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Our science, technology and innovation are For.Good

— National Science Week 2025 —

 

 

Last week, after six years of intensive research and testing, the Rhisotope Project went operational by rolling out nuclear technology that makes rhino horns detectable and traceable, and giving conservationists a powerful new weapon against poaching. Read the full story.

 

 

This is just one example of how Wits is pursuing impact-driven research and innovation. #WitsForGood

In celebrating National Science Week 2025, themed "Science, technology and innovation are for everyone”, we want to highlight some of the amazing work our scientists, technologists and innovators have done this year.

How Wits contributes to our shared human storyThe reimagined Wits Sterkfontein Caves offers an immersive research and educational experience.
Generic genetics image of a DNA strand
New tool maps African populations' gene activity First-of-its-kind dataset helps us understand why people from genetic backgrounds may be more vulnerable to certain diseases.
Light-based technologies have wide practical applications. Wikimedia Commons, CC BY
Light is the science of the future The last century was based on electronics and controlling electrons. This century will be dominated by photonics, controlling photons.
New research challenge the long-standing assumption that ochre was used solely for symbolic or decorative purposes.
New findings: Ochre pivotal in early human innovation New research challenge the long-standing assumption that ochre was used solely for symbolic or decorative purposes.
Serisha Naicker, Wellcome grantee
First-of-its-kind fungal research in Africa Dr Serisha Naicker’s findings in her PhD Investigating fungi and what makes them dangerous, spark an award-winning research endeavour.
Cashew waste
Cashew waste innovation can transform vaccine production This breakthrough positions Wits and South Africa as a leader in developing bio-renewable materials for mRNA vaccines.
Wits Anglo American Digital Dome — a state-of-the-art immersive experienceThis state-of-the-art facility is revolutionising how South Africans engage with science, technology, and the arts.
Children swimming. ©Lauren Mulligan | www.wits.ac.za/curiosity/
Years 2 - 5 are critical for a child's development — study The first 1,000 days of a child’s life (conception to two) are critical, while the next 1,000 days are fundamental.
Termites and Mopane worms pizza. © Lauren Mulligan | www.wits.ac.za/curiosity/
Africa’s superfood heroes – from teff to insects Africa’s indigenous foods may hold the key to a healthier, more sustainable future.

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Wits In 60 Seconds

The Rhisotope Project goes live, harnessing nuclear science to help protect rhinos. Wits celebrates two big wins at the NSTF-South32 Awards, with honours for Professors Andrew Forbes and Anne Fitchett. A new study links climate change to the deadly 2022 Durban floods. Wits innovators pitch real-world solutions at the annual Prospector @Wits workshop and Prof. Lucy Allais makes history as the first female South African philosopher elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

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