anthology

Despite only formally tackling the art of poetry in their third year, the works of a group of Nelson Mandela University isiXhosa students left such an impression on those who had a peek at their poetry prowess that they have been published as an anthology. Read more

No Stone Must be Left Unturned in Stellenbosch University Saga

Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola has entered the fray in condemning the alleged racist incident at the University of Stellenbosch saying no stone should be left unturned in probing the matter. Read more

NWU to Host Community Engagement Workshop

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) School of Management Sciences will be hosting a community engagement workshop on 22 and 23 June 2022 at its Mahikeng Campus. Read more

Open University of Mauritius and the Nelson Mandela University of South Africa Collaborate on FishFORCE Project

A High-Level stakeholders’ meeting for the establishment of a Fisheries Law Enforcement Academy, was held, this morning at Le Meridien in Pointe aux Piments. The initiative is a joint collaboration of the Open University of Mauritius and the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) of South Africa. Read more

Performance, Profit or Productivity: Why do We Publish?

Academic labour in any university occurs within three interlocking spheres: a scholarly community, a bureaucracy and a corporation. Read more

Private Network Impacts SDGs, Including Poverty Alleviation

A network of 15 private institutions spread across 10 countries in four regions in North, West, Central and Southern Africa, aims to train an additional 100,000 students over five years – up from its current 61,000. Read more

Pupils’ Poor Performance on Critical Subjects Contributes to Joblessness, Says Research Centre

SA is increasingly becoming an economy driven by the tertiary sector, but pupils’ poor performance in critical subjects is hindering them from entering the job market. Read more

PhD Student Kills Himself After Failing to Register for Academic Year… 

A Zimbabwean PhD candidate, who could not register for the academic year at the University of the Witwatersrand because his study permit had expired, killed himself last weekend… Read more

Stellenbosch University ‘Deeply Distressed’ After Student Arrested for Alleged Rape

A Stellenbosch University student has been arrested for alleged rape, the South African Police Service (Saps) has confirmed. Read more

Stellenbosch University Probes Another Alleged Racist Incident

It’s emerged that offensive remarks were allegedly made towards a black female student during an event organised by the Law faculty last week Thursday. Read more

Stellenbosch University Student’s Belongings Urinated on in Allegedly Racist Incident 

Stellenbosch University is investigating an allegedly racist incident at one of its student residences over the weekend, in which a black first-year student was targeted. Read more

Study Reveals Deep Concerns Over Cheating, Learning Quality

Plagiarism and dishonesty during tests, exams and assessments were prevalent during emergency remote teaching and learning during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown at South Africa’s universities. Read more

Ten (10) RUFORUM Member Universities ranked among 1,406 universities …

The Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) strives to support its member universities to deliver quality education through cutting edge research, innovation and academic mobility to enable them rank higher globally. Read more

The More You Spend on Fundraising, the More You will Collect

The latest annual survey of Philanthropy in Higher Education (ASPIHE) continues to provide a rigorous and in-depth overview of philanthropic support to universities in South Africa. Read more

Honoris United Universities Transforms the Lives of 770,000+ People Across Africa

Today, Honoris United Universities, the first and largest pan-African network of private higher education institutions in Africa, releases its inaugural impact report. The report highlights Honoris’ commitment to Education for Impact for students, their families and communities across Africa… Read more

How Changing Livestock Markets Could Reduce Conflict

Over nine million Kenyans are pastoralists out of a total population of 50 million. Together they hold livestock worth over US$1 billion. Livestock is their source of food, health, and wealth. Read more

UCT adds Swahili as elective language from 2023

The University of Cape Town (UCT) has introduced Swahili as an elective language course starting from 2023, said vice-chancellor Mamokgethi Phakeng in her opening address during the Africa Month panel discussion. Read more

UCT Rape Allegations Baid Bare in Leaked Report

Damning details have emerged following an investigation into a sexual harassment case at UCT. Read more

UCT Unveils Jagger Library Memorial Exhibition in Remembrance of 2021 Fire 

Just a little over a year ago, devastation struck at the University of Cape Town’s iconic Jagger Library.At the time, IOL reported that hundreds of years of history had gone up in smoke after a wildfire had broken out. Read more

UCT Probing Sexual Assault Allegations Against Professor

The University of Cape Town (UCT) has launched an investigation into the sexual assault of a student, allegedly by a professor at the university. This after a student accused a UCT professor of raping her on the university premises. Read more

UFS Must be Positioned as an Institution that Contributes to African Knowledge… 

Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Free State, Professor Francis Petersen, says it is important to position the University as an African institution that contributes to African knowledge. Read more

UFS Qwaqwa Students in Court After Violent Protests 

Students from the University of the Free State are set to appear before the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrate court today, following violent protests at the Qwaqwa campus.Free State police spokesperson Mmako Mophiring says that 12 suspects were arrested between Monday and yesterday. Read more

UJ’s Professor Hassina Mouri Awarded top Unesco Award 

Professor in medical geology at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), Hassina Mouri, has been awarded the Unesco Chair on Medical Geology in Africa. Read more

UJ’s Professor Marwala Elected to American Academy of Arts and Sciences 

University of Johannesburg (UJ) vice-chancellor and principal, professor Tshilidzi Marwala, is flying the university’s and South Africa’s flags high after he was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences as its new international honorary member. Read more

UKZN Congratulates Professor Tulio de Oliveira on his Time100 Nomination

The University of KwaZulu-Natal has congratulated Professor Tulio de Oliveira on his nomination for the TIME 100: a list of individuals who have made the most important contributions to our world. Read more

UKZN Graduate Whose Emotional Graduation Ceremony Touched the Hearts of Many… 

Nearing the end of a long and difficult journey, a 23-year-old University of KwaZulu-Natal student who was raised by his grandmother on a street vendor’s income could not contain his emotions as he burst into tears on stage during graduation.Ngobese was conferred with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Read more 

UKZN to Host In-Person Graduation Ceremonies

There’s an air of excitement across the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) campuses as the institution prepares to roll out the red carpet for its first in-person graduation ceremonies since the Covid-19 pandemic. Read more

UKZN Master’s Graduate Explores Experiences of Muslim Women in a Polygamous Marriage…

The mother of five, from Pietermaritzburg, conducted a qualitative study over 18 months, using a non-random, purposive sample of subjects who experienced being in a polygamous marriage. Read more

UNISA Interdicts Nehawu Strike Over Dismissal of Shop Stewards

The University of SA (Unisa) has obtained an interim Labour Court interdict against members of the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (Nehawu) protesting against the firing of their leaders at the institution. Read more

Unisa Reports Reveal Serious Allegations of Wrongdoing, Loss of Millions 

Reports submitted to Unisa’s council have revealed allegations of violations of university rules and policies, and the laws of the country, which resulted in the loss of millions through over-expenditure at the institution. Read more

Universities in Africa Still to Undo ‘Colonial’ Clasps

Higher education in Africa (and its stakeholders) needs to reimagine and free itself as a sector from the colonial clasps of the past through developing its own educational models and transforming universities’ systems, structures and policies that guide its practices, along with having a clear vision of what it wants in the future. Read more

UP Centre for Future of Work to Produce Publications, Provide Advisory Services and Training

The Centre for the Future of Work (CFoW), launched by the University of Pretoria (UP) on May 17, will be Africa’s centre of excellence on the future of work, producing scientific and popular publications, advisory services and training… Read more

UP Soars in 2022 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings

According to the latest Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings (2022), released this week, the University of Pretoria (UP) has been named South Africa’s second-best (joint second) and Africa’s third-best (joint third) university. Read more

UWC Provides Continental Support for Covid-19 Surveillance 

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), through its Pathogen Genomics Initiative (Africa PGI), has supported African countries during the past two years in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more

Wits Launches Entrepreneurship Clinic to Address Harrowing Youth Unemployment …

The WEC aims to strengthen the role of universities in the entrepreneurship ecosystem to enable young entrepreneurs to become the future job creators in Africa.Unemployment among the youth in South Africa is rife, with millions of youngsters without a job or any form of income. Read more

Young Academics Need Mentorship from Universities

South Africa’s universities are failing to implement the “social component” of their missions effectively, says Lihle Ngcobozi, a former student activist in the nationwide #FeesMustFall (#FMF) protests of 2015 and now a lecturer in the Wits School of Governance at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). Read more

Why We Need Higher Technical Skills Development for Youth

Youth skills development, an essential element for youth empowerment, was highlighted during the conference with a round table themed “Youth Skills Development through Higher Technical Education in Africa”…Read more

WSU Degree Not Recognised by Health Body for 10 Years

Walter Sisulu University has been offering a programme, described as “useless” by past graduates, and slated by health academics for its lack of utility, without the required professional recognition for 10 years. Read more

 

30 April 2022

$3m Donation to Help Wits Light up Innovation in Africa

The University of Witwatersrand (Wits University) is positioning itself to drive the African continent into a new era of innovation, change and growth.So says vice-chancellor and principal professor Zeblon Vilakazi, setting the higher learning institution’s direction as it celebrates its centenary this year. Read more

Academics Want to Build Capacity for One Health Strategy

African countries have been urged to adopt the One Health framework, a collaborative public health approach, amid concerns of pandemic outbreaks and for the emerging and re-emerging of highly infectious diseases such as COVID-19 and Ebola that adversely affect human health. Read more

‘African Universities Should Differentiate Their Missions Clearly’

The notion that there is a single ideal university must be resisted in favour of one that values a plurality of institutional types and promotes intentional differentiation in national higher education systems… Read more

‘Are We Prepared to Think Beyond National Boundaries?’

A new model for transnational partnerships that acknowledges and strengthens the contribution made by public higher education institutions in the Global South is required to produce the kind of knowledge that the world needs… Read more

Beyond Connectivity: Making African Scholarship Visible

In February, Malawi-based UbuntuNet Alliance, an Eastern and Southern African research and educational networking organisation, appointed Kenyan national, Professor Madara Ogot, as its new chief executive. Read more

Bot,eth,keny, malwisa

CT Woman with Severe Brain Trauma Conquers Academia with PhD from Maties

“Anything is conquerable if you just persevere, even in the face of extreme challenges.” This is a message from a 33-year-old Durbanville woman, who will on Wednesday receive her PhD at Stellenbosch University’s April graduation. Read more

Defining Our Human Rights, Then, Now and in the Future 

The University of Pretoria’s Centre for Human Rights has advanced democracy for over three decades. The Centre for Human Rights (Centre) at the University of Pretoria (UP) aims to advance human rights through education, research and advocacy, by combining academic excellence and effective activism. Read more

DUT to Host BothVirtual and Physical Graduation Ceremonies

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) executive management committee and the Senate Executive Committee (Senex) held a special joint EMC-Senex meeting to discuss the growing need for a physical graduation for the class of 2021. Read more

DUT Maths Professor, Megandhren Govender, Obtains C2 NRF Rating

Prof Megandhren Govender of the Faculty of Applied Science at the Durban University of Technology recently obtained a C2 National Research Foundation (NRF) rating.Prof Govender’s role includes teaching of mathematics, research, community outreach and being involved in the larger university community… Read more

DUT’s Newly C3-Rated Digital Activist to Consider International Collaborations on Research

Director of the Short Course Unit (SCU) at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Prof Surendra (Colin) Thakur recently obtained a C3 National Research Foundation (NRF) rating. Read more

Four UFS Students Arrested After Two Buildings Torched on Campus

Four University of the Free State (UFS) students were arrested in connection with a fire that broke out at the Qwaqwa campus on Monday evening.UFS spokesperson Lacea Loader said two campus buildings – the clinic and a computer laboratory – were almost completely destroyed in the blaze. Read more

Gateway to Success: From Pandemic Learner to Successful Student

For two years, universities in South Africa and worldwide did their best to provide students with quality education under the adverse conditions precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more

HE Needs Explicit Intentional Policies on Gender Equality

Although institutional efforts to increase the representation of women in academia are increasing across the African continent, they remain under-represented in strategic and essential positions which necessitate adopting specific policies to advance their academic representation. Read more

Mastercard Hosts First Digital Girls4Tech Connect Marathon in Sub-Saharan Africa…

Mastercard recently hosted its first digital Girls4Tech Connect Marathon in Sub-Saharan Africa to inspire and prepare 515 girls aged 7-12 to pursue careers in Science and Technology. Read more

New ICT University to Open to SADC Students From 2023

Zimbabwe plans to open a new state-run, specialised information and communications technology cyber security university next year with the objective of making it a premier institution of higher learning in that sector in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. Read more

Namibian Minister Graduates with his 12th Degree from University of Western Cape 

Namibian Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Peya Mushelenga, graduated with a PhD in law from the University of the Western Cape on Wednesday, his 12th degree, according to a statement issued by the South African university… Read more

Pandemic Sees Spike in Private Higher Education Enrolment

Student enrolment at private higher education institutions in South Africa has more than doubled in recent years as demand was further fuelled by the Covid-19 pandemic. Read more

Powerful Female Duo Re-elected to the Helm of NMU 

Visionary, transformative and empowering leadership displayed by the women at the helm of Nelson Mandela University has seen the duo being re-elected to lead what is one of the province’s top tertiary institutions… Read more

SA’s Youngest Doctors Rocking the Medical Fraternity

It has not been smooth sailing for two of South Africa’s youngest doctors, as they have had to deal with tremendous workloads at medical school, which sometimes left them demotivated. Read more

South Africa Looks to Silicon Valley for Innovation Inspiration

Fresh on the heels of touting innovation as a key enabler of SA’s economic prospects, minister Dr Blade Nzimande is on an official week-long visit to Silicon Valley in the US. Read more

Stellenbosch University Expert Finds that Elephant Behaviour’s Largely Dictated by Smell 

Have you wondered how elephants are able to determine which of them are part of the herd? Research conducted by Stellenbosch University elephant expert Katharina von Durckheim has shown that elephants share what is known as a “herd-odour” to help them recognise members of their herd. Read more

Stellenbosch University PhD Student Maps Genome of Critical Endangered African Wild Dog

Christina Meiring graduated with a PhD in Molecular Biology it marked the completion of the first large-scale investigation of the genetic diversity in the African wild dog population of the Kruger National Park (KNP). Read more

Students Now have Until 11 April to Upload Proof of Vaccination 

University of Johannesburg (UJ) students who’ve been rushing to beat Thursday’s vaccine mandate deadline may breathe a sigh of relief as the upcoming Easter recess will buy them more time. Read more

Subject Rankings: More Departments in Africa on Top-100 List

African higher education institutions are steadily scaling the academic ladder as 23 university departments in three countries were among the world’s 100 best places to study subjects they offer, according to the 12th edition of the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022. Read more

Take Up Skill Training: Dr Abrefa-Gyan Charges Youth

The Deputy Director of the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET), Dr Tina Abrefa-Gyan, has urged the youth to take up skill training in technical, vocational education and training (TVET) in order to boost the country’s production capacity to meet consumption needs. Read more

UCT Best in Africa for Sports Science

The University of Cape Town has been ranked top in Africa for sports science in the global ranking of science schools and departments of more than 300 universities. Read more

UCT International Student Graduates with BSc After 12-Year Battle 

An international student from UCT is beaming with pride after she graduated despite being dealt heavy blows during her years of study. On Tuesday, Sarah Nzeka received her Bachelor of Science (BSc) in chemical engineering, 12 years after registering for the course. Read more

UCT Pauses Compulsory Vaccination Policy, Will Promote Voluntary Jabs

The University of Cape Town (UCT) has paused the “in principle” implementation of its compulsory vaccination policy, it confirmed on Wednesday.In reply to questions, UCT explained that its council took the in-principle decision in October 2021 to support a mandatory vaccination policy. Read more

UFS QwaQwa Campus Guards on High Alert, Academic Programme Moves Online… 

The academic programme at the University of the Free State’s QwaQwa campus will remain mostly online this week after two buildings were set alight during protests. Read more

UKZN’s Decision to Hold In-Person Graduation Ceremonies Widely Welcomed 

Students have welcomed the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s decision to have in-person graduation ceremonies this May. Read more

UKZN to Investigate ‘Wild’ Four-Day Student Bash 

For four days, Glenwood residents had to endure loud music and drunk behaviour when more than 2,000 students attended an unauthorised party at Howard College. Read more

UKZN Ranks in the Top 2.5% Universities Worldwide 

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has been ranked in the top 2.5% universities worldwide. This is according to the 2022-23 edition of the Global 2000 list by the Center for World University Rankings… Read more

UWC Scientists Part of Team That Discovered Megamaser ‘Nkalakatha’ 5bn Lightyears Away from Earth 

After two years, a team of University of Western Cape scientists can finally reveal their astronomical finding with the world – a megamaser, called Nkalakatha, light years away from earth. Read more

Wits Business School, US Usiness College to Collaborate on Energy Matters 

Wits Business School (WBS) has signed an historic agreement with the CT Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston, in the US, which it says opens the door for robust collaboration between their respective energy centres. Read more

Worldskills Africa Competition Promotes Capacity Building for Youth 

The second edition of WorldSkills Africa, underway in Namibia’s Swakopmund coastal town, is promoting skills development among the continent’s young populace. Read more

WSU Council Calls for Accountability on Accreditation Debacle

Walter Sisulu University’s council has demanded accountability from the institution’s management for bringing the university into “disrepute” after it emerged it had been offering several programmes that were not accredited. Read more

WSU in High-Level Meetings Over Accreditation Issue 

The Council on Higher Education (CHE) and the South African Qualifications Authority (Saqa) on Wednesday held meetings with Walter Sisulu University after claims that some of the university’s programmes were not accredited. Read more

WSU Partly Cleared Over Unaccredited Courses, but Faces Two more Audits 

Walter Sisulu University (WSU) has been partly cleared after claims that dozens of courses were not accredited.The Council on Higher Education (CHE), which accredits qualifications and programmes, said on Friday it had reviewed WSU’s courses with the SA Qualifications Authority (Saqa)… Read more

UWC Ranks in Top 800 on Times Higher Education for 6^th Years in a Row 

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) has done it again. It has been ranked in the top 800 universities globally by Times Higher Education (THE) for the sixth year running. Read more

 

31 March 2022

AAU and Afrobarometer Hold Strategic Dialogue to Explore Areas of Collaboration

The visit was at the invitation of Dr. Asunka for the two organisations to explore possible areas of mutual interest for collaboration. Read more

Academics Condemn Silencing of Scientists over Russian Invasion

Academics have condemned an alleged instruction by an official from South Africa’s Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) to muzzle scientists over the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Read more

Academic ‘Conveyer Belt’ Approach Dehumanises Education

Building on the present historical moment when ‘distortions’ in the worldview promoted in the West have increasingly come under question in the context of the Black Lives Matter movement, the need to revamp the education systems in the Global South has become increasingly apparent… Read more

African Education Trust Fund (AETF) Committee Meets with the AAU Secretary-General

The AETF was set up by the AAU and the Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PACCI) to transform tertiary education in Africa and scale up the skills set of the continent for the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Read more

Black Women in South African Academia Struggle to Get Ahead: What Needs to Change

In South Africa, the number of black women who acquire undergraduate degrees has increased more than any other population group. Yet they remain underrepresented in senior academic and management positions in the country’s higher education institutions. Read more

Bukavu Youth Agripreneurs (BYA)

Bukavu Youth Agripreneurs enterprise was started by graduates from different universities and academic disciplines. The enterprise is located in Bukavu City, South Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Read more

Continent-Relevant Solutions Needed to Improve Use of AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been identified globally as one of the biggest phenomena of the 21st century and a powerful tool in combating some of the debilitating effects of climate variability and change. Read more

DUT and JICA to Host the SATREPS Technology Transfer Workshop

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology (IWWT) at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) will be hosting the SATREPS “Production of Biofuels from Algal Biomass” Technology Transfer hybrid event on Thursday, 17 March 2022. Read more

DUT Researcher Earns International Recognition

Professor Monique Marks of Durban University of Technology (DUT) has earned international recognition for her research. The university recently announced that Marks has retained her B2 rating from the National Research Foundation (NRF) Rating. Read more

Evacuation of Africa’s Students from Ukraine Continues

While 17 African countries were among the 35 states that abstained from voting on a United Nations resolution on Wednesday 2 March demanding that Russia “immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine…Read more

Higher Education Dept Working to Ensure Safety of SA Students in Ukraine

The Higher Education Department said that it was working closely with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to ensure the safety of all 32 South African students enrolled at various institutions in war-torn Ukraine. Read more

How I Got Home … Student Recounts Fleeing from Kharkiv

South African Mandisa Sthabile Malindisa (25) travelled for four days, slept on icy roads and muscled her way through desperate crowds on several station platforms and onto trains before she reached Budapest airport in Hungary to board a plane to Johannesburg. She is feeling guilty that she escaped while others are still trapped in Ukraine. Read more

Inclusive Education: Girls and Boys Must be Treated Equally

The education sector has, since democracy in 1994, placed the “girls’ agenda” at the centre of care and support interventions for vulnerable children to address inequality, according to the minister of basic education, Angie Motshekga. Read more

KZN Students Sleep Rough Amid Housing and Registration Challenges 

About 250 first-year students from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Pietermaritzburg campus spent two nights on the tarmac outside the security gates after claiming that the university had failed to provide them with accommodation. Read more

Library Uses InstaNovels to Get More Students to Read

From InstaNovels to enticing ‘Book Nook’ reading spaces in the library, we have to constantly come up with approaches to encourage our students to acquire and nurture the wonderful habit of reading. Read more

Mamdani Talks About his Research Legacy and Work at Makerere

Professor Mahmood Mamdani was the executive director of the Makerere Institute of Social Research at Makerere University, Uganda, from 2010 to the end of February 2022. During this time, he has revamped the institution’s mission and established a robust PhD programme. Read more

More Women Researchers Needed to Tackle Climate Change

Challenging the gender bias within educational institutions, in research and even in the media has been identified as a fundamental component to open up spaces for women to participate in and make an impact in the emerging field of climate change. Read more

NMU Project Part of an ‘African Solution to the World’s Problems’

The US acting consul general to SA last week hailed an innovative aquaponics partnership when he visited Nelson Mandela University’s Missionvale Campus. Read more

Preprint Servers Gain Prominence Despite Peer Review Concerns

While they have been around for the past five decades, preprint servers, repositories that allow access to original manuscripts to the public before they have undergone peer review, have gained more prominence over the past two years, owing to the sheer volume of research on COVID-19 that needed to be communicated. Read more

Protests Over Higher Education Funding Raise Questions Over Loan Scheme 

As protests over mandatory vaccines dominate student-led protests, the growing crisis over finance in higher education has also contributed to a difficult start to the academic year for some students.In recent years, the country has seen student-led demonstrations… Read more

SADC Education for Sustainable Development Framework on the Horizon

The dialogue is one of UNESCO’s responses to the aspirations enunciated in the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020–2030 of SADC, that is to develop and implement programmes, in order to improve human capacities for socio-economic development… Read more

SA’s Education Equity Gap and Those Aiming to Bridge It

SA is nearly 28 years into democracy yet the right to education, which is a constitutional right, is not a reality for many pupils in this country, with the SA education system still facing many challenges.  Read more

SA Varsities Intent on Pursuing Millions in Unpaid Fees

Amid a troubled start to the 2022 academic year during which student protests erupted on several campuses over financial exclusions, debt-ridden South African universities have said they have no intention of writing off unpaid student fees… Read more

Science and Race in SA: Lessons From ‘old bones in boxes’

In this edited extract from the introduction of his new book, Bones and Bodies: How South African scientists studied race, published by Wits University Press, Alan G Morris examines the discipline’s South African history. Read more

Scientific Diplomacy and Cooperation in this Time of War

As the vice-president of the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP) responsible for membership matters, I have been involved in formulating a position for the IUPAP about scientific cooperation with Ukraine and with Russia in this extremely difficult time of war. Read more

Scientists, Policy-Makers and Activists Should Work Together

Higher education stakeholders recently gathered to discuss how solutions emanating from the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) can be applied in various contexts, including higher education, to support society’s recovery from COVID-19 consequences. Read more

South Africa Could be Ready to Ease COVID-19 Restrictions Further…

Former head of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on COVID-19, Salim Abdool Karim, says that South Africa could be ready to ease pandemic restrictions further as infection rates have declined. Read more

Space Science Capabilities Depend on Quality Education

In December 2019, Ethiopia became the 11th African country to have launched a 72kg remote sensing microsatellite (ETRSS-1) into space, joining the ranks of Algeria, Angola, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa and Sudan. In East Africa, Ethiopia was third after Kenya and Rwanda. Read more

Stellenbosch University Launches Online Learning Platform, Funders Urged to Help

Stellenbosch University has launched SU Advantage, an innovative online learning and teaching solution focusing on supporting high school pupils and teachers from Grade 10-12. Read more

Stellenbosch University Accused of Forcing Vaccination on Ill Students 

Stellenbosch University has been accused of endangering students’ lives, after allegedly forcing ill students to get COVID-19 vaccines. Two weeks ago, a second-year medical student from KwaZulu-Natal passed away after contracting the coronavirus. Read more

The Long Journey Back to Campus After COVID’s Disruptions

For the past two years, students in South African tertiary education institutions have had to negotiate the choppy waters of emergency online tuition. In 2022, thousands of students at universities across the country have been returning to the shores of face-to-face learning. Read more

Time to Protest Criminality Disguised as Student Protest

It is becoming increasingly difficult for institutions of higher learning in South Africa to maintain the delicate balancing act of finding sustainable funding solutions amid mounting pressures caused by rapidly altering learning and teaching environments, dwindling government subsidies, and the massification of higher education. Read more

‘Tripartite Curriculum Strategy’ Bridges Work-Academia Gap

Higher education institutions in South Africa are at the helm of building an innovative, knowledge-rich, and resilient society. Yet, they are often criticised for producing graduates who are not ‘fit for purpose’ because of a disconnect between industry requirements and university curricula. Read more

UCT to decide Vaccine Mandate

THE University of Cape Town is one step closer to making a decision on a vaccine mandate policy after it wrapped up a public participation process. On Saturday the university’s Council is expected to receive recommendations… Read more

UJ Students Protest at Auckland Park Campus Against Vaccine Mandate 

University of Johannesburg (UJ) students have on Thursday staged a protest at the Auckland Park campus in Johannesburg against the institution’s vaccine mandate. Read more

UKZN and DUT Team up to Help Feed Starving Students 

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and the Durban University of Technology (DUT) established feeding scheme programmes to fight food insecurity among students in higher institutions of learning. Read more

UKZN Hosts Colloquium on Womxn in the Academy and Shaping Futures Beyond

The University of KwaZulu-Natal is expected to host a Colloquium on Womxn in the Academy and shaping futures beyond Covid-19 on Thursday.The event is being hosted by UKZN’s College of Humanities in partnership with Is’thebe Mentoring and takes place during International Women’s Month. Read more

UKZN Students in Pietermaritzburg Campus Still Facing Issues with Accommodation

Students from the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Pietermaritzburg campus, who slept outside the main gate while awaiting residences, are still concerned about their accommodation issues. Read more

‘Uncomfortable Conversations About Universities Needed’

African universities must experiment with radically different models of access and funding if they are to create new identities for themselves as decolonised institutions, according to former student activist and now lecturer at South Africa’s University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), Rekgotsofetse Chikane. Read more

UNESCO and Partners to Hold Social Knowledge for Policy Uptake Workshop

The UNESCO Regional Office for Southern Africa in collaboration with the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) and the South African Department of Social Development (DSD) will hold a workshop on social knowledge for policy uptake… Read more

Universities can Build Relationships with Industry by Inviting People to Networking Events

The first session of the two-day Executive Leadership Workshop (ELW) on Commercialisation of Research, held in Cape Town last week – featured two speakers from abroad.  Read more

University Council Chair has no Degree

Central University of Technology (CUT) council chairperson Matthew Rantso, who leads PhD holders with only a certificate in hand, is the only such council chairperson among South Africa’s 26 universities. Read more

‘Universities Must Grasp the Opportunity to Change’

If African universities are to meet their mandate to support development on the continent, they must change with the times and restructure, said Reitumetse Obakeng Mabokela, the vice provost for international affairs and global strategies at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in the United States. Read more

Universities Must Find Ways to Fast-Track the ‘Brightest’

“There is an abundance of human talent in Africa, but it has not been coming through into advanced technical fields,” says Professor Neil Turok, who founded the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) in Cape Town in 2003. Read more

University of Pretoria Points the Way for the use of 3D-Printing in Medicine and Science

The University of Pretoria’s (UP) Forensic Anthropology Research Centre (FARC) is setting up a comprehensive facility to help other departments in the University’s Faculty of Health Sciences with the 3D-printing of replicas of bones and organs. Read more

Universities Can do Better in Democratising Their Research

For many, participation might be intrinsically valuable. Not surprisingly, as human beings living as part of our societies, we want to be heard and be active within our communities. However, seeing the social fabric as compendiums of communities might bring light into those groups or communities where we have nothing or little to say as citizens of our global world. Read more

Universities with Unique Identities 

South Africa’s youngest universities, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) and the University of Mpumalanga (UMP) are making good strides in growing the institutions by giving them a unique identity and footprint in higher education landscape. Read more

UWC’s DNA Profiling Kit to Fight Crime

A University of the Western Cape’s recent creation of a new DNA profiling kit could help solve sexual assault-related crimes.Researchers from the institution have partnered with two biotech companies to assist in commercializing the project. Read more

Vice-Chancellors Tasked to Lobby for Better Internet Access

Vice-chancellors have a vital advocacy role to play in promoting national research and education networks (NRENs), to advance the digital transformation strategies of African universities. Read more

Vigorous Intercultural Democratic Debate on Science Needed

Indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) must be incorporated in African university curricula across the continent in order to help resurrect nation-building and decolonisation projects that have been put on hold, according to Ugandan higher education thought leader Catherine Odora Hoppers. Read more

‘We Need Local Solutions to Local Climate Change Problems’

“As a continent, we must move from climate theory to climate action and, therefore, it is critical to build alliances and partnerships between different role-players in terms of climate change. This calls for the inclusion of local contexts and indigenous knowledge in climate adaptation strategies.” Read more

Why are Black Women Under-Represented in Senior Academe?

In South Africa, the number of black women who acquire undergraduate degrees has increased more than any other population group. Read more

Work Integrated Learning Strategy Aims to Advance 4IR Skills

Universities must stop churning out students for careers that may no longer exist and, instead, produce ‘adaptive’ graduates fit for purpose and ready for the 21st century and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), said Professor Thandwa Mthembu, the vice-chancellor of the Durban University of Technology (DUT), South Africa. Read more

WSU Convocation Calls for Transparency from Varsity…

The Walter Sisulu University convocation has called upon university managers to address the concerns about the validity of some of the institution’s degrees directly, truthfully and immediately to avoid irredeemable damage to the university. Read more

WSU Students Strike After Eeing evicted for Outstanding Rental 

About 1 000 students from Zamukulungisa WSU Campus in Mthatha were left stranded after their landlords allegedly evicted them from their place of residences yesterday, March 14. Read more

Youths from Africa and the Arab World Commit to Advancing Cooperation in agriculture…

The Afro-Arab Youth Council (AAYC) in partnership with the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) organized a youth dialogue under the theme, “Enhancing food security through innovations and planetary health: the role of youth.” Read more

 

28 February 2022

Academic Publishing Needs Creative Solutions to Grow

COVID-19 has dampened academic research productivity even though virtual conferences and webinars have become an antidote for visa denials and a shortage of travel funding. Where academic publishing is concerned, there may be solutions to promote development in African countries as well as increase international support. Read more

Advancing Transformation as the University’s Strategic heart

Transformation in higher education is complex and multifaceted. It involves integrated processes of continuous institutional change in all aspects of the university’s functioning. Read more

Africa Needs ‘Pluriversities’ to Respect More Ways of Knowing

Universities on the continent are so dominated by frameworks for understanding that were established in the Global North that they cannot be considered authentically ‘African’ in terms of what they teach and the kinds of knowledge they produce, says South African philosopher Mogobe Ramose. Read more

‘Data Literacy is as Important as Any other Literacy’

Computational and data science is a new essential language, and all students and graduates today need to be versed in computational thinking and data-handling skills. Read more

Does Your University have a Student Affairs Directorate?

Student affairs directorates within universities have unique roles to play in ensuring quality in higher education by maximising opportunities for students to graduate equipped with a high level of success and holistic development and allowing them to acquire those graduate attributes that prepare them to contribute better in society. Read more

Durban University of Technology’s City Campus Petrol-Bombed

The Durban University of Technology’s City Campus was petrol-bombed in the early hours of Tuesday morning.A group of approximately 15 unknown people hurled petrol bombs on the City Campus, which is situated in Anton Lembede Street, … Read more

DUT Announces Closure of Campuses on Friday Ahead of Protest March 

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has said it will temporarily close three of its campuses in the CBD on Friday before a planned protest by the EFF Student Command. Read more

DUT’s 2022 Back to Campus: Teaching and Learning Plan 

Should the lockdown level allow and the council approved policy choices on COVID-19 are met, the university may offer mask-to-mask teaching and learning to students exiting the system. Read more

DUT’s Dr Mavela Nominated for Illustrious Science and Tech Awards

Dr Mavela works in the Student Support Development Unit under the Centre for Excellence in Learning at Teaching (CELT) at the DUT and is also pursuing her PhD in health sciences under the Faculty of Health Sciences at the university.  Read more

DUT Staff Evacuated Following Violent Protests

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) abruptly closed its doors on Tuesday after violent attacks by student groups, which resulted in four faculty staff cars set alight. The protest comes after some students alleged they were struggling to register for the 2022 academic year. Read more

DUT Upholds Mandatory Vaccination Policy …

Despite mounting reluctance from students and student organisations, universities across the country are steadfast in implementing the Covid-19 mandatory vaccination policies which prohibit students from entering campuses without producing proof of vaccination. Read more

Higher Education Minister Reveals R47 Billion in Funding

Minister of Higher Education and Training Blade Nzimande revealed on Saturday that R47 billion in student funding has been disbursed for the year through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to aid more than 700 000 students. Read more

Higher Education Proposes 4.23% Fee Increase

The Department of Higher Education and Training has proposed an increase of 4.23% for tuition fees for the 2022 academic year, and a maximum of 6.23% for accommodation at all 26 universities. Read more

How to Connect Your Research with Policy-Making Agendas

African academic researchers have been urged to stop writing long, dry and complex research papers that are meant for other scholars only, but to also consider best practices of sharing their research with lay audiences to increase their use in policy- and decision-making agendas. Read more

Institutions Brace for Protests as Funding Cuts Loom

Following the first reports of student protests, South Africa’s 26 public universities and 50 technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges are expected to start the 2022 academic year on the back foot with a ZAR10 billion (US$650 million) shortfall for student funding. Read more

Man Gets 18 Years for Stealing R1.2m Meant for Walter Sisulu University Students, Staff 

An Eastern Cape man who stole R1.2 million meant to financially support needy Walter Sisulu University students has been sentenced to 18 years in prison. Read more

New Immigration Rules Leave Foreign Students in the Lurch

South Africa has withdrawn a blanket waiver granted to foreign students studying in critical skills areas following changes to its immigration policy. Read more

Protests Called Off After Agreement Reached

The Nelson Mandela University’s student representative council and management ironed out an agreement on Monday evening after protesting students blocked entrances to the north and south campuses in Gqeberha, along with the one in George. Read more

Private and Public Universities Should Collaborate in Africa

Private universities became popular and increased exponentially in Africa around the 1990s. Read more

Project to Translate Research Articles into African Languages

A platform that publishes African research immediately and free of charge, with the aim of providing increased regional and international visibility for scientific work, has partnered with like-minded open access African portals to translate 180 research articles from English to six African languages. Read more

Protests Halt First Day of University Lectures

Lectures were brought to a halt on Monday, the first day of the academic year at Nelson Mandela University (NMU) in Gqeberha, by students protesting over difficulties with registration. Read more

‘Queen of Science’ Keeps Breaking Barriers for Women

She started school at the age of four and, at the age of 11, a lesson on astronauts in a geography class sparked a lifelong love for and dance with the sciences. Read more

Ready for a Career Change? Swallow Your Pride, Push Through

At times, passion drives people to great lengths and, as they travel the path to their highest ideals, they discover themselves along the way. Read more

SA Universities Mlaim to be Multilingual Yet have Monolingual Websites;…

With South Africa’s new Language Policy Framework for Public Higher Education Institutions set to enhance the role and status of marginalised languages scheduled to kickstart this year, a scholar’s insights into what universities’ websites reflect now, are apt.  Read more

Science Output Rising, but Some Countries’ Yields Still Low

Despite numerous challenges, Africa has made notable progress in the production of scientific knowledge in the past two decades, with a total share of 7.6% of contributions to the world of science and one-third of all international publications in tropical medicine. Read more

Space Technology to Measure, Monitor Climate Change Impact

Five African countries are working with Egypt to launch a pan-African satellite project dubbed the African Development Satellite Initiative (AfDev-Sat) to study the impact of climate change across Africa and what space technology can offer in this area. Read more

Top 10 Best Universities in Africa 

Africa is home to many universities that rank amongst the top universities in the world. Scattered across the continent, they stand tall in educational excellence. Read more

TVET Colleges as Good as Universities

As Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges prepare for prospective students, the issue of unemployed graduates looms large. Read more

UCT Ikeys Come from Behind to Beat NWU Eagles in Varsity Cup Opener

UCT Ikeys produced a spectacular comeback in the first Varsity Cup match of the year to beat NWU Eagles 35-26 at the Fanie du Toit Stadium on Monday. Read more

UCT Professor, Jack Fletcher, Shortlisted for Africa Prize in Engineering Innovation

Dr Jack Fletcher has been shortlisted for the 2022 Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation (APEI) with the Hyena Power Pod, a fuel-cell based hydrogen generator that converts LPG gas into usable electricity, all within one device is one of the technologies that have been shortlisted for the 2022 Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation. Read more

UCT Students Protest Amidst SRC Rape Allegation

Accusations of sexual harassment and rape levelled at the president of the University of Cape Town’s Student Representative Council (SRC) have led to students protesting at several locations on UCT campuses today (Wednesday 2 February). Read more

UCT Suspends Student Following Sexual Assault, Rape Allegations

The University of Cape Town (UCT) has suspended a student following sexual assault and rape allegations, which surfaced more than a week ago.”Since the matter was brought to our attention on 1 February, the survivor continues to receive support from UCT,”… Read more

UFS’ Planned #Covid19 Vaccination Policy to be Argued in Court 

A court date for an argument against the University of the Free State’s (UFS) planned mandatory #Covid19 vaccination policy, which will deal with the merits of the case, has been set for 23 March 2022. Read more

UKZN Lecturer Launches IsiZulu COVID Animation Film for Children

The film is based on the university’s social work senior lecturer Dr Maud Mthembu’s book about COVID-19 titled ‘Uhambo lwami ngesikhathi sekhovithi – My journey during COVID-19.’ Read more

UKZN Students Continue Fiery Protest Over List of Demands 

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has condemned alleged violence and destruction of property after fresh protests broke out at its campuses.The university said on Monday there were protests at the Westville and Pietermaritzburg campuses… Read more

UKZN Students Vow to Continue with Their Protests

Students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal have vowed to continue their protests until their demands are met. Read more

UKZN Study Reveals Benefits of Moringa Leaf for People with HIV

A University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) study has found that the moringa oleifera leaf supplementation can have major benefits on the health of people living with HIV. Read more

UKZN Suspends Academic Programme After Violent Protests 

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) suspended academic activities on Monday after protests at campuses.Normah Zondo, UKZN’s corporate relations executive director, said in a statement on Monday that the decision was taken after “incidents of violence and intimidation”… Read more

University of Pretoria Allocates R500 Million in Bursaries to Deserving Students

The University of Pretoria (UP) allocated an estimated R500 million to about 8 000 students in 2021 in the form of University-managed and external bursaries.Due to historic debts and financial challenges, many students find themselves having to abandon their studies,… Read more

University’s Covid-19 Vaccination Policy now Fully Active

The University of the Free State (UFS) has confirmed that its Covid-19 vaccination policy and the regulations in relation to this were effective from Monday (14/02).This came after the Free State High Court in Bloemfontein struck off the roll an urgent application by Free State for Choice (FS4C)… Read more

University Systems in 45 Countries have Barely Been Studied

Higher education in Africa has become a frequently researched topic from 2000 onwards, but the systems in 45 out of 54 countries on the continent have barely been studied and 20 countries lack internal higher education expertise. This is a matter of concern, states a new study. Read more

UP in Top Five of SA Universities at Number 474 in World 

University ranking by Academic Performance (URAP) has placed Vaal University of Technology at the bottom of the top 21 of South African universities and the UCT as number one in the country. Read more

Women Need to Upskill to Join the Digital Transformation Revolution

She grew up in Limpopo, in a township called Namakgale, but her parents never let her forget that “home” was the village. It is why Dr Stella Bvuma, Head of the Department of Applied Information Systems at the University of Johannesburg, has an acute sense of the wider technological gap in rural areas…Read more

31 January 2022

Academic Community’s Work Transcends Travel Bans, Politics

While most of the travel bans that were placed on several Southern African countries, including South Africa, under the auspice of containing the new COVID-19 omicron variant, have been revoked, Read more

African Scholars Concerned Over Biases in Review Processes

Ongoing concerns over geographical biases in the evaluation of scientific research that could be disadvantaging Africa scholars remain and suggest the need for ongoing and targeted efforts to address inequalities in knowledge production and publication. Read more

Covid-19 Screening and Vaccination Help Mitigate Virus in Tertiary Institutions 

A new study has found that integrated vaccination and routine screening are key in allowing the safe reopening of ‘face-to-face’ classes at tertiary institutions. Read more

Covid-19: Universities, Student Bodies Could be Headed for Showdown Over Vaccination

Mandatory vaccination policies have taken centre stage in the tertiary education sector as thousands of pupils and staff at these institutions prepare for the start of the 2022 academic year. Read more

Degree Programmes Needed to Boost African Film Industry

African universities lag far behind when it comes to training professionals for the blossoming African film industry that could create more than 20 million jobs and generate US$20 billion in annual revenue, according to UNESCO. Read more

DUT Students to Compete in Regional Finals of Huawei ICT Competition 

Three Durban University of Technology (DUT) students have been selected to compete in the Huawei ICT Competition Regional Finals, which is to be held online, next month, February 2022. Read more

Engineering TVET Lecturers ‘Not in Tune’ with Tech Changes

More than half the technical engineering lecturers at technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges in South Africa, who participated in a recent study, are unaware of any technological advancements in their area of specialisation. Read more

Financing and Making University Education Better in Africa

Perhaps to demonstrate the importance of education to human endeavours, academics, founders, donors and all those concerned with higher education in Nigeria and other parts of Africa were assembled for two days from January 6- 7, 2021, Read more

Government Grant for Research and Development Activities Increases 

The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, has welcomed the increase in government funding for research and development (R&D) activities. Read more

How to Bolster Hybrid Teaching and Learning Competencies

Despite many people’s concerns about the state of education, I am optimistic about the future of our universities. Read more

How to Set the Scene for First-Year University Success 

Entering university for the first time will be a culture shock for many matriculants. An education expert says first-year dropout rates have historically been – and remain – a problem in South Africa. Read more

Miratho Project Finds Universities Could do More to Enable Black Working-Class Students to Participate and Succeed …

A research project by the Higher Education and Human Development (HEHD) group at the University of the Free State (UFS) concluded that the inequalities and exclusion of the labour market and pathways to further study must be addressed by wider economic and social policies… Read more

Mathematics in Crisis in SA Despite it Being a Gateway Subject for Higher Education

Among the almost 600 000 candidates who wrote matric in 2020, a meagre 5.3% scored 60% or more for Mathematics. Given that the required pass rate is just 30% – something that only 125 526 candidates achieved. Read more

Message of Condolences to the Family of Dr Archbishop Desmond Tutu

On behalf of the Vaal University of Technology’s Council, Management, Staff and Students we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Dr Archbishop Desmond Tutu on his passing. Read more

NDLOVU Focuses on Contributing Towards Gender Equality in the ICT Sector

Winning accolades comes naturally to Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Fanie Ndlovu, a Masters Student in Information and Communications Technology, (ICT) and brainchild of VarsityGenie, a student leadership platform. Read more

Poor Planning for Online Learning Created Disparities

The COVID-19 pandemic-driven transition to emergency remote teaching and online learning has been met with controversy in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) region, as a significant number of students from underprivileged areas in the countries were deprived of a fair and equal opportunity to complete their academic year…Read more

Powering Marine Pollution Busting with Engineering Excellence

Engineering has the biggest role to play in making fundamental societal change – this is the motivation of the team at the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Department of Electrical Engineering as they embark on a new project that aims to locate and monitor ocean pollution in waters off Cape Town. Read more

Private and Public Universities Should Collaborate in Africa

Private universities became popular and increased exponentially in Africa around the 1990s. Before then, however, universities such as the American University in Cairo, founded in 1919, functioned amid the popularity and seeming intimidation of public universities. Read more

Programme Aims to Build Bridges, Bring Academics Together

A new partnership programme involving academics and administrators in Africa as well as Black African diaspora scholars in the United States aims to nurture research, teaching and outreach collaborations, yielding academic outcomes that are set to support the nurturing of globally competent faculty and students. Read more

South Africa has Lost a Human Rights and Social Justice Giant

As South Africa contemplates a future without Archbishop Desmond Tutu, it must be with an understanding that she has lost another giant, a lodestone, an unwavering voice for human rights and social justice. Read more

South Africa to Launch Three Nanosatellites as Part of R27 Million Space Project

Higher Education, Science and Innovation minister Dr Blade Nzimande has announced the launch of three locally-produced nanosatellites from the US on Thursday (13 January), as part of South Africa’s new Maritime Domain Awareness Satellite (MDASat) constellation. Read more

South African University Students Fight COVID Vaccine Mandates

South African university students are fighting mandates that require they be vaccinated against COVID-19 before returning to the classroom on February 14. Even students who are vaccinated,…Read more

‘The COVID-19 Crisis Has Taught Us How Tertiary Education Needs to Change…

It is not possible to think about the future of tertiary education, in South Africa and globally, without considering the direct and significant impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the landscape. Read more

The DUT Community Engagement Donations Handover to the Baby Home 

The DUT Community Engagement Office under the DVC Research, Innovation, and Engagement in partnership with The Division of Corporate Affairs reached out to the DUT community to help with the donation drive for The Baby Home. Read more

‘Thinking the Future’: Clem Sunter Presents 2022 in a Nutshell

“When you’re thinking the future, you’ve actually got to look around you. It’s not just about having great thoughts from within about what can happen; it’s really trying to observe what’s going on around you and projecting that into the future,” … Read more

TVET Qualification No Golden Highway to a Job, Students Say

A study among 113 South African engineering students from the technical and vocational education and training (TVET) college sector has revealed that the majority (79) believe that their qualification is “undervalued and does not guarantee employment”. Read more

UB and UPENN Embark on Antimicrobial Stewardship Practices Study for Southern Africa

The University of Botswana through the Faculty of Medicine and in collaboration with the University of Pennsylvania will embark on a study titled Investigating Antimicrobial Stewardship Practices in Southern Africa (MOSAIC) covering Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa. Read more

UCT Master’s Student Creates Vambo Academy, an Educational Technology Tool…

Chido Dzinotyiwei, a Master of Commerce at the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business (UCT GSB), has created an educational technology tool called Vambo Academy to provide digital resources in support of language learning and translation. Read more

‘UCT Open Textbook Journeys’ Provides Access to Locally Relevant Learning Materials 

Lecturers at the University of Cape Town (UCT) are adopting innovative pedagogical and content production approaches to provide students with more accessible and locally relevant learning materials. Read more 

UFS Vice-Chancellor Pays Tribute to the Late Archbishop Tutu

The University of the Free State awarded world human rights icon and anti-apartheid activist, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, an honorary doctorate in Theology in January 2011. Read more

UKZN Apologises for Blunder with Acceptance Offers 

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has apologised after a technical glitch resulted in the institution mistakenly sending firm acceptance offers to rejected applicants. Read more

UKZN SRC Hopes the Public Can Help Raise R6 Million to Assist Students… 

The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has urged the public to assist in raising R6 million to assist students in financial debts.The idea was born due to the increasing debts of students which led them to be blocked from the university system. Read more

UKZN Threatens Legal Action Against ‘Illegal’ Matric Upgrade Centres 

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) says it will institute legal action against illegal matric upgrade centres claiming association with the institution. Read more

UKZN Warns of Fake Social Media Accounts

UKZN warns the general public about fake Facebook accounts that could be used to misguide students. Read more

University Fee Hikes on the Cards 

University students will be paying more for tuition and residence.The Higher Education Department is proposing that the country’s 26 universities increase fees for this year by 4.3-percent for tuition and 6.3-percent for accommodation. Read more

University of Pretoria-Led Study Reveals COVID-19 Delta Variants Transmitted from Humans to Animals 

A team of scientists from the University of Pretoria (UP) has published the only study from Africa that entailed genomic One Health investigations which reveal that Delta variants of COVID-19 were transmitted from humans to animals… Read more

University of Pretoria on Mission to Vaccinate Undocumented Communities in Gauteng

Pretoria – As health professionals work to increase the number of vaccinated people, to create herd immunity and reduce the chance of prolonged infection, the University of Pretoria has stepped in. Read more

University of the Western Cape Buildings Lit in Purple

In honour of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu and his legacy at the University of the Western Cape, the Main Hall has been lit in purple every evening this week. So too has the Life Sciences Building on campus. Read more

UWC Staff ‘Turned Away’ Over Vaccines 

A UWC employee who was allegedly turned away after failing to produce vaccine certificates on campus, claim unfairness and say no clear communication has been given, especially for those awaiting exemption decisions. Read more

 

31 December 2021

Academics from 12 Universities on Global Citation List

A total of 16 academics from five countries in Africa and working at 12 universities have been recognised as influential researchers. Read more

COVID-19 in SA | UJ Adopts Mandatory Vaccination

The University of Johannesburg has adopted mandatory vaccination, following a trend in the higher education sector. Staff, postdoctoral research fellows and students will need to provide proof of vaccination before entering campus. Read more

Creating an Environment for Intellectual Capital Remittance

African diaspora scholars – individuals born, raised and educated in Africa and who now work in foreign universities – have for years established links and worked with institutions in their mother countries as a way of ‘giving back’. Read more

Creating Vibrant and Stronger Research Communities

Diaspora academics have called for the continued and expanded support of a programme that has enabled them to contribute to the strengthening of higher education in Africa through conducting joint research, supervising graduate students, mentoring junior faculty and co-authoring grant proposals and research papers. Read more

CUT and Namibia University of Science and Technology Discuss Current and Future Collaborations

The Central University of Technology hosted the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) as part of expanding collaborations between the two universities. Read more

CUT Researcher is Validating the Significance of Traditional Medicine… 

African indigenous medicines have throughout history received scorn, even though they are essentially the source of many boxed medicines we consume today. Read more

CUT, Women in Science – Chemistry Lecturer Dr Ritu Bhagwandeen Shares Her Views …

The imbalance between men and women in the science and technology sector is unlikely to be remedied unless organisations, schools and universities work together to change entrenched perceptions about the tech industry. Read more

Do You Want to be More Employable? Learn Coding Skills

Students in African universities and other tertiary institutions on the continent should learn coding skills, even when they are not enrolled as students at departments of computer sciences, as a way of preparing themselves for well-paying jobs in the digital sector and for career change directions. Read more

DUT’S Professor Sibusiso Moyo Scoops the Entrepreneurial Development in Higher Education (EDHE) DVC Award 2021

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Professor Sibusiso Moyo was recently awarded the Entrepreneurial Development in Higher Education (EDHE) DVC Award at the EDHE 2021 Awards ceremony held at the Premier Hotel, in Johannesburg on the 19th of November 2021. Read more

High Gear Aligning TVET System with Industry Demand

Positioning South Africa’s public TVET college system to meet the needs of employers has been hampered by limited industry involvement in curriculum design and delivery, but that is changing thanks to a collaborative initiative that is aligning TVET courses with the automotive component manufacturing sector’s evolving needs. Read more

Kagame Praises Cape Town as a Reputable University in Africa 

President Paul Kagame has lauded the University of Cape Town as among reputable Universities in Africa that has shaped both South African and Rwandan students as well. Read more

New Medical School to Absorb Students Returning from Cuba

The Nelson Mandela University (NMU) medical school has committed to absorb the returning Cuban cohort of about 50 medical students. Read more

NWU Academic Aims to Boost Environmental Sustainability Through Industrial Engineering

Meelan Roopa, a lecturer in the North-West University’s (NWU’s) School of Industrial Engineering, is currently conducting research on new ideas and strategic ways of achieving environmental sustainability for developing countries through industrial engineering. Read more

Omicron: Academics Voice Their Dismay Over Travel Ban

African academics have expressed dismay at the move by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom and other countries to block flights from several African countries following the sequencing of a new, potentially more transmissible variant of COVID-19. Read more

Over 50% of Tertiary Student Doubtful that They’ll be Employed After Completing Studies

Over 50% of tertiary students in South Africa, say that they’re doubtful that they’ll be employed after completing their studies. This is according to a study conducted by the Professional Provident Society (PPS). Read more

Paradigm Shift in EU’s Collaboration with HE in Africa

As policy-makers gear up for a summit on 17-18 February 2022 where a new multi-year strategic agreement (2021-27) between the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU) will be introduced, research universities sent a clear message that enhanced African-European university collaboration should be a key component of the agreement. Read more

Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination Required to Register at Four Western Cape Universities

Proof of vaccination against the coronavirus will now be required to register at all four major institutions of higher learning in the Western Cape. Read more

Reflections on Academics and Agency During COVID

As South African universities continue to grapple with the changes to teaching and learning wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Council on Higher Education (CHE) says that, while the tertiary education sector has demonstrated incredible responsiveness amid the disruptions experienced over the past 20 months, this agility has not been without costs,… Read more

Review of Science Journals Shows Strengths and Weaknesses

Of the 22 journals in the mathematics and science disciplines evaluated by a review committee of the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf), three were recommended for removal from the accredited list of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). Read more

SA Cautioned Following Increase in Fake Honorary Degrees and Qualifications 

Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande says people should not be quick to receive qualifications and honorary degrees without verifying the credentials of the institution that is honoring them. Read more

Scientists Urge Leaders to Up Spending on Health Education

A group of nine African academics from South Africa, Kenya, Senegal, Nigeria and Mali have called on governments and other funders for increased local investment in health research and development with a special focus on developing scientific and production capabilities, …Read more

Sexual Violence Rampant on College Campuses, Say MRC Researchers 

Female students in higher education face “pervasive” sexual violence, according to researchers who interviewed 1,293 young women. One in five told a team from the SA Medical Research Council (MRC) they had experienced sexual violence in the past year,… Read more

Stellenbosch University Approves use of Afrikaans, English and isiXhosa

The Council of Stellenbosch University has approved the proposed new language policy for the institution with an overwhelming majority. The policy provides for the use of Afrikaans, English and isiXhosa in learning and teaching at the university, as well as in communication. Read more

Stellenbosch University Honours Arts Cape First Female CEO Marlene le Roux… 

First woman to be CEO of the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town, Marlene le Roux, will be receiving an Honorary Doctorate form Stellenbosch University (SU) this week.SU will confer honorary doctorates on six outstanding individuals who have made valuable contributions in the fields of medicine, Read more

Student Mobility Between Africa and US Falls During COVID

The COVID-19 pandemic has decreased the number of international students from Africa who are studying in universities in the United States, as their numbers fell from a high of 48,679 students in the 2019-20 academic year to 45,343 students in 2020-21, a drop of 6.85%. Read more

The Mine of the Near Future Needs More ‘Imagineers’

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is now in full play, forcing big industry to either adapt or go under. For the adaptable, it has opened many opportunities, with the mining and minerals industry rapidly pursuing the exploration and implementation of innovative technologies and processes. Read more

Two 80+ Year Olds Graduate from Stellenbosch University with Master’s and PhD 

Two graduates in their eighties have embodied the words “you are never too old to dream a new dream” after enrolling in postgraduate academic programmes and successfully completing them.Antoinette Swart (83) has received the degree PhD in Ancient Cultures at the SU Konservatorium in Stellenbosch,… Read more

UCT Researchers Honoured in L’Oreal-Unesco Programmes for Scientific Excellence 

Three PhD candidates from the University of Cape Town (UCT) have been recognised by the L’Oreal-Unesco For Women in Science programme for their excellent contributions to science in South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa. Read more

UKZN Academic to Serve on SA Planning Commission

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed UKZN town planning lecturer Professor Hangwelani Magidimisha-Chipungu as a member of the National Planning Commission (NPC) for the next five years. Read more

UKZN Hosts Cadaver Ceremony to Pay Homage to those Who’ve Donated Their Bodies… 

The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s College of Health Sciences last week held a funeral service for those who had donated their bodies to science. The dedication ceremony honours both the donor and the deceased for their act of donation. Read more

UKZN’s Liquid Propellant Rocket Engine ABLE Proves to be a Success

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has successfully tested a liquid propellant rocket engine through its Aerospace Systems Research Group (ASReG). Read more

UWC Adopts Mandatory COVID Vaccine Policy with Some Exemptions

The interim policy – which makes provision for certain exemptions on a case-by-case basis – will be reviewed at the end of the first semester next year. Read more

UNESCO Concludes Training of African Judicial Institutions on Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists

UNESCO in partnership with the African Court of Human and Peoples Rights conducted a 5-day Training of Trainers (ToT), organized between the 29 November  to 3 December 2021,… Read more

Universities are Front-Runners in Start-Up Support Programmes

Universities, among others, are leading Egypt as a tech powerhouse for Africa as the country now rivals – and even sometimes surpasses – more established start-up ecosystems such as South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya for levels of entrepreneurial innovation and investment. Read more

University of Johannesburg and I-DAIR Collaboration Set to Advance the Health Sector in the 4IR Sphere

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) recently signed a strategic agreement with Fondation pour l’institut de hautes études internationales et du développement acting through The International Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence Research Collaborative (I-DAIR) who are based in Geneva, Switzerland. Read more

Universities Must Do Away with Deployment of Police and Security Forces on Campuses…

South African Union of Students (SAUS) has called on higher education to create a single coordinated education system to deal with police brutality occurring on campuses. Read more

University of Venda Implements Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccination Policy 

The University of Venda in Thohoyandou Limpopo has implemented a mandatory vaccination policy for students and staff. University Spokesperson Takalani Dzaga says the policy will be effective from January 1, 2022. Read more

UP the Largest Producer of Research in SA

According to the vice-chancellor Professor Tawana Kupe, the University of Pretoria, which is the largest producer of research in South Africa, has no intention of resting on its well-recognised laurels. Read more

UP and Apolitical Academy Southern Africa Join Forces to Train Ethical Leaders… 

The University of Pretoria (UP) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Apolitical Academy Southern Africa (AASA) to collaborate on the training of ethical leaders in the country and the region. Read more

Vaccinate – or Say Goodbye to Your Studies 

Students who fail to get vaccinated against Covid-19 and fail to get an exemption may not be able to register for courses and could even be deregistered. Those are among the measures several universities are adopting as they impose mandatory vaccination for staff and students from next year. Read more

WITS Offering R9K Short Course for Free to Those Affected by COVID-19 

The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) is now offering a Certified Short Course in software development to those who have lost their jobs or have found it difficult to find employment, both as results of the pandemic. Read more

Wits SRC Warns Mandatory Vaccination Policy May Sow Divisions on Campus

The Wits University student representative council (SRC) has hit back at a mandatory vaccination policy set to be implemented next year. Read more

Women in HE: ‘We Either Rise Together or Sink Together’

Nurturing girls’ education at basic and secondary levels of learning, and offering increased support to women already in academia are some of the strategies that will ensure greater inclusivity in the African research sector. Read more

WSU Graduate Wins Merit Award at Sasol Art Competition

Walter Sisulu University fine art graduate, Sibaninzi Dlathu (25), walked away with a merit prize of R10 000, after making the top seven in this year’s Sasol New Signatures art competition, held on November 11, at the Pretoria Art Museum. Read more

 

30 November 2021

All Universities Must Strive to Reach the Pinnacle of the Annual EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity

A total of 18 of South Africa’s 26 public universities were represented at the EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity 2021 finals last week – and the address delivered virtually by Ms Mandisa Cakwe, Acting Chief Director:… Read more

British High Commission Plans Partnership to Develop Youth Technical Skills

The British government will invest up to £75-million of official development assistance, globally, for skills development across nine fast-growing economies; with the South African portion being dedicated to addressing the skills gaps, skills mismatch and quality training for unemployed youth and youth in post-school education and training. Read more

Circular Thinking Education Will Aid Sustainable Development

Inefficient management of the abundant natural resources in Africa prompted experts to call on universities on the continent to join the ‘education for circularity’ movement to equip students with knowledge and skills in circular thinking. Read more

Contact or Online? Moving Away from Binary Approaches

The coronavirus pandemic has presented us with an opportunity to hit the reset button – to reorganise, intentionally redesign and rethink teaching and learning as we know it. Read more

COVID-19 is Advancing a New Architecture of Knowledge

South Africa, according to World Bank data, is the world’s most unequal society, divided by forms of racialised and gender inequality that emerge from its history of colonialism and apartheid. Read more

Creating Engaged, Student-Centred and Responsive Universities

Professor Puleng Lenka Bula, Chairperson of the Transformation Strategy Group (TSG) and Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of South Africa, reported that she had found the three TSG breakaway sessions exciting. Read more

DUT Launched 4IR Centre of Excellence

The state-of-the-art equipment installed in the high-tech laboratories for the Internet of Things and robotics is fully equipped to support postgraduate research in IoT, drone-based computing systems, robotics programming, and computing networks. Read more

DUT Launches the Groundbreaking Innobiz DUT Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation

A two-day hybrid launch of the Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) newly named Innobiz DUT Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation was held at DUT’s Indumiso Campus in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday, 04 November 2021,… Read more

DUT’s Level Six Edumove Gives Learners the Chance to Bring their Architectural Ideas into a Reality

The Community Engagement Office [CEO] under the DVC Research Innovation and Engagement in collaboration with the Level Six EduMove, partnered with The Umkhumbane Schools Project [USP] to host an Architecture Showcasing on 14 October 2021. Read more

DUT to Reopen Campuses on Wednesday After Violent Protests 

Durban University of Technology (DUT) says it will reopen three of its campuses after protest action, allegedly by the EFF-lead student representative council (SRC), led to the shutdown of the Steve Biko, Ritson and ML Sultan campuses on Monday. Read more

Grassroots Research Gives a Voice to the Plight of Men at Risk of a Silent Killer: Prostate Cancer

While discussing mother and baby health at a community gathering in the rural Vhembe District of Limpopo, one of the male traditional leaders asked when we are going to do something for men. Read more

First mRNA Vaccine Technology Transfer Hub Gets to Work

The World Health Organization and the COVID Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) initiative announced in mid-2021 that they were working with a consortium to establish the first COVID messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine technology transfer hub on the African continent, in South Africa. What does this work entail? What will it mean for the continent? Read more

How a Giraffe and Lightning Generated in a Wits Lab have Lit Up Forensic Science 

New research at Wits University could help forensic investigators determine whether people or animals are killed by lightning based solely on an analysis of their skeletons. Read more

How Wits University’s New “Light Beam” Tech Can Bring Fibre to Informal Settlements

The tech has been described as a beam of light “from a fibre-connected suburban home to a 3D-printed wireless communication system to a school in an informal settlement across the road, providing learners with instant high-speed, reliable internet access.” Read more

Innovation for African Unis Program Launched 

The British Council has launched a program seeking to foster and strengthen universities support for entrepreneurial ecosystems in Sub-Saharan Africa.The Innovation for African Universities program comprises 24 project partnerships with universities… Read more

Judgment on Student Theft Case Postponed Owing to Exams

Judgment in the trial of the Walter Sisulu University student, accused of the theft of ZAR14 million (US$900,000) of National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) money in South Africa, has been postponed to 14 December because she is writing exams, … Read more

KZN School of Law Raises R18 Million in Research Funding 

An innovative legal research project, led by Prof Donrich Thaldar of the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) School of Law, has been awarded R18 million in funding by the United States National Institutes of Health (NIH). Read more

Mandela Uni Open Education Advocate Receives Global Award #R2bP

In recognition of his outstanding contribution to the Open Education community, Academic Developer and leader of Mandela University’s Open Education Influencers Project, Gino Fransman, has been recognised with a global Open Education Award for Excellence. Read more

N$170m Climate-Change Windfall for SADC

To achieve this goal, Namibia has established a graduate school on integrated water resources management at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust), which is expected to be transformed into a Centre of Excellence for the SADC region. Read more

NMU Set for Official Launch of Medical School

The ground-breaking group of aspirant medical doctors at the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) Medical School are putting their newfound knowledge to the test with examinations now under way. Read more

PhD Graduate Reaches for the Stars

Twala is a project manager for the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag). She started at the organisation as a volunteer in 2017. Read more

Professor Ncoza Dlova Becomes the First Black Female Full Professor at UKZN…

The renowned dermatologist has been busy since she last spoke to us. Starting a haircare business, winning international awards and making history once again – it seems like it’s all in day’s work for Professor Ncoza Dlova, but the journey has been long. Read more

Projects Pave Women’s Way into Data Science Fields

Data science has been playing a critical role in tackling real-life challenges across African communities and sectors such as health and urban development. Despite a steady increase in data scientists in Africa, gender parity and equality in the field has yet to be achieved. Read more

Protesting UKZN Students Burn Westville Campus Guardhouse, Stone Building and Cars

A group of University of KwaZulu-Natal(UKZN) students protested at the Westville campus yesterday, demanding that public transport be allowed onto the premises. Read more

Rhodes Places Lecturer Accused of Rape on Special Leave 

A Rhodes University lecturer who was accused of rape by a student has been placed on special leave. The court case was closed by the NPA, according to the university, who issued a statement on Friday. Read more

Scientists Find Fossil of Early Hominid in South Africa 

The fossil remains of an early hominid child have been discovered in a cave in South Africa by a team of international and South African researchers. Read more

Something Amiss in Engagement with Student Leaders

During the first two weeks of November, South Africa’s Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, in collaboration with the South African Union of Students (SAUS) and Polisee Space, a public policy consulting organisation, … Read more

South Africa’s Best Universities to Study These Top Subjects

Times Higher Education (THE) has published its annual ranking of the top universities for 2022 by subject, featuring 10 South African universities in four key fields of study. Read more

School of Law Publishes Its First Peer-Reviewed Law Journal

The School of Law has recently published its much-anticipated peer-reviewed journal titled ‘’Turf Law Journal’’, which seeks to create a platform for high quality research on transformative and developmental perspectives on law in South Africa and beyond. Read more

Telegram App Used to Teach Student Entrepreneurs

Homeboy Mthembu is a jewellery design and manufacturing student at Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) City campus. When he isn’t juggling his demanding studies, he is working on his jewellery brand, BigHomie and Co, designing attractive pieces for his growing customer base in his rental studio. Read more

The Quest for Collaborative, Ethical and Impactful Research

As she reported on the three breakaway sessions of the Research and Innovation Strategy Group (RISG), Professor Thoko Mayekiso, Chairperson of RISG and Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Mpumalanga, said the three sub-themes that they had unpacked,… Read more

Top 20 Best Universities in AFRICA – US World News Ranking System (2021)

The rankings are based on, Global research reputation (12.5%), Regional research reputation (12.5%), Publications (10%), Books (2.5%), Conferences (2.5%), Normalized citation impact (10%), Total citations (7.5%), Number of publications that are among the 10% most cited (12.5%), … Read more

UCT Fees Hiked by Almost 400% in Almost 100 Years 

Inflation-adjusted tuition fees at the University of Cape Town (UCT) increased by an average of nearly 400% from 1923 to 2020.Most of the increase in tuition fees happened after 1970. Read more

UCT GSB MBA Ranks Top in Africa on Sustainability Performance

The University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business (UCT GSB) has been ranked 22nd in the world for its MBA programme on the Corporate Knights’ 2021 Better World MBA list of the top 40 global business schools. Read more

UCT’s Professor Lynette Denny Honoured by the President with National Order

Cape Town – Close to three decades of research on cervical cancer was recently recognised when University of Cape Town Professor Lynette Denny received the Order of the Baobab in Silver. Read more

UCT’s Rebecca Ackermann Appointed to Prestigious Journal

Professor Rebecca Ackermann has been appointed to the editorial board of the prestigious scientific journal Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B. Professor Ackermann is a biological anthropologist, professor in the Department of Archaeology, and the deputy director of the Human Evolution Research Institute (HERI) at the University of Cape Town (UCT). Read more

UCT Students Should Remember 3rd January for Appeals to Continue Studying

Students at the University of Cape Town (UCT) have been urged to remember the date of 3rd January 2022, as it is the deadline to submit an appeal to continue to study. Read more

UJ Warns Against Fake Funding Message Doing the Rounds

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has issued a warning to students that false information is being circulated that should not be engaged with. Read more

UKZN’s Engineering Master’s Student Outdoes Herself

Durban – Giselle Pillay graduated cum laude for her Master of Science in Engineering degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She specialised in waste and resource management, a new master’s programme now offered by the university. Read more

UKZN Pietermaritzburg SRC Chair to Focus on Students’ Rights

The newly-elected student representative council (SRC) chair at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Pietermaritzburg campus is determined to champion students’ rights. Read more

UKZN Professor is a Leading Diabetes Researcher

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) professor Shahidul Islam was named in Expertscape’s top 0.1% of scholars, this week, for his expertise, experimental and research work in a particular aspect of diabetes, especially over the last decade. Read more

UKZN Students Slam Decision to Close University Residences by November 30 

Student leadership at the University of KwaZulu-Natal have vowed to challenge the decision by the institution to require them to vacate residences by November 30. Read more

UKZN Students Take Second Place at 2021 Youth Innovation Challenge

A group of young and talented University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) students secured second place in the 2021 Youth Innovation Challenge (YIC). Read more

Unisa Multidisciplinary Team Wins the NRF Science Team Award 

The National Research Foundation (NRF) has recognised a multidisciplinary team of Unisa researchers with the prestigious NRF Science Team Award. Read more

Universities are as Transformed as they Positively Change the Environments in Which They are Located

Former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lincoln in England, and one of the contributing authors to the book The Responsive University and the Crisis in South Africa, Professor Mary Stuart, says universities stand to maintain relevance if they evaluate and work with the needs of communities in which they exist. Read more

Universities Granted Millions to Develop Covid-19 Vaccine 

Walter Sisulu University (WSU) and North West University (NWU) have been granted R3.5m to support locally made candidate vaccines, including one for Covid-19.A memorandum of agreement between WSU and the Chemical Industries Education & Training Authority (Chieta) was signed in November… Read more

Universities Put Measures in Place Amid Load Shedding and Exams

Tertiary institutions in the province are in discussions with their students about the impact of load shedding on their studies and how to support them with exams underway. Read more

University of Free State Student Abducted and Robbed at Gunpoint

A University of Free State student was allegedly kidnapped by two men travelling in a car with a Lesotho registration number. Read more

University of Pretoria Expert to Lead WHO Group Probing Origins of Novel Pathogens Including COVID-19

Professor Marietjie Venter of the University of Pretoria (UP) has been selected to chair the international scientific advisory team appointed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to probe the origins of novel pathogens including SARS-CoV-2. Read more

University of Pretoria Honours its top Researchers at Annual Academic Achievers’ Awards

The awards are hosted annually by the university to acknowledge the work of UP’s academics, who increasingly ensure that their research helps to solve “real-life problems” and has a transformative impact on South African and global society. Read more

UP’s Centre for Human Rights Publishes Photobook Highlighting the Stories of LGBTIQ+ People Living in South Africa

The Centre for Human Rights (CHR), Faculty of Law, at the University of Pretoria (UP) has launched a photobook series, titled Looking through the prism: Narratives of queer dignity in South Africa, featuring photographs and narratives of the lives of LGBTIQ+ people living in South Africa. Read more

UP’s Zoology Programme Ranked 45^th Globally in University Ranking…

The University of Pretoria’s (UP) Department of Zoology and Entomology in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences has been ranked 45th globally for its research and impact by the University Ranking by Academic Performance (URAP). Read more

Vaccine Inequity: Countries Fail at ‘Global Solidarity’

Sub-Saharan Africa has no shortage of public health challenges: as a region, it carries the highest burden of disease in the world and boasts some of the lowest allocations of public funding to deal with that burden. Read more

WSU Men Pledge Solidarity Against GBV

Over sixty male students at Walter Sisulu University’s Komani Campus recently took a binding pledge to immortalize their solidarity with South African women burdened by the scourge of gender-based violence. Read more

Young African Universities Take the Lead

Having long played the role of collaborators with other, more renowned, institutions, historically disadvantaged South African universities are now challenging the status quo — and emerging as leaders. Read more

 

31 October 2021

6^th Africa Council for Distance Education Conference Ends Successfully

The 6th African Council for Distance Education (ACDE) conference ended successfully with a call to stakeholders within the education space to consider the enormous potential of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in changing the face of pedagogy in Africa. Read more

11 Universities in South Africa Ranked Among the Best in Emerging Economies

Times Higher Education (THE) has published its annual ranking of the top universities in emerging markets for 2022, listing 11 South African universities among them. Read more

Agricultural Universities as Enablers of Entrepreneurship

The Transforming African Agricultural Universities to Meaningfully Contribute to Africa’s Growth and Development (TAGDev) initiative is helping students to translate their research into viable businesses and universities to become enablers of entrepreneurship. Read more

Almost One in Four Female African Entrepreneurs Have Innovated, According to a UNESCO Survey

At least half of the women entrepreneurs held at least a bachelor’s degree in nine of the ten countries studied. These findings contradict a misconception in Africa that women launch their own business for lack of education or other career options. Read more

Community Engagement in the Context of Academic Capitalism

Universities currently negotiate a marked tension between market orientation and addressing community needs. But there is growing concern that, if universities do not work for the benefit of society or in response to community needs, the inequities that plague the current generation will be more readily reproduced in the next. Read more

Constitutional Court Resets the Narrative on Afrikaans

In its long-awaited decision in Chairperson of the Council of UNISA v AfriForum NPC, the South African Constitutional Court recently struck down the policy, adopted by the University of South Africa (UNISA) in 2016, … Read more

Council ‘Has Dismally Failed UNISA’, States Damning Report

In a damning report, the governing council of South Africa’s largest public distance-learning institution, the University of South Africa (UNISA), has been severely criticised for its lack of good governance and failure to safeguard the academic future of the institution. Read more

Countries Take Steps Towards Harmonised TVET Qualifications

Countries in the East African region are to benefit from a harmonised framework for the recognition of qualifications and certification in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions. Read more

COVID-19 Continues to Marginalise Women in Rural Areas

The Covid-19 pandemic has stripped naked the severe marginalisation of women seeking access to educational opportunities in rural Eastern Cape communities, according to a Walter Sisulu University research study. Read more

DA, Student Organisation to Haul Stellenbosch University to Court Over Its Language Policy

The DA accused the university of using Covid-19 as a ploy to do away with Afrikaans, saying it planned to launch court action against the management of the university this week. Read more

Emergency Online Remote Learning’s Unintended Consequences

In 2020, the higher education sector, notoriously known for reacting slowly to change, was forced to ‘pivot’ towards the emergency online remote learning space. Some did it well, others did not. Read more

Edinburgh to Collaborate on Academic, Research and Innovation Projects 

Wits University and the University of Edinburgh (Scotland, United Kingdom) have renewed a partnership and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to co-operate on teaching, research and community outreach activities and projects, … Read more

Engaged Universities can Produce Graduates Who Stand for Peace, Social Harmony and Development

Three distinct takes were offered on Universities and Democracy at the recent higher education conference. The first, from Professor Catherine Odora Hoppers, offered a fresh reading of our understanding of democracy. Read more

Engagement is Transformation: The University and Community Engagement

The mutual inter-dependence of transformation and community engagement was the grounding question for this engagement hosted by the Council on Higher education. Covering a range of policy drivers, different interpretations of “communities”, Read more

Focus on Kindness, Positive Citizenship Critical in HE

‘Knowledge curatorialism’ is the process through which contemporary universities shape students’ learning journeys. Read more

Improving the Plight of the Postdoc During COVID and Beyond

Postdoctoral research fellows or postdocs make a valuable contribution to the research outputs of higher education institutions, produce new knowledge using innovative techniques, and generate much-needed research income. Read more

Indigenous Languages at Forefront of New Higher Education Policy…

The New Language Policy Framework for Public Higher Education Institutions gazetted in October 2020, is a mere three months away from its implementation. While its imperatives are laudable, an implementation strategy must be set and grey areas need to be cleared. Read more

Internationalisation – A Step Towards Quality Higher Education

African universities have been urged to internationalise their curricula as a first step towards strengthening and marketing African higher education and graduates in a rapidly changing world. Read more

KZN Universities Weigh in on Mandatory Vaccination, Students not Forced but …

Although Western Cape universities are considering mandatory Covid-19 vaccinations for their staff and students, KwaZulu-Natal universities say the move is not being considered for their institutions. Read more

Makerere University to Host Kings of Africa Rugby Sevens

Makerere University will this weekend host the Kings of Africa Rugby Sevens. The tournament will see Universities from Uganda, South Africa, Kenya, Botswana and Libya fight look to book a ticket to the World University Games in Kazan, Russia next year. Read more

Mandatory Vaccinations: Wits University Reveals Plan for Staff and Students

That’s the talk going on in countless countries, businesses, and even places of learning around the globe. In an email sent out to Wits University staff and students, a proposed vaccine plan has been revealed. Read more

Millions for Regional Programme in Oceanography

The Nelson Mandela University in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province has a new programme on ecological connectivity and oceanography in the south-west Indian Ocean that is anchored on linking marine studies in Mozambique, Madagascar, the Seychelles, the Comoros and South Africa. Read more

Nine Universities to Help Build Pan-African Network

The British Council has announced the names of nine South African universities that were awarded grants under the Innovation for Africa project, which is part of its Going Global Partnerships programme. Read more

NWU Among the Best in Engineering Studies

The North-West University (NWU) is one of the top institutions in South Africa in engineering studies. This is according to the latest rankings by subject by Times Higher Education (THE) that list the NWU in the third position (the same as last year) among nine local higher-education institutions in the field of engineering. Read more

Porsches for Professors? Debates About Entrepreneurship Continue

Over the past decade or so, the debate primarily taking place within business schools about whether entrepreneurs are ‘born’ or ‘made’ has been overtaken by the idea that all students across all faculties and at all universities can and should benefit from being exposed to some form of entrepreneurship training. Read more

Restoring a Sense of Pride in University’s Academics

When she was appointed to the role of vice-chancellor at Walter Sisulu University (WSU), in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, in December 2020, Professor Rushiella Songca joined the ranks of the few female-led universities in South Africa. Her mission is to get the previously disadvantaged institution back on track. Read more

SA Universities Scored as World’s Best Computer Science and Engineering Institutions are Named

Times Higher Education today released the results of its World University Rankings 2022 by subject for computer science and engineering. Read more

Several Universities Require COVID-19 Vaccination Passes

Several South African universities are to require a vaccine pass from staff and students from 2022. South Africa’s 26-member vice-chancellors’ body, Universities South Africa (USAf), has emphatically declared that vaccination is a must. Read more

Should Universities Offer Free On-Campus Covid-19 Tests for Students Who Don’t Wish to Get Vaccinated?

The Wits University Student Representative Council (SRC) wants the institution to provide free, on-campus Covid-19 tests for students who do not want to vaccinate against Covid-19.  Read more

South African Universities Heading in the Right Direction by Mandating Covid-19 Vaccination

Arguing against mandatory vaccinations using human rights as a point of reference has been largely divisive and disingenuous. Not all arguments hold water. Does our Constitution, read properly, allow anyone as a right to go into a crowded lecture hall or workplace unmasked, unvaccinated, untested amid pandemics? Read more

South Africa’s Universities Must Shed Their Dominant Modern/Colonial Imaginary Character…

South Africa’s universities must shed their dominant character and orientation that is trapped in a modern/colonial imaginary, to truly transform and become more responsive to their contexts, … Read more

Stellenbosch University Wine Researcher Rises Above Many Challenges to Achieve Global Recognition

Cape Town – Stellenbosch University researcher Dr Erna Blancquaert was motivated to embark on in a career in the wine industry “to combat prejudice in the wine industry and academia’’. Read more

Stellies Student’s Hard Work Receives Highest Honour

The hard work and dedication of a young man who aims to improve the lives of those around him has landed him an award. Read more

Tertiary Institutions Should Consider New Approaches of Learning and Teaching

The recommendation comes after a study by researchers from the University of the Western Cape (UWC) found that a vast majority of 672 first-year students questioned in the survey said they only attended between one and four lectures over a three-week period. Read more

The Entrepreneurial University is an ‘Emergent Space’

Universities are the sites where smart people converge and where innovation thrives. From this, universities are fertile ground for instilling entrepreneurship skills in every student and graduate to contribute to economic development. Read more

The University as an Incubator Versus the University with an Incubator

Higher education institutions need to evolve from merely being places of teaching, learning and research to drivers of innovation and entrepreneurship. With nearly nine million South Africans currently unemployed and 73 percent of these being below the age of 35, the need to drive entrepreneurship is more urgent than ever. Read more

Towards the Intellectualisation of African Languages

If intellectual giants in history – legendary names such as Sigmund Freud, Albert Einstein, Niels Bohr, Karl Marx and many others – had been instructed in isiZulu to the exclusion of their mother tongue, would they have attained the intellectual milestones for which they are now renowned around the globe? Read more

UCT Student Turns Urine into Fertiliser 

It’s been described as the “liquid gold” of wastewater. Every day, millions of litres of urine are flushed away but it is a valuable waste stream, according to environmental engineer Hlumelo Marepula. Read more

UFS Wants All Staff and Students to be Vaccinated by Feb 2022 to Gain Access to Campus 

The University of the Free State (UFS) wants all its staff and students to be vaccinated and be able to provide vaccination certificates from the first of February 2022. Read more

UKZN Student Entrepreneur’s Novelty Crayons a Winner

A UKZN student entrepreneur has made it to the finals of the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) national challenge. Read more

UKZN Students Protest Over the State of Kingswood Residence in Pinetown

Approximately 100 University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) students living at a leased residence in Pinetown protested outside the Kingswood residence yesterday morning. Read more

Universities Can Use Their Influence to Fight Inequality

Universities are the single most influential institutions in societies all over the world. They are centres of ideas, discoveries, technological development and culture and engines of local, national and global economics. Read more

Universities Must Make Learning African Languages a Condition for Completing a degree

Is there anything that you can call African multilingualism? The idea of your identity, the nature of who you are when you are at university and what the university does in shaping human language, is the critical part of who we become. Read more

Universities Must Rethink How They Do Research to Imagine a Better Trajectory for the Future

Professor Laura Pereira did not exaggerate when she said she would be a giving a presentation from “a slightly different angle”. Billed as one of the international plenary speakers at Universities South Africa (USAf’s)…Read more

Universities Need to Re-Think Their Use of Resources and Modes of Engagement…

South Africa is standing at a crossroads, facing an unprecedented set of challenges where ‘business as usual’ will not work; where universities must find new ways to do things differently – especially in the context of the pandemic, a crisis that presents serious challenges and new opportunities. Read more

UP Co-Hosts Lekgotla on Challenges and Gains of Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education

The University of Pretoria (UP), Universities South Africa (USAf) and other stakeholders recently sat down with the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) programme to discuss the challenges of business and start-up development in higher education, … Read more

UWC’s Water Project to be Presented at Berlin Science Week in November

A University of the Western Cape (UWC) academic and her team working on a Water Research Commission (WRC) project has been shortlisted for a prestigious international award. Read more

Why Students Don’t Attend Lectures

The main reason students gave for not attending classes was that they were busy studying for tests or completing assignments. Some students relied on PowerPoint slides (instead of using prescribed textbooks) to study, and some spent a lot of time travelling to campus because they used two or even three transport modes to get there. Read more

Working from Home Makes Women’s Academic Guilt Worse

Academic guilt is well-established in literature on the work of women scholars who are simultaneously mothers and lecturers, homemakers and researchers, nurturers and administrators. Read more

WSU’S Indigenous Knowledge at the Center of COFIMVAMBA Science Exhibition

As Walter Sisulu University rebrands as an African university, a team of researchers from the Anthropology Department and Chemistry Department recently unveiled an Indigenous Knowledge Systems exhibition stand at the Cofimvaba Science Centre. Read more

 

30 September 2021

11 New Subjects Planned for Colleges and Universities in South Africa

The Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA) has developed 11 new qualifications aimed at addressing the shortage of skilled labour in South Africa’s IT sector. Read more

AAU and UNISA Discuss on Areas of Common Interest for Collaboration

Addis Ababa University (AAU) and University of South Africa (UNISA) hold discussion on areas where they have common interest to collaboration in their future at the Office of the President of AAU… Read more

Academic Raises Funds from the Street to Help Needy Students

In 2015, the University of Mpumalanga public administration senior lecturer and programme leader for bachelor of administration founded Thusangwanageno, a non-profit organisation raising tertiary education funds for needy students. Read more

Appointing Women in ‘Significant Positions’ Matters

South Africa’s 2019 Post-School Education Statistics showed there were 727 more men than women employed in the instruction and research category in South Africa’s higher education institutions compared with 5,758 more females employed in administrative categories within the higher education sector. Read more

Book on Decolonisation Reflects on Difference, Oppression

The end of the colonial and apartheid regimes in South Africa and other African countries might have been a big step towards the liberation from slavery and other forms of human oppression,… Read more

Covid-19: How Africa’s Top Scientists Have Tracked Emerging Variants, Ensuring We’re Not Left Behind

Africa has stepped up its surveillance of emerging variants of the Covid-19 virus, and a detailed paper shows how the work of hundreds of scientists and public health officials from the continent is ensuring that Africa does not get left behind in the global response to the pandemic. Read more

Defining Micro-Credentials: Opportunities and Challenges in Shaping the Educational Landscape

Professor Oliver’s presentation was followed by a live discussion amongst a panel of experts representing organizations from Canada, Germany, South Africa, Australia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.  The experts’ insights and viewpoints drew on their own experiences with micro-credentials in their countries or institutions. Read more

Dream of Authentic SA Universities Yet to be Realised

South Africa has failed to produce a higher education system that meets its fundamental social and developmental needs in the democratic era, according to a new book, Understanding Higher Education: … Read more

DUT Management Snub Protest Held by Ex-Lecturers and Unions

Union officials and retrenched Durban University of Technology (DUT) lecturers were left fuming when the institution snubbed their picket on Friday. Read more

DUT Offers Career Guidance to High School Learners

Grade 10 learner, Zamandosi Ngema said she enjoyed the interactive sessions and expressed her interest in what DUT offers and the process on how to apply for such programmes. Read more

ECRLF Helping to Co-create the Future of African Academic Leadership

Makerere University in partnership with University of Pretoria on 14th September 2021 hosted the Future Africa’s Early Career Research Leader Fellowship (ECRLF) Dissemination Workshop in the Central Teaching Facility 2 (CTF 2) Auditorium and virtually. Read more

Extract of Press News on Higher Education in Africa

Student entrepreneurs tend to be obsessed with writing business plans, how to access money, register their company, set up a bank account, and with buzzwords such as “business modelling”. Read more

Full Impact of COVID-19 on Education May Only be Evident in 10 Years’ Time…

Socio-economic researcher at Stellenbosch University and analyst at the Department of Basic Education, Professor Martin Gustafsson says COVID-19 has drastically affected the teaching and learning process for 2020, however, its full impact may only be evident in 10 years from now. Read more

HERA Telescope to Unravel Epoch of Reionisation Mysteries

The Hydrogen Epoch of Reionisation Array (HERA), a US$25 million radio telescope in South Africa dedicated to observing large-scale structures during and prior to the period of reionisation, has opened research opportunities weeks ahead of its completion. Read more

Higher Education, Science and Innovation Fulfills Its Role in Post-COVID Economy

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science and Technology, Ms Nompendulo Mkhatshwa says Covid-19 has raised the importance of investing in science, technology, research and innovation. Read more

Hip Hop was My First Academic Qualification

In 1994, I started grade 8, my first year of secondary education, when less than 10% of the school population was black. It was a great time in a new world. Democracy was on the horizon and, as South Africans, we were in a fishbowl being studied. Read more

HyperionDev Joins Forces with Unisa to Boost Tech Skills

Pioneering Riaz Moola, South Africa’s inspirational founder of coding boot camps which have gone global, is about to get another feather in his cap – his skills innovation efforts at bridging the gap between higher education and technology have led to an exciting partnership with Africa’s largest distance-learning institution. Read more

Institutions in SA, Egypt, Kenya Ranked for Graduate Skills

Two South African universities have been placed in the top 200 institutions in the world for their work towards the production of graduates with the skills and knowledge required for the modern workplace. Read more

Journalism Schools Should Teach Peace Modules

The Sunday Mail Online Reporter Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa has urged institutions of higher learning to consider adopting peace studies as a module taught to journalism students. Read more

MBA Rankings: Schools in Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa on List

Five African business schools are among 286 institutions globally that offer the world’s best Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree programmes, according to QS Quacquarelli Symonds, a major ranking provider of analytics and other insights on the higher education sector worldwide. Read more

Medical Student Uses Rap, Hip Hop, to Fight COVID-19

A fifth-year medical student from the University of Pretoria (UP) in South Africa and the dean of the faculty of health sciences have come up with a novel science communication strategy to promote COVID-19 vaccinations and dispel myths about the jab. Read more

Mentorship is a Powerful Tool to Open up STEM to Women

Martin Canaan Mafunda is a PhD researcher in the physics department at South Africa’s University of KwaZulu-Natal, working in the field of machine learning. Read more

New Test to Diagnose Vaginal Inflammation Could Help Reduce Risk of HIV Infection

A team of researchers from the University of Cape Town (UCT) have found a new way to test for asymptomatic vaginal infections in women in resource-poor settings. Read more

New Variants: Africa Needs to Strengthen its COVID Response

Genomic surveillance of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic by public health officials and scientists across Africa has shown that it was introduced to the continent predominantly from Europe. Read more

NWU Keeps Business Community Up to Date

As South Africans brace for a likely fourth wave of Covid-19 around November, the North-West University (NWU) is keeping the channels of communication open in a sea of confusion. Read more

Postdoctoral Fellowships: The Power of Peer Teaching

The postdoctoral fellowship can be a wonderful way to kick-start an academic career. Read more

Postgraduate Training: The Art of Study Supervision

For an academic to supervise a postgraduate student’s research toward a masters or doctoral degree is a complex and demanding responsibility. Read more

President of the Association of African Universities Participates in the Inauguration and Investiture of UNISA’s First Female Vice Chancellor

The President of the Association of African Universities (AAU), Professor Bakri Osman Saeed received a kind invitation from Professor Puleng LenkaBula, the new Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of South Africa (UNISA), to participate in her inauguration ceremony. Read more

Rankings: African Universities Have Made Progress Since 2018

African universities at last may be shaking off the longstanding unenviable characterisation of not measuring up to their counterparts in other parts of the world when it comes to providing high-quality teaching, research output, knowledge transfer and international outlook, … Read more

Reflections on Engaged, More Responsive Universities

For far too long, two core missions of universities, of teaching and research, have enjoyed superior importance over the third mission of community engagement. Read more

Researchers in Africa Unite to Tackle Challenges (Africa)

Africa’s researchers from the humanities and natural sciences have resolved to combine efforts and implement solutions unearthed from their findings to tackle major challenges that plague the continent. Read more

SA’s Quantum Technology Initiative, Led by Wits University, to Side-Step Competitors

The South African Quantum Technology Initiative (SA QuTI), headed by the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), does not intend to directly take on the major international quantum technologies competitor countries. Read more

 SA Universities Weigh Mandatory Jabs for Staff and Students

As the debate about mandatory vaccination policies intensifies, some of SA’s leading universities are mulling making it compulsory for staff and students to get jabs against Covid-19 to ensure the academic programme is not disrupted. Read more

South African Schools are Falling Behind in Math and Science

The Department of Basic Education plans to boost its maths and science capabilities after schools fell further behind in these subjects due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Read more

Stellenbosch University and Imperial Collaborate on Real-World Healthcare and Climate Change Challenges

Stellenbosch University (SU) has embarked on a high-level collaboration with JSE-listed Imperial Logistics (Imperial) to address real-world problems related to healthcare, as well as climate change in Africa. Read more

Targeted, Proactive Efforts Needed to Strengthen Physics

The need for a proactive effort to improve the teaching and researching of physics in Sub-Saharan Africa as a foundation for critically important scientific work has been highlighted in a new report from the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) and the UK-based Institute of Physics (IOP). Read more

The Covid-19 Pandemic and its Strain on Women

Not only has the Covid-19 pandemic put significant strain on the global economy and public health systems, but it also contributed to greater inequality and discrimination against women. Read more

Turnover is High in South Africa’s Higher Education Sector: What Could Turn the Tide

“Why are my employees leaving my organisation?”. “What can I do to make my valuable employees stay at my organisation?”. “What makes employees stay in their employment?”. Read more

UCT Historian Unearths the Influence of the Ottoman Empire on Present Day Cape Malay Culture 

Historian and postdoctoral research fellow in African Studies at UCT, Halim Gençoğlu who made headline for uncovering UCT’s first black medical doctor, is again in the limelight, for unpacking the influence and legacy of the Ottoman Empire and its influence on present day Cape Malay culture. Read more

UCT Still Highest Ranked in Africa Despite Covid-19

University of Cape Town (UCT) vice-chancellor Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng is pleased with the institution’s latest Times Higher Education (THE) ranking, which sees it retain its top spot in Africa and come 183rd out of the more than 16 000 international institutions ranked. Read more

UCT Under Fire for ‘Hurtful’ Seminar on LGBTQA+ Individuals

The Gender Diversity Coalition has called for the University Of Cape Town (UCT) to act swiftly, alleging that the university’s recent seminar on science and LGBTQA+ was hurtful to the transgender and intersex community, who are vilified daily by some medics. Read more

UCT Vice-Chancellor Apologises to LGBTQIA+ Community

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town (UCT) Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng apologised to the LGBTQIA+ community for a seminar she co-hosted on Sunday, September 4. Read more

UFS Scientists Involved in Revolutionary Protein Structure Prediction

The team of researchers recently contributed to an influential paper describing new methods in protein structure prediction using machine learning. The paper was published in the prestigious scientific journal, Science. Read more

Universities Called Upon to Lead Political Engagement

African universities have been called upon to be engaged in political and social activism and take leading roles towards improving the human condition on the continent by exposing inherent dangers of inequalities, exclusion, oppression, racism and other forms of coloniality in society. Read more

Universities Mull Mandatory Vaccination Policies

Some university students and staff could be compelled to vaccinate against Covid-19 before they are able to return to in-person classes. Read more

UWC Partners with WHO on a New Genomic Surveillance Centre to Monitor Disease Outbreaks Beyond Covid-19 in Africa

The World Health Organization Africa, together with South African National Bioinformatics Institute (SANBI), University of the Western Cape (UWC), is launching a new Regional Centre of Excellence for Genomic Surveillance and Bioinformatics (RCEGSB) in Cape Town. Read more

Vitamin D Deficiency is Not Responsible for TB in Children

Vitamin D deficiency has long been considered a risk factor for tuberculosis in adults as it impairs the immune response to the TB bug, but a new study by the University of Cape Town has found that low levels of the sunshine vitamin in children doesn’t necessarily make them susceptible to the illness. Read more

Why Student Mental Health Should be a Priority for Universities

Over 30% of university students have experienced a common mental disorder in the past year, according to the World Health Organisation. In South Africa, statistics show that 20.8% of first-year students had experienced anxiety and 13.6% had experienced depression. Read more

Wit’s Student Shortlisted for Prestigious International Student Award

A Wits University student has been selected in the top 50 for a new award given to one exceptional student that has made a real impact on learning, the lives of their peers and on society beyond. Read more

 

31 August 2021

A Missed Opportunity to Rethink Internationalisation

After centuries of colonial subjugation and decades of apartheid brutality and oppression – both rooted in white supremacy and racial capitalism – South Africa emerged ‘free’ in 1994. Despite the freedom and democracy, deeply entrenched structural inequalities continue to wreck South African society, economy and higher education. Read more

Can ARUA Lead Africa on the Path to Research Excellence?

The African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), driven by a need to establish a culture of publishing verifiable data about African universities, has launched a report titled Research Profiles of ARUA Universities… Read more

Cape Town Student’s Story of Overcoming Family History of Drug Abuse…

Born into a family of drug abusers, 20-year-old Monique Tolken was determined not to let her circumstances define her. Read more

Chemical Industry Training Authority Launches Two TVET Initiatives for SMMEs

The Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (Chieta) on August 23 announced two technical and vocational education and training (TVET) college initiatives, which are set to stimulate small, medium-sized and microenterprise (SMME) activity and economic opportunities for individuals in the Western and Northern Cape provinces. Read more

Covid or not, Academic Programmes are Booming at Gibs

Cutbacks? What cutbacks? Pretoria University’s Gordon Institute of Business Science (Gibs) is working flat out to prepare for a return to business education normality – even if no-one knows when that will be. Read more

Documents Implicate UJ Officials Involved in Attempted Embezzlement of Millions…

Hundreds of millions of rands in taxpayers’ money from the Department of Science and Technology, the Industrial Development Corporation of SA (IDC) as well as funding from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) went down the drain as senior UJ executives colluded to embezzle the intellectual property… Read more

DUT Trains Students on Keys to Excellence

The office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) Research Innovation and Engagement has worked with IQRAA TRUST and the Young Leaders Academy (YLA) to pilot a new training programme called Keys to Excellence. The training was designed by the Young Leaders Academy and IQRAA TRUST fully funded the pilot session with the students. Read more

Emoticons Enhance Communication Between Lecturers, Students

The use of emoticons or emojis in communication between students and lecturers in virtual learning spaces during COVID-19 has helped to fulfil students’ socio-emotional needs which developed as they were forced to migrate from brick-and-mortar venues to online classrooms, a study has shown. Read more

Experts Unpack ‘the Engaged University’ in Challenging Times

The notion of the engaged university is far removed from its historical definitional identity. Read more

Higher Education Ready to Get 18-to-35-Year-Olds Vaccinated

Following the Department of Health’s announcement that 18-to-35-year-olds may register to get vaccinated, the Department of Higher Education has revealed its readiness plans in assisting all public and private institutions to vaccinate eligible staff and students. Read more

High Level Accreditation for UKZN’s Acclaimed Science Centre

The Science and Technology Education Centre at UKZN (STEC@UKZN) has received accreditation from the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and the National Research Foundation’s (NRF) South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA), … Read more

Infectious Diseases Research Clinic in Cape Town Hit by Cluster of Covid-19 Cases

Even people working in the highly sanitised clinic research environment are prone to contracting Covid-19. This emerged after eight people who work at Stellenbosch University’s Family Centre for Research with Ubuntu (FAMCRU) came down with the virus. Read more

Investment Opportunities in Education are Beckoning

Africa has one of the strongest opportunities for growth in tertiary education globally despite sloppy quality credentials, a new survey shows, riding on sustained economic expansion. Read more

Mandela University and AIDC Partnership Aims to Boost EC Automotive Industry

Nelson Mandela University has partnered with the Eastern Cape Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC-EC) towards the provision of relevant industry-aligned degree programmes and other capacity building initiatives aimed at bolstering the manufacturing sector and provincial economy. Read more

Most Repair Work is Now Completed, Says Vice-Chancellor

Cape Town – Salvage activities have been concluded at UCT’s Jagger Library, and the special collections basement has been cleared of materials. Read more

Nafasi Water Steps in to Help UNAM Students

The University of Namibia and Nafasi Water Technologies, a South African water technology and water utility service company, have joined hands in crafting the university’s new curriculum for the Centre for Innovation in Learning & Teaching (CILT). Read more

NWU Researcher and Fulbright Scholarship Holder Shares his Tricks of the Trade

To get a Fulbright research scholarship is easier than he anticipated, says North-West University (NWU) academic Dr George van Zijl, who recently returned from a research visit to the University of Florida in the United States of America (USA). Read more

PhD Students Who Study in South Africa Tend to Return Home

The common view at the top level of government and among vice-chancellors has been that African international doctorates would seek employment opportunities in thriving economies abroad. Read more

Prestigious Fellowship for ‘Luminary in a Fractured World’

Professor Pumla Gobodo-Madikizela of Stellenbosch University (SU) in South Africa has won the 2020 Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Fellowship Award worth ZAR2 million (about US$138,000). Read more

Rhodes University and Nupsaw’s Negotiations over Union Rights Reach a Deadlock

Rhodes University management and the National Union of Public Service and Allied Workers (Nupsaw) are locked in a stand-off over the union’s demands to be given organisational rights. Read more

SA Narrows the Gap of Women in STEM Careers, …

While South Africa may be scoring below the global average of 30% of women pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) careers, the country was still leading in Sub-Saharan Africa. Read more

SA Professor Agrees with FDA Warning Issued Against Use of Ivermectin to Treat Covid-19…

The Food and Drug Administration in the US has urged the public to stop using livestock drug ivermectin to treat Covid-19. In South Africa, ivermectin is registered for use in animals. Read more

SA Universities, International Institutions Partner on Project to Preserve African Languages

Rhodes University has collaborated with local and foreign universities in an effort to revive and preserve indigenous African languages. Read more

SMU Adopts a New Culture for Excellence

In what is invariably a significant occasion in the history of SMU, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Peter Mbati hosted a round table discussion with University stakeholders on the Road map to Culture Change at the SMU Sports Hall on 11 August 2021. Read more

Stellenbosch University Paving the Way for Becoming a Smart Sustainable Campus

In using their division as a living laboratory, Stellenbosch University’s Facilities Management (SUFM) has since 2015 been implementing systems and processes to start paving the way for the Institution to become a smart campus where data-led decision-making will result in solving problems and providing solutions for the future. Read more

Stellenbosch University Professor Crafts 3/4 Violin from Wood of African Trees

South African researcher Dr. Martina Meincken is investigating the potential of alternative tone-woods for use in instrument construction… Read more

SU Launches COVID-19 Vaccination Site

On Tuesday 10 August, Stellenbosch University (SU) will launch a vaccination site for its staff and members of the public who have registered on the official South African COVID-19 vaccination portal. Read more

There is an Urgent Need to Redefine the Future of Education

Education experts and business leaders explored the theme of Redefining the future of education at the 7th annual Future of Education Summit held by CNBC Africa in partnership with Forbes Africa. Read more

Tokyo Olympics: What is the Role of Universities in Sport?

frica’s poor performance in the recent Olympic Games in Tokyo highlighted the role that universities on the continent could play to help prepare sports stars for the international sports stage, similar to the work done by institutions in other parts of the world, notably the United States. Read more

TVET Intervention Aims to Boost Engineering Skills Pipeline in Eastern Cape

In intervention launched with public technical vocational education and training (TVET) colleges in the Eastern Cape is expected to aid the output of engineering training and boost the pipeline of skills required by South Africa’s automotive industry. Read more

UCT Named Top Varsity in Africa by a Global Ranking

The University of Cape Town (UCT) has been ranked the highest on the continent in the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2021. It has been ranked in 201-300 band by ARWU 2021, published on Sunday. Read more

UCT’s New Disciplinary, Anti-Bullying Policies are Now in Force

UCT SRC chairperson Declan Dyer said the student council noted the implementation of the disciplinary policy and the policy addressing bullying. Read more

UJ Provides Two Free, Online Open Courses for Students and Citizens

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is offering two free massive open online courses (MOOCs) – one on artificial intelligence (AI) in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and the other on African insights – to the public. Read more

UJ’s Virtual Reality Hub to Advance STEM Education

The Department of Science and Technology Education within the Faculty of Education at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), has introduced a virtual and augmented reality (AR) research hub to accelerate innovation in the education field. Read more

UKZN Academic Part of Ground-Breaking Language Research

Professor Jochen Zeller, … discovered that iconic vocalisations can convey a much wider range of meanings more accurately than previously supposed. Read more

UKZN Medical Student Says Covid-19 Vaccine ‘Benefits far Outweigh Any Risks’

Mohamed Hoosen Suleman, who attends the Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, said the benefits of being vaccinated far outweighed any risks. Read more

UKZN Student Found Dead in His Room on Campus

Although the details are sketchy at the moment, the university believes the student may have died of natural causes. Read more

Universities Collaborate to Promote Indigenous Languages

A group of subject specialists will be appointed at four SA universities to receive training on how to teach students in indigenous African languages.  Read more

University Communities Reject Israel’s AU Observer Status

Several student unions and organisations representing faculty from African countries such as Tunisia, Algeria, Libya and South Africa have voiced their opposition to awarding Israel observer status to the African Union (AU), a move that has been rejected by African countries for nearly two decades. Read more

Universities Set up Vaccination Sites Amid Vaccine Hesitancy

Several South African universities have set up vaccination centres on their campuses as part of supporting the country’s national COVID-19 vaccine programme, which aims to reach 40 million South Africans. Read more

Universities Support Insect-Based Food and Feed Systems

Universities are contributing to the upscaling of insect-based food and feed systems in Sub-Saharan Africa, which have economic, environmental and social benefits that could support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Read more

University of Johannesburg to Host Virtual Conference on Safeguarding Sports

UJ head of the department for sport & movement studies Dr Heather Morris-Eyton says sports federations around the world are becoming more aware of the challenges faced by athletes. Read more

UP Launches Diabetes Research Centre

The University of Pretoria (UP) has launched South Africa’s first exclusive Diabetes Research Centre at a public academic institution. Read more

UP Pilots New Software to Make Digital Content More Accessible

The University of Pretoria (UP) has launched a pilot of software among a small group of subtends and academics, which aims to make digital courses more accessible to all students. Read more

UP’s Digital Twin City Aims to Improve Metro Management

The University of Pretoria (UP) has created the Hatfield Digital Twin City, a new initiative that aims to boost service delivery with the help of smart technology. Read more

UWC Researcher Helps Analyse over 2 000 Galaxies with MeerKat Radio Telescope

Using early science data for the MIGHTEE project on the MeerKAT radio telescope, a researcher at the University of the Western Cape – with collaborators from eight countries, including four other South African institutions… Read more

Vice-Chancellors Key in Growing ‘Fourth-Stream Income’

The sustainability of universities revolves around three income streams: a government subsidy, tuition fees and industry research funds. But, over the past decade, South African universities have experienced significant changes. Read more

Wits DigiMine to Host Annual Digital Mining Seminar

Mining’s digital future comes under the spotlight again at the University of the Witwatersrand in September, with the Wits Mining Institute’s annual digital mining technology seminar. Read more

Women in Science and Tech are Left Out in the Cold During Pandemic

The pandemic has turned our world upside down and affected every sphere of society. That includes the disproportionate impact on women who participate in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Read more

Years of Training Ensures Alumna a Spot on SA’s Olympic Hockey Team

“When I was in Stellenbosch for training for the World Cup, I absolutely loved it. I decided to come to Stellenbosch University because of hockey,” says Glasby. Read more

 

31 July 2021

A Constant Travel Partner on Students’ Career Journey

It is hard to be young. It sounds like an anomaly. But at this point in the world’s collective history, it is becoming increasingly clear that to be a young person standing on the verge of entering a career and making your own way in life can be extremely daunting. Read more

Can Internationalisation Promote Inclusion, Social Justice?

We live in an unequal world. On a global scale, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has made this abundantly clear. Read more

CPUT Graduate Proves That One is Never Too Old to Learn

Despite being older than her whole class, Nokwanda Popiel defied the odds as she graduated with a National Diploma in Office Management and Technology from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) this past week. Read more

CUT Students Frustrated Over Unpaid NSFAS Allowances

Students sleep at the gates of Umgungundlovu TVET College’s Msunduzi Campus in Pietermaritzburg after being evicted by landlords because they are unable to pay rent due to outstanding payments from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. Read more

Department of Higher Education Launches the 2021 State of the Nation Book

Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Buti Manamela has launched the 2021 edition of the State of the Nation, a flagship publication of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC). Read more

Digital Education Here to Stay, and Institutions Must Adapt

The pace of digital progress waits for nobody, and the education sector cannot allow itself to fall back on its old ways post-pandemic, said Dr Stanley Mpofu, CIO of Wits University. Read more

Do Degree Detractors Have a Point?

In one of his many famous talks, and without elaborating, the late legendary motivational speaker Jim Rohn spoke of leaving college after one year as one of the major mistakes he made in his life. Read more

DUT Features in Top 100 in International Ranking

The international rankings were recently announced by the World’s Universities with Real Impact (WURI). Read more

DUT Joins the Fight Against Homophobic Hate Crimes

The Faculty of Arts and Design at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) joined the fight against the recent homophobic killings by hosting a webinar on South Africa’s Homophobic Hate Crime Crisis last Friday, 25 June 2021, via Microsoft Teams. Read more

DUT Ranked 2^nd in SA and 102 in the World by the Young University Rankings

Another global ranking is in the bag for the Durban University of Technology (DUT) after it was recently ranked 2nd in South Africa and 102 in the world by the 2021 Times Higher Education (THE) Young University Rankings.   Read more  

Health Professionals Work in Teams: Their Training Should Prepare Them

Good communication and understanding of the roles of other disciplines in a health care team has been found to result in fewer medical errors, reduced medical costs and a better patient care experience. Read more

HE Sector Concerned Over Turmoil in Department

Despite the appointment of three senior leaders in May, the South African national Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is in “tatters”, with projects falling through the cracks, an extended vacancy list that has not been addressed and low morale among staff, many of whom are looking for other jobs. Read more

“Higher Education Needs to Adapt to People’s Needs”: IIEP International Policy Forum

Flexible learning pathways (FLPs) are an important new policy direction in higher education systems worldwide. Read more

How Top Young Academics Secure ‘Currency’ from the Start

At the beginning of their careers, academics find the odds stacked against them. They lack a track record of success, most proven through research outputs like journal articles. Read more

Institutional Support Needed for Professional Development

Continuing professional development for higher education cannot be treated as an individual responsibility. Dedicated institutional support is essential, according to Tony Lelliott, a programme specialist at the non-profit educational trust the South African Institute for Distance Education, or Saide, in Johannesburg, South Africa. Read more

Media Monitoring: Extract of Press News on Higher Education in Africa

Dr Tabane was moderating the second session of the recent youth-centred Africa Day symposium hosted by the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) and the African Union, in collaboration with the University of Cape Town (UCT) and its Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance. Read more

Natural Product Library at UP’s Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences a Unique Resource…

The Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (NAS) at the University of Pretoria is at the forefront of biodiscovery research, allocating R26m in funding from the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) to create a library of natural products. Read more

Political will Needed to Create the Ideal Post-Pandemic University

Digital infrastructure and connectivity, capacity-building for academic staff and students to use digital learning tools, quality assurance in the online study environment and stronger leadership from governments to bring about these changes are some of the measures that are required to create the post-pandemic African university. Read more

Questions About Unaccounted Funds for Skills Development

A project to use ZAR866 million (US$60 million) for skills and infrastructure development, including the construction of a state-of-the-art technical and vocational education and training (TVET) college in one of South Africa’s poorest townships, has been derailed by COVID-19… Read more 

R866m College Dream Deferred

A project to use R866 million for skills and infrastructure development, including the construction of a state-of-the-art technical and vocational education and training (TVET) college in one of South Africa’s poorest townships, has been derailed by Covid-19… Read more

Racism in Medicine is ‘a Horrible Injustice’

Underpinned by national and international research, as well as personal experience – were placed under the microscope during a recent academic seminar hosted by the University of the Witwatersrand’s School of Public Health. Read more

SADC Needs Experts to Mitigate Climate Change

Specialists in every ministry and organisation in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region should be trained to adapt to and mitigate climate change, according to Professor Heila Lotz-Sisitka, who holds the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) chair in global change and social learning systems. Read more

SA Consortium Wants to Produce Covid-19 Vaccine at a Far Cheaper Price

A South African consortium made up of experts in public health, medicine, academia, vaccine technology, technology transfer and the economic sector has set its sights on producing a Covid-19 vaccine at one-fifth the price of Pfizer’s. Read more

SA Students Struggle Without Stipends in Cuba

Some of the nearly 500 South African medical students stranded in Cuba are demanding that their stipends be paid so that they can pay back loans and get passports and clothes they used as collateral. Read more

Students with Disabilities Activism

The Social Justice and Transformation Unit at the Vaal University of Technology held a webinar under the topic “Students with Disabilities Activism in Higher Education”. Read more

Successful Coexistence Between Wildlife and Urban Communities

Baboons spending more time in their natural habitats and suffering fewer human-caused injuries and deaths is cause for celebration, writes Professor Justin O’Riain, the director of the Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa at the University of Cape Town (UCT). Read more

The EDHE Programme is Poised to Succeed in Creating Entrepreneurial Universities…

A study undertaken to evaluate the partnership between Universities South Africa’s Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Programme and the British Council (South Africa) has found that in the three years of this relationship (2018 – 2021),… Read more

‘Think Like a Girl’: What Sex-Pest Lecturer Told TVET Student When She Failed Maths

 A lecturer who was fired for advising a student who failed maths to “think like a girl” if she wanted a pass mark has had his reinstatement bid rejected. Read more

UCT Joins Forces with NASA for Biodiversity Survey

Regarded as one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet, South Africa’s Greater Cape Floristic Region is set to be the subject of a first-of-its-kind biodiversity survey conducted by NASA. Read more

UCT, Oxford Launch 2021 Fair-work South Africa Ratings Report

Launched on Thursday, 8 July, during a webinar, the University of Cape Town (UCT) and the University of Oxford have released the Fairwork South Africa 2021 Ratings report which evaluates the working conditions in 12 digital labour platforms in South Africa, including Uber, Bolt, SweepSouth and MrD. Read more

UCT Policy Tackles Bullying

 Council members at UCT have approved a bullying policy after repeated calls for rules to hold staff accountable when addressing such complaints. Read more

UCT Student Council Boycotts Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Lecture and Hosts Its Own

After the University of Cape Town said it wouldn’t cancel its open lecture with acclaimed novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who faced a backlash after being accused of transphobia, the university’s Students’ Representative Council hosted its own webinar. Read more

UCT Suspends Two Students Following Sexual Assault Allegations

The University of Cape Town has suspended two students with immediate effect following allegations of sexual assault, which surfaced earlier this week. Read more

UJ Condemns Violence and Looting in SA

Over the last few days, we have witnessed some of the ugliest scenes in our country because of the spate of rampant looting and destruction of property. Marauding masses went on the rampage, looting shops and stores. Read more

UJ Facebook Fan Page One of the Most Popular in the World

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) embraces the latest 2021 Facebook University Ranking, released on 7 July 2021, in which it once again received global salutation to be listed in the top 200 Universities on Facebook, taking position at number 80. Read more

UKZN Tops List of Young University Rankings in SA

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) took the top spot in South Africa, and was placed 61st out of the 475 universities world-wide on the 2021 Times Higher Education (THE) Young University Rankings. Read more

Universities See Steep Rise in Cheating, Misconduct with Move to Online Assessments

Universities have been experiencing a sharp increase in academic misconduct attributed directly to the move to online assessments since last year. Read more

UP and Ghent University Strengthen Academic Partnership

Professor Tawana Kupe, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria (UP), recently engaged with representatives from Ghent University (UGhent) in Belgium to discuss further strengthening the academic and scientific research collaboration between the two institutions. Read more

Vaccinations Going Strong at New Rhodes University Site

Rhodes vice-chancellor Dr Sizwe Mabizela encourages staff and students to get vaccinated at the university’s on-campus site. Read more

Virtual Learnerships Offer International Work Opportunities

Higher education institutions that require students to complete workplace-based learning programmes as a formal building block of their qualifications have been compelled to come up with innovative strategies for virtual or remote internships during COVID-19. Read more

Why Lockdown in Africa Doesn’t Work as a First COVID-19 Response

In an African pandemic it is more productive to consider lockdowns, after using other non-medical measures first. Especially in countries with high levels of poverty and corruption, … Read more

Wits Embarks on R15.7m Water Research Programme

The new water research programme will find solutions to water challenges faced by the country and African continent. Read more

WSU Researcher Invents ‘Green Machine’ for Low-Cost Pothole Repairs

A Walter Sisulu University researcher and lecturer has designed a cost-effective solution for road maintenance and repairing potholes with a machine he developed using recyclable materials. Read more

 

30 June 2021

AUDA-NEPAD Launches Centre of Excellence to Upscale Home-Grown Innovations in Africa

The African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), in partnership with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Stellenbosch University (SU), have launched a Centre of Excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation to upscale and commercialise home-grown innovations on the continent. Read more

Budget Cuts Hold Back Transformation and Hurt Innovation

The key takeaway from the last global financial crisis was that countries with weak innovation systems suffered more from the downturn in economic activity, after the crisis. Read more

Call for Fund to Strengthen Staff Capacity

Universities on the continent are calling for the establishment of a Higher Education Fund for Africa to aid in the strengthening of teaching capacity in the institutions. They argue that such a fund would also help to boost the number of women faculty and researchers engaged in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, also known as STEM fields, in higher learning institutions. Read more

Challenges of Learning During a Pandemic: Stellenbosch University is Responsive to the Needs of Students

Stellenbosch University is very much aware of the plight of many of our students, such as Ms Sehlomeng Sefali, to study successfully during Covid-19 – and to have made the switch to online learning. This was of course a universal challenge for students the world over. Read more

Could Audit Committees Help Address Governance Challenges in Municipalities?

Could audit committees help address governance challenges in municipalities? This is the question Dr Mariaan Roos from the Department of Accounting and Auditing at the Faculty of Military Science tried to answer in an opinion piece published by Cape Times recently. Read more

COVID-19: Study Augurs Well for Research Output

Four South African universities – the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University, the University of the Witwatersrand and the University of KwaZulu-Natal – led 15 institutions that contributed most to the science of COVID-19 in Africa during the first year of the pandemic,…Read more

CPUT Vaccination Site Gets Thumbs-Up from Nzimande

Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande gave the Cape Peninsula University of Technology’s (CPUT) vaccination centre a thumbs-up after his oversight visit on Monday. Read more

CUT Gets Interdict

Despite the Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State, attaining a court interdict against the South African Student Congress (Sasco) due to recent unrest, the volatile on-campus situation has evolved. Read more

CUT Students Stage a Protest

Students at the Central University of Technology (CUT) in Bloemfontein have once again expressed their grievances. Read more

DUT and TVI Host a Successful Luban Workshop…

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) in collaboration with Tianjin Vocational Institute (TVI) of China hosted the Luban Workshop Innovation and Entrepreneurship Appointment Ceremony and Seminar which took place on 15 June 2021 via Zoom. Read more

Higher Education to Distribute 50 000 Laptops to NSFAS-Funded Students

Higher Education Minister Dr Blade Nzimande says his department will distribute close to 50 000 laptops to National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)-funded students at colleges and universities, with 22 000 arriving in the country by the end of the month. Read more

How Universities can Foster a Scientific Research Culture

Scientific research has become a powerful buzzword in the vision and mission statements of all African universities. Some African universities have even stated that their vision is of becoming research-intensive institutions in the near future. Read more

How Universities Can Play a Role in Solving South Africa’s Almost Unsolvable Challenges

These are our wicked problems, said Professor Eugene Cloete (right), Vice-Rector: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies at Stellenbosch University — instantly clarifying what is meant by these complex, difficult-to-solve social problems. Read more

Huawei Awards 17 Bursaries to UCT Students

Huawei has awarded bursaries worth R2.76-million to 17 University of Cape Town (UCT) undergraduate and post-grad students as part of its ICT skills development programme in South Africa. Read more

‘Humanise Online Teaching and Learning’

There is a pressing need to critically evaluate and monitor higher education’s responses to the lockdown in Africa, especially in relation to teaching and learning remotely, says Daniela Gachago, an associate professor in the Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. Read more

Javett-UP Equips Interns with What it Takes to Enter the Art World Through UNICEF Programme

The Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria (Javett-UP) has partnered with UP’s School of the Arts as participants in the UNICEF Youth Empowerment Under Health/Economic Crisis programme, based on the enhanced wellbeing, humaneness and resilience derived from appreciating beauty and aesthetics. Read more

Pandemic Demands Innovation in Internationalisation

The COVID-19 pandemic has slowed down the internationalisation of higher education at a time when it was gaining momentum in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region and Africa at large. Read more

Rankings: Strong Performance

A total of 31 African universities are on a list of 1,300 universities in the world that have been ranked based on indicators including academic reputation, citations per faculty, employer reputation, faculty to student ratio, ratio of international faculty members and ratio of international students. Read more

Researchers Note 20 New Species

Researchers at the National Museum in Bloemfontein have described 20 new species of terrestrial invertebrates in the last financial year. Read more

SADC Urged to do More About Digital Transformation in HE

The Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) policy for cooperation on education and training lacks the necessary force to inform transformation in the region’s higher education… Read more

SA Science in Peril as Lack of Funding Severs Lifeline for Research Students

Academics have expressed concern over the fate of thousands of students who were denied funding by the National Research Foundation (NRF) to pursue postgraduate studies this year. Read more

SA Students Wrote a Book About ‘a World Gone mad’

South African student voices have largely remained unheard in formal discussions around COVID-19. A pandemic that should not be put to waste, COVID-19, on some podiums, is seen as laying the groundwork for the germination of seeds of change. Read more

Staff Cuts Hamper SAQA’s Ability to Provide Skills Assurance

There are growing concerns over the ability of the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) fulfilling its role as the foremost statutory body registering qualifications, fighting qualification fraud and corruption through verification of national qualifications… Read more

Students Concerned About Covid-19 Non-Compliance at UCT

UCT’s student representative council president Declan Dyer said they are aware of the situation and they have been engaging with the university since before the third wave hit. Read more

‘Undo Fear’, Says Chair in African Feminist Imaginations

The South African Research Chairs Initiative, or SARChI, launched a chair in ‘African feminist imaginations’ at Nelson Mandela University, South Africa, on 5 June, headed by Professor Pumla Dineo Gqola from the university’s Centre for Women and Gender Studies. Read more

Universities Must Prioritise Student Success, Staff and Curriculum Development

Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande has called on universities to prioritise student success, staff development and curriculum development plan. Read more

University Students Hold Street Graduation in Durban

The students were from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban University of Technology and Mangosuthu University of Technology. Read more

UP Hosts Discussion on Role of Media and Social Media in Research

Scientists should try to “make use of simple language and avoid using jargon” when using the media to disseminate research findings. This was according to Primarashni Gower, PR and Events Manager at the University of Pretoria (UP), during a recent online panel discussion hosted by the University’s Faculty of Health Sciences on the role of media and social media in research. Read more

UWC Nursing Students Upset Over Exclusion from Exams, Citing Impact of Covid-19

Nursing students at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) are up in arms over the institution’s refusal to relax the examination entry requirements due to Covid-19. Read more

Wits Health Faculty to Picket Over Gauteng ’Humanitarian’ Health Crisis

Staff and students from the University of the Witwatersrand Faculty of Health Sciences will hold a five-day picket to raise awareness about the healthcare crisis in Gauteng and to put pressure on stakeholders to take action. Read more

Women Rise to the Top of the UKZN Class

Women have emerged top of the class at the University of KwaZulu-Natal with 68% of the top achievers being female. Read more

WSU Invention a Solution to SA Road Costs & Safety

Bumping and grinding teeth may be a thing of the past following the invention of a road pavement analysis device that should reduce the occurrence of potholes on South African roads. Read more

 

31 May 2021

20 Unisa Postgraduate Students Charged with Plagiarism Still in the Dark About Way Forward

Challenges continue to plague the University of SA’s (Unisa) decision to conduct exams only online last year as close to 20 postgraduate students remain in the dark about their academic prospects. Read more

African Language Experts Set Up Committees to Explore Sharing Resources…

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed several systemic forms of inequality in the higher education system. Read more

Builing Accessibility, Excellence Through Online Education

Amid ongoing student protests and the funding crisis in higher education, innovative solutions are needed to meet the demands and pressures for study spaces at South African universities. Read more

Capetonians Unite to Save Priceless Library Materials

Volunteers from across Cape Town put on their (sanitised) hard hats the past two weeks to assist with the recovery of the archival materials housed within the Jagger Reading Room at the University of Cape Town (UCT). Read more

Grads’ Community Involvement an Upside During Lockdown

For original-equipment manufacturer Weir Minerals Africa, a positive consequence of the Covid-19 lockdown last year was that graduates in the company’s graduate programme were introduced to more community work than they otherwise would have been. Read more

Hard Times Turn into Good Times Through Study at UKZN

PhD Chemistry graduate Siyabonga Ndlela helped his grandmother sell fruit and snacks to commuters at a taxi rank in Newcastle from the time he was in Grade 3 until matric. Read more

How COVID-19 is Hurting University Students’ Mental Health

Institutions of higher education worldwide are undergoing unprecedented change because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Universities and colleges have been forced to switch to online teaching and learning. Read more

Institution Appoints First Black Woman Dean in Engineering

Tshwane University of Technology’s first black female executive dean for the faculy of engineering and the built environment, Dr Mukondeleli Grace Kanakana-Katumba, intends to implement sweeping changes to position the faculty as South Africa’s leading school of engineering. Read more

Institutional Viability Threatened by Student Debt Crisis

The institutional viability of South African universities is under threat from a mounting student debt crisis, leading to calls from top officials and university leaders for fundamental reform of the way in which the public higher education sector is funded. Read more

More Programmes, Awareness Could Launch Africa into Space

Africa is lagging behind when it comes to space activities and the root cause is a lack of space higher education in many countries on the continent, according to an Africa space industry expert. Read more

More SA Girls Need to Enter Math, Science Fields

Since moving to Southern Africa in 2019, I have had the great privilege of meeting many impressive women working in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM-related) fields.VUT students go hungry as they wait for NSFAS. Read more

Natural Sciences at UFS Receives R65m Equipment Injection

The University of the Free State is at the forefront of research with new state-of-the-art equipment. Read more

New SOAS Director May Return to Work After N-Word Probe

Adam Habib, the newly appointed director of the School of Oriental and African Studies or SOAS University of London, has been cleared of racism over the use of the n-word during a meeting with students in March, but investigators recommended several corrective steps to be taken in the aftermath of the incident. Read more

Nobel Laureates to Probe ‘the Future of Work’ in Dialogue

The first Nobel Prize dialogue to be hosted in partnership with an African institution will include five Nobel laureates and will focus sharply on the extensive disruption that COVID-19 has brought about in the workplace. Read more

Publishing Should be for Social and Disciplinary Impact

“Plan S is a grand plan, but the devil is in the detail,” says Professor Robin Crewe of the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) in a blog. Read more

Racism Remains Deep-Seated and Prevalent in Institutions

In 2004, the final year of my bachelor of social science degree, majoring in political science, I did something I heard journalists feared to do because of consequences of inadequacy. Read more

Rhodes University Encourages the Intellectualisation of African Languages

Rhodes University in Makhanda in the Eastern Cape has hosted a webinar to mark Africa month, with the aim of encouraging the intellectualisation of African languages. Read more

SARUA to Reflect on its Role in Regional Development

The Southern African Regional Universities Association (SARUA) will be hosting a colloquium series for eight weeks following the cancellation of its virtual conference… Read more

Stellenbosch University Vice-Chancellor Denies English-Only Policy as SAHRC Inquiry Starts

Stellenbosch University Rector and Vice-Chancellor Wim de Villiers on Monday reiterated his denial that Afrikaans is banned on the campus, saying the institution’s approach to language means, “… students have more choices, broader access and a better future… Read more

Targets and Indicators Necessary to Track Progress on SDGs

African universities have been called upon to start contributing effectively to the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that the continent is lagging behind on. Read more

The Access Funding Challenge: A Combined Effort Needed Now

You should have seen it coming. In the wake of the recent student protests and the resulting suspension of tuition on some higher education campuses throughout the country, management teams from public universities have become used to having this bit of stinging criticism levelled against them from various fronts. Read more

The Right to Privacy in the Digital Age in Africa

The Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria, with the support of Google, is presenting a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on the right to privacy in the digital age in Africa. Read more

Thousands of Graduates Needed to Echo Technology Boom

A virtual meeting on the status of coding and robotics in South African educational institutions hosted by the Academy of Science of South Africa has highlighted the need for higher education institutions to produce more graduates with the necessary skills and competencies in a sector with about 20,000 vacancies. Read more

Towards the Regeneration of the University and Public Policy in Africa (Part One & Two)

… Prof Firoz Khan, specializing in development studies at the School of Public Leadership (SPL), explores the origins and evolution of the university in Africa… Read more

UKZN’s Oldest Autumn Graduate, Bonginkosi Mshengu, 69, Proves You’re Never Too Old to Study

When 69-year-old Bonginkosi Mshengu graduates with a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Political Science at the University of KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday… Read more

UKZN Optometry Graduate Plans to Set Up Eye Clinics for the Less Privileged

A UKZN student who will graduate summa cum laude plans to use her Bachelor of Optometry degree to help those less privileged. Read more

UKZN’s Poku Joins Frontline AIDS Board of Trustees

UNIVERSITY of KwaZulu-Natal’s vice-chancellor and principal has been recognised as one of the world’s leading experts in research and policy on the political economy of health and HIV/ Aids in sub-Saharan Africa. Read more

UKZN Scientist: We May be on the Cusp of a Third Wave in South Africa

A University of KwaZulu-Natal scientist says with the recent rise in Covid-19 infections, we may be on the cusp of a third wave in South Africa. Read more

Unisa Warns of Scammers Falsely Advertising University Services

Some companies and social media pages have been falsely advertising Unisa online information and various services to assist students. Read more

UP Hosts Africa’s First Nobel Prize Dialogue

The University of Pretoria (UP) recently hosted Africa’s first Nobel Prize Dialogue, the theme of which was ‘The Future of Work’. Read more

University of Pretoria Partners with the African Genius Awards

Steve Biko, who was one of South Africa’s most significant political activists and founder of the Black Consciousness Movement, is one of the nominees for the African Genius Awards. Read more

VUT Students Go Hungry as They Wait for NSFAS

Mthoko was thrilled when his National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) application was approved as he was going to further his studies at Vaal University of Technology (VUT). Read more

 

30 April 2021

Alumni Form Music Duo and Launch New Single

UKZN alumni Mr David Smith (pianist), and Co-ordinator of the Jazz Centre at the University Ms Thulile Zama (vocalist) have formed a musical duo called N’den. Read more

Global Impact Rankings Include 2 African Universities in Top 100

Two African universities – the University of Johannesburg in South Africa and Aswan University in Egypt – are placed in the top 100 institutions in the world for their work towards the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)… Read more

Graduates’ Skills do not Match the Available Jobs

Labour markets around the world are undergoing significant changes – particularly in non-tech sectors. South Africa has not been spared from this wave of change. The country has high unemployment rates by global standards, both at national level and among the youth. Read more

Humanising Pedagogies to Facilitate Digital Learning

While online education providers were generally better positioned to adapt to periods of national and international lockdowns, the entire higher education landscape was affected by the unavoidable necessity to rethink ways of educating, researching and working in general. Read more

Language of Race Needs Engagement 

I have deliberately chosen not to use the full n-word in this piece as I would like the detractors of the former vice-chancellor and principal of the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), Professor Adam Habib, to contemplate a little more deeply their position and think more about the consequences of their actions. Read more

More Questions than Answers About Viable Funding Model

The recent spate of student protests in South Africa’s institutions of higher education brought to the fore, yet again, the desperate calls for a better funding model. Read more

Parliament Asked to Probe Race-Gender Row at UCT

South Africa’s parliamentary oversight committee on higher education has been asked to summon the University of Cape Town to explain its controversial interim appointment of a 72-year-old retired white male in charge of transformation, replacing a black woman who was allegedly ousted from the role before her contract was up. Read more

Professor Christof Heyns: A Giant in Human Rights Education

The monumental contribution that Professor Christof Heyns has made to advance human rights in Africa and beyond emerged this week from a memorial Facebook page created to honour the former director of the Centre for Human Rights…Read more

Professor Salim Abdool Karim’s Talk Opens PRIS 2020 Online Symposium

South Africa currently has the highest number of confirmed SARS-CoV-2 cases in Africa recording over 700,000 cases and 19,000 deaths by the end of October. Although the South African government’s mitigation strategies initially slowed the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infections, it had substantial adverse economic and health impacts. Read more

School of Business Concludes Training of Trainers in Entrepreneurship…

The School of Business on Friday 16th April 2021 successfully concluded the ARUA EIMEC training of trainers in entrepreneurship and Innovation program.  The 12 day training brought about participants from universities in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ghana, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Nigeria. Read more

Significant Archives are Under Threat in Cape Town’s Fire. Why They Matter so Much

A wildfire on the slopes of South Africa’s Table Mountain has wreaked havoc at the University of Cape Town (UCT) campus. Among the sites of historical significance that have been damaged is the Jagger Library. Read more

South African Graduates May be Mostly Employed, but Skills and Jobs Often Don’t Match

Labour markets around the world are undergoing significant changes – particularly in non-tech sectors. South Africa hasn’t been spared from this wave of change. Read more

South Africa’s Higher Education Funding System can be More Realistic Without Betraying Ideal

Ongoing student protests in South Africa have once again highlighted various problems with higher education funding. They boil down to challenges of affordability and sustainability. Read more

Tap into Your Creativity During World Creativity Week

UKZN Extended Learning (UEL) will host two webinars to celebrate World Creativity and Innovation Week (WCIW) between 15 and 21 April, and World Creativity and Innovation Day (WCID) on 21 April. Read more

Technology Universities’ Project Focuses on Teaching Modalities

Can the Higher Education Reform Experts South Africa (HERESA) project be used as a tool to re-conceive South Africa’s higher education sector in the Fourth Industrial Revolution and post-pandemic world? Read more

Two UP Researchers Receive R5,6m in Grants to Aid Research into Improving Food Security…

Two University of Pretoria (UP) researchers have received grants of up to $200 000 (R2,8m) each from the Alliance for African Partnership (AAP), as part of the Partnerships for Innovative Research in Africa (PIRA) grant programme. Read more

Transformation? Impossible if Word Remains Undefined

A failure to define what ‘transformation’ means and how it may be measured is blocking prospects of broader change at South Africa’s public universities. Read more

UCT Celebrates Formal Launch of Panel for Responsible Investment

The University of Cape Town (UCT) celebrated the formal launch of the University Panel for Responsible Investment (UPRI), and the university’s Responsible and Sustainable Investment Policy on 22 April. Read more

UCT Professor Heads Law and Society Association’s Global Activities Portfolio

The LSA is an international organisation that brings together scholars from across disciplines who share a common interest in the place of law in societal, political, economic and cultural life. Read more

UCT SRC Member Matthew Field Says the Student Community is Traumatized…

Hundreds of students have been displaced after a fire spread on the upper and middle campus on Sunday.A number of hotel groups are currently offering temporary accommodation for the students. Read more

UCT Remains Among top 1.4% of Universities Globally

The University of Cape Town (UCT) ranks 269th out of nearly 20 000 universities worldwide according to the 2021–22 edition of the Global 2000 List by the Center for World University Rankings (CWUR). Read more

UKZN Hosts Online Teaching and Learning Workshop for Staff

The Human Resources Division at UKZN organised a five-part teaching and learning workshop series for academic staff. Hosted virtually, the workshop was held in November, providing staff with the tools and skills needed to actively engage with students during online lectures. Read more

UKZN PhD Student Opens Detergents and Cosmetics Plant

A twenty-eight-year-old University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) PhD student opened a detergents and cosmetics manufacturing plant in Pietermaritzburg on Sunday. Read more

UKZN Press Books Win 2021 NIHSS Awards

UKZN Press is proud of its authors who were presented with 2021 NIHSS Human and Social Sciences (HSS) awards at a ceremony at Maropeng Cradle of Humankind on 31 March. Read more

UP Academics Receive Training to Enhance Teaching and Boost Student Employability

University of Pretoria (UP) academics were part of a group of 40 academics that received the first training through a project aimed at equipping them with additional skills to enhance the teaching experience and increase student employability. Read more

UP’s Department of Mining Engineering Celebrates its Diamond Jubilee

The Department of Mining Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology at the University of Pretoria (UP) is proud to celebrate its diamond anniversary in 2021. Read more

University of Cape Town’s Fire: A Day of Flames, Fear, Faith

Imagine this. You are in your room studying for the upcoming test week or catching up with your sleep or favourite Netflix series. The next thing, you are startled by the sounds of helicopters and sirens in your vicinity. Read more

University Still Assessing Destruction After Devastating Fire

Volumes of African literature, including archives of the liberation struggle history and the mid-19th century Cape San people, hosted at the iconic African Studies Library, as well as several historical buildings have been destroyed by raging fires… Read more

 

31 March 2021

Are Black Vice-Chancellors Poor Leaders?

A controversial statement made by an African National Congress member of parliament in the South African National Assembly who claimed that black vice-chancellors were not carrying their weight as leaders compared with other race groups at institutions of higher learning was dismissed by the South. Read more

Best SA Universities for Finance, Engineering and Law…

South Africa’s mining and mineral engineering courses were rated among the best in the world, with Wits at position 13 worldwide, and the University of Pretoria at number 48. Read more

A Radical Change Effort is Needed…

Earlier this month we concluded the University of Pretoria’s inaugural Africa Week, where we assembled some of the finest minds and most tenacious champions of higher education from across our continent. Read more

Black Vice-Chancellor: Politicians Fuel Campus Turmoil

The vice-chancellor of the iconic University of Fort Hare (UFH), South Africa, an institution that has produced presidents, princes, pop stars and poets, has rubbished claims by a ruling African National Congress member of parliament… Read more

Dean Talks About Traversing Tragedy and Racism

A year into his role at one of South Africa’s renowned health science faculties, which has been under severe pressure since the tragic death of its previous incumbent, the new dean, Professor Lionel Green-Thompson, has had to swiftly navigate several minefields in his path. Read more

Escalating Student Debt Deepens Universities’ Funding Crisis

Spiralling student debt that has reached almost ZAR14 billion (about US$948 million), a government that is financially crippled and political battles within the ruling African National Congress (ANC) have been affecting a growing higher education financing crisis… Read more

Food Security and Socio-Economic Development…

The economic and agricultural landscape in southern Africa has undergone considerable change in the past few decades… Read more

Free Higher Education: Crises that Could have been Foreseen

South African universities opened belatedly during the week of 15 March, due to the complications of the COVID-19 pandemic. On the preceding Friday, 12 March, there was already turmoil on many campuses. Read more

HERESA Seeks to Revitalise Teaching and Learning Strategies in Technology

In partnership with OBREAL-Global Observatory, Technological Higher Education Network South Africa (THENSA) is proud to announce the official launch of the ‘Higher Education Reform Experts South Africa’ (HERESA) project… Read more

Higher Education Unable to Clear All Student Debt

Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, says the department is not in a financial position to be able to support institutions to clear all the debt of fee-paying students. Read more

New Game, New Rules in the Post-COVID-19 World …

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant change to all sectors and spheres around the world, and the higher education engineering field has not been spared. Read more

One Dead, Several Injured as Students Clash with Police

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa led the chorus of outrage from the country’s politicians following the death of a government employee during a student protest outside the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) on 10 March. Read more

Probe into Allegations Against Vice-Chancellor

As South African higher education institutions grapple with increasing challenges over a tardy and tumultuous start to the academic year, legislators in the South African National Assembly have spent the past three weeks grilling an embattled university boss on sexual harassment claims and other charges he had already been cleared of. Read more

Public Universities are Ready to Receive the NSC Class of 2020 into Higher Education…

As public universities gear themselves to receive the National School Certificate Class of 2020 on their various campuses, Universities South Africa has assured the new entrants to higher education that universities are ready to welcome them into their next study adventures and to enable them to succeed. Read more

Recollecting COVID-19 – 365 Days Under Lockdown

26 March 2021 marks a year since the University of Pretoria closed its gates under the COVID-19 national lockdown regulations. Classes went online and university life as we knew it ceased to exist. Read more

Regional Education Visa Mooted in SADC Strategic Plan

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is considering a regional visa for students, researchers, scientists and academics in a development that could see them enjoying benefits such as customs exemptions, if it is approved. Read more

Science, Innovation Dept Invests R18.9m in Nanosatellites

The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) has invested R18.9-million in the development of two nanosatellites that will be used to improve maritime domain awareness in South Africa. Read more

South Africa’s UKZN Breaks Africa’s Rocket Launch Record – Reached 18km

UKZN’s affiliated AeroSpace Systems Research Group recently launched Phoenix-1B Mk II rocket, with a technology demonstration objective. The project was used to train students on vehicle design, test operations, and to inspire the younger generations. Read more

SU Welcomes Human Rights Commission Investigation

Stellenbosch University remains committed to multilingualism and for that reason Management welcomes the investigation by the SAHRC as well as the opportunity to respond to clear up matters with regard to the use of Afrikaans in residences and social spaces. Read more

Tertiary Education Needs a Funding Model That Caters for All Students…

Every year students take to the streets to protest against the exorbitant cost of university fees and the resulting financial exclusion. To escape this annual quandary, SA needs a viable funding model perceptive to the needs of all students in the higher education system… Read more

Tertiary Institutions Across SA Brace for Planned National Shutdown Today

The threats come after days of protests at various universities across the country last week. Read more

Tertiary Institutions Should not Exceed First-Year Limit

Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande has urged institutions of higher learning to only enrol the number of first-year students they are able to accommodate. Read more

UFC Awarded for Excellence in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

The year 2021 is the first time that this is a joint venture between Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) and Universities South Africa (USAf) who have come together to celebrate the outstanding contributions in the social sciences and humanities… Read more

UKZN Nursing Students Shine

The level of acceptance of UKZN Nursing students in different clinical facilities has improved significantly. Evidence of this new-found respect and high regard are the glowing reports from the clinical settings.’ Read more

UKZN’s Welcomes First Year Students Back on Campus

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has confirmed that all registered first-year students would be allowed to come to campus for the first semester of the 2021 academic year. Read more

UNESCO Convenes Webinar to Reflect on Impact of COVID-19 on Higher Education

The main objective of the webinar is to share outcomes of the case studies conducted in 4 SADC countries on the impact of COVID-19 on Higher Education. Read more

UNISA Moves Towards Fully Online Learning, Teaching

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is making its way towards a digital future, with plans to have all learning and teaching services online, says Poppy Tshabalala, vice-principal for ICT and CIO. Read more

Universities Need to Infuse Entrepreneurial Thinking to Solve Funding Crisis

While student debt to universities has ballooned to approximately R14 billion, calls for more collaborative efforts have become louder. Read more

Universities of Technology to Build Network of Experts

South African universities of technology are set to benefit from a project, funded by the European Union, which aims at strengthening and revitalising the country’s technology-based institutions of higher learning. Read more

UP Part of Global Team that Reveals Behaviour of Magnetic Fields Around Black Holes

The Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) collaboration – which produced the first-ever image of a black hole and of which the University of Pretoria (UP) is an associate institute – has revealed a new view of the massive object at the centre of the M87 galaxy: what it looks like in polarised light. Read more

What South Africa’s Universities Have Learnt About the Future from Covid-19

The Covid-19 pandemic put unprecedented stress on students across the country. Campuses that had been hubs of learning for decades were empty. Universities had to find ways to continue while not leaving anyone behind. Read more

 

28 February 2021

Complaints, Probes at Some Health Science Faculties

Despite throwing their weight behind COVID-19 research initiatives, four of South Africa’s best-known institutions offering health science education, which are producing many of the country’s doctors and dentists, have been wrestling with internal challenges. Read more

Computer ‘Glitch’ Deregisters ‘Underperforming’ Students

More than 120 students at Walter Sisulu University in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, could not finish their studies in 2020 after the institution wrongfully deregistered them due to a computer glitch…Read more

Contributions in Fight Against COVID Praised

The contribution of scientists who made the breakthrough on the efficacy of the vaccines against the 501Y.V2 variant found in South Africa has received praise from South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa for their contribution to the fight against COVID-19. Read more

COVID-19 Financial Woes Threaten to End Dreams of Thousands of Students

Many students don’t qualify for NSFAS funding and Universities South Africa’s CEO Ahmed said there needed to be more assistance for the so-called missing middle. Read more

DUT’S Agri-Hub Launch a Huge Success

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Midlands Entrepreneurship Centre and Student Desk in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development; Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) and the Agribusiness Development Agency (ADA) hosted a virtual launch of their Agri-Hub via Microsoft Team… Read more

New Continental Platform for Open Access Publishing

A new continental platform for the open access publishing of journals, monographs and textbooks in Africa has been developed by South Africa’s University of Cape Town (UCT) through its library service. Read more

Open Access Directory Added to Accredited Journal List

The South African government has included a directory of open access journals in its officially recommended list of subsidy-bearing publications, opening up much greater access and sharing of information in higher education. Read more

Pretoria University Vets Perform Heart Surgery on Two Dogs…

Two University of Pretoria (UP) veterinary surgeons have performed life-saving heart surgery on two dogs by using a ground-breaking technique. This is a first in the 100-year history of the Faculty of Veterinary Science in Onderstepoort… Read more

Private Education in SA Growing Fast, Maturing Rapidly

A combination of factors have led to education in South Africa moving more and more into the privatisation arena, according to Dr Morne Mostert, director of the Institute for Futures Research at Stellenbosch University Business School. Read more

SA COVID-19 Vaccine Trials: Lessons for the Future

COVID-19 vaccine supplies are available in various parts of the world. But it’s clear that distribution is not symmetrical. High-income countries have access to disproportionate quantities of limited supplies. Read more

Science Minister Nzimande Outlines Govt Plan to Boost Scientific Research in SA

His department has so far spent R69.4 million funding COVID-19 research and innovation. About 21 projects are sustained through this investment.  Read more

SME Development Programme to Benefit the Local Chemicals Sector

Chemicals sector education and training body the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (Chieta) and the University of Johannesburg Centre of Entrepreneurship have launched a small business development programme… Read more

South Africa’s Education Minister Says ‘an Educated Man Won’t Rape’

South Africa’s Education Minister has come under fire for her remarks that “an educated man won’t rape” while trying to explain the importance of education. Read more

Tertiary Institutions Struggling with Demand for Places

Tertiary institutions said they don’t have enough space for all the students that want to study and will finalise their admissions this week. Read more

Time for New Ideas on Higher Education Provision

The impact of COVID-19 on global higher education systems revealed the deficiencies of the current system and underlines the urgency for new ideas. Read more

UCT’s Energy Systems Research Group Weighs in on SA’s Nuclear Plan

Nuclear energy will cost the fiscus more, produce fewer jobs and take longer to meet South Africa’s energy needs than other energy options. Read more

UKZN Begins Phased-In Return to Campus

“Students who are at high risk of infection due to health issues, including comorbidities, are encouraged not to return to campus but rather to continue with remote online learning. Read more

UKZN Sets the Record Straight on ‘Operation Clever’ Probe into Fraud at Medical School

The University of KwaZulu-Natal has slammed the media reporting on matters in relations to ‘Operation Clever’, an investigation into allegations of fraud at its medical school. Read more

UKZN Spends R73m on ‘Cash for Places’ Investigation

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) says it has spent more than R73m on Operation Clever — a four-year investigation into allegations of “places for sale” at its medical school and other corrupt activities. Read more

UKZN SRC Fundraises for Students in Need

The university will provide the necessary support to the SRC with the collection and administering of donations through the auspices of the UKZN Foundation. Read more

University of Pretoria Researchers Receive Prestigious Grants…

Two University of Pretoria (UP) researchers are among nine researchers in South Africa who have received funding grants from the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) as part of the Strategic Health Innovation Partnerships (SHIP) programme. Read more

Universities of Technology Join Hands in Elite Network

A rigorous application process has culminated in the membership that has rendered the Central University of Technology (CUT) the first South African university to collaborate with the prestigious US-based Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)… Read more

UWC Academic Takes Mobility Research to New Heights…

Professor Bradley Rink, Associate Professor in the University of the Western Cape’s Department of Geography, Environment Studies and Tourism, has been awarded a 2021 Royal Geographical Society Wiley Digital Archives Research Fellowship. Read more

Winning PhD Highlights African Indigenous Knowledge Systems

University of Cape Town (UCT) PhD graduate Dr Cecilia Durojaye’s doctoral thesis has won the African Studies Review 2020 annual prize for the best Africa-based doctoral dissertation. Read more

WSU Academics Get Top Honours for Research Innovation

WSU’s office of the Vice-Chancellor had handsomely rewarded three of the institution’s most exceptional academics in the areas of Research, Teaching and Learning as well as Community Engagement at the annual Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards. Read more

 

31 January 2021

Decolonisation Through Inclusive Virtual Collaboration

“There is an urgency to rethink internationalisation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. We have to ensure that all students can participate in internationalisation and prepare them for a world in which they have to navigate unknown spaces.” Read more

Distance Linstitution Told to Reduce New Enrolments

Thousands of students hoping to enrol to study at the University of South Africa (UNISA) will not be able to realise their dreams after the university council was instructed by the Minister of Higher Education… Read more

French, Portuguese Should be Encouraged for Postgraduates

The majority of the population is conversant in multiple languages, and people code-switch comfortably, depending on the circumstance (English-speaking South Africans are the general exception). Read more

Online Learning Set to Continue, Financial Outlook Gloomy

South Africa’s Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Blade Nzimande, has outlined plans for the reopening of tertiary institutions amid the COVID-19 pandemic… Read more

Outgoing UCT Ombud Tells of Threats, Suspension and Censorship in Parting Letter

The outgoing University of Cape Town (UCT) Ombud’s parting letter to the institution reveals a tense relationship with management. Read more

Space Science Boost as MeerKAT Leads to Two New Galaxies

Africa’s space science may not be ready to send a manned craft to the moon, but the recent discoveries of two new giant radio galaxies using South Africa’s powerful MeerKAT telescope have served as a reminder of the continent’s growing space scientific capacity. Read more

Thought Leaders Discuss Design’s Role Towards a More Sustainable Future

According to Botes, who is also the President of the Design Education Forum of Southern Africa (DEFSA), the new-year presents the ideal opportunity to think about the ebbs and tides of the past, and arising opportunities ahead, and, with this, what influences design, past, present, and future. Read more

UCT Alum’s Book Chosen for South Africa’s World Read Aloud Day

Nal’ibali, the South African reading-for-enjoyment campaign, is inviting caregivers across the country to partake in World Read Aloud Day, where the chosen book was authored by a University of Cape Town (UCT) alum. Read more

UCT’s Herman Wasserman Leads Global Study on Disinformation

The scoping study aims to map the actors currently working in the counter-disinformation space and identify current frameworks upon which interventions are based; to learn from current approaches, tools and methods of countering disinformation… Read more

UCT Libraries’ New Platform Supports Publishing of African-Centric Research

The University of Cape Town (UCT) Libraries has developed a new continental platform for open access publishing in Africa. Read more

UKZN Community Assists Staff Affected by Fire

The UKZN community has assisted 23 staff members affected by a fire at Umgudulu Road, an informal settlement in Reservoir Hills in Durban. Read more

UKZN Suspends 2021 Reopening Due to Covid-19 Second Wave

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has announced that it will be postponing the reopening of its campuses on the 4 January 2021 in the best interests of the university community and their families following the recent presidential address. Read more

UJ Maths Guru Prof Michael Henning Receives Coveted A1 Rating…

University of Johannesburg (UJ) expert mathematician Professor Michael Henning has received a much-coveted A1 rating for the third time. Read more

Union Calls on Universities not to Abuse Workers by Calling them Back to Unsafe Campuses

Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande is expected to receive an updated report of how many staff members and students got infected by and died from Covid-19. Read more

Unisa Student Designs Innovative Bin to Solve Food Waste Problem

The frustration of seeing tons of food ending up as waste at many Tshwane dump sites compelled a Unisa education student to think out of the box. Read more

UP’s Faculty of Law Celebrates Youngest Current UP Professor 

The Faculty of Law (UP Law) at the University of Pretoria (UP) recently announced the promotion of colleagues to higher academic rank. Among the successful candidates is UP law alumnus and scholar, Dr Joel Modiri, whose promotion to associate professor as from 1 January 2021 will also make him the youngest professor… Read more

Why I Choose COVID-19 Vaccination Based on Verifiable Evidence

A COVID-19 vaccine is on the way, but a huge hurdle will be to convince vaccine-hesitant people to receive it. Read more

Wits Scientists Artificially Infect Mosquitoes with Human Malaria to Develop Treatment

Wits University has partnered with local and global scientists to develop a treatment for malaria by infecting mosquitoes with human malaria. Read more

31 December 2020

Analysis Reveals Ivory Origins on 16th-Century Shipwreck

An international multi-institutional study initiated by the University of Cape Town (UCT) involving the scientific and historical analysis of elephant tusks found in the cargo of a ship wrecked off Namibia in the 16th century revealed some “remarkable” findings. Read more

Code of Conduct to Deal with Personal Information Use

Researchers fear that new legislation which restricts access to personal information in an effort to protect people’s privacy may exclude South Africa from the global academic mainstream. Read more

Fine Art’s Kieswetter Hold Virtual Exhibition as Part of Her Master’s Thesis

Durban based multi-disciplinary visual artist and Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Fine Art graduate, Sarah Kieswetter recently held a virtual exhibition as part of her Master of Technology in Fine Art thesis. Read more

First Certified Foundational Khoekhoegowab Course for SA

The intergenerational transmission of the indigenous Khoekhoegowab language will be essential to its survival, activist and teacher Bradley van Sitters said at the culmination of the University of Cape Town’s (UCT)… Read more

Glimmer of Hope for Vaccine that Could Eradicate TB Reinfection

Tuberculosis reinfection may be a thing of the past if a vaccine that is being developed by the University of Cape Town researchers proves successful. Read more

Employing People with Disabilities is Good for Everyone

As 2020 draws to a close, and with the end of the COVID-19 pandemic not yet in sight, this is a useful time to reflect on lessons we may draw from our experiences of it. Read more

I had Sleepless Nights Trying to Meet Deadlines’

When South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the closure of South African schools and universities in March in response to the pandemic…Read more

Matrics University Applications Under Threat by Leaked Exam Papers

The Department of Basic Education said matric pupils’ applications to study at tertiary institutions may be affected if the results of the two leaked matric exam papers are not certified by Umalusi. Read more

Professor Salim Abdool Karim’s Talk Opens PRIS 2020 Online Symposium

Professor Salim Abdool Karim opened the PRIS 2020 online symposium with a talk about the current state of Covid-19 infections in SA and its implications for 2021. Read more

Recovering SA’s Economy Starts with Improved Access to Education

But for many young South Africans tertiary education is restricted – often seen to be expensive or out of reach for those who can’t get funding through NSFAS, bursaries or student loans. Read more

Rhodes Students Left in the Lurch: Exams Delayed, Funding not Extended…

Students attending classes at Rhodes University claim they have had to resort to begging and prostitution just to avoid starving during the exam period. Read more

S/Africa Sets Up 10th Medical School

South Africa’s 10th medical college will commence classes under the umbrella of the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) in Port Elizabeth… Read more 

Shrimp-like Tanaids Mimic Hermit Crabs

University of Cape Town (UCT) marine biologist Dr Jannes Landschoff describes it as “an intriguing little animal” that lives like a hermit crab but isn’t a crab. Read more

Standard Bank-Sponsored Laptops Help…

Sheer gratitude is the sentiment shared by four students drawn from the 83 recipients of laptops at the Sefako Makgatho University of Health Sciences (SMU), that were recently purchased through a R 500 000 donation from the Standard Bank Group. Read more

S. African Minister Reiterates Call for Critical Skills for Development

South African Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology Blade Nzimande on Tuesday called for the prioritization of the high demand jobs which would help develop the country. Read more

S/Africa’s Disrupted Varsity Calendar Extended to March 2021

South Africa’s higher education authorities “are working tirelessly to salvage what is left of the academic year” following the coronavirus pandemic disruption of the university calendar for the greater part of 2020. Read more

UCT VC Among Times Higher Education’s 10 People of the Year

University of Cape Town (UCT) Vice-Chancellor Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng has been named among the Times Higher Education’s (THE) 10 People of the Year. Read more

UKZN Hosts Online Teaching and Learning Workshop for Staff

Director of Human Resources Development Mrs Busisiwe Ramabodu says the online teaching and learning series was a planned intervention by her division in response to COVID-19. Read more

UNISA Appoints First Female Vice Chancellor in 148 Years

The Council of the University of South Africa (UNISA) is proud to announce that, in a move unprecedented since the establishment of the university 148 years ago, it will have its first female Principal and Vice Chancellor… Read more

Wits University Refunds Students for Some Services Not Used in 2020 

Wits University has agreed to a fee reduction for a number of services not used by students due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Read more

 

30 November 2020

A Meeting on Decolonisation of Pedagogy Raises Fierce Debates Among Academics

A robust engagement around pedagogy in higher education institutions ensued on Friday, 30 October 2020, during the Transformation Managers’ Forum (TMF) webinar. Read more

A UWC Panel Believes South Africa Needs More Women Techpreneurs

Women needed to be encouraged to consider a future career in tech and entrepreneurship. This view was expressed by three women in a panel discussion on the viability of techpreneurship as an option for the future. Read more

COVID-19 Prompts Calls for Library-Friendly Copyright Laws

COVID-19 is taking its toll on libraries since teaching and learning moved online earlier this year. Shortages of textbooks and other printed material, exorbitant textbook prices and copyright problems have proved especially challenging. Read more

COVID-19 Proves to have been a Game Changer in 2020 Public

When CoVID-19 froze contact meetings and sent organisations scrambling to find alternative modes of engagement, Universities South Africa and its programmes were not spared. Read more

Era of Language Changes Planned for Universities

Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande has published a new language policy framework for public higher education institutions in South Africa. Read more

Ethiopian Doctoral Graduate Described as a “Success Story”

Dr Zelalem Getahun Dessie, who was awarded a PhD degree in Statistics during the UKZN Spring Graduation virtual ceremony, was described as a ‘success story’. Read more

Gamification of Education Could Engage Students During COVID-19

African universities are starting to join the movement towards digital game-based learning (DGBL) and are recognising its potential in developing skills and enhancing motivation. Read more

Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a term that constitutes various forms of abuse, and which could occur in teaching and learning spaces, workspaces, residences and public spaces, including at the University of Pretoria (UP). Read more

IHE Policy that Could be a Model for Developing Countries

On 6 November, the South African Policy for Internationalisation of Higher Education was promulgated and became legally binding. This is a milestone for South African higher education. Read more

Inconsistent Pay for Varsity Heads and Executives Probed

South African vice-chancellors’ salaries are under the microscope following a request from parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science and Technology for a probe on the inconsistent levels of remuneration for varsity heads and executives. Read more

Lobbying for Equitable Vaccine Access at G20 Summit Welcomed

South Africa’s plea to G20 leaders to help ensure equitable and affordable access for all countries to a suitable COVID-19 vaccine once it is developed, has been welcomed by a group of local academics who has been lobbying for this cause. Read more

Labour Unrest Grows Amid Sector’s Increasing Money Troubles

While the strike action of academic staff in Nigeria has entered its eighth month, rumblings of discontent from faculty and students in other countries have been emerging and growing louder amid increasing financial difficulties in the higher education sector. Read more

Men, Gender Equality and the Search for Gender Harmony

They prevent societies from optimising their human resources, and they impose on men expectations which ultimately limit them as people while making broader societal equality and harmony impossible, said University of Cape Town (UCT) gender scholar Dr Robert Morrell. Read more

Mentorship Aims at Enhancing Graduate Employability

The transition from student to employee can be daunting, and frequently there’s a lack of work-readiness and guidance, which can place young graduates at a disadvantage as they enter the world of work. Read more

New Proposals to Get More South Africans into University

The Department of Higher Education and Training is considering a new ‘articulation policy’ which aims to better align the country’s universities, technical colleges and other education institutions with one another. Read more

NSFAS Employees Say Administrator’s Friends were Irregularly Appointed 

Members of Parliament (MPs) expressed their horror about alleged mismanagement at the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)… Read more

Police Investigating After Student’s Body Found on Campus…

Western Cape police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 25-year-old man on Friday afternoon… Read more

Search for Ways to Avert more Covid-19 Infections at Universities 

Failure by students to adhere to lockdown safety regulations by hosting parties and carelessly mingling is of great concern and needs urgent action. Read more

The Culmination of Six Years of Work for Emeritus Professor

Emeritus Professor Poobhalan Pillay of the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science (SMSCS) has written an e-book, 1000 Mathematics Olympiad Problems, to help pupils from Grade 7 to Grade 12 improve their mathematics skills.

Trainee Doctors from Cuba Perceived as ‘Foreign and Incompetent’

Universities are stigmatising and alienating South African medical students who have been trained in Cuba as part of a bilateral programme which currently trains about 40% of the country’s future doctors when they return to complete the last leg of their degrees. Read more

Transforming Higher Education Landscape is Prof Puleng LenkaBula top Priority 

Unisa’s newly appointed vice-chancellor reflects on her new job and what she hopes to achieve. In a historic first, the University of South Africa (Unisa) has appointed a woman as its principal and vice-chancellor. Read more

Uncertain Financial Outlook for Tertiary Sector in 2021

Amid the prospect of subsidy cuts brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, South African universities are facing significant financial hurdles in 2021. Read more

University of KwaZulu-Natal’s InQubate Showcases its Success Stories…

At the three-day national Student Entrepreneurship Week (#SEW2020) that was hosted by Universities South Africa’s Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) programme last week, the audience got to hear that the KwaZulu-Natal’s InQubate has, in the past two years since its launch, approved 50 student-owned businesses for funding. Read more 

Vice-Chancellors Concerned Over Super Spreader Students

Despite over 19,500 COVID-19 deaths to date and an average of 1,200 new infections reported in South Africa every day, university students on several campuses seem to be partying up a storm and disregarding safety precautions. Read more

Virtual Staff Onboarding the ICTS Way

The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown have presented everyone with challenges at home and in the workplace. Read more

 

31 October 2020

Archives Can Help Transform our Tertiary Institutions

Archives, in particular music archives, can help with curriculum reform and transformation at tertiary institutions, writes Dr Lizabé Lambrechts from the Africa Open Institute for Music, Research and Innovation… Read more

Bullying is ‘Rife’ at Higher Education Institutions

Bullying is rife at tertiary education institutions throughout South Africa and does not only affect women, according to Brightness Mangolothi, the director of Higher Education Resource Services South Africa (HERS-SA). Read more

Campuses Open to All, Including International Students

International students can now join the nearly 245,650 or 40% of South African contact students who have already obtained permits to return to their university campuses. Read more

Coping with COVID-19: It Is Okay to Seek Help, Says VC Prof Kupe

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in our lives. It is not only a disease crisis; it is a crisis of society, the economy, sustainability, of governance on the continent and globally – and of well-being. Read more

Hard Work and the Right Attitude is What Employers Want …

A good attitude and hard work will indeed get you far in life – and there’s empirical evidence of that. This is according to the results of a study that was led in part by Professor Berendien Lubbe of the University of Pretoria’s… Read more

International Relations and Cooperation Hosts Virtual Global Cyber Policy Dialogue…

South Africa and the Netherlands in partnership with the EastWest Institute and Research ICT Africa will co-host a virtual Global Cyber Policy Dialogue for Southern Africa… Read more

Just Transition Transaction Case Study – Towards Energy Equity

Three University of Cape Town (UCT) climate change experts have carried out a case study to understand what a just transition of South Africa’s energy landscape into a low-carbon environment could look like. Read more

Living Life Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

Fear, stigma and poverty remain the fiercest enemies in our fight against COVID-19. Yet, when considered within the South African context, these are hardly new phenomena. Read more

National Geographic Society Profiles UP Researcher Who Traces Ancient Human Diseases

Dr Riaan Rifkin, a Research Fellow at the University of Pretoria (UP), was honoured with a profile in a recent edition of National Geographic Society for his work on tracing the DNA of ancient human diseases. Read more

Online as the ‘New Normative’ Will Damage Public Interests

Teaching practice at universities across South Africa has been radically changed following the COVID-19 pandemic and the cessation of contact sessions. Students have been unable to attend lectures, stay in university-managed residences or enjoy normal campus life. Read more

Publish, Profit, Predate, Perish and Peer Review

From the COVID-19 ‘infodemic’, dubious practices from peer reviewers to academics and predatory publishers, the South African Journal of Science’s latest edition sets out to detail the measures in place to mitigate against ‘bad, fast science’ and ensure the integrity of critical academic citizenhood. Read more

Ramaphosa, African Union Should Lead to Get COVID-19 Waiver

A group of more than 40 South African academics who have thrown their weight behind the proposal that global intellectual property rights should not apply to COVID-19 medicines has called on South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to provide an urgent ‘substantive’ response to a letter they wrote to the presidency. Read more

Test on the Bench as School-Leavers Vie for Available Places in 2021

The national benchmark test that many South African universities have been using for undergraduate student admission into some disciplines has been put on hold because of the disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic to the 2021 testing programme. Read more

UCT Rises in Research Rankings

UCT moved from 121st to 103rd position in the 2021 US News & World Report Best Global Universities rankings… Read more

UCT the Only Financial Times Ranked MBA School in Africa

The University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business (UCT GSB) is the only business school in Africa to feature in the prestigious Financial Times rankings for its groundbreaking Executive MBA programme. Read more

UKZN Ranks #332 in the Latest Best Global Universities Rankings

The Best Global Universities rankings measure academic research performance, such as highly cited research papers, and the global and regional reputations of nearly 1 500 of the world’s top universities from more than 80 countries. Read more

Universities Say Policies Protect Victims

More than half of the universities in South Africa have indicated that they have policies in place and are proactively dealing with complaints of bullying at their institutions. Read more

UP Students Revamp Hartfield Community Park

The students did the project as part of their 40 field hours for the community-based project module (JCP). Read more

Vice-Chancellor, Ombud Battle on About Bullying

The University of Cape Town (UCT) Vice-Chancellor Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng has broken her silence on the ongoing controversy involving UCT’s ombud, who has reported staff allegations of bullying against Phakeng and has been critical of UCT’s handling of the matter. Read more

What to Do as a Final-Year Student During a Pandemic

In all probability 2020 will be remembered as a year filled with challenges, agony, new possibilities and a sense of globality – we were, after all, ‘stuck in this together’. At times, this year has left us uncertain and perhaps even dumbfounded. Read more

Women Continue to Dominate Rhodes University SRC

In an unprecedented follow-up, Rhodes University Student Representative Council (SRC) was this year dominated by women yet again. Read more

 

30 September 2020

Battling a Pandemic: An African Perspective

Researchers from the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) faculties of Health Sciences and Science have recently published a paper describing an African perspective on global approaches to the fight against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2… Read more

Can Black Academics be Supported in Toxic Institutional Cultures?

In two recent reports about black academics, there are a number of underlying issues which need to be addressed from a broader sociological/higher education studies perspective, going beyond merely describing the obstacles and problems that they confront. Read more

COVID-19 Highlights the Need for Universities to Evolve

In times of crisis we are compelled to change our strategies and move away from conventional approaches. Read more

Decolonisation of the Humanities – No Easy Answers

“The decolonisation of the humanities curriculum in South Africa is a process, not an event,” according to Professor Vasu Reddy, dean of the faculty of humanities at South Africa’s University of Pretoria. Read more

Design Thinking During a Pandemic

The three p’s essential to design thinking are people (collaboration among teammates), process and place. But as the COVID-19 pandemic hit South Africa, the d-school, like other institutions of learning in the country, was forced to reinvent their courses and their set-up. Read more

Enactus Team Ranked Top 16 in the World

This is a huge achievement as the team has now positioned UKZN on the top one percent globally when it comes to social entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable impact by Enactus teams in higher institutions. Read more

Engineering 4.0 – A Road to a Smart Future

Consider that South Africa is 18th in the world in terms of the longest network of paved roads. By ‘paved’ we mean bitumen-surfaced and concrete roads. We have 158,000 kilometres of paved roads and a total road network (paved and gravel) of 750,000 kilometres. Read more

Graduates Face an Increasingly Uncertain Future

Graduate under-employment is not new; neither will it disappear any time soon. In fact, it is bound to worsen as the economy declines and with it, employment. Read more

Healthcare’s ‘Toxic’ Working Conditions Exposed in Student’s Documentary

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the fragility of the South African healthcare system and highlighted the need to protect the country’s frontline workers and its limited healthcare resources. Read more

HE Gender-Based Violence Plan – Milestone or ‘Soft Nudge’?

Efforts to end the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) at institutions of higher education in South Africa have often been marred by inefficient coordination and inadequate budget provisions. Read more

Human Connection in a Time of Digitised University Education

The global pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to every aspect of societal engagement. Read more

Internationalisation Must Go On, even if Borders are Closed

Amid travel bans and social distancing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, universities have had to find innovative ways to remain part of the global knowledge economy and continue their efforts in internationalisation,  Read more

Is Internationalisation in Jeopardy?

Given the Covid-19 pandemic, lockdowns and travel restrictions, internationalisation at universities is said to be in jeopardy. Read more

Many Students Lack Adequate Resources for Remote Learning, UCT Study Reveals

Amidst the covid-19 pandemic, tertiary education institutions moved lectures online in a bid to save the academic year. Read more

New Network of Experts will Focus on Supporting HE Reform

The South African Technology Network (SATN) and its local and international partners have been successful in applying to the European Commission to establish a South African chapter of the network for Higher Education Reform Experts (HEREs). Read more

Racism in Academia – Reports Call for Tangible Interventions

Universities and academic science are riddled with racism, according to present and former vice-chancellors at two of South Africa’s leading higher education institutions. Read more

Reclaiming Optimism in a Shifting Higher Education Landscape

COVID-19 has served as a non-negotiable change agent in higher education, leaving universities with little choice but to migrate to online technologies. Read more

South-South Partnership to Boost African Research Capacity

A new partnership between South Africa’s University of Pretoria and the Kenya-headquartered Partnership for African Social Governance Research (PASGR) will boost capacity-building, especially for postgraduate students and early- to mid-career researchers in Africa. Read more

SA Higher Education Must Ensure no International Student is Left Behind…

South Africa has established itself as a regional higher education hub, which has until the recent Covid-19 pandemic been hosting increasing numbers of international students. Read more

Student Success Initiative Extends Its Reach with ‘Network 2.0’

Student success initiative Siyaphumelela recently launched the Siyaphumelela Network 2.0 which carries forward the work, achievements and learning from the first phase of the initiative focused on using data analytics to improve student experiences and success. Read more

The WiL to power – Addressing gender Inequality in HE Leadership

Gender inequality within our universities is a pervasive issue permeating higher education across Africa and internationally. Read more

UCT Alumna’s NPO Delivers Learning Material During Lockdown

Headed by Dr Heidi Segal, a University of Cape Town (UCT) alumna, Outliers is a network of 200 after-school tutoring programmes that supports thousands of learners from under-resourced communities. Read more

UCT Medical Students Make a Difference on the Frontline

Students from the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Faculty of Health Sciences have spent the past few months on the frontline, playing their part in the country’s fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more

UCT Sorry for Nonracialism Clanger in Article About Transformation

The University of Cape Town apologised on Thursday for an article on its website which said it was opposed to nonracialism. Read more

UKZN Among Top 400 Universities in the World

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has for the first time ever been ranked among the top 400 best performing universities in the world according to the latest 2020/2021 Times Higher Education (THE) rankings. Read more

UKZN and AgriSETA Collaborate for the Good of Agriculture in SA

UKZN’s School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences (SAEES) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Agriculture Sector Education Training Authority (AgriSETA)… Read more

Universities Join Forces to Strengthen Teaching Practicals During Covid-19 and Beyond

For the first time in South Africa’s history, universities that offer teacher education programmes have joined forces to produce a practice-focused module available to all institutions that offer pre-service teacher education programmes. Read more

University Rankings Don’t Measure What Matters

International rankings of universities are big business and big news. These systems order universities on the basis of a variety of criteria such as student to staff ratio, income from industry, and reputation as captured through public surveys. Read more

Wits Students Design Drone that can be Used for Covid-19 Screening

Growing up in Soweto, Wits University student Xolani Radebe had no idea that he would one day design a drone with his business partners that could be used for Covid-19 screening. Read more

 

30 August 2020

Artwork Outside of Stellies Law Faculty Brings SA’s Constitution to Life

Cape Town – An artwork depicting the preamble of the Constitution of South Africa is being erected in front of Stellenbosch University’s (SU) Law Faculty building, the Old Main Building. Read more

Career Guidance and Psychosocial Learner Support at Diepsloot Combined School

Every year, a large number of matriculants from disadvantaged communities exit school with little to no information about how to pursue their studies at institutions of higher learning and other available opportunities due to lack of career guidance at schools. Read more

Concern Over Cuts to Higher Education, Science Budgets

Budget cuts and the diversion of resources to ameliorate the effects of COVID-19 are set to negatively impact higher education in South Africa, as well as national science and research systems, casting doubt over the system’s ability to meet postgraduate and PhD targets,… Read more

Fascination with the Microscopic Drives Ground-Breaking Research

…UKZN’s College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science is honouring its female scientists through a Wonder Women in Science campaign, highlighting women who are passionate about their fields, pioneering innovative research and development, … Read more

Free State TVET Students Register Highest Covid-19 Deaths

Free State has recorded the highest number of deaths from Covid-19 among students in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges. Read more

Lockdown Highlights Need for Holistic Approach to Educating SA’s Township Youth

“The last four months have thrown open the playbook on how we should be addressing the educational challenges facing [orphaned and vulnerable] learners and students in our townships,” … Read more

More Black Students at University, But Still Starting at a Disadvantage

The number of enrolments at universities increased by 40% in 12 years and, on average, white students performed better than black, coloured and Indian first-time undergraduates. Read more

No Jobs for Graduates in Struggling Economy

Despondent university graduates, who are without work, are demanding action from the government. A few dozen members of the Unemployed Graduate Movement gathered in Pretoria for a March to the Union Buildings. Read more

The Long-Term Goal for Universities – Quality Blended Learning

In South Africa, switching to online teaching and learning has in some instances presented anxiety and uncertainty among academics and students. Read more

Three South African Vice-Chancellors Paint a Post-COVID Picture for Universities

The Conversation Africa’s Nontobeko Mtshali asked vice-chancellors from three South African universities to share their insights about what these changes could mean for the country’s higher education landscape. Read more

Overseas-Trained Doctors Blocked from Practising in SA

The latest regulations by the Health Professions Council of SA (HPCSA) could leave many internationally-trained South African doctors unable to practise medicine in the country. Read more

Sibanye-Stillwater and Wits University Collaborate for Health Workers

Sibanye-Stillwater and the University of Witwatersrand have collaborated to produce face shields for frontline health workers in communities around the Group`s South African operations and in the Eastern Cape Province. Read more

South African Higher Education’s Opportunity to Embrace Digital Transformation

New models for online learning can help reduce inequality and improve access, say experts. Read more

Transformation at UCT: Statistics Paint a Bleak Picture

Johannesburg – Amid ongoing tension over the controversial leadership of Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, vice-chancellor of UCT, is a constant unsubstantiated suggestion of an anti-transformation force on campus – but the university’s 2019 report on change shows that the problem may reside with nobody but Phakeng and her executive team. Read more

UKZN Helps Source Generous Donation of Masks for SA Medical Students

UKZN was among the Higher Education Institutions in South Africa which benefitted from a Solidarity Fund donation of hundreds of thousands of masks for final-year Medical students who recently returned to campuses to resume studies after the easing of the national lockdown restrictions. Read more

UKZN Rocket Scientist Shoots into Top 10

Durban – While Durban rocket scientist Kai Broughton, 27, would jump at the chance to go into space, it’s the engineering behind space rockets which drives him. Read more

University Cancels Event Featuring Mbongeni Ngema

The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) has cancelled an event in which playwright and seasoned actor Mbongeni Ngema was to be a main speaker. Read more

University Education is Key to Preventing Future Outbreaks

A spotlight has been placed on the role of scientific research and the study of viruses and diseases, due to the outbreak of Covid-19. Read more

Universities’ Response to GBV Could be More Effective…

A shortage of resources and inadequate policies were last week presented as main obstacles in fighting the scourge of gender-based violence in institutions of higher learning. Read more

Universities Given Deadline to Complete 2020 Academic Year

Universities in SA have been given until February to complete the 2020 academic year with the 2021 calendar set to start between March and April. Read more

UP and South African Women in Dialogue Make Long-Standing Partnership Official

The University of Pretoria (UP) has signed a game-changing agreement with South African Women in Dialogue (SAWID) to collaborate on projects to improve the lives of women. Read more

UP and University of Leeds Collaborate on Digital Project to Teach Kids About

The University of Pretoria (UP) and the University of Leeds are working together on a project to determine if children between eight and 12 years old can learn about COVID-19 through a storybook and/or by playing an online game. Read more

UP Campus Tours Team Offers Virtual Tours for you to Experience from the Comfort of Your Home

The Covid-19 pandemic has brought disruptions that require industries to be innovative and think of new ways to do things. This was significant to the University of Pretoria Campus Tours (UP Campus Tours) team that had to change their game plan and leverage on the global innovation and drive the rich heritage and promising future of the University of Pretoria to greater heights. Read more

UP Hosts First Ever Virtual Women in Science Symposium to Celebrate

Professor Thuli Madonsela, former Public Protector and current Social Justice Chair at Stellenbosch University, was the keynote speaker during the virtual Women in Science Symposium hosted recently by the University of Pretoria. Read more

UP Malaria Expert on the Tiny Animal

Mosquitoes are found virtually anywhere on Earth. They are annoying with their itchy bites and incessant buzzing at the most untimely moments, but there is more to them than the nuisance factor. Read more

 

31 July 2020

3 Fundamental Ways Technology is Changing Education

The introduction of the fourth industrial revolution has already been transforming the education sector over the past two decades, with technology allowing students to access education from anywhere at any time. Read more

Business School Embraces Training on Agriculture Management

The name says it all, remarks director Kobus Jonker. The Tshwane School of Business and Society reflects the fact that business education should be about more than helping the formal sector deepen its established well of knowledge. Read more

Concern Over Cuts to Higher Education, Science Budgets

Budget cuts and the diversion of resources to ameliorate the effects of COVID-19 are set to negatively impact higher education in South Africa, as well as national science and research systems, casting doubt over the system’s ability to meet postgraduate and PhD targets… Read more

Convalescent Plasma – a Possible COVID-19 Therapy

Investigators at the University of Cape Town (UCT) are working with the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) and the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) to conduct the PROTECT-patient trial. Read more

Court Orders Distance University to Retain Afrikaans

South Africa’s Supreme Court of Appeal has ruled that the removal of Afrikaans as a language of instruction by the University of South Africa (UNISA), the largest open distance education institution in Africa, was unlawful and unconstitutional. Read more

Covid-19 and Its Impact on South Africa’s Higher Education Institutions…

As we continue to witness the massive impact Covid-19 has on life as we knew it, education, academic and personal development must continue… Read more

COVID-19 info for Africa by Africans

ARI cofounder Thabo Mabuka, a chemical engineering graduate from UCT’s Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment, said his organisation brings essential information about issues that affect the continent to its people. Read more

Covid-19: Higher Education Academic Year Likely to End in March 2021…

The academic year in the higher education sector will probably only end in March next year, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology Blade Nzimande said. Read more

COVID-19: ‘This is not the End of Contact Teaching’

“If the higher education sector believes that digital education should replace contact teaching and learning, it runs the risk of producing highly qualified people with severely underdeveloped human or social skills. They will just be robots.” Read more

First Female Council Chair, Deputy at University of Cape Town

South Africa’s University of Cape Town has for the first time in its history elected two females to its council chair and deputy positions. Read more

International Research Collaborations: How Can We Shift the Power Towards Africa?

The higher education sector globally has been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Academics have been discussing various aspects of the disruptions in a series of webinars organised by the University of Cape Town. Read more

Is the Rhetoric of Research ‘Excellence’ Holding Us Back?

Opting for a broader and fluid concept of excellence requires developing measures able to capture multiple dimensions where we expect research to deliver social value. Read more

New Wits University Leader – A Choice Widely Welcomed

The appointment of nuclear physicist Professor Zeblon Vilakazi as the new vice-chancellor of one of South Africa’s premier institutions, the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), has received widespread support from stakeholders and industry representatives. Read more

Online Learning Must Remain a Key Component of Teaching Systems

A music teacher says she has composed a song to express what she feels about transitioning to online teaching and learning. Read more

Providing International Experience Virtually

The number of undergraduate students travelling for part or all of their degrees has increased dramatically in the last few years. Read more

South Africa’s Destination Reputation is on the Line

South Africa has established itself as a regional higher education hub, which has until the recent COVID-19 pandemic been hosting increasing numbers of international students. Read more

Student Accommodation: Designing for the New Normal

The Covid-19 pandemic continues to create uncertainty for the country’s higher education sector. In addition to the cost of shifting to online learning, massive losses in revenue and unpredictable 2021 enrolments will see universities face increasing financial strain. Read more

The Impact of Covid-19 on Employability in Higher Education

As South Africa celebrated Youth Month, we all know that youth unemployment is one of the country’s greatest challenges. This has all been unfortunately amplified in our current Covid-19 context. Read more

Three Saving Hacks for Higher Education

Saving is a lifestyle choice. Like most things, saving takes practice and discipline. The Savings Institute of South Africa has designated July on the South African calendar as “Savings Month”, to promote a culture of saving in South Africa. Read more

Transformation as a Contradiction at UCT

The University of Cape Town (UCT) has released a report which looks at various contradictions, but also moves towards transformation. Read more

UCT to Finish the 2020 Academic Year Through Remote Teaching

The University of Cape Town has taken a decision to finish the 2020 academic year through remote teaching. Read more

UKZN Secures COVID-19 Rapid Tester

The College of Health Sciences (CHS) at UKZN has secured an advanced instrument called the ILEX Genehecker (ultra-fast pcr) valued at $10 000 to conduct rapid testing for COVID-19. Read more

Universities are Learning to Change – Together

A recent webinar involving senior leaders of higher education from South Africa, France, Switzerland and Germany revealed that institutions across the world faced some similar challenges in the shift to online learning during COVID-19-induced lockdowns. Read more

Universities of Technology in the Post-COVID-19 Landscape

Similar to commerce and industry, universities have in recent times had to revert to coping and turnaround strategies to address economic, geo-political, societal, technological and environmental demands… Read more 

 

30 June 2020

A ‘Scientific’ Approach to Pandemic Lacking Transparency

The South African government has been praised for its comparatively rapid response to the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing a strict lockdown within three weeks of its first recorded case. Read more

An Inclusive Approach to a Post-Pandemic Future

While the South African government took early strides to contain the spread of the coronavirus, a group of academics and civil society actors are now turning their collective thinking to how the country should be managing its socio-economic recovery in a post-pandemic dispensation – using the wealth of expertise available in the country to do so. Read more

 Attorney Threatens Legal Action to Get Universities Reopened

Prominent attorney Comfort Ngidi is threatening legal action against three top universities in the province of KwaZulu-Natal if lectures do not resume soon under alert level three. Read more

Boost for E-Waste Recovery Project

A University of Cape Town (UCT) project focusing on the recovery of valuable metals from e-waste through small-scale, local recyclers is among six recipients of the 2020 German-African Innovation Incentive Award (GAIIA). Read more

Face Masks During Exercise: UP Experts Weigh in on What You Should Consider…

Two University of Pretoria (UP) researchers have offered useful tips to gym bunnies and sports enthusiasts hoping to get back into action as the world adjusts to a new normal caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more

Governments to Bail Out Struggling Universities

Governments should provide financial assistance to those universities that are experiencing loss from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more

How 2020 May Equip Students to Make an Impact Beyond Expectations

The Covid-19 pandemic has profoundly disrupted life as we know it. Crucially, it is disproportionately affecting our youth and driving up our already dire youth unemployment rate. Read more

In Repurposing Education, Leave No Student – or University – Behind

Improving access to higher education is not only about opening doors to more people, says Professor Mpine Makoe, director of open distance e-learning at the University of South Africa. Read more

It’s Time to Rethink the Global University

The pandemic has disrupted higher education international activities and the financial models on which universities increasingly depend. But the previous model was already problematic, contributing to global warming and benefitting rich universities more than poor. Read more

…How Our Universities can Turn the International Student Crisis into an Opportunity

The impact of Covid-19 on New Zealand’s international education sector can hardly be overstated. Almost overnight, the global travel ban thwarted the plans of thousands of international students. Lecture theatres, halls of residence and private accommodations stood empty. Read more

Making the Most of an ‘Equal Opportunity Pandemic’

A wide-ranging webinar on COVID-19 and higher education in Africa revealed that while higher education leaders recognise the challenges ahead, particularly in the shift to greater reliance on digital education, they are determined to see the pandemic as an opportunity for positive change. Read more

National Peer Review Weighs up Quality of Education Journals

An evaluation by the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) of South African educational journals has recommended that three out of 17 of those assessed be removed from the Department of Higher Education and Training’s (DHET) official list of accredited journals. Four others were ‘conditionally’ accepted for the list. Read more

Party Political Meddling Threatens Future of Universities

Patronage student politics at South African universities has stoked a fierce debate about the future of post COVID-19 higher education in the country, as campuses increasingly become strategic sites in a national contestation for material resources and social capital. Read more

Post-COVID-19: South Africa advised to Invest in Water Security Infrastructure

The South African Academy of Engineering (SAAE) has written to President Ramaphosa to advise him to focus infrastructure investment in the Post-Covid19 period on projects that will support jobs and the economy. Read more

PMR.africa Ranks UKZN’s Business School Third Best in SA

The Graduate School of Business and Leadership (GSB&L) has been ranked third in South Africa based on a survey conducted between March and May this year by the Professional Management Review (PMR) of South African Accredited Business Schools. Read more

Six UCT researchers are ‘Science Oscars’ finalists

Also known as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa, the NSTF Awards were established in 1998 to recognise outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology and innovation by professionals, teams and organisations in South Africa. Read more

Some Universities Admitted Students Illegally in 2019 Session
Some universities in the country did not comply with the rules set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board in the 2019 session in the admission process. Read more

Sparks Fly Over Study on Black Students and Biological Sciences

The council of the Academy of Science of South Africa has defended the editorial independence of its flagship journal – the South African Journal of Science (SAJS) – and the right of any academic to submit for publication the results of research in the scholarly journal subject to editorial review processes. Read more

South African Technology Solution Brings Hope to Events Industry

While the moratorium on large events and gatherings imposed by COVID has wreaked havoc with the multi-million rand events industry in South Africa, 3D, interactive, virtual exhibition software created in the country is cause for hope. Read more

Taking the Covid-19 Message to Communities

Dr Prudence Kayoka-Kabongo of Unisa’s Department of Agriculture and Animal Health in the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES) explains that one of the ways that the university plays its part during lockdown is through community engagement. Read more

The First Covid-19 Vaccine Trial in South Africa Begins

The first participants in South Africa’s first clinical trial for a vaccine against Covid-19 will be vaccinated this week. Read more

UCT Pays Homage to COVID-19 Frontline Workers

Conceptualised and produced by UCT’s video production unit in the Communication and Marketing Department (CMD), the video features the UCT Choir and campus essential workers, such as cleaning staff and Campus Protection Services. Read more

UKZN Brings Open Day to the Public

UKZN’s College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science has not let the national COVID-19 lockdown stand between it and its customers.  Instead, it has moved its Open Day online! Read more

UP’s Own ‘Bones’ and MakerSpace Hopes to Print Replicas of Human Bones in 3D

…UP’s Forensic Anthropology Research Centre in the Faculty of Health Sciences, is working with the Department of Library Services’ MakerSpace Centre to print replicas of human bones in 3D. Read more

University of Pretoria Food Safety Expert Warns Food Safety Crisis…

One of South Africa’s top food safety experts, Professor Lise Korsten, has warned that the country cannot afford another food-borne outbreak like the listeriosis crisis of 2017/18 in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more

What Do Former Student Leaders Think of #FeesMustFall?

A quarter of a century into democracy – and with the dust barely settled from the #FeesMustFall student protests which rocked the country in 2015 and 2016, South Africa’s higher education institutions still face numerous challenges. Read more

 

31 May 2020

A Global Scientific Alliance Uniting Genomics and Public Health (PHA4GE)

The South African National Bioinformatics Institute (SANBI) at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) was asked to play a leading role in the coordination of national research of infectious viruses like Covid-19. Read more

Already on the Back Foot, Can Fort Hare Save its Academic Year?

As some universities around South Africa hone their lockdown plans to move to online teaching, there are increasing indications that 2020 could become an academic write-off for the already beleaguered University of Fort Hare. Read more

COVID-19 – Academy Joins Calls for Multidisciplinary Approach

The Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) has called on the government to include social scientists and humanities scholars in its advisory bodies in recognition of the fact that the pandemic is not only a medical problem but a social problem as well. Read more

COVID-19 is Changing How We Talk to Each Other

If Covid-19 has a silver lining, it may be this: it is making humans around the world realise how much we all share, how much we all stand to lose, how much we need to work together, and how we lead each other without physical contact…Read more

Covid-19 Update (30) – Wits Prepares for the return of some students

Final year students and other identified groups of students expected to return to campus from 8 June 2020. Read more

COVID-19: UP Prioritises Access to Online Learning and Mental Health…

Effective online learning is about more than just compiling slides and sending them to students, says the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Tawana Kupe. Read more

Doing Research in Isolation – A Guide to Thriving

When South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a nationwide lockdown on 23 March, academic institutions were faced with a new reality and concerns about how to resume the academic year. Read more

Drug Programme Showcases Benefits of Multidisciplinarity

When the sciences and humanities collaborate, exceptional work is possible. Read more

Dubious Remedies will not Decolonise Africa

So-called African solutions that are often uncritically accepted as ‘good’ do nothing for the continent. Read more

EMC Approval of SOP Carves a Way Forward for Laying a Foundation for the Return of Staff

Working under pressure and online; the MUT COVID-19 Task Team has developed a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) document. Read more

EMS Student Heroes: Fighting Covid-19 on the Frontline

As the global community continues to battle the coronavirus pandemic, our health workers have emerged as the heroes of this crisis. Among them are many of our very own CPUT students who are working selflessly to help others. Some are risking their own lives at the frontlines. Read more

Going Online – Psychological Support is Also Needed

Many universities pledged to begin officially teaching online on 4 May. Many are currently assessing the availability of ‘physical’ resources like laptops, data, etc to ensure their students’ preparedness to participate in online teaching and learning. Read more

HE Department Unveils Plan to ‘Save the Academic Year’

The 2020 academic year, involving 27 weeks of contact learning, is likely to spill over into next year, drawing to a close either at the end of January, February, March or April 2021, depending on when students can safely return to campuses. Read more

How a Post-COVID-19 Revival Could Kickstart Africa’s Free Trade Area

The COVID-19 pandemic, notwithstanding its devastating impact on the health and economies of Africa, could be an opportunity to advance the free trade area in a more developmental, inclusive and mutually beneficial way for African countries… Read more

Medical Students Forgo Recess to Join War Against COVID-19

On Friday 13 March, Luné Smith, a fifth-year medical student at South Africa’s Stellenbosch University, attended the last of her lectures before students were expected to return home for an early recess in accordance with the government’s coronavirus lockdown rules. Read more

Medical Students Volunteer to Step out of the Classroom into the Coronavirus Pandemic

Hundreds of health science students have organised themselves into volunteering groups to assist medical staff at Tygerberg Hospital in Cape Town during the Covid-19 pandemic. Read more

Minister Blade Nzimande Calls for African Solutions to Coronavirus Covid-19…

The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, assured Africa’s scientific community that just as the continent had defeated colonial and racial oppression, so too would it overcome the novel coronavirus. Read more

Minister Denies Threat to Academic Freedom of Medical Scientist

South Africa’s Minister of Health Zweli Mkhize this week denied there had been any interference with academic freedom in the case of Professor Glenda Gray, head of the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC),… Read more.

NSFAS Students Urged to Use Allowances to Buy Learning Devices

Students receiving aid from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) have been urged to use their learning material allowances to purchase learning devices so they could learn remotely during lockdown. Read more

Pandemic Launches Rhodes University into New Method of Teaching and Learning

Although the concept of remote teaching at Rhodes University is not new, the Covid-19 pandemic has brought this form of teaching and learning sharply into focus. Read  more

Programme to Connect Future South African Leaders to Global Conversation in a Post-Covid-19 World

The University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business has become the first business school in sub-Saharan Africa to join CEMS – Global Alliance in Management Education. Read more

Support Staff and Long Shadow Implications of COVID-19

How prepared are university administrators to keep pace with the new (intangible) normal? Can we, as suggested by the director of the Academic Cooperation Association, Bernd Wächter, find smarter ways of living, working, learning and moving? Read more

Social Science Shows it Can Contribute to COVID-19 Policy-Making

In recent weeks, University World News has published a number of articles about universities and their responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. These included an article on the multiple and the many-faceted contributions by the 16 members of the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA). Read more

The Struggle to Save and Remake Public Higher Education

Public higher education is at serious risk. Universities premised on knowledge creation and dissemination for the public good are on shakier terrain than before. Read more

UKZN Establishes Hardship Fund to Address Food Insecurity and …

As South Africa and the rest of the world continue to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become clear that there is an urgent need to establish programmes of increased social support… Read more

UKZN Professor Collaborates on Diagnostic Tool for COVID-19 Using X-Rays

Academic Leader for Research and Higher Degrees in the School of Life Sciences Professor Evariste Bosco Gueguim Kana, has collaborated with researchers in South Africa, Nigeria, Cameroon and the UNESCO regional office for Southern Africa to develop a web-based diagnostic tool… Read more

UKZN to Hold Virtual Graduation that will be Broadcast on National TV

For the 2020 University of KwaZulu-Natal graduands the reality of the pandemic has forced the university to hold a virtual graduation on Friday that will be broadcast on national television. Read more

University of Free State Catalysing Quality and Increasing Profitability of the Wool Value…

The Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, Rural Development and Extension submitted a proposal, “Building Competitiveness for communal farmers through developing the wool value chain in the Free State Province of South Africa”, as a bid for a project to The Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture. Read more

Universities to Open in Phases from 1 June – Minister

In a bid to save the 2020 academic year, South Africa’s Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Dr Blade Nzimande announced at the weekend that tertiary institutions would gradually be reopened from 1 June. Read more

Worldwide Universities Network Backs UCT’s San and Khoe Research Unit

Through its Research Development Fund, the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN) has thrown its weight and funding behind the establishment of the San and Khoe Research Unit at the University of Cape Town (UCT). Read more

 

30 April 2020

Africa Must have Research and Treatment Tailored to its Reality

Africa is often described as the “next frontier” in the global economy but malaria — both driven by and causing poverty — still chokes economic growth. Yet we have made advances to break that cycle in recent years. Read more

After COVID-19 – ‘Nothing Will be the Same’

Diminished high-level research funding and fewer face-to-face conferences and collaboration – these are some of the potential consequences from the coronavirus pandemic as it affects higher education in Africa. But there may be a host of benefits too. Read more

A Lesson in Giving: Academics Dig Deep to Keep Students Afloat

A university’s vice-chancellor has opened his heart — and his wallet — to battling students and their families “who are in despair because of the lockdown”. Read more

A Tale of Two Crises

Make no mistake, we are living through the worst of times. To think twelve months ago “coronavirus” hadn’t entered the public lexicon. Now we are in the midst of a legitimately existential threat. Someday we will look back on this period with the same sorrow reserved for the darkest days in bygone eras. Read more

Beyond a Bio-Medical Fix – The Value of ‘People’s Science’

Paul Richards’ 2016 book Ebola: How a People’s Science Helped End an Epidemic provides a powerful reminder of the limits of epidemiology and bio-medical fixes, as well as coercive state measures such as lockdown, in the long-term control, management and elimination of diseases like COVID-19. Read more

Can SA’s Achievement in Containing COVID-19 Lead to Sustained Success?

South Africa has been recognised globally for its success in flattening the curve, which came as a result of President Ramaphosa listening to experts and responding quickly with social distancing… Read more

Commencement of Blended Learning

Senate, at a special meeting yesterday, 21 April 2020, discussed the academic implications of the nationwide lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic and assessed the University’s readiness to offer teaching and learning through a blended mode. Read more

Complexity and the Modern Curriculum

The curriculum operates in a space where knowledge is recontextualised and organised for various pedagogical purposes. It also exists as a compelling site of personal, social, cultural, political and symbolic reflection. Read more

Concerned Academics Call for Halt to Online Learning

Academics from several universities throughout South Africa have demanded an immediate halt to formal online learning at universities, warning that continuation would result in an “academic disaster” and compound the effects of the pandemic. Read more

COVID-19 has Put HE Internationalisation Under Review

In South Africa, we are in the middle of a national curfew that has been described as one of the strictest globally. We have been occupied with finding new ways of organising everyday life and work in response to the global crisis caused by COVID-19 and ever-increasing restrictions. Read more

COVID-19 Response – Where Are the Social Scientists?

Leading South African social scientists are calling for greater engagement in shaping the mitigation policies being produced by the government to manage the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Read more

Cyber-Threat Reality Highlighted in UKZN Presentation

The cyber-threat situation in South Africa and its potential to become more serious as the country pursues technological growth to compete in the Fourth Industrial Revolution was the subject of a presentation delivered in Durban…Read more

‘Fake News’ and COVID-19: How Have we Performed?

The fight against the spread of false information began long before the outbreak of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, and experts such as the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Professor Herman Wasserman have been researching fake news for years now. Read more

Fake News, Lockdown and Unintended Consequences

Fake news is news that consists of deliberate misinformation or hoaxes spread using traditional or social media. With most of the world’s population under lockdown and with easy access to smartphones. Read more

Going Online – What Cost to the Social Justice Agenda?

The unprecedented crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic has evoked a plethora of responses from philosophical, political, financial, economic, social and medical quarters. Read more

More than 12,000 NSFAS Applicants Must Check Documents Soonest

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is urging 12,882 students with outstanding and incorrect documents to resubmit their forms as soon as possible. Read more

Navigating Uncertainty in the Move to Online Learning

Stellenbosch University (SU) in South Africa, like many other higher education institutions across the world, is navigating a profoundly uncertain period. Read more

New Centre Tracks COVID-19 Social Fracture

The Centre for Analytics and Behavioural Change, incubated by the Allan Gray Centre for Values-Based Leadership at the University of Cape Town (UCT) Graduate School of Business, has launched a six-month project that will use social media analytics and advocacy to combat the spread of misinformation about the coronavirus in South Africa and beyond. Read more

New Publishing Model Pins Hopes on ‘Unity of Purpose’

Higher education leaders in South Africa are looking to move to a European model for open access (OA) publishing of scholarly articles as soon as possible, according to the body that coordinates the country’s public universities. Read more

NSFAS Students Urged to Open Bank Accounts

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has urged qualifying students to open bank accounts to ensure a more efficient disbursement of funds from institutions. Read more

Online Learning – The Pandemic Cannot Change Reality

Universities in South Africa are facing several challenges due to the high enrolment of first-year students from diverse social backgrounds. Read more

Post-COVID-19 – An Era of Withering Dependency?

The late president Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe, that country’s independence icon, died in a hospital in Singapore in 2019, aged 95. Ethiopia’s late prime minister Meles Zenawi died in 2012 in Brussels from an undisclosed illness, aged 57. Read more

SA Scientists on Breaking the Covid-19 Code

A team of world-renowned scientists based at the University of KwaZulu-Natal has launched a fundraising campaign to support the analysis of Covid-19 data – which could provide vital research and insight on… Read more

Should Universities Receive a Stimulus Package from Government During Covid-19?

The Covid-19 pandemic has created profound disruptions in our economy and society. Due to these new challenges, most universities have decided to move from face-to-face classes to online teaching (more accurately defined as emergency remote teaching and learning) so as to complete the 2020 academic year, and to prevent the spread of the virus. Read more

Student Bodies Say E-Learning is Unaffordable and Elitist

The adoption of e-learning as an innovative means to continue teaching and learning during the national lockdowns affecting many African countries has been rejected by a number of students organisations, which argue it is unaffordable, impractical and elitist. Read more

The Case for Using Open Textbooks in HE is Growing

In South Africa, textbook costs have proven to be a barrier to accessing or completing tertiary education, despite the government’s provision of subsidies and financial aid. In other countries, there is growing momentum to allocate funds to the production of open textbooks, which present a more sustainable and affordable solution. Read more

Tips to Teaching Remotely: Focus on Essentials, Less is More

“As educators adapt to teaching remotely and online, there may be an attempt to mimic what a school day would normally look like, by filling learners’ days according to pre-lockdown timetables, and pace and content of learning,” Read more

UCT Academic Authors Free COVID-19 Children’s Book

Oaky and the Virus is one of seven books in the series, all of which were written by Athol Williams, senior lecturer at the University of Cape Town’s Graduate School of Business (GSB), and illustrated by management consultant Taryn Lock. Read more

UFS Chancellor Warns of Online Teaching Costs

The Rector and Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Free State, Francis Petersen, has warned that the novel Coronavirus can, and will probably, have a severe impact on the university. Read more

Universities Mull Scenarios in Bid to Complete Academic Year

Universities in South Africa have committed themselves to completing the 2020 academic year and are working with three possible scenarios in the uncertain terrain presented by the unfolding COVID-19 pandemic. Read more

Universities Prepare for Online Teaching and Learning

South Africa, physically shuttered since 16 March owing to the nationwide lockdown, are doing their best to honour their pledge to complete the 2020 academic year…Read more

Universities, Scientists in Major COVID-19 Push

South Africa’s tertiary education sector has delivered a resounding response to the coronavirus pandemic. Read more

UP Expert on Keeping Up the Fight Against Malaria Amid COVID-19

Malaria remains a major public health concern globally and, despite COVID-19-related challenges, the World Health Organization (WHO) has stressed that malaria services continue as usual. Read more

UP Students Create App to Help Homeless Shelters Speed up Service

Two University of Pretoria (UP) students from the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (EBIT) have developed a mobile app for homeless shelters to access assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more

Women Take Top Spots in Civil Engineering

For the second year in a row, women have taken most of the top spots in the final-year civil engineering class at the University of Cape Town (UCT). Read more

Zero-Rating Online Learning – Not as Simple as It Sounds

Recently published South African government regulations which call for telecommunication companies to provide free access to educational websites to support online teaching and learning are currently the subject of intense negotiation between mobile network operators and universities. How much room for manoeuvre do the regulations actually give service providers? Read more

 

31 March 2020

A Glimpse into the Heart of Student Unrest

Top South African academics have blamed the ongoing strife at several universities on a longstanding failure to address the issue of student funding, and in particular, the “missing middle” – students who do not qualify for funding from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Read more

Are ‘Professional Students’ Bringing Down Universities?

One of South Africa’s most outspoken academics, Professor Adam Habib, vice-chancellor of the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), has called for a national solution to tackle ‘professional students’ on campuses throughout the country – some of whom he claims are permanent organisers for political parties. Read more

COVID-19 and How to Manage Your Mental Health

As a result of the global outbreak of COVID-19, many are struggling to adjust to what will be our “new normal” for the foreseeable future: social distancing (or social solidarity), self-isolation, quarantine and … Read more

COVID-19: Most WC Universities Evacuated Ahead of Lockdown

Universities across the province have chartered buses to ensure that students make their way home safely ahead of the lockdown. Read more

COVID-19: New App to Avoid Future Lockdowns

As South Africans commence a 21-day lockdown, a group of researchers from the University of Cape Town (UCT) is working tirelessly on a smartphone app that could play an important role in managing future outbreaks of COVID-19 and economic recovery. Read more

DUT’s Prof Davidson and Buraimoh’s Paper Wins Third Prize at…

Earning a third place award for an outstanding conference paper at the 17th Clemson University Power System Conference (PSC) is Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Professor and Chair… Read more

Gauteng Universities Disable Biometric Access Systems

The University of Johannesburg and the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa are in the process of suspending the use of their biometric access control systems as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19. Read more

Government Announces Plan for Student Housing

South Africa’s Department of Higher Education and Training aims to raise ZAR64 billion (US$4 billion) through private sector participation to address student housing needs. Read more

Higher Education Institutions Close for Early Recess

All higher institutions of learning will close for early recess with effect from Wednesday, 18 March 2020. Read more

Lockdown: How to Survive Working from Home

Differentiating between work and home life will be important as more people around the globe work and study from home amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more

Message from the VC: Coronavirus update

The University of Pretoria is closely monitoring the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. Read more

Minister Announces Closure of All Universities, Colleges

In further measures to contain the spread of COVID-19, all universities and post-school institutions in South Africa are to close for early recess today, 18 March, according to a statement by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology. Read more

Minister Blade Nzimande on NSFAS Covid-19 Contingency Plan and Disbursements…

Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation statement on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Covid-19 contingency plan and disbursements. Read more

Some Relief for Zimbabwean Students Still in China

Zimbabwean students trapped in Wuhan, China, the epicentre of the coronavirus pandemic, which has been in lockdown since 23 January, are receiving extra funds from their government to help them cope with their indefinite isolation. Read more

Study Shows Need for Policy on Entrepreneurship in HE

“In the absence of policy – because there is definitely a policy vacuum in terms of entrepreneurship at university – what is it we need to know [to] inform the development of policy?” Read more

Survey to Assess Universities’ Online Learning Capabilities

The South African Department of Higher Education and Training has asked all universities and colleges to participate in a survey to assess their capability to offer online learning should educational institutions be forced to extend their closure beyond the early recess. Read more

The Target Group Index (TGI) Data Set – Empowering Students and Business Leaders of Tomorrow Alongside the University of Pretoria

The TGI (Target Group Index) survey, of which Ask Afrika owns the South African rights, is the global standard for integrated and rich consumer profiling. Read more

UKZN Removes 2,000 ‘Professional Students’ Who’ve Taken Eight Years…

The University of KwaZulu-Natal has removed 2,000 students who had been studying for eight years or more for their three-year degrees. Read more

UKZN Staffer Tests Positive for Coronavirus

A staff member at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has tested positive for the coronavirus – the first confirmed case at the university. Read more

UP Law Alumna’s Book on Human Rights in the Fight Against Terrorism, Based on Thesis, Wins Prestigious International Prize

A book by a University of Pretoria (UP) Faculty of Law alumna, titled Peremptory Norms of General International Law (Jus Cogens) and the Prohibition of Terrorism, has been selected as the winner of the American Society of International Law (ASIL)…  Read more

Universities Halt Classes, Postpone Graduation Ceremonies

Classes at some universities around South Africa have been suspended and graduation ceremonies cancelled as the country moves to contain the spread of COVID-19. Read more

Universities in South Africa, Namibia Halt Classes

Classes at some universities around South Africa and in Namibia have been suspended and graduation ceremonies cancelled as the country moves to contain the spread of COVID-19. In most cases, there is a moratorium on work-related international travel. Read more

Universities Plan Online Classes During Lockdown

With the 21-day national lockdown beginning at midnight on Thursday, universities have already begun the process of planning online courses for their students during this period. Read more

University Launches War Room to Tackle Coronavirus

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in South Africa has launched a Campus Health ‘War Room’ in a bid to lend a hand in the international efforts to fight the deadly virus known clinically as COVID-19. Read more

University of Pretoria Launches Fully Online Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health

In an age where many 21st-century services have moved online, from banking to shopping to entertainment, higher education should not be the exception. Read more

University Shutdowns – What we Learnt from ‘Going Online’

Universities are “going online” on a scale never seen before because of COVID-19. Advice, tips and communities are springing up to support academics and students. Teaching and learning professionals in numerous roles are working flat out to be of assistance. Read more

UP Increases Number of NRF A-Rated Scientists to 16…

Two highly respected University of Pretoria (UP) academics, Professor Jean M-S Lubuma and Professor James Ogude have been awarded A-2 ratings by the National Research Foundation (NRF), bringing UP’s total number of scientists in this category to 16. Read more

You Don’t Need to be a Man to be an Engineer

Women engineering students were invited to come and listen to various views from the working engineers and be inspired to stand their ground in the industry. Read more

29 February 2020

Biochemistry Breakthrough for UCT Researchers

In a global first, three University of Cape Town (UCT) researchers have visualised – at a resolution close to that of individual atoms – the intact active site of a commercially important biological molecule. Read more

Cengage, Edge Learning Media Expand Access to Learning for SA’s Tertiary Students, Instructors

Cengage and Edge Learning Media are delighted to announce a new partnership in South Africa. This partnership will see Cengage representing Edge’s leading textbook catalogue within the South African public university sector, as well as in Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho and Eswatini. Read more

DUT’s Flight to Greatness

Notions of vision, progression, growth and change were expressed by the Durban University of Technology’s Vice- Chancellor and Principal Professor Thandwa Mthembu, during the second annual State of the University Address at Indumiso Campus. Read more

DUT Hosts the First Disability Rights Orientation for First Year Students

There were 40 first-year-students living with disabilities from the Durban and Midlands campuses, who were given an opportunity to learn and engage with various matters pertaining to disability at campus level, at the recent Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) first Disability Rights Orientation Day. Read more

DUT’s Lynton Julie Reaches for the Stars

Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Electrical Engineering student, Lynton Julie was recently given a wondrous