Crocks' ancestors grew old sloooowly
A gigantic, ancient crocodylomorph species that was recently discovered grew slower than other large reptiles of its day, such as dinosaurs.
Smiles all round at launch of Zola Wits Dental Clinic
The Zola Wits Dental Clinic is a refurbished and re-equipped 15-chair, state-of the-art facility for community-based training and clinical services in Zola.
Wits' Path to Gender Equity: Insights from Bath Spa University's Vice-Chancellor
Wits University's TEEO invited university transformation committees to discuss gender equity with Bath Spa University's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sue Rigby.
Wits launches new PG Diploma in Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Graduates and third year students encouraged to apply now for the new PG Dip to drive business ownership and job creation.
South Africa can’t crack the inequality curse. Why, and what can be done
Efforts have been made to change the patterns of inequality in South Africa. But not enough has been done. Race-based inequality is still a real problem.
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Concussion: what it is and how sports science is making rugby safer
Rugby players risk serious injury due to the game’s sheer physicality. Sports scientists have worked with international rugby bodies to improve safety.
How did elephants evolve such a large brain? Climate change is part of the answer
Climate change along with other environmental disruptions and new predators all likely played an important role in reshaping ancient elephants’ brains.
Johannesburg fire: how to move forward
There was a plan to fix derelict buildings and provide good accommodation.
Witsies rediscover campus during fun run
The Lenn Smith Fun Run/Walk cultivates camaraderie and reconnects scores of Witsies to the beautiful Wits landscape.
FALF leads the way in deepening the knowledge project
Launched just three years ago, the Female Academic Leaders Fellowship (FALF) programme is steadily expanding the knowledge legacy of South Africa.
How do we use Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education for Good?
Wits workshop on Learning and Teaching debates responsibility, equity, and access of generative AI in Higher Education.
Brazilian Rectors gather at Wits to pave the way for future collaborations
More than 50 distinguished Brazilian university leaders and scholars from various institutions convened at Wits to forge collaborative pathways for the future.
Bone healing research shows promise in treating malignant cancers
Wits Bone Research Lab the only unit of its kind to show that a bone-forming protein can block growth of human squamous cell carcinoma.
Wits welcomes WESAF Doctoral Programme Fellows
The first cohort of Wits-Edinburgh Sustainable African Futures (WESAF) Fellows participate in a week-long orientation programme at Wits University.
Johannesburg fire disaster: why eradicating hijacked buildings is not the answer
Inner city occupations are the inevitable consequence of the fact that huge populations of people have to get by without a living wage.
First fossils of ancient human relatives journey to space
Fossils from Homo naledi and Australopithecus sediba become the oldest astronauts to travel to space, flying on Virgin Galactic's spaceship VSS Unity.
Maths education researcher wins prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award
National Research Foundation awards Wits Professor Jill Adler for advancing maths teaching, research, and empowering maths educators in post-democratic SA.
Wits RHI launches Project PrEP
The study will generate real-world data on integrating a new PrEP method, the Dapi-ring, to protect women against sexual transmission of HIV.
Traditional medicines should be used in healthcare
Using centuries of indigenous knowledge along with modern healthcare could benefit more people.
Renowned medical oncologist to Chair Ethics Committee
Emeritus Professor Paul Ruff was appointed Chairperson of the Wits Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC): Medical, effective 1 August 2023.
Genomics research in Africa will improve global health
African populations are the most genetically diverse in the world, with thousands of different ethnolinguistic groups across the continent.
Green thinking is needed to save beaches
Coastlines need to be recognised as dynamic, shifting environments rather than as environments that need to be controlled and managed.
Signing, to save a life
The Wits-Afretec Tech-Entrepreneurship Workshop held marks a pioneering stride for young, aspiring entrepreneurs.
Professional Speed Dating connects students with possible future employers
Wits Counselling and Careers Development Unit expose top performing students to an interview process with industry in five minutes.
Wits and the Bank of China produce the first Chinese Investors’ Confidence Index for South Africa
The index, called CICISA is a quarterly index that tracks the evolution of the “investment climate” or “investment attractiveness” of South Africa over time.
Putting the choice in the hands that matter
A new study has been launched that will harness real-world data to maximise the impact of PreP products on reducing HIV infections.
Brics summit creates a global opportunity for public health
No commitment yet to tackle the ‘commercial determinants’ of noncommunicable disease pandemics.
Sport talent bolsters national teams
Student athletes and coaches from various sport codes fly the SA flag at the World University Games.
Wits Centre for Journalism marks a new era in media research
A new era of journalism research dawned as Wits University inaugurated the formally known Wits Journalism into the Wits Centre for Journalism (WCJ).
Wits scientists opens up the world of pharmaceutical research at National Science Week
Wits Advanced Drug Delivery Platform use the national science fair to interact with future generation of scientists, healthcare professionals, and innovators.
Wits empowers future leaders through short course programme
Over 200 learners hailing from 55 schools in Gauteng recently participated in the second instalment of the Wits Integrated Experience (WitsIE) Short Course.
Immersive experiences with Wits NeuRL
NeuRL’s Immersive Virtual Reality Lab uses innovative body owner illusions to understand cross-cultural bias.
The plight of South Africa’s women
South African women: violence, health and money issues among 5 biggest obstacles that stand in their way.
Concrete specialist wins prestigious award
Emerging scholar receives Young Concrete Researcher Award by industry body Cement & Concrete SA.
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Traditional healers in rural Mpumalanga help diagnose HIV
Research project in Bushbuckridge empowers traditional healers to conduct HIV testing, refer those positive for treatment, thereby curbing new infections.
Learners fascinated by new developments in pharmaceutical research
The Wits Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology hosted learners of the SAHETI School for a day of knowledge sharing and exploration with experts.
Wits lecturer wins the Silver Jubilee Medal from the South African Institute of Physics
The award is made for outstanding achievements by a young physicist that contributes to the research, education or technology development in physics.
Shell Structures inspire a paradigm shift in design thinking
New book on shell structures is unique. Wits is one of five universities globally to focus on this engineering structure.
Gigantic extinct reptile weighed as much as a black rhino
Large pareiasaurs are among the earliest huge plant-eating tetrapods to appear in the history of the development of life on Earth.
Africa needs to get Wagner out of Africa
Russia summit is an opportunity for Africa to unite on Ukraine and make its collective voice heard on Russian mercenaries in African conflicts.
Wits Music award-winning musicians launch albums at Narratives gig
Vuma Levin and Benjamin Jephta launch their albums with an all-star ensemble featuring some of South African jazz’s finest musicians.
Choreographing new ways of knowing
Thirteen years ago Kamogelo Molobye enrolled for Law at Rhodes but The Amazing Other Show changed the trajectory for the Wits Theatre & Performance lecturer...
Surviving heat waves in Africa
Around the world, temperature records are being broken in countries in Africa, Europe, America and Asia.
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Wits University hosts PSi Conference for the first time in Africa
The Wits School of Arts in the Faculty of Humanities co-hosts the Performance Studies International (PSi) conference in Johannesburg from 2-5 August 2023.
Half of all South Africans are overweight or obese
The increased availability and consumption of unhealthy food have contributed to poor health outcomes, and warning labels on unhealthy foods help change that.
Halala South Africa
The Deaf community celebrates South African Sign Language becoming the 12th official language.
Malnutrition: how one SA community wants resources to be spent
Failing to understand what communities consider important greatly diminishes the responsiveness of policies to the actual needs of individuals.
Canon SA extends partnership with Wits rock art digitisation laboratory
Canon South Africa and the Wits Rock Art Research Institute (RARI) partnered in 2021 to keep the preservation of rock art heritage alive.
Wits Targeting Talent Programme thrives for nearly two decades
The programme has been empowering young minds and nurturing their potential for a brighter future for good.
Nelson Mandela’s legacy is taking a battering
How he is regarded will continue to change depending on the state of South Africa, and there is never going to be a final assessment of his legacy.
Wits-UoE research partnership ‘heads to Space’
Researchers from Wits and the University of Edinburgh held a symposium to explore collaborative opportunities for Space Research projects.
You carry the legacy forward: Honour Mandela!
Witsies double and triple commitment on Mandela Day with 670 and 6700 initiatives.
UN body proposes new social contract
A new eco-social contract is necessary to create a sustainable and just future, responsive to multiple and intersecting crises.
‘Science Oscars’ for three Witsies for research excellence
Professors Roger Deane, Nosipho Moloto, and Andrew Thatcher each won in their category at the 2022/23 NSTF-South32 Awards.
Wits honours Gates
A brilliant intellectual with an insatiable thirst for knowledge, Prof. Jim Gates shattered boundaries and unlocked secrets of the Universe.
Bridging the gap between mining and people
The unveiling of the Wits Sibanye-Stillwater Innovation bridge represents an enduring investment in human capital and future engineering skills.
Launch of 'Mokgomana – The life of John Kgoana Nkadimeng 1927 – 2020'
The book launch weaves another important thread into the story of the everyday activists who made the anti-apartheid movement what it was.
Wits University confers Honorary Doctorate on Father Huddleston
Anti-apartheid chaplain described by some South Africans as "father ke motho" or "one of us"
Supporting youth to become job creators
The next generation is essential to Africa's future and to global shared interests in creating a safer, healthier, and more prosperous world.
Females mining new frontiers
Two black female visionaries are breaking barriers and reshaping mining engineering.
Frontrunners ascend to the stage at the July 2023 grads
Second black female PHD Mining Engineer graduates this July, and Father Trevor Huddleston and Professor James Sylvester Gates to receive honorary doctorates.
Ticket giveaway for Targeting Talent Programme show, The Journey
The production, titled The Journey, tells the story of these learners’ journey through life, as well as their journey into the Targeting Talent Programme.
Two Wits students bag Optics and Photonics Education Scholarship by SPIE
Leerin Michaela Perumal and Cade Ribeiro Peters, receive a life-changing opportunity for their potential contributions to physics.
Managing risk and harm in research ethically
Research findings must be limited and mitigated to protect participants’ well-being and dignity.
Wits GCI co-leads pioneering initiative to fight the impact of tropical cyclones
The new R110 million project aims to improve early warnings and enhance resilience to changing tropical cyclones in southern Africa and Madagascar.
Should I get the flu vaccine? South African experts say yes
Vaccines remain the most effective method available to prevent flu, especially severe flu illness.
Climate change journalism in SA misses the mark
The kind of coverage favoured by South African media probably doesn’t do much to improve the public’s understanding of climate change.
Offer better HIV care to migrant women in South Africa
The vulnerability of migrants was highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic when restrictions affected people’s ability to travel to access treatment.
Grade 11 learners investigate asteroid impact at Wits experience
The Wits Integrated Experience kicked off its sixth short course this year designed to expose grade 11 to university life.
Research is lacking in Africa on benefits of children's movement
Current research largely excludes 16% of the world population as Africa contributes less than 1% of research worldwide on the movement behaviours of children.
Witsies in Top 200. For Good
Almost a quarter of the 200 young South Africans nominated by the nation are from Wits.
Wits Researchers rewarded for excellence
Researchers from all over Wits have been rewarded for their excellence at a Wits ceremony.
A career rooted in promoting mental health
Lived experiences inspired a career in psychology and these keep Shameen Naidu close to students that need support.
Wits to co-lead international research on Migration and Health
The research will focus on the health of migrants in the African Union and European Union corridor, one of the largest migration corridors globally.
Wits audience fascinated by first mission of its kind to Jupiter
South African-born space physicist Professor Michele Dougherty is a principal investigator on the Juice mission to Jupiter.
Unicorns - the story behind southern Africa's one-horned creatures
Some explorers believed they had found unicorns depicted on rocks. The truth behind the rock art is far more interesting.
Sign language is set to become official in South Africa
Here is how this will help Deaf people to finally have an opportunity to be properly educated in a language they understand.
Academic staff honoured for completing transitioning programme
Twenty Wits academics have completed the Enhancing Mid-Career Academic Transitions (EMCAT) pilot programme launched in 2022.
The surprising path to life: breaking free from Plate Tectonics
New research reveals that the emergence of life on Earth did not require Plate Tectonics
Smarter human oversight is crucial in facial recognition AI
Enhanced human verification techniques and practices will always be required to ensure accuracy and ward off inherent biases.
Food standards save lives
Fun and practical lessons help University community to learn more about food safety.
Wits School of Accountancy renamed after former Head, Margo Steele
Former student pledges US$10 million to rename the school after first woman head of school.
Revolutionary ideas are not so cut and dried
Corruption, cadre deployment and BEE has destroyed the notion of public service and replaced it with self-interest, party interests and greed.
International expert panel revises management of concussion in sport for optimal care of athletes
Sport and Exercise Medicine physician Jon Patricios co-chaired the latest consensus statement that updates existing recommendations to optimising athlete care.
President of Portugal gives brief history lecture to Wits students
Wits University hosted the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, during his state visit to South Africa on 07 June 2023.
Order of the Star of Italy for Professor Polese
Associate Professor Claudia Polese has been awarded the prestigious Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy.
University Corner renamed after illustrious writer Es'kia Mphahlele
Wits University has officially renamed University Corner after renowned writer and activist Es'kia Mphahlele as part of its continuing transformation plan.
SA philosophers mourn the passing of Eusebius McKaiser
On behalf of Wits Philosophy and the South African Philosophy community, Professor Lucy Allais honours Eusebius McKaiser.
Researchers demonstrate noise-free communication with structured light
A new approach to optical communication that can be deployed with conventional technology.
India, South Africa and Australia shared similar volcanic activity 3.5 billion years ago
Ancient volcanism dating back to 3.5 billion years ago are common to Archaean cratons of South Africa, India, and Australia.
Start-ups prepare for intervarsity competition
Student entrepreneurs are set to conquer the regional rounds with groundbreaking ideas and unwavering ambition.
Remembering SA's “Grand Geek” and programming pioneer
Many speak fondly of how Professor Barry Dwolatzky took them into a derelict disco and enthusiastically explained the tech co-working space he envisioned there.
Wits School of Arts partners with leading art school in Brazil
The Wits School of Arts (WSOA) partnered with a leading media art school at the Federal University of Santa Maria in Brazil (UFSM).
Witsies claim top spots in the battle for ideas
Two Wits students were ranked top in the Falling Walls Lab competition that also saw Nelson Mandela University feature in the top three.
Wits and Sappi launch new Sappi Chair in Climate Change and Plantation Sustainability
Through the Research Chair Professor Mary Scholes will identify critical research needs and develop research outputs related to climate change.
Africa’s Russia-Ukraine peace mission: what can it achieve?
If the African delegation could convince the belligerents to find a peaceful solution, they will make a critical contribution to the climate for mediation.
It’s clear, SA is aligned with Russia
South Africa’s pact with the Russian Federation – and its actions – cast doubt on its claims of non-alignment.
Market Day showcases products by students
Campus bustling with customers and learning opportunities for student entrepreneurs.
Curios.ty 15 (#Energy): Igniting innovation
Wits' research magazine focuses on how our researchers are powering up their creativity and expertise to find sustainable energy solutions.
Energising and futureproofing our world
Editorial: Energy cannot be created or destroyed, but for South Africans it feels like we are upending this fundamental law of physics.
The first to fuel the fire
The first fuel that enabled human beings to land on the moon was harnessed right here in Africa.
Rolling blackouts: Light at the end of the tunnel?
SA’s could create a new model for many countries facing power shortages but it could also lead to more muddling in the dark.
How to spend $8.5bn correctly to energise and green SA
Dr Andrew Lawrence explores how funding received from the Just Energy Transition Partnership can most benefit South Africa.
Clean, safe, controversial
Nuclear energy has had a bad rap, but in South Africa’s current energy conundrum, its importance in the mix is clear.
The red flags in green hydrogen
Scientists can do better to take industry and government-driven hype out of green hydrogen so that its actual potential can be realised.
Your 8 quirky energy questions answered
From Star Wars to hot curry to Einstein – we’ve got you covered.
Building sustainable cities
Long-term economic and social side-effects need to be considered when thinking about our cities’ energy solutions.
Woodlands and forests con-tree-versial
A tree is not just a tree. It is also fuel, paper, furniture, livelihood, and industry.
Energy in the body
How does the body convert food to fuel? How much do we need? And will running really help with weight loss?
Killing cancer with cryoablation
Freeze, fry, microwave, or obliterated – treating early cancer which can progress to advanced life-threatening cancer with cryoablation.
The energy it takes to navigate an abled-bodied world
The implementation of universal design and access could improve the lives of people living with disabilities.
The psychology of energy
Wits researchers shed light on alternative energies and how to leverage them when we’re depleted and in the dark.
A planet called 'Home'
Our home planet Earth is unique, not only in its position in space but in the way it manages energy to create a comfortable spot for us to inhabit.
Finding facts in a lightning bolt
Lightning research will answer several questions about this lesser-known force of nature.
Can Wits go off the grid?
Cutting greenhouse gas emissions to almost zero is the next big thing on the global agenda, but academics agree it’s not feasible in the medium term on campus.
Skills for a green world
South Africa needs to reskill and upskill in the face of changing technology and shifting workplaces.
‘Clean Coal’ could be a game-changer for SA
Q&A: Coal has a bad reputation, but ‘clean coal’ holds various potential opportunities, says Professor Samson Bada.
On ant(eater) patrol
PROFILE: Living to find innovative ways to solve tough challenges, Dr Wendy Panaino digs deep into the lives of pangolins.
Overcoming energy poverty
Researchers are developing innovative solutions to counter the energy poverty that impacts teaching and learning.
Educating science student-teachers about energy
How good is a science curriculum that’s insulated from working scientists or that ignores climate change and sustainable development?
Africa is getting hotter
Continued extreme heat exposure is affecting the health of vulnerable groups in communities.
Column: Ensuring a just energy transition is complex
Focusing on the dynamics in the electricity sector, Professor Imraan Valodia outlines the challenges South Africa is facing and what can be done.
A country worth fighting for
Column: South Africa is a country on the ropes. Its critical infrastructure, including its energy supply, is crippled. Do we still have some fight left?
Sellschop’s neutrinos and an elusive energy
These ghost particles have travelled light years to where we are and are proof that humans are essentially stardust and sunlight.
Bridging the energy gap with AI
Machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) can help catapult South Africa’s energy distribution into the future.
Donated books reflect on African achievers and gender issues
Wits Libraries receive a total of 30 books focusing on African leadership, excellence, and gender-based violence to encourage deep conversations.
Converse with your subconscious at Makhanda Arts Festival
Wits Theatre and Performance undergraduate students present ‘Temperance’ in the Eastern Cape in June 2023.
Celebrating Africa Day
African philanthropy champion, Dr Bhekinkosi Moyo, shares his views on Africa Day, youth and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Wits enables employable graduates
The Recruiters’ Breakfast attended by industry recruiters widens opportunities for Wits graduates.
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Cholera: What is it and how can you avoid getting sick?
Water expert shares guidelines on how to purify water at home in areas where there is uncertainty over water quality or poor sanitation.
New fossil of a 252-million-year-old sabre-toothed lion shows it reigned just before mass extinction
Fossil is described in a paper exploring the rapid turnover of top predators in African terrestrial faunas around the Permian-Traissic mass extinction.
Professional and Administrative staff celebrate outstanding achievement
Wits staff achieve 90% success rate in Business Administration Learnership certification
Why it's unlikely the Cullinan diamond would be returned
Activists view their moral case for the return of the diamonds as unanswerable, but it runs up against many complications.
Wits rolls out Save Our Resources campaign
Engagement with staff on climate change and its implications is crucial to creating a more sustainable campus collectively.
Beat the Heat with YeboGogga
The annual Yebo Gogga Yebo amaBlomo exhibition takes place from 17 to 21 May 2023 and entry is free.
Chair in Mobility and the Politics of Difference supports Gender and Geography
The 18th international architectural exhibition in Venice showcases urban spaces in the Global South - with African cities front and centre.
Wits mourns the passing of Prof. Barry - SA's 'Grand Geek'
South Africa has lost an innovator, a strategist, a humanitarian, and a much-loved Professor who dedicated over 50 years of his life to Wits.
Intelligent responses needed for artificial intelligence
Professor Ruksana Osman advocates that innovative technologies should be considered as tools that can be harnessed for the benefit of teaching and learning.
South Africa’s cold weather has arrived – some tips on how to stay warm and safe
Researchers share advice on how to keep yourself as warm as possible during the winter months.
Chemistry student wins Wits leg of the Famelab
Taskeen Hasrod wins over the audience in explaining how to use AI in water research
An African first as Wits School of Arts hosts Performance Studies international conference
The Performance Studies international (PSi) Conference #28 takes place in Africa for the first time from 2-5 August 2023.
Mental health: almost half of JHB students in new study screened positive for probable depression
Probable depression was associated with socio-demographic factors such as economic status, and modifiable behavioural factors such as substance use.
Witsies can now access eduroam wi-fi networks in SA airports
Witsies can access eduroam WiFi at Airport Company of South Africa's airports.
Report on SA's vaccine manufacturing capabilities
VacTask is an independent advisory entity formed to support SA as a ‘front runner’ for the Africa CDC's Partnership for African Vaccine Manufacturing.
Wits breaks ground on R250 million sports complex
The Wits Brian and Dorothy Zylstra Sports Complex is an integrated facility for training, research, and clinical practice.
New Sustainable African Futures doctoral programme
Call for Applications for the WESAF Programme now open.
Kids and screen time – an expert offers advice for parents and teachers
How much time did your child spend looking at a screen today?
SA’s short-sighted vaccine manufacture and procurement policy compromises Africa’s development
The continent is currently the only major world region that does not have any significant domestic vaccine manufacturing capacity.
Staff walk tall as they receive degrees
Wits employees run their own race to graduate and one earns a fifth qualification.
A precious moment for a Witsie
Wits staff member Precious Khumalo graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Curious Kids: What would happen if all the mosquitoes in the world disappeared?
Wits scholars and publisher win humanities and social sciences awards
Wits Professor Isabel Hofmeyr wins best non-fiction: monograph and her publisher, Wits Press, specially awarded.
Hope is on the horizon for a malaria-free Africa
Malaria is preventable and treatable.
The forgotten history of Africans in World War 1
William Kentridge’s epic theatre production, The Head & The Load, finally reaches Johannesburg after delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Green energy should not deepen inequality
Making the green energy transition a success requires governments to pay attention to environmental factors and socioeconomic imperatives.
The social impact of CRM initiatives is often not sustainable
The result is that stakeholders are resentful, angry and say most of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CRM) is window-dressing.
Commonwealth short story prize for Witsie?
Wits alumnus Michael Boyd has been shortlisted for this major literary prize.
An academic, intellectual activist and social justice crusader wins an award for his research
The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) and Universities South Africa (USAf) acknowledged Dr Vishwas Satgar
Award-winning research means impactful change for young unemployed men
Dr Hannah Dawson, Researcher at the Southern Centre for Inequality Studies (SCIS) at Wits, wins at the HSRC and USAf CEOs’ annual award
Ray Joseph and Jeff Wicks jointly win the 2022 Taco Kuiper Award for Investigative Journalism
The annual Taco Kuiper Award celebrates the best in investigative journalism and highlights the importance of investigative journalists in South Africa.
Strike down the Electoral Amendment Act - it has been a mess from the beginning
Fifty percent of all the voters might cast their vote for just one wonderful independent. How many seats would that half of the electorate have in Parliament?
Wits mourns the passing of Wits alumnus Tiego Moseneke
Tiego Moseneke is a former president of the then Wits Black Students’ Society in 1985/6
Rahima Moosa: SA’s only mother & child hospital is falling apart - veteran doctor reflects on why
Prof. Laetitia Rispel has been researching health policy and systems for over 20 years. She asked Prof. Joe Veriava about the Health Ombudsman's report.
How South Africa averted a nuclear catastrophe
The world took a long time to challenge apartheid SA’s nuclear programme that aimed to deter liberation throughout southern Africa.
Gauteng City-Region Observatory signs MOU with Italian municipality, strengthens historical ties
Memorandum of understanding between Gauteng and Italian municipality Reggio Emilia the latest gesture in a long-standing friendship between Italy and SA.
Wits Innovation Centre signals a new era in #InnovationForGood
The WIC will harness the creativity and ingenuity of the University’s rich, diverse community of innovators to solve complex, real-world problems.
Fine advice on failing, luck and limiting expertise
Wits University awarded Dr David Fine an honorary degree at the Faculty of Science graduation ceremony on 17 April 2023.
Graduation season brings joy
Wits to award honorary doctorates to Ambassador Abdul Minty and Dr David Fine, and 5 341 Witsies to graduate in the first celebrations of the year.
Be(IE) innovators of the future
The first Biomedical Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Course sparks a new era for #WitsInnovation.
CAPSI and Mastercard Foundation Partner on Project Geared Towards Youth Employment Research
The project will be carried out in cooperation with an African-led network of academic institutions and will include research and knowledge dissemination.
Landmark agreement with Elsevier ensures open access publishing for African researchers
The South African National Library and Information Consortium (SANLiC) has signed a landmark transformational open access agreement with Elsevier.
Wits hosts leaders of Swedish universities
A delegation from the South Africa Sweden University Forum (SASUF) visited Wits as part of the Research and Innovation Week 2023
Sun-powered microgrid study launched in Pretoria
The Pecogrid pilot study will examine the viability of the large-scale rollout of microgrid inverter systems in informal communities.
The 2022 Durban floods were the most catastrophic yet recorded in KwaZulu-Natal
Research shows flooding events in the province have doubled in the last century.
Respiratory virus plagues SA but new vaccine for pregnant moms saves babies
Does immunising a woman during pregnancy protect her unborn baby against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in the months after it is born?
Civil engineers use public satellite images to study why the Jagersfontein dam failed
Study by civil engineers at Wits University finds that the history of the Jagersfontein dam deviates from best engineering practice.
US Ambassador visits Wits
The United States Ambassador to SA, Reuben Brigety II, visited Wits University and engaged with a select group of Wits students studying International Relations
Wits University celebrates students
Outstanding matriculants, now Wits students receive Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship Awards, which covers full tuition fees.
Industries can harm health in many ways: here are 3 that aren’t so obvious
A recent groundbreaking series of reports in The Lancet journal unpacks what commercial determinants of health are and how they affect public health.
1 in 5 South African households begs for food – the link between food insecurity and mental health
At least ten million South Africans didn’t have enough food or money to buy food in 2019, according to the country’s statistics agency.
Wits mourns the passing of veteran journalist Jeremy Gordin
Jeremy Gordin led the Wits Justice Project for several years.
Deep ties evoke Africa’s sacrifices for freedom
Tanzania and South Africa: Ties between the two nations date back to Tanzania’s solidarity with the anti-apartheid struggle.
Three Royal Fellows Reunite at Wits
It was the meeting of three great intellectuals, all Fellows of the Royal Society (UK), all scientists, and all fellow Witsies.
The world is hooked on junk food: how big companies pull it off
Over many decades, our food environments have been encouraging us to make choices that are harmful to our health, through pricing, marketing and availability.
New Head for Campus Health and Wellness Centre
This nursing and health activist, and a community builder, looks forward to promoting student health and success on campus.
The Lancet Series on the commercial determinants of health
The 3-paper Series launching at Wits today is a ground-breaking exposé of the products and practices collectively called the commercial determinants of health.
Africa’s moment to shine
Africa is entering a century of global dominance in growth.
Global health professor at Wits to receive honorary degree
Professor Helen Rees, Executive Director of Wits RHI, will on Friday, 31 March 2023 receive an honorary degree from Rhodes University.
Profit versus health: 4 ways big global industries make people sick
It’s commonly known that alcohol and tobacco use make us ill. Less known is that just 4 industries account for at least one-third of global preventable deaths.
Students entrepreneurship on the rise
More and more students are exploring entrepreneurship and joining campus initiatives that support various stages to business success.
Wits University and SOAS partner to offer ground-breaking doctoral degree
Wits University and the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) at the University of London join forces to offer a first of its kind PhD.
A gold medal for tuberculosis molecular diagnosis
It's World TB Day and award-winning microbiologist Bavesh Kana knows molecular diagnostics can take on this lethal bacterial disease that still kills millions.
Principals honoured as top achievers from Gauteng schools
Many of Wits University’s top learners come from important feeder schools, which produce quality students that easily adjust to the academic demands at Wits.
Two leading Wits scientists appointed to National Advisory Council on Innovation
Professor Lynn Morris and Professor Bavesh Kana will advise government on how to harness and grow innovation.
When banks go bust: the four factors at play
Confidence in banking is hard-earned and easily shocked. This makes individual banks and the sector susceptible to knock-on effects from other institutions.
No time for business as usual
Central banks find themselves at a crossroads of holding to old mandates but having to face up to new world challenges.
The soul of South Africa: corrupt to the core?
South Africans are simply not angry enough, protesting enough and shaming the ANC government and leaders enough for their corruption, state failure and decay.
Esteemed astronomer joins Wits as a Distinguished Professor
Professor Athol Kemball joins the Wits School of Physics as a Distinguished Professor through the Carnegie Africa Diaspora Programme.
Major new study on LGBTIQ+ migrants and asylum seekers
The absence of reliable quantitative data makes it difficult – if not impossible – to hold Home Affairs, the police and other state entities to account.
Climate change a time for Africa to roar back
The battle for power and profits is on as the world moves towards the green agenda.
Get 40 winks and more this World Sleep Day
17 March is World Sleep Day and sleep is the third pillar of good health after a healthy diet and exercise.
US-China tensions: how Africa can avoid being caught in a new Cold War
There are fears that escalating US-Chinese tensions could threaten the independence of African and other nonaligned nations.
Wits and Telkom launch new industry solutions lab
Telkom and Wits sign a partnership agreement to establish the new Telkom Industry Solutions Lab.
Professor Lee Berger appointed as National Geographic Explorer in Residence
Professor Lee Berger appointed as National Geographic Explorer in Residence, but will remain at Wits as an Honorary Professor.
Update from the Senior Executive Team - 14 March 2023
Management welcomes the proposal to enter a mediation process as soon as possible and has communicated as such with the SRC.
Wits awards 29 Centennial Postdoctoral Fellowships
The University has invested R9-million in postdoctoral fellowships to advance its innovation and internationalisation strategies and its research agenda.
Human genome editing – progress, promise, and challenges
The 3rd International Summit on Human Genome Editing took place in the UK in March. Wits Professor of Genetics Michèle Ramsay was on the organising committee.
Wits and US Congress celebrate 20 years of PEPFAR
The Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute hosted a US Congress Delegation to mark the programme’s two decades of HIV/Aids relief.
Wits' Response To SRC'S Demands - 10 March 2023
STATEMENT: Wits addresses some of the misinformation being shared by some protestors with students.
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Seminal book strengthens research-evidence-policy links to improve science implementation
Several Witsies contributed to a book that provides a first-hand account of public health progress and challenges in SA between 2015 and 2020.
VC and management reps meet SRC
The Vice-Chancellor and Principal and members of management met with the current members of the Students’ Representative Council yesterday.
Depression, anxiety and childhood trauma: who's most at risk
Adverse childhood experiences are associated with an increased risk of mental health problems in adulthood.
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Excess mortality initiative underway to count every death, because every death counts
Wits Rural Knowledge Hub researchers’ analysis of mortality data during the worst of Covid-19 will give insights into the steps to take in the next pandemic.
Power cuts: South Africa’s state of disaster is being contested in court
South Africa’s courts are likely to set a high bar in cases brought against the government’s most recent state of disaster declaration.
The real Joburg in 6 powerful photos
From butchers to hawkers, and shelters to miners, this book reveals the informal economy and texture of the city.
Confirmation That Mr Aphiwe Mnyamana Has Been Suspended
We refer to Mr Aphiwe Mnyamana's tweet posted at 20:31 tonight and confirm that Mr Mnyamana was suspended on 6 March 2023.
Update On Protests 6 March 2023 20:30
We extend our deep appreciation to all staff and students for seamlessly pivoting to blended teaching and learning today.
Facing the climate crisis in a world of inequality: Who should pay? Who will pay?
South Africa holds the dishonourable title of most unequal country in the world, and Africa’s largest carbon emitter.
Update on protests - 5 March 2023 (23:00)
We will continue with teaching and learning in a blended learning mode
Response from the Senior Executive Team on protests
The Senior Executive Team met on Sunday, 05 March 2023 to consider the demands put forward by the SRC.
Update from the Senior Executive Team, 3 March 14:30
Lectures at Wits proceeded well today in a multimodal format.
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Tackling obesity with medication: New hope and real challenges
Pharmaceuticals could be manufactured and sold at reasonable profit, far below the current eye-watering prices, according to a paper in the journal Obesity.
Update on student protests (2 March 2022 - 18:00)
Wits issues multiple suspension orders to disruptors who transgressed the University’s rules. All university activities will continue as scheduled on Friday.
Update on student protests (2 March 2022 - 14:00)
The University remains open and the academic programme continues as scheduled.
Update on student protests (1 March 2022 - 18:00)
Entry key and exit points are being managed to ensure your safe entry, and officers will be stationed at key lecture theatres to ensure classes continue.
Living in food insecure households associated with poor mental health – SA study
To ensure adequate food, one in five South African households revealed that they had to send someone to beg for food.
Sex work in SA - Buy and sell should be legal
The repeal of outdated apartheid-era laws would have a far-reaching, positive impact on individual sex workers’ health and well-being.
Statement from the Senior Executive Team on protests
The University is committed to ensuring that staff and students are safe. The academic programme will continue as scheduled.
Climate change solutions must incorporate development and equality
Energy, water and food security must be prioritised, as global warming puts millions of vulnerable people, particularly in developing countries, at grave risk.
The hurdles facing migrant protection in South Africa
Forms of protection for forced migrants in South Africa continue to shrink, leaving civil society and unreliable stakeholders as guardians.
Dr Mitch Cox named 2023 Optica Ambassador
He is one of 10 exceptional early-career members selected from around the world to serve as a 2023 Optical Foundation Ambassador.
Adapting to climate change in urban Nigeria
Poverty drives vulnerability to climate risks in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Here are 4 factors that affect how residents adapt.
Successful cure of HIV infection after stem cell transplantation
An international group of researchers including Wits scientists have identified a third case of HIV infection cured by stem cell transplantation.
AKA’s murder video went viral - it shouldn’t have
The explosive viral spread of the grainy but dramatic footage shows the limits of mainstream media ethics.
Witsies dominate the 51st budget speech competition
Wits scoops four out of the top six positions and prizes available at the national budget speech competition.
First-year students ready for life at Wits thanks to Gateway to Success
The Gateway to Success programme prepares new undergraduates for life on campus with a curriculum that combines both social and academic components.
New Head of the Wits Centre for Journalism
Dr Dinesh Balliah has been appointed as the Director of the Wits Centre for Journalism as from 1 March 2023.
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South African team makes giant leap towards a 3D quantum camera
By improving the principle of “Ghost imaging” researchers manage to create images of an object that stays completely in the dark.
Creating a thriving and regenerative environmental ecosystem at Wits
Wits University is committed to imagine how waste, including food waste, can be better utilised in service of people and the planet.
First Years revel in the Wits Spirit
Excitement fills the air as Wits FC wins against Orlando Pirates at the 2023 Spirit Game.
Hunger in SA: 1 in 5 at risk
Social grants are the largest source of support for many vulnerable groups, and the government’s primary response to poverty, food insecurity and inequality.
International congress of Human Genetics 'comes home' to Africa
South Africa will host the 14th International Congress of Human Genetics (ICHG 2023) themed 'Coming Home' from 22 to 26 February 2023.
SRC launches fundraising campaign and promotes active citizenship
Student leaders aim to raise money to help peers with debt register and return to class in 2023.
Wits names three scholars as Friedel Sellschop Fellows
The University awarded the prestigious Friedel Sellschop fellowship award to Dr Mitchell Cox, Dr Eloise van der Merwe, and Dr Abhishek Pandey.
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The invisible trillions of global capitalism
Raymond W. Baker says the estimated hundreds of billions of dollars in hidden wealth a decade ago has skyrocketed to trillions today.
Experts call for climate change mindset shift that draws from various knowledge systems
Coleen Vogel, Professor at the Global Change Institute among experts who propose the adoption of practical wisdom in the fight against climate change.
Why South African moms buy commercial milk formula when breast is best
Baby formula companies use nefarious and exploitative methods to create an artificial demand for their products, thereby undermining breastfeeding.
Wits Innovation Centre announces team
Dr Adam Pantanowitz has been appointed as Chair in Innovation and Director of the WIC, and Letlotlo Phohole as Senior Programme Manager.
Budding entrepreneur cracks student market
Passion, strategy and excellence creates a flourishing business for law student.
Increasing the visibility of African research and researchers
Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA) launches Evidence website.
Researchers find distortion-free forms of structured light
Research offers a new approach to studying complex light in complex systems, such as transporting classical and quantum light through optical fiber.
In it For Good
Energy, joy and commitment at an all-time-high as first-year students join the Wits family.
Use practical wisdom in climate change actions
Wits’ Global Change Institute among global scientists calling for a mindset shift about climate change which draws from various knowledge systems
Informal settlements could drive solar revolution
Solar would provide their dwellings with power, but also a source of revenue if power is sold back to the grid.
Vitamins and supplements: what you need to know
There’s a common perception that supplements are harmless. But they can be dangerous at incorrect dosages.
How East Africans shaped the music in India
Dhamaal music and dance reveal a rich and complex mixing of cultures that is shaped by history.
New Wits-UoE doctoral training centre
Wits University is proud to collaborate with the University of Edinburgh (UoE) to establish a new collaborative doctoral training centre in Africa.
Wits researcher invited into her second exclusive global explorers club
Dr Keneiloe Molopyane joins the EC50 class of 2023, after also being selected as an Emerging Explorer for the National Geographic Society in 2021.
Mass economic illiteracy equally poses terrifying risks
South Africa may have among the largest mass belief in Soviet-style state-centred economics - education is needed on the disastrous impact in post-war Africa.
This is not just a building ...
The new Data Sciences and Innovation Hub at Wits Rural Campus marks 30 years of rural public health research and sets the scene for an innovative epoch in 2023.
Wits Sports honours top achievers
Student-athletes commended for balancing sports and academics
Heat stress is rising in southern Africa
Southern Africans are experiencing heat stress more often than in 1979. Climate experts show where and when it’s the worst.
Africa’s large mammals shaped human evolution
New book shows this amazing evolutionary transformation of humankind could only have happened in Africa.
Nation building debate is still relevant today
New book by scholar Mandla Radebe reminds us of the debates by an idealistic generation committed to building a non-racial SA.
Global President of Schools of Social Work visits Wits
International President of Schools of Social Work visits Wits to discuss preparing the next generation to keep pace with the needs of society.
Ensuring the right skills to navigate the energy transition
The South African National Energy Association (SANEA) will launch its South African Energy Skills Roadmap on 27 January 2023.
100% Matric pass for Wits University’s Targeting Talent Programme participants
Grade 12 learners who completed a pre-university enrichment programme at Wits have excelled in Matric.
Medical student a karate star
Third-year medical student, Zahra Kader, is a seasoned karate-ga and a member of the national team.
Pregnant learners need creches and compassion
Under South African law, girls have the right to continue their schooling through and after their pregnancies.
Wits mourns the passing of Dr Frene Ginwala
We extend our condolences to her comrades, family and friends, and those who were close to her.
The ancient San painting featured in SA’s coat of arms
The exhibition titled ǃke e꞉ ǀxarra ǁke [‘People who are different’, ‘come together’], celebrates the rock art of the San people and is on display now at the Or
Varsity an eye-opener for student leader
Moving from Bangladesh to start university in South Africa and using a fourth language stretched Sarah Eram, a student leader in the School of Business Science.
Our universities must join the new global academia
My annual return to South Africa for the summer holidays has at one level been depressing.
Celebrating a 100 years of Wits for good
Remembering the outstanding working done by Wits’ student body in Riverlea in the 1960s to early 1980s.
African Academy of Sciences awards Wits pharmacist for scientific discovery and innovation
The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) named Wits Professor Choonara winner of its Olusegun Obasanjo Prize for Scientific Discovery and Technological Innovation.
The three life values that stuck with this Wits alumna
Enthusiasm, integrity and compassion. These are the three life values renowned physiotherapist Professor Stewart shared as she accepted a Gold Medal.
Wits Students take first and Second place at the National Conference
Witsies dominate at the Centre for High Performance Computing (CHPC) National Conference Student Cluster Competition.
Climate change can be beaten – why some scientists are hopeful
Can our planet recover from climate change? Commissioning Editor, Kofoworola Belo-Osagie, asked scientists to share the reasons they believe there is hope.
Wits takes lead in Global Innovative Seismic testing project for new generation exploration
The testing phase of a SA-Europe partnership project this December marks a significant step forward in developing new generation seismic sensing technology.
Carnegie programme going strong
Carnegie funded programmes makes critical contributions to the knowledge project and talent-pipeline.
Transformative Fellowships for humanities researchers
The African Fellowships programme advances South-North research collaboration to find solutions to global challenges.
Wits Maths Competition sharpens school learners
Learners praise competition for providing a mixture of stimulating challenges that took them out of the comfort zone.
How studying frog eggs enabled understanding of human facial deformities
A Wits alumna and renowned biologist shared how her international career started with unravelling 'ant songs' and scrutinising frog eggs.
Memorialising a revolutionary leader
A new partnership is forged as a portrait of Professor Adam Habib is unveiled.
Child nutrition programmes can feed inequality
Children who need help most tend to experience adversity throughout childhood. That continuing adversity muffles the benefit of improved early nutrition.
Climate change is not what South Africans see as their main problem
Wits celebrates thousands of graduates this week
Wits honours two healthcare professionals who are changing the world for good.
With Mbalula in the driver’s seat, we’re on a rail to nowhere
Lack of effective public transport is now a major constraint on economic growth, job creation and business productivity.
What is the Radical Economic Transformation faction in SA
Despite its vagueness, the RET has become central to the contemporary ANC. It is destined to remain a powerful bloc within the party.
How to address the skills shortages plaguing SA’s economy
Education can’t make up for inadequacies in other policies that continue to cause mass unemployment.
Toxic DDT isn't being monitored in birds of prey
DDT accumulates in wildlife and magnifies up the food chain. Birds of prey occupy the top of these food chains in various ecosystems.
Study shows how Covid-19 affected access to HIV treatment
The individual stories of migrant women are essential in understanding if HIV healthcare strategies and programmes are working.
African mountains are feeling the heat of climate change
Mountain systems are sensitive to climate change. Loss of snow and ice sets off effects which have wide ranging consequences.
Wits-Makerere strengthen partnership through joint centennial celebration
Wits University and the University of Makerere in Uganda cemented their long-standing partnership with a virtual signing of a Memorandum of Understanding.
Wits Business School wins big at 2022 Emerald/AABS case writing competition
WBS Case Centre takes top three spots at the awards.
Injectable HIV prevention drug shows promise: we worked out how much South Africa should pay for it
The benefit of an injectable product is that it avoids the adherence issues related to taking a pill daily.
Wits physicist is joint winner of The World Academy of Sciences award
Professor Andrew Forbes shares the award for physics with Professor Jueinai Kwo of Taiwan.
Wits physicist elected as a Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences
Professor Bruce Mellado joins other prominent Wits scientists in the ranks of the Fellowship.
White butterflies are filling Johannesburg’s skies earlier than usual. Climate change is to blame
The brown-veined white butterfly (Benenois aurota) annual migrate between 80,000 and 155,000 butterflies per hour from SA’s Kalahari region to Mozambique.
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Meet Maureen Manyama CA(SA), Wits’ CFO
Manyama describes herself as interested in combining her rural upbringing with finance and governance experience to advance national interests.
Rock art: how South Africa’s coat of arms got to feature an ancient San painting
A new exhibition titled ǃke e꞉ ǀxarra ǁke – People who are different come together – celebrates the rock art of the San people.
Ground-breaking report card gives crucial health data to manage illnesses of middle-age
Adults aged 45-65, as caregivers and workers, are high risk for non-communicable diseases, but data on healthy ageing in SA are insufficient to inform policy.
COP27 key outcomes: progress on compensation for developing countries, but more needed on climate ju
Academics unpack wins, tensions at COP27 and the way forward.
Wits University triumphant at the 2022 higher education awards
Wits takes home nine awards, including special awards for outstanding research and an award for consistent excellence.
New high-tech Digital Dome catapults Johannesburg Planetarium into the future
Wits University and Anglo American to transform the Johannesburg Planetarium into a world-class digital research, training, and science engagement facility.
Witsie wows global science community
Tamlyn Naidu claims a win for South Africa in Berlin for her research on acid mine drainage.
Worker organisations can survive the digital age. Here’s how
In the face of a decline in traditional union membership, it’s critical to focus on where resistance is taking place, rather than where it is not.
Wits endocrinologist again named as one of the world’s most highly cited researchers
Professor Derick Raal has for the third time been named as a Highly Cited Researcher.
The queen of hearts
Cardiac anaesthesiologist and recipient of the FALF research excellence award wants to keep hearts pumping.
Just transition requires political, economic and behavioural change
Achieving access to minimum resources and services for all, while safeguarding our planet, requires redistribution and societal transformation.
Mental health in SA is at shocking levels but people are not seeking help
A new study reveals that South Africans suffer higher rates of probable depression and anxiety than other countries.
Social vulnerability and food insecurity persistently prevalent in South Africans
A new study reveals astounding levels of social vulnerability in South Africa, which is linked to food insecurity.
‘Jet lag’ discovered in body clocks of people living with HIV in rural South Africa
People living with HIV have a significantly delayed internal body clock consistent with jet lag symptoms, found a study by SA and UK universities.
Climate Change and Me marks Wits’ largest first-year course in its history
Climate Change and Me was launched in 2022 and became the largest course by student numbers ever offered at Wits University.
Clean water solutions made possible for Alex informal settlement through water-based research
The Accessible Greywater Solutions for Urban Informal Townships (URBWAT) project is providing sustainable water solutions for the Alexandra township.
How we treat animals is key to human health, just look at Covid-19
‘Scientivist’ says planetary health must be foremost on all agendas because the ill-treatment of animals and delicate ecosystems plays havoc with human health.
Wits researchers are part of a study on how to end Covid-19 as a public health threat
Study provides recommendations to end the public health threat without exacerbating socio-economic burdens or putting the most vulnerable at greater risk.
We are in ‘an abusive relationship’ with nature
Earth became our servant, and we need it to be our family, says Research Professor Matthew Chersich in delivering his inaugural lecture.
Do financial incentives boost vaccination rates?
Cash incentives only have a marginal effect on increasing vaccination uptake by adults, according to a Wits University and Columbia University study.
Global recognition for research and innovation in pharmaceutical sciences
Wits Professor of Pharmacy, Yahya Choonara, is the 2022 FIP Distinguished Pharmaceutical Science Award winner.
How we can sustain all life forms
Repairing Earth as a whole, together, is a precondition for human durability.
Climate change to impact mountains on a global scale
Research shows climate change will negatively impact mountain landscapes, including increasing risks such as avalanches, river floods and landslides.
ICYMI: Here’s what went down at AIJC 2022
Africa's largest gathering of investigative journalists shows the varied ways this pursuit can be improved, made more impactful and innovative.
COP27 explained: why should we care
It's that time of the year again when the world gathers to negotiate international climate change agreements.
Climate change: the effects of extreme heat on health in Africa
Marginalised or minority groups seem to suffer the most from heat-related deaths and disease, and Africa is heating up faster than anywhere else.
‘Dad’s subwoofer’, an electric walking cane, and, is that lighting!?
4th year engineering students show off their bold and visionary solutions with amazing final-year projects.
Wits University named Best of Joburg
Wits voted as the best tertiary education institution by Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni residents.
Looking ahead from a life of new beginnings
Emeritus Professor Barry Dwolatzky launches inspirational memoir, smartly capturing his less-than-ordinary coded history.
Meet Zenaye, the talent behind the official Wits song
Zenaye Skosana wrote and performed Wits’ official song “For Good”, which was launched just before the Homecoming celebrations.
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.
Mining school courses accredited for another five years
The Engineering Council of South Africa has accredited several Wits mining courses for another five years.
Africa’s first endovascular robotic unit will advance research and enable ‘outreach intelligence’
The new unit at the Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre (WDGMC) is both a robotics research opportunity and a global responsibility.
School of Accountancy celebrates top achievers
After two years of Covid, the School of Accountancy holds its annual prize-giving ceremony.
It’s about Bloody time… we end period poverty
Free sanitary pads available to Wits’ students as SRC launches pilot project.
Covid disrupts traditional rituals of mourning
We need to find ways to grieve as individuals, and collectively as a nation, or we risk grief becoming chronic, unleashing psychological and physical illnesses.
Wits hosts largest gathering of journalists
Over 350 journalists from across the continent will spend three days at Wits University for the 18th African Investigative Journalism Conference.
Wits Choir sings and dances at 60
The Choir officially celebrated its 60th birthday at Constitution Hill with its hefty production “A Choir on a Hill, 60 years – thinking back, looking forward".
Citizens, not sitizens, please: more than ever, South Africans must take charge
We need active citizenship to show social solidarity to break out from the hopelessness, paralysis and apathy
FALF's inaugural research symposium showcases work by women scientists
Clearing the path for talented female academics and researchers leads to more relevant research.
Wits researchers challenge common notions on the inner workings of Earth’s magma chambers
A recent study show that magmatic ore deposits that are generally referred to form by settling of crystals in magma chambers are instead shown to form in place
Students uphold the spirit of volunteerism
Volunteerism and activism is alive among the youth as demonstrated at the annual Student Leadership Awards.
Artistic Research is blurring academic and research lines
Artistic research and its ‘tangible’ output – a creative academic degree – is an emerging yet robust field of study and enquiry in Africa.
Review of concussion in sport research underway
Consensus statement by the Scientific Committee for the International Conference on Concussion in Sport will be released in 2023.
Regular physical activity may boost effectiveness of Covid-19 jab
A new study by a team of South African researchers shows the more you exercise, the more protective Covid vaccination seems to be.
Coke and dagger — Coca-Cola named sponsor for COP27
The beverage company has a questionable record not only when it comes to planetary health — its record on human health is abysmal.
Portuguese consulate visits historic Diaz Cross at Wits
The cross serves as a historical reminder of Portugal's voyages around the southern African coast in the 15th century.
Trailblazers in social work
From addressing white poverty to the injustices of apartheid, the Department of Social Work has held individuals, families and communities together.
Immersive, magical, hopeful - Africa leads #FromNowOn
Africa’s first Digital Creativity Awards brings a sense of wonder and applauds the meteoric rise of African creativity in the digital space.
Two Wits professors awarded Science for Society Gold Medals
The Academy of Science of South Africa has awarded its highest honour, Science for Society Gold Medals, to Wits Professors Karen Hofman and Achille Mbembe.
Wits to kick-start a national quantum technologies initiative with R54 million funding
The South African Quantum Technologies Initiative (SA QuTI) aims develop a well-established critical mass in the national quantum community.
Mass trauma is leaving everyone broken
We need to teach self-love, self-esteem, and agency assertation at all levels of South African society to rebuilt the state and foster democracy.
Race, inequity and mental health impacts on healthcare workers during Covid-19
The Covid-19 pandemic revealed global health inequities prompting scholars to interrogate how these inequities manifested in racial and gender dynamics.
Review: Farm Killings in South Africa
Some of the best books about the media are not about the media. While dealing with very different topics, they probe the central institution of our world.
#FromNowOn – getting here and going forward
This year’s Fak’ugesi African Digital Innovation Festival is the first full in-person Festival since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Social grants are not a magic bullet
Social protection on its own doesn’t shift the dial. Radical economic policies are needed to tackle poverty and inequality.
Don’t let firm friendships from your youth fade away
Living in the world’s most diverse country, and not having friendships that cut across all communities, is to miss out on so much
Renowned geneticist reflects on her journey with Wits
Professor Himla Soodyall has paid homage to great scientists who helped carve her path.
Top-performing matriculants get a glimpse of student life at Wits
Wits VC, Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, hosts the best of the class of 2022 matriculants to become part of the future at Wits University
Introducing the Wits rose
A magnificent rose commissioned to celebrate Wits University’s centenary and 100 years of excellence.
Do no harm - 5 steps a researcher should take
Researchers have a number of responsibilities when embarking on their work - not least of all to ensure participants are not harmed and are fully heard.
Maropeng brings visitors Face to Face with early Hominins
The new Face To Face exhibit showcases hominins from The Cradle of Humankind that are brought to life by science and art.
Major partnership to drive digital transformation in Africa
The Afretec network has made 20 million US dollars available to members, including Wits, to collaborate in engineering and technology.
Vice-Chancellor’s awards celebrate the best of Wits
The prestigious annual awards recognise staff excellence in categories including research, teaching and learning, and professional and administrative services.
Wits student shines on a global stage
Xabiso Vili, post-graduate student with Drama for Life wins top spot at the 2022 World Slam Poetry Competition.
Wits student leader wins prestigious travel bursary
Karabo Asala is set to travel Europe as part of a travel bursary for leadership development.
SA ICT employers, practitioners look to global skills markets
The number of SA employers reporting they are recruiting ICT skills overseas has increased dramatically in the past year – up from 38% to over 50%.
Construction waste is costly: what’s causing it on SA building sites
The complexity of construction projects has driven an increase in building waste, which is difficult to recycle and reuse. How to minimise the problem.
Wits celebrates its 100th birthday
Staff and students gather outside the Great Hall to wish Wits a happy 100th birthday.
100 years of innovation and inventions
Various innovations after the past century have improved the world for many - but there’s still much more for universities to do.
Curios.ty 14 (#Wits100): A century of doing good
Wits' research magazine celebrates 100 years of changing the world for good.
100 Years of changing the world. For Good
Guest Editorial: Wits remains a beacon of hope in society. We continue to strive for excellence in all that we do and use our knowledge for the good of society.
Stay curious – there’s a whole new world coming in 2122
Editorial: The stories in Curios.ty 14: #Wits100 showcase the University’s sustained participation, influence and impact in the lab, the classroom, and society.
How higher education can help heal us all
“We live in the most unequal country in the world. We can help bridge the divide and we don’t have any time to waste.” – Dr Judy Dlamini.
Academic and science activism saves lives
Meet the Wits’ science superheroes whose research has saved lives.
Mapping African genetic diversity for better health
The contribution of the Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience to the field of human genomics is rewriting history on the African continent.
Death makes us alive
Without death, there would be no life – this might sound like ancient mysticism, but Wits scientists are proving it.
Thirty years of the lab in the bush
Agincourt, one of the longest-running research centres of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa, tracks health and wellbeing over the life course.
The politics of protest
Protests are a hallmark of Wits’ history and have contributed to the University’s legacy of social activism, democracy and constitutionality.
Wits at a time of national crisis: Then and now
South African universities should revisit their multiple publics and explore what a public university in southern Africa today should be.
Telling African stories through art
The Wits Art Museum covers 3 000 m2, housing more than 12 000 artworks, of which 5 551 comprise the Standard Bank African Art Collection.
The evolution of science and research practice
How has science and research practice at Wits has evolved over a century?
The Wits Digital Dome to light up the sky
It’s the end of an era as Wits Planetarium is reimagined as a ‘out of this world’ digital dome.
Facing climate change head-on
Climate change took nearly a century to become mainstream science. Wits is taking the lead in facing up to the challenge.
Digging for the truth of humanity
Wits researchers have over the past century changed, and challenged, the way we think about the evolution of humanity and our ancestors.
Navigating life through the eyes of a gogga
Curiosity about dung beetles could lead us into our future.
Research by the books
Books based on research by Wits authors create a rare recording of history that tracks changes over time.
Identifying faces to recognise humanity
The development of the Wits Face Database: An African database of high-resolution facial photographs.
Business for good
Wits is exploring the opportunities created by social enterprises that focus on addressing local, regional and global challenges.
Beyond the Ivory Tower
Four Wits units demonstrate how translational research can respond to the needs of a world outside the academy.
The best job in the world
Column: Telling the stories of Wits’ research and academics might hopefully light a fire in the mind of the world’s next Einstein.
A philosophy for good. A University for good
There is something significantly common in the way in which all good things are good.
CTIF & Jamfest 2022: Unplugged - but still connected
Joint hybrid conferences for African civic tech innovators and media makers, journalism innovators, and other creatives.
The contribution of SRCs to Wits
We must be reminded about the evolution of SRCs, about how past SRCs contributed to the struggle against apartheid, brought consciousness and transformation.
Wits’ entrepreneurs succeed at the EDHE Intervarsity Gauteng Regional Rounds
Two Witsies have emerged triumphantly, in the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Intervarsity Gauteng Regional Rounds.
The last word: Benedict Vilakazi
The late Zulu poet, novelist and linguist Benedict Wallet Vilakazi achieved many milestones and taught at Wits University.
Machines will not replace humans, yet!
Expert calls for development of a new kind of AI that is provably beneficial to humans
Small steps on the road to true empowerment
Big smiles as staff celebrate passing the first level of many, on the road to upskilling themselves.
Basaltic magma chambers may grow catastrophically fast
Basaltic magma chambers can grow extremely rapidly - in months to years.
Wits hosts international lightning conference - a first for Africa
Lightning protection research is paramount in order to safeguard people, animals, and infrastructure against one of the biggest weather-related killers.
National Research Foundation accolades for Wits scientists
The Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience won the National Research Foundation Science Team Award while seven Witsies received A-ratings.
Reading can enhance race relations
Reading begets more reading and helps to counter the poison from dinnertime conversations, says acclaimed author Mandla Langa.
Groundbreaking discovery from South Africa challenges the recent re-interpretation of magma chambers
Wits researchers have compelling evidence for the existence of a magma chamber deep within a South Africa’s ancient crust.
Countdown to Fak'ugesi Festival 2022
Happening from 13 - 21 October, this year's digital innovation festival returns to its home at Wits' Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct in Braamfontein.
Wits celebrates its centenary in Times Square, New York
Witsies gathered in Times Square this week to celebrate the University’s 100th anniversary.
World’s leading thinkers debate inequality
"We can improve the quality of life if we focus on what works – education, strong institutions, robust legal, social and fiscal systems." - Piketty
Student programme prepares the next generation of change-makers
The Emerging Leaders Programme empowers students with skills to be better leaders in an uncertain world.
Green hydrogen sounds like a win but cost and transport are problems
The key to reducing green hydrogen costs in the future lies mainly in technological improvements.
How to help people stay on ARVs when life gets in the way
When antiretroviral therapy is working effectively, HIV cannot be transmitted. This allows people with HIV to live fuller lives.
Kenya has breached its public debt ceiling
There’s a gap between Kenya’s public spending and its revenue. If the country owes more than it can repay, citizens will suffer.
Five steps Nigeria must take to stop buildings collapsing in Lagos
Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital city, is notorious for frequent building collapses.
‘Mandela's Children’ 32 years later
The stories, people and science behind Africa's largest longitudinal study have been captured in a book by Wits Distinguished Professor Linda Richter.
Obesity costs South Africa billions. We did the sums
Lowering obesity and overweight rates will lift the burden on healthcare spending.
Joe Biden and Cyril Ramaphosa: finding common ground
Both presidents are committed democrats operating in hostile environments. They are also committed to forging mutually beneficial ties.
Job creation in South Africa: the president’s advisors discuss what it will take
Three of the president’s advisors talk through what is needed to change the status quo.
Queen Elizabeth - from Empire to Commonwealth
Queen Elizabeth adjusted with aplomb and good grace – personally and as monarch – as countries achieved their independence from Britain.
Africa’s dinosaur discoveries: five essential reads
The African continent is a rich repository for dinosaur fossils, including teeth and track marks.
New podcast reimagines the Humanities from the Global South
The Faculty of Humanities recently launched a new podcast series, The Future in the Humanities - Reimagining the Humanities from the Global South.
Colonial diaries help scientists reconstruct weather patterns from past to protect future
A project to transcribe Dutch colonial records of the weather in Cape Town can benefit modelling of future climate scenarios.
Universities should take a leading role in reforming South Africa’s socio-political landscape
Former Wits Chancellor and Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke says Wits has produced great leaders in the past and must continue doing so in future.
Young business minds took centre stage at the Student Entrepreneurship Week
The 2022 Student Entrepreneurship Week got off to a vibrant start as students gathered to learn, conceptualise and share their ideas on good business practice.
WTO head Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: how trade can help beat inequality
Creating employment and fighting corruption are two of the subjects discussed in the wide ranging discussion.
How scholarships change lives for the better
Quality education, support, and passion transforms lives and changes the world.
Street-based female sex workers of all ages in SA at sustained high risk of acquiring HIV
Street-based female sex workers in SA have very high HIV incidence, hence the need to sustain and strengthen efforts to mitigate risk and provide care.
A new way to save rhinos
Technology used to stop a nuclear bomb from being sneaked across a border could one day be at the forefront in the fight to save the rhino.
Waltzing kudus, cheerleaders, and a choir at alumni centenary event
Wits alumni who returned to campus for Homecoming Weekend on 4 September were treated to canapés and cocktails at an Alumni Welcome in Solomon Mahlangu House.
Generations of Wits SRC celebrate formidable leadership
Generations of Wits SRC gather for a night of celebration
Welcome home, Witsies! Something for every generation at Homecoming Weekend
Wits University is as much a part of Johannesburg as is gold mining, and we are opening our gates to all to celebrate with us.
Wits invites public onto campus to join centenary celebrations
Wits marks its 100th birthday with jam-packed Homecoming Weekend.
Arts and science collide to transform the Great Hall in light show extravaganza
The #Wits100 Visible Resonance Light Show on 2 September at 7pm on the Great Hall façade will reflect, create, improvise, and imagine Wits’ stories.
Migrants in South Africa have access to healthcare: why it’s kicking up a storm
South Africa’s healthcare services are overburdened. But this is not because of non-nationals.
1575 book titles in 100 years
Wits University Press is the oldest university press in South Africa and celebrates its centenary in 2022.
Obesity and industry - it's not what it looks like
Voluntary actions from industry are not helping fight against obesity-related conditions.
New Deputy Vice-Chancellor: People Development and Culture appointed
Professor Garth Stevens will oversee Human Resources, Transformation and Employment Equity, the Disability Rights Unit and other related units.
Hand-up, not handout
Voices of affirmation encourage students as Wits celebrates partnership with Tiger Brands.
Tanzanian TB patients have a lower quality of life
To understand the perceptions of TB patients about their quality of life, it’s useful to have a comparison with “apparently healthy” people.
How the lockdown in SA affected mental health
Pasha Podcast: When SARS-CoV-2 emerged, the country took measures to restrict people’s movements and activities, to slow the spread of infections.
After State Capture: how SARS is rebuilding itself
Professor Mills Soko spoke to Commissioner Edward Kieswetter about the turnaround at the state institution.
Auto manufacturing is changing: how to protect workers
South Africa should ensure that changes to energy-efficient vehicles are done in a way that creates jobs and protects workers.
Uhuru Kenyatta’s 'mixed bag' economic legacy
Big promises, but weak no delivery. The most prominent economic legacy of Kenyatta’s government is runaway public debt.
SA doesn’t need new cities: it needs to fix what it has
New towns have had a better track record in places of rapid economic and population growth, such as east Asian countries.
Higher electricity fees are a good, and necessary, next step
The wealthy should not be allowed to opt-out of their share of the costs of electricity production and Eskom’s debt.
What’s wrong with the Fourth Industrial Revolution
Pasha Podcast: Innovation in the digital space is not necessarily working for people in the global south.
Wits scientists launch book about Africa’s largest and longest running birth cohort
The study tracks the lives of 3 000 people born in South Africa in the early 1990s and affectionately known as "Mandela's Children".
Wits Business School’s huge turnaround
All the new registered programmes offer active learning, says Director.
New Partnership Academic Programme on Nuclear Law
Wits is one of five universities to partner with the International Atomic Energy Agency to promote the safe use of the peaceful application of nuclear science.
Book launch on seminal study as ‘Mandela’s children’ come of age
The Birth to Thirty (Bt30) study in Soweto is Africa’s largest and longest-running birth cohort study.
Longest daily weather record for the South digitised
A project examining the Dutch East India Company’s day registers reveals unique information on the Cape’s past climate.
A lifetime dedicated to vaccines saving lives
Shabir Madhi, Professor of Vaccinology and Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences at Wits won the 2020/21 NSTF-South32 Lifetime Award.
Training scholars in groundwater to rock economies and make a splash in water security
Wits hydrogeologist Prof. Tamiru Abiye is a National Research Foundation-rated scholar and winner of the 2021/22 NSTF-South32 TW Kambule Researcher Award.
Jacob Zuma is taking a top reporter to court
Former South African president is trying to turn the contestation of a court hearing into an all-out war and chill those who pursue justice against him.
Mind-blown by interactive brain experiences
A showcase of local neuroscience talent was on display by Wits NeuRL and collaborators at the recent #Wits100 event.
In with the old: taking the long view when restoring grasslands
Restoration science and practice are critical in combatting the loss of old-growth grasslands and the loss of biodiversity.
Artisanal gold mining in South Africa is out of control
Artisanal gold mining is highly organised and rule-bound. Men, women and even children participate a hierarchy sustained by buyers, sponsors and customers.
Mozambican unions hit snooze on a national strike
Mozambique’s trade unions have not been a strong force in society – which has left a space for others to fill.
Is there really a paradigm shift in US/Africa relations?
The strategy outlined by the US Secretary of State marks a fresh beginning in US-Africa relations.
Why metals matter in the modern world
Sehliselo Ndlovu, Professor of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering at Wits, won a 'Science Oscar' at the NSTF-South32 Research Awards on 22 July 2022.
Coal mining by-product may offer building solution
Recipient of the DAAD grant scholarship is currently in Germany testing engineering ideas behind his research.
Drawing arts investment in a WAM world
There were splashes of colour, champagne and canapés, glitz and glam at the Wits Art Museum soirée ahead of the SA premier of Oh to Believe in Another World.
Wits innovation changing the world for good
Wits University is home to a wellspring of talent from multiple disciplines where life-changing innovation is incubated.
Defending democracy the greatest cause of our times
Challenge for young people is to democratise every aspect of life in society.
Wits Centenary promotes community partnerships
The Wits community joined hands with NGOs in Tembisa township to clean the Kaalspruit tributary, a feeder to the Hennops river.
Don Mattera knew the love SA deserved from the start
The poet practised love wholeheartedly and saw from a mile away leaders who pretend to love their ‘people’.
Wits University believes in another world
It was a night of suspended reality, imaginative film, and sophisticated symphony at the SA premier of William Kentridge’s Oh to Believe in Another World.
Wits Research Office recognition for academics awarded by the National Research Foundation
The luncheon celebrated Wits NRF A-rated academics as well as scholars awarded previously but not formally acknowledged in person due to lockdown restrictions.
From chemistry to commerce: School learners get the ‘Wits experience’
Learners enjoy a fun-filled Wits Integrated Experience of academic and student life on the Braamfontein campuses.
A lack of peace and stability affects us all
“We are never defined by the conditions we face, no matter how challenging they may seem.”
Foundation to rejuvenate democracy in Africa and France
“We must nurture tolerance, collective wisdom, and democracy.” – Nelson Mandela
Wits VC inducted into prestigious Royal Society (UK)
Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, internationally renowned nuclear physicist, joins the ranks of Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Albert Einstein, and Stephen Hawking.
Oil refinery closures, cleaner fuels and security of supply in South Africa
Refinery closures in South Africa are shots fired in the long running contestation between the oil refiners and the government.
Witsies win lifetime achievement, research, and capacity development awards at Science Oscars
Professors Shabir Madhi, Sehliselo Ndlovu and Tamiru Abiye were winners at the 2021/2022 National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)-South 32 Research Awards.
Great Hall gets a facelift and this is why it's a big deal
The iconic Great Hall is back after Covid-19 lockdowns and extensive renovations – ready to celebrate Wits' centenary.
Healthy boost for Wits Food Bank
Wits staff step up on Mandela Day for food-insecure students.
Wits hosts winter camps for high school learners
Wits University hosted grade 9 to 12 learners from across the country as part of its intervention programmes aimed at boosting their educational outcomes
Zakes Mda on Tarzanification, Wakandasation and African storification
Africans need to do more to counter the Africa imagined by America, says acclaimed novelist Zakes Mda.
Hunters and gatherers in Africa were the original scientists
The wilful lack of knowledge about ‘deep time’ African history must end, says Prof. Molefi Kete Asante, a giant in African studies.
Mammals were not the first to be warm-blooded
Karoo fossils provide “smoking gun” on clues to when warm-bloodedness evolved in pre-mammalian ancestors.
IPBES report warn of over exploitation of wild species
Over consumption of wildlife species for energy and food will place stress on the communities that need them for survival.
Wits to honour novelist Zakes Mda and African American scholar Prof. Molefi Kete Asante
The July graduations are a triple celebration – honorary doctorates for giants in African literature and African studies, 152 PhDs and the Great Hall reopens.
#GradnGive on Mandela Month entrenches ubuntu
Students graduating in July are urged to spread joy by bringing non-perishables to restock the Wits Food Bank.
Covid-19 Update 87: Masks are voluntary
Return to campus plans and the way forward.
Widely-used kidney function tests underestimate scale of kidney disease in Africa
A commonly used blood test which measures how well a person’s kidneys are working may not pick up kidney disease for people in Africa.
SA’s entire infrastructure is on the verge of total collapse
South Africa now does not have a functioning integrated public logistics infrastructure anymore, with roads, rail, and ports all in disarray.
Tanzania’s undemocratic constitution is a template for disaster
The country’s one-party cadre system will continue to stunt economic development and growth as long as it’s allowed.
Structured light just got more colourful
Researchers from the Wits Structured Light Laboratory showcase recent advances in replacing the traditional linear optical toolkit with nonlinear control.
Oh to Believe in Another World
South African premiere of the new topically relevant film by Wits alumnus and world-renowned artist, William Kentridge, will take place at Wits in July.
New Head for Wits Functions and Events
Thembelihle Dlamini, a former Vice-President of the SRC, takes over the reins.
Role of universities as public interlocutors of dialogue
STATEMENT: Universities have an important role to play in upholding democracy, in speaking truth to power, and in facilitating debate.
Light-bender recognised with scholarship
Engineering student exploring optics and photonics is among Optica Women Scholars to receive a generous award and international mentorship.
Famous Sterkfontein Caves deposit 1 million years older than previously thought
New dates for Australopithecus-bearing Sterkfontein Cave deposit places South African hominin fossils at the centre of global palaeo research.
Young South African researchers take leading roles at the ATLAS experiment collaboration
Wits’ young scientist (physicists) take front positions in the world’s largest scientific endeavour to generate new science and expand current knowledge.
73-year-old Wits Professor to take on the Amazon river to fight climate change
Professor Kurt Sartorius and his colleague from the School of Accountancy, Wayne van Zijl, will set out on an expedition that nearly broke him 50 years ago.
Wits polyglot wins Chinese proficiency competition
A talent for languages and an interest in the cultures of the world is opening doors for a Wits music student.
Epitaph for a baobab: remembering South African poet and activist Don Mattera
A true African poet, Don Mattera was at the centre of public life, an advocate for change and an enemy of elitism.
Rising food prices: a close look at inflation in South Africa
Periods of high food inflation affect poor households the most. This is because they spend a higher percentage of their income on food.
4IR - a seductive idea requiring critical engagement
The narrative of the Fourth Industrial Revolution is more aspiration than reality.
Light travelling in a distorting medium can appear undistorted
That light gets distorted when passing through distorting media seems self-evident. Now Wits Researchers have discovered a hidden property in the light that rem
Delivery of quality healthcare and clinical training prioritised in Wits, GDoH agreement
The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) and Wits University sign MOA to deliver quality healthcare services and exemplary health sciences education.
Tracking rainfall moisture in Lesotho
Lesotho is considered to be the water tower of southern Africa and it is key to water security in the region.
Universities must think more creatively about the employability of their graduates
Universities must think more creatively about the employability of graduates, especially those at the PhD level.
South Africa’s epochal 1976 uprisings shouldn’t be reduced to a symbolic ritual
The students who marched on 16 June 1976 did more than simply register a political opinion.
Fish in a major South African river are full of microplastics
The Vaal River, which serves more than 11 million people, is considerably polluted with microplastics.
Digital labour platforms subject global South workers to ‘algorithmic insecurity’
Digital platform work is often seen to suit workers’ skills, interests and schedules. But it comes at a cost to their economic security and control.
Amazing ting: South Africa must reinvigorate sorghum as a key food before it’s lost
Known as ting or amazimba, indigenous sorghum is resilient and rich in cultural and health benefits – yet crops are declining.
A referendum on electoral reform in South Africa might stir up trouble
There are calls for a national referendum on the electoral system to define the way forward, and liberate it from the clutches of party barons.
Covid vaccines and pregnancy: a review of the evidence shows they are safe
In all the research reviewed, none found any safety concerns regarding COVID vaccines during pregnancy.
Digital migration: court delay upholds information rights of poor South Africans
The decision further delays migration to digital broadcasting and places strain on the urgently needed bandwidth for mobile data.
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How the music of an ancient rock painting was brought to life
Sometimes archaeologists can “hear” the ancient past using acoustic methods.
Children’s mental health and the digital world
The benefits and risks of the digital environment on children’s mental health should be balanced. How to get it right.
Witsie shines at international competition
Engineering student trumps teams at an international simulation competition.
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Industrial Advisory Board appointed to guide Engineering Faculty
The Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment has established an advisory board with key industry representatives.
World Food Safety Day empowers Witsies
Practical demonstration and tips on how to ensure food safety helps Witsies to take control of their own health.
Australian Friends of Wits University advance Centenary Campaign
Alumni in Australia have formalised fundraising for Wits in its centenary year with R80 million already pledged by the Zylstra family’s Skye Foundation.
Boost to pursue his high-risk, high-reward ideas
Professor Benjamin Rosman is one of 18 early-career researchers in the world to be named CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars for 2022-2024.
Funding boost for postgrad research into new-age metals
Wits signs research agreement with AfriTin Mining to investigate and optimise tech metals processing.
Genetic risk scores could predict disease in Africans
Using genetic risk scores to predict which individuals have a higher risk genetically of developing a particular disease is set to revolutionise medicine.
A career-long love affair with science
From being dazzled by the launch of space stations in the 1970s to pushing the boundaries of quantum physics.
The 2022 ICT Skills Survey goes live
The impact of hybrid work models on IT skills in South Africa will be among the issues coming under the spotlight this year.
Queen Elizabeth II: the reign that ended the British empire in Africa
The decolonisation process was to take place rapidly during the reign of Elizabeth II.
Home recognition for Italian Prof
Prof. Maria Marchetti-Mercer has been awarded the Order of the Star of Italy.
Rising talent to explore community theatre and policies in Germany
Masters student Relebohile Mabonda wraps up a performance and prepares to join the German Chancellor's Fellowship Programme for prospective leaders.
Not your stereotypical librarian
Dr Daisy Selematsela, the new Director of Wits Libraries, has many names that people have given her over the years.
Staff development made easy with flexible training platforms
Wits Staff and students have access to free online learning platforms to continue learning.
Death penalty returns to SA through mob murder
The number of people suspected of crimes who are being killed in an arbitrary and brutal fashion is growing.
Making and remaking of social orders
Renowned sociologist Karl von Holdt on violence, politics and power.
No more holy smokescreens: churches must lead the anti-corruption crusade
They should also clean their houses, then call out corrupt ‘leaders’ to make churchgoers aware of the damage they cause.
How to prevent maternal deaths
For every maternal death, there are about an additional 20 women who suffer serious injuries, infections and disabilities related to pregnancy.
African sci-tech 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.
New age economy requires job-creating graduates
Entrepreneurship and innovation are at the centre of economic development in Africa, says speakers from various parts of the continent.
Wits Planetarium Centenary Shows
Last opportunity this June to view the nearly 100 year old Star Projector in operation, as it will be replaced with a fully digital dome projection system.
Turkish ambassador launches digital fabrication laboratory at Wits
Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) and Wits University launch FabLab.
Wits strives for transformation in academic leadership
The Female Academic Leaders Fellowship (FALF) admits second cohorts.
Leading global scientist at Wits advises World Health Organization on monkeypox
Monkeypox is a disease of global public health importance as it not only affects countries in West and Central Africa, but the rest of the world.
Wits Entrepreneurship Clinic will enable youth to become the future job creators
“Young entrepreneurs are one of the country's best hopes in solving the jobs crisis” - Dr Robert Venter, Project Leader for the WEC.
Wits hosts Edinburgh delegation
Strategic partner and top UK University visits to cement ties and toast to the next 100 years.
Glen Nwaila to lead the Wits Mining Institute
Economic geologist and machine learning practitioner takes the reins.
Award for Wits anthropologist for efforts to understand and serve needs of the world’s societies
The Society for Applied Anthropology (SfAA) has selected Professor Lenore Manderson as the recipient of its 2023 Bronislaw Malinowski Award.
Politically US-Africa relations can be bumpy, but on the right track economically
Relations between African countries and the US are bumpy on political issues but much better on the economic front.
Inflation should be viewed as public enemy number 1
Inflation is bad for any country’s economy. It also hurts the wealth and financial well-being of individuals and households.
SA research leads to new WHO guidelines for improved TB treatment
Ground-breaking research conducted in SA to find shorter, more effective treatment for drug-resistant TB has informed global policy changes.
Wits scientists in the team that made the first image of the black hole in the centre of our galaxy
This result provides overwhelming evidence that the object is indeed a black hole and yields valuable clues about the workings of such giants.
Royal Honour for Wits Vice-Chancellor
Prof. Zeblon Vilakazi welcomed as a Fellow of the prestigious Royal Society (UK)
Community dialogue can show the way to meeting water needs
Evidence suggests that involving marginalised communities in setting priorities and designing collective action can lead to improved health outcomes.
The problem of funding SA students can be solved
SA’s private financial sector should fund all students, no matter their means, with loans underwritten by the state.
For the love of books - what reading to our children teaches them about the world
Reading expands the knowledge, fosters empathy for others and builds healthy, loving and trusting relationships between children and adults.
Towards a secure digital legacy – Wits Library now a member of the Digital Preservation Coalition
Wits has joined the Digital Preservation Coalition, a charitable foundation that supports digital preservation with a view to a secure digital legacy.
Unleashing the potential of university-based archives
Towards the creation of a future Civil Society and Human Rights Archive and Research Hub at Wits.
Covid-19 Update 86: Infections are increasing
Please take note of rising infections in the country and particularly in Gauteng. Please get vaccinated if you have not done so yet.
National Research Foundation rates three Witsies for the first time as world leaders in their fields
The NRF has awarded new A-ratings to three Wits academics in the Faculty of Humanities and the Faculty of Health Sciences respectively.
Intriguing insights from Wits Global Ethics Day colloquium
The annual ethics colloquium, which celebrates ethical practices, this year interrogated ideas and studies that challenged Research Ethics Committees recently.
Former South African president predicts the end of the ruling party: history is on his side
Any ruling party in South Africa has found it hard to maintain internal coherence and unity over an extended time span amid wide national diversity.
Geologists explain why most basaltic magma chambers are roofless
Wits geologists come up with an original interpretation for a long-standing petrological paradox – the common absence of roof rocks in basaltic magma chambers.
New forms of urban planning are emerging in Africa
Master planning has served the entwining interests and ambitions of international as well as local actors in Africa.
How Africa can respond to the seismic changes in the world
Fundamental changes are taking place in the world: what are the implications for Africa?
From pandemic learner to successful student
'Gateway to Success' programme: Creating a holistic, seamless transition from secondary school to university
A different dream for Wits teacher with cystic fibrosis
A journey that was almost thwarted just as the undergraduate degree was in the bag.
Wits Chancellor Dr Judy Dlamini graduates again
Respect for the profession created the need to do this qualification, says Dlamini.
Genocide, gender and the pursuit of justice
Navanethem ‘Navi’ Pillay already has 17 honorary degrees but “it’s always precious when you get it from home”, she says.
Restore accountability to the Legislature
Justice Moloto bemoans decade of ‘accountability inertia’ and asks graduates to contribute to people- driven democracy.
Wits honours conflict resolution luminary
Wits awards distinguished attorney and dispute resolution luminary Charles Nupen with honorary doctorate in law.
Fresh signs of mosquito insecticide resistance in South Africa
Insecticide resistance is a growing threat to malaria control efforts globally.
Twelve Witsies in the running for Science Oscars
Twelve Wits researchers are contenders for the prestigious NSTF-South32 Awards for 2021/2022, four of whom were nominated in two categories each.
Health Sciences student wins Wits FameLab
Mpho Mathole won the Wits leg of the international science communication competition and will go on to participate in the nationals later this year.
Dr Frene Ginwala remembers Wits
Struggle icon Dr Frene Ginwala recalls how Wits accelerated the global fight against apartheid.
Humble, sincere, with an infectious laugh – tributes to Ndoni Mcunu
Ndoni Mcunu, Wits PhD candidate, climate scientist, and the driving force behind Black Women in Science passed away on April 16.
KZN floods - the cost of “loss and damage”
COP27 — the next battleground for climate justice and damage compensation.
Five luminaries to be honoured at #WitsGrads
Wits University is proud to announce the start of the April graduation season where 5 593 students will be capped between 19 and 29 April 2022.
Wits hosts the principals of top secondary schools
Wits University hosts principals from top achieving Gauteng schools
Future Ecosystems for Africa programme launched at Wits
Programme aims to identify African ecosystem vulnerabilities while leveraging African-informed transformative change opportunities.
Both big and small farms are important for food security
The farming sector is arguably the most important economic sector for SA’s development as it is directly linked to food security and poverty reduction.
Race and class fears amplified on Twitter when Covid-19 hit
Study of tweets in Kenya and South Africa shows online rage towards white communities and privileged classes can be read as fatigue with the postcolonial state.
AmaBhungane and Daily Maverick win Taco Kuiper Award
Stories that unearthed corruption in the Health Ministry and exposed threats by a torched chemical company win the premier award for investigative journalists.
Self-healing arrays of twisted light from a laser
Wits physicist part of team that develops novel laser.
South African History Archive returns home
SAHA was officially relaunched at Wits and will be part of the Archives and Research Hub.
Student Leadership Awards celebrate movers and shakers
From spearheading entrepreneurship programmes to driving community projects, Wits student leaders are walking the path of servant leadership.
SA legal profession threatens to become as corrupt as the state
Law firms need to come together to agree on an anti-corruption stance and shame those who are unethical.
President Ramaphosa welcomes groundbreaking book on SA economy
The book comes at a time of great upheaval in the global economy.
SA teaching hospital shows 23 percent decrease in superbug transmission after novel intervention
A study shows for the first time that Ultraviolet room decontamination paired with manual cleaning decreases transmission of CRE by 23% in a hospital setting.
R50 million donation to advance innovation in South Africa
Alumnus Dr David Fine's generous donation will be used to establish the Angela and David Fine Chair in Innovation.
ACSUS celebrates four years of excellence
ACSUS at Wits commits to Global South scholarship on the superpower’s emerging futures.
Architecture student a regional winner of Corobrik competition
Research addressing monumental buildings inherited from industrialisation wins regional round and advances to nationals.
Covid-19 risks remain
At this point it’s pragmatic to integrate COVID-19 management into routine health practices.
R54,000 a pop for anti-HIV injection
A new HIV prevention medicine could work even better than daily pills, but if nothing changes it costs more than R300,000 to treat one person for a year.
SA scientists have a duty to speak out on Ukraine invasion
As an academic body, we should be appalled by South Africa’s less than stellar performance on Russia’s war against Ukraine.
African countries showed disunity in UN votes on Russia
The unwillingness of African governments to forge a unified position on the Russian invasion has damaged the credibility of their pan-African commitments.
The 100-year-old story of South Africa’s first history book in the isiZulu language
Magema Fuze’s book was a radical act of publishing. It contained histories of chiefdoms and kingdoms - from the Zulu to the Ngcobo.
Rising vigilantism - the fruits of misrule
Ending violence against foreigners can only happen by first recognising – and addressing – the hazards of South Africa’s crumbling system of indirect rule.
How language plunged Cameroon into deadly conflict
Anglophone grievances run deep and have remained unaddressed for a long time.
SA should pay whistleblowers to combat tax evasion
South Africa should start offering whistleblowers monetary compensation in cases where they help identify tax evaders.
Introduce mandatory labelling for fast foods
South Africa should introduce regulations that mandate the nutritional labelling of fast foods. This will help consumers make informed dietary choices.
Covid-19 Update 85: Over 90% of those accessing Wits' campuses are vaccinated
It is with great appreciation that we thank you and members of our wider Wits community for vaccinating and in so doing, making Wits a safer place for all.
Mapping mosquitoes to combat malaria
Theresa Mazarire in the Wits Institute for Malaria (WRIM) combines environmental science and public health to control malaria mosquitoes.
Accountants should take the lead in fighting climate change
Incorporating climate change accountability into integrated reporting can trigger a global change in climate change thinking.
Top Matriculants, now Witsies celebrated
Twelve outstanding first-year students have been awarded the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship, which covers tuition and accommodation fees.
Netflix and the African dream
The new reality series Young, Famous and African, released in March 2022, has been the centre of conversation among South African viewers.
New Covid-19 regulations are the real state of disaster
The incoherent and illogical new government Covid-19 regulations are the real state of disaster
National Batho Pele Excellence Award for Rees
This accolade acknowledges and recognises her outstanding contributions to COVID-19 research in 2021/2022.
‘Digital activism is the future’ – Commonwealth scholar
Albert Sharra, recipient of the Commonwealth Split-site scholarship, focuses on digital political activism and people power.
Job losses, pay cuts – State of the Newsroom during Covid-19
The 2020 State of the Newsroom report looked at a year of ‘shock, confusion and a need to radically adapt’.
New programmes to enhance leadership in early- and mid-career academics
The two programmes ‘are stepping stones to launch and develop the careers of academics’.
R10 million for the palaeosciences
#Wits100 donation will be used to fund the Micro CT scanner upgrade to benefit palaeontologists.
It’s complicated … but let’s talk about #Gender
Read the 13th issue of Curios.ty, themed: #Gender. We feature research across the gender spectrum that aims to ensure a more equitable and tolerant society.
To live and love across a spectrum
EDITORIAL: The way we choose to identify ourselves provokes questions and demands interrogation to ensure a more equitable and tolerant society.
STEM - not all are equal
Structures need to be put in place at higher education institutions to give women their rightful opportunities.
Beyond the binary
The gender binary has reached its expiry date but it still hasn’t been consigned to society’s dustbin.
The politics of a woman’s body
The backsliding of women’s rights happening right now should be the clarion call that gender rights are still everybody’s business.
The knife between her thighs
Female Genital Mutilation - South African researchers and medical practitioners are increasingly seeing it in its most extreme forms.
Finding Nemo’s sexual identity
As a species, we are only starting to scratch the surface of our understanding of gender, sex, and identity.
Levelling the playing fields
The competitive sporting world is playing catch-up with the realities of gender in modern society.
A woman’s work is never done
The work that women do in households is largely overlooked, yet it is critical for a well-functioning society.
Parenting in the city
Building cities for women will make them more inclusive for all groups.
Older people do bonk
The notion that people older than 50 neither desire nor engage in sexual intercourse is a misnomer that demands further research, particularly in Africa.
Monetising Pride
Responsibility and representation: Where does the buck stop for brands and business sales targeting the LGBTQIA+ community?
Fractured histories
Coloured women find their centre beyond the whisper and gossip.
Being queer in Africa
Despite a history of openness to queerness in pre-colonial times, Africa is now largely unwelcoming to LGBTQIA+ people.
Same-sexuality past and present
The notion that homosexuality is ‘unAfrican’ is totally false. People have engaged in same-sex relationships for centuries.
An illegal failure of our criminal justice system
Hate crimes such as the so-called “corrective rape” of lesbians and trans women is a black mark against SA’s constitutional democracy.
A heart for the queer and gay
Dr Ahmed Badat spends his life focusing on improving LGBTQIA+ mental health training for medical students.
Let’s talk about sex (and health), please
Changes in sexual functioning are a side effect of many physical and mental illnesses, however, across genders, sexual health and behaviour are not addressed.
Mobilising big data and AI to fight GBVF
Gender-based violence and femicide is a pandemic more insidious and endemic than a virus – how technology can help combat and prevent it.
Monstrous males/femme fatales
Gender portrayals in animated films have come a long way, which is important, as animation can be a tool for positive social change.
'Real' men lift others up and don't put them down
Men cannot be left on the periphery of conversations about gender-based violence and abuse.
Performing masculinity in Men’s Res
Q&A with Moeketsi Gordon Koahela on his research into masculinity and male university students.
Philanthropy’s feminist future
Could a growing understanding of the role of women in African philanthropy spark the evolution of the charitable giving sector?
Towards gender parity in academic leadership
Eight female fellows of the Female Academic Leadership (FALF) Programme at Wits share their experiences of breaking the glass ceiling.
We’re not your victims
COLUMN: Srila Roy says that feminists in the Global South are fighting the battle on two fronts, making a history of their own.
SA’s first black female doctor was a Witsie
When apartheid became law in 1948, a black woman from Limpopo had already achieved a series of firsts …
New project will examine Covid-19 vaccine acceptance in southern Africa
A new project will examine Covid-19 vaccine acceptance in SA and Zimbabwe and recommend strategies to promote vaccination.
Sustainability in higher education: clean water
In this series, QS has been exploring the innovative and inspiring work being done by higher education institutions to address UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Creating job opportunities for SA’s youth
The Wits Entrepreneurship Clinic gets going with programme to drive innovation and entrepreneurship.
Developing equal partnerships in unequal societies
Wits strengthens EU partnerships through becoming a CIVIS Alliance strategic partner.
Scientific diplomacy and cooperation in this time of war
Scientific diplomacy must be given a chance to help enhance mutual understandings across political divides.
Bushveld Complex functioned as a big magma tank
Scientists find that large, long-lived, and entirely molten magma chambers did exist in Earth’s crust.
Academics condemn silencing of scientists over Russian invasion
Professor Lynn Morris says universities 'value independent inquiry, intellectual excellence, integrity, and academic freedom and institutional autonomy'.
Diversifying the Academy
The rewards of supporting the research and career aspirations of Wits academics.
New promising interventions to protect term and premature babies from deadly respiratory virus
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) and hospitalisation in infants.
Wits physicist awarded 2022 Sang Soo Lee Award
Professor Andrew Forbes recognised for his outstanding leadership in founding and growing an optics and photonics community in Africa.
French National Order of Merit awarded to Professor Helen Rees
This accolade recognises her outstanding medical career and commitment to improving global health with a focus on public health in Africa.
Wits audience get a virtual tour of the JOIDES Resolution research ship
Virtual linkup was done live from the ship while the ship was on an expedition to conduct science operations on the Walvis Ridge, off the coast of Namibia.
Wits celebrates 100 years of excellence
The University aims to raise R3 billion through the Centenary Campaign
#Wits100: New music hall for the good of the arts
Wits University launches its centenary campaign with the opening of the new state-of-the-art Wits Chris Seabrooke Music Hall.
A mathematician, historian and political scientist walk into a bar ...
Three former VCs, Chancellor Judy Dlamini, Stanley Bergman and Professor Zeblon Vilakazi toast #Wits100.
Top spots for Witsies
Wits student wins the country’s premier budget speech competition.
Covid-19 Update 84: Over 30 000 vaccination certificates uploaded
The academic programme began in earnest today and it was fantastic to see students in class again and staff back on campus.
The relevance of American studies in African universities
Africa needs to study America for a balanced engagement across public policy, civil society, corporate sector and at personal levels.
Omicron doesn’t need its own custom vaccine
The Omicron variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus was discovered in South Africa and emerged in November 2021.
Tracking symptoms of respiratory diseases online can give a picture of community health
This is not an alternative to traditional disease surveillance, but a complementary tool.
South Africa has arrived at the recovery stage of the pandemic
South Africa is in a new phase of the COVID pandemic. But vaccination remains crucial.
Child care centres in South Africa need more support
The sector was ill-equipped to withstand further shocks and impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.
God and illness: in SA there’s more to healing than medicine
It is not uncommon for people to believe that the cause of their illnesses is a result of curses or punishment from a deity or witchcraft.
Reimagining journalism training
Journalism has become ‘post-industrial’, entrepreneurial and atypical.
Next Engineers Programme targets high schools
The five-year programme seeks to increase the diversity of the next generation of engineers through early exposure to engineering concepts and careers.
Population based survey reveals why SA is at a turning point in the pandemic
South Africans had extensive immunity against severe Covid-19 disease and death prior to Omicron, due to high infections in the first 3 waves and vaccination.
Wits celebrates research excellence
It was an upbeat post-pandemic return to campus when Wits academics gathered to celebrate research excellence.
Tackling how data from your Health App is used
New research project will explore ways to protect the personal health data of African app users.
City-slicker or rural farmer? What the bugs in your gut can tell you about your health
Scientists have for the first time described the microbiome in SA individuals in ‘city’ and ‘rural’ populations and discovered new bacteria in SA microbiomes.
What it means to live a good life, a flourishing life
Words about mental health need to align with people’s understanding of well being.
Rick Turner and the enduring necessity of utopian thinking
Utopian thinking, revisiting the ideas of Rick Turner in the current political context.
SA'a fiscal squeeze: warning signs ignored for too long
The sums aren’t adding for South Africa on either the spending or revenue side. It’s a problem that’s developed over time with no action being taken.
Covid-19 Update 83: Changes to screening tools
LogBox App is being streamlined to make it easier for you to complete the questions.
The Global Polio Eradication Initiative statement on type 1 wild poliovirus in Malawi
The GPEI is supporting Malawian health authorities to assess the situation and to begin urgent immunization in the subregion to mitigate any risk of spread.
Why America's Black History month is important for Africans
Since its 1926 inception, Black History Month every February has been a celebration of "Africanness" beyond the confines of US borders.
Basic income support in SA: what it will take
Basic income support is not a question of government “being generous”. The money will be taken from employed citizens and the affluent.
Covid-19 Update 82: Changes to isolation protocols and FAQs
The South African government released new Covid-19 regulations as at 31 January 2022, pertaining to changes to isolation protocols.
Why and how Africans need to participate in genetic studies
Underrepresented populations need to feature more in genomic studies so that they benefit from research that explores how their unique genetics affect health.
#Wits100: The impact of giving
From the Desk of Professor Zeblon Vilakazi: I extend a special welcome to you as we approach the start of this academic year.
Rousing Welcome for 100th Class
A new chapter and new frontiers as Wits welcomes first-year students joining the University in its centenary year.
The inside story of discovering the Omicron variant
The Conversation Weekly podcast: What South African scientists' experience offers the world about future variants.
Census 2022 - the most important yet
The census will focus everyone on the core challenges the country faces, where they are, and who is most affected.
Soweto Comprehensive Cancer Centre built to serve
Today is World Cancer Day and a new cancer centre at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital is set to serve the community.
State Capture Report
Publications by academics from Wits and the Public Affairs Research Institute feature in the Report.
Hat-trick of research accomplishments for Wits digital technologist
A researcher and lecturer in the Wits School of Education has begun 2022 with three high-profile achievements.
Covid-19: New tracker for shopping malls
Wits team develops social distancing and shopper behaviour tracker for malls.
Wits in multi-country high-tech mineral exploration partnership
Team of experts help search for metals and minerals needed to meet the tech demands of an evolving world.
South Africa is in a state of drift
The danger is that the ANC turns the way of Zimbabwe’s ZANU-PF.
Snowfall in the Sahara desert
In order for snow to form, two distinctive weather properties are needed: cold temperatures and moist air. The Sahara can tick these boxes.
Covid-19 Update 81: Vaccination and testing site now open
Apply for reasonable accommodation and upload your international vaccine certificate.
Reading the nutritional signs in your burger, chips and soda combo
A study into fast food nutrition labelling found that just 58% of SA’s biggest fast food retailers surveyed provide nutritional information on their products.
The cornerstone of good science
Covid-19: Scientists without quality data are like unarmed soldiers in a war zone.
The limits of “lawfare” as a political tool
Covid-19 in South Africa shows the limits of using courts to fight political battles.
The Gender Commission has failed women
Scientists say the Commission’s statement against mandatory vaccinations is offensive, irresponsible and misleading.
Africa's strategy to draw investment needs work
Foreign investment is Africa's best shot at growth, but its share is still pitiful.
The Zuck stops here
It’s time to take on the tech giants to sustain media and journalism - you can use competition laws against the likes of Facebook.
End SA’s national state of disaster
Covid-19: On 15 March 2020, President Cyril Ramaphosa declared a national state of disaster in terms of the Disaster Management Act.
Covid-19 Update 80: Thank you! 7 500+ vaccine certificates uploaded
If you are experiencing glitches in uploading your certificate, this information might help. You can also log technical queries via ithelp@wits.ac.za.
Covid-19 Update 79: You can now upload your vaccine certificate
Mandatory vaccination: The link to upload your vaccine certificate is now live.
Covid-19 Update 78: Implementation of Wits Mandatory Vaccination Policy
Wits University adopted a Mandatory Vaccination Policy (Mvax Policy), which will be implemented from 1 January 2022.
Wits researchers feature in popular children’s science book
Book about South Africa’s leading brains competes with Harry Potter in South African children’s book sales.
Gateway to success for new first year students
Wits University introduces new programme to enhance the academic and social success of first year students.
Students positively rate Wits career services
Wits students who participated in a national survey are happy with initiatives aimed at boosting their success in the world of work.
Namaqualand daisies are flowering earlier
The progressively earlier flowering places the daisies at greater risk of failed flowering seasons. This would be a blow to biodiversity and tourism.
Partnership to increase gold recovery
Wits and DRDGold’s Ergo Mining Proprietary Limited (Ergo) sign a second five-year research and support agreement to enhance skills and research in mining.
South Africa has changed tack on tackling Covid: why it makes sense
The South African government has chosen a pragmatic approach that balances the potential direct and detrimental indirect effects of Covid.
How Nigerian cities can cope better with flood risk
Institutional failures, infrastructure, socio-economic challenges and disaster education influence Nigerian cities’ vulnerability to flood disaster.
Covid-19 Update 77: Wits Covid-19 Vaccination Implementation Plan
Wits Universit's Mandatory Vaccination Policy (MVAX Policy) will be implemented in January 2022.
Diverse people unite exhibition hosted at Wits
Canon South Africa and RARI partner up to preserve our heritage through the camera lens.
Law Clinic brings hope even under hard conditions
Hundreds of legal clients in just months underscores the desperation of the indigent even during lockdown.
2021: Best science or technology-related books
With the year drawing to a close, many people will be wondering what books they may have missed out on in 2021.
Omicron data: more transmissible but less severe
Early data show that Omicron is dominating new COVID-19 cases in Gauteng province.
It's time for green investment in Africa
As climate change alters business and governance forever, there is no time to lament, only to use the power of investment to change the world for the better.
It's for the common good
There should no longer be a debate between the goals of corporate profit and higher education’s knowledge for its own sake.
Triumph for Mandela and Castro medical programme
Wits Covid-19 Heroes support the vision to increase doctors from historically disadvantaged areas.
The balancing act of managing and motherhood
Enthusiasm, patience and diligence are some of the traits that earned Prof. Sumaya Laher the title of Wits Covid-19 Hero for her role in supporting Witsies.
Thank you, Witsies!
From the Desk of the Wits Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Zeblon Vilakazi: We are stronger because of the diversity of our people and our ideas.
Alumna honoured with the 2021 Outstanding Educator Award
Denise Nicholson recognised for her commitment to intellectual property rights and improving library access.
Jar of Hope restores smiles
A little extra help goes a long way
Keen eyes like those of Lynne Pritchard’s are needed during the era of online learning.
Keeping the lights on
Jeandre Hazelhurst surprised by Wits Covid-19 Hero nomination
Singing and dancing in hospital lifts spirits
Rheumatologist takes innovative approach to managing Covid-19.
Another Wits Hero from ICT
Dreaming of “zero local dependencies” and a complete move to the cloud.
The changing role of ICT
Wits alumna and Senior Manager at Wits ICT says the role of techies should go beyond providing cutting edge and user-friendly infrastructure.
If steam contains water, what does smoke from fire contain?
Professor Sally Archibald answers this question in Curious Kids, is a series for children published in The Conversation-Africa.
Ensuring optimal service delivery on campus
From bathrooms to buses and public areas on campus, the unsung heroes in the Services Department wage a daily battle against the virus.
Quantum entanglement: Why physicists want to harness it
“Quantum entanglement” is one of several plot devices that crops up in modern sci-fi movies.
Biden’s summit for democracy
Africa can make important contributions to the issues on the agenda: defending against authoritarianism; fighting corruption; and respect for human rights.
Chemistry’s Monyai is a ray of light
Create space for dreams and wellbeing so that impactful work can happen.
Faculties come together in fight against Covid-19
Diverse team of staff and students proudly came together at a time when the country need them most.
Teaching and medicine – a perfect blend against Covid-19
Two disciplines have paved the way for Hartmann to make an impact on the lives of others.
Paying it forward
Wits Covid-19 Hero Dr Armand Bahini says his actions are inspired by the institution that made him the man he is today.
Biometeorology - the possibilities are endless
Are you interested in the weather and its impact on nature? Here’s a career for you.
South Africa needs more spectrum now
Wits, UJ, government and the telecoms sector join forces to close the digital divide.
Answering the call of students
“No matter what you’re feeling inside, the purpose is to be kind and help students with a smile.”
Children and screens – making it through the holidays
Every small change to promote healthy levels of screen time is a step in the right direction for the health, wellbeing and development of children.
Omicron: five steps to avoid, ten to take immediately
The world needs to learn to live with the virus. And governments must follow the science and don’t distort it for political expediency.
Lessons from Wits rural campus
Wits Covid-19 Hero Ngoni Ngwarai, shares what it’s like to work with 31 villages and humble lessons from Covid-19.
Harnessing resources for greater good
Chemicals and special pencils are never too far from this Wits Covid-19 Hero.
Two new mining research centres at Wits Mining Institute
The Institute will boost its contribution to the future of mining by hosting two of the new research centres.
Knack for technology benefits those with disabilities
Adaptive Technologist and Wits Covid-19 Hero, Andrew Sam, provides specialised support to students and staff with special needs.
Finding a balance between rural versus metro support
Metros may be a graveyard for political ambition. But if parties or individuals succeed, the rewards are considerable.
Origins of early sapiens behaviour opens at Origins Centre
The extraordinary multimedia presentation comprises 16 unique display panels that include six videos by renowned documentary filmmaker Craig Foster.
SA can get through the Covid-19 maze ahead of the festive season – here’s how
Despite the vaccines, there is a new frightening-sounding variant in town, Omicron. There is plenty you can do to protect yourselves this December.
Covid-19 Update 76: Council approves Wits Covid-19 Mandatory Vaccination Policy
Read the full statement, the policy, and the Q&A information document wherein Wits experts answer questions about vaccination, legal, ethical, and more.
The hunt for coronavirus variants
Covid 19: How the new one was found and what we know so far.
Managing in an ever changing world
“Covid has taught us to be very flexible and to understand that no two people are exactly the same in how they deal with things,”
Should we trust machines?
Inclusivity and diversity need to be at the level of identifying values and defining frameworks of what counts as ethical AI in the first place.
Being part of something bigger drives educator
Wits Covid-19 Hero, Professor Lee Rusznyak spearheaded an initiative that assisted teaching students from 24 South African universities.
EIE hosts first engineering Women’s Conference
The virtual conference highlighted the dynamic interventions that women are making in STEM.
Providing data for Covid decisions
From providing analysis to the government, media and the public - Prof. Bruce Mellado has empowered many to make informed decisions about the pandemic.
![Life reconstruction of Australopithecus sediba com-missioned by the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History. [© Sculpture: Elisabeth Daynes / Photograph: S. Entres¬sangle]](/media/wits-university/news-and-events/images/news/2021-sept-dec/Asediba.jpg "Life reconstruction of Australopithecus sediba com-missioned by the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History. [© Sculpture: Elisabeth Daynes / Photograph: S. Entres¬sangle]")
Ancient human relative, Australopithecus sediba, “walked like a human, but climbed like an ape”
New lower back fossils settles a decades old debate proving early hominins used their upper limbs to climb like apes, and their lower limbs to walk like humans.
A slowly worsening chronic fiscal crisis
National Treasury’s strategy to overcome South Africa’s chronic fiscal crisis rests on highly uncertain political and economic foundations.
Why are there so few impact craters on Earth?
Impact craters are relatively shallow, so these bowl-shaped “dents” in Earth’s rocky crust can be easily buried or erased by erosion.
Protecting the first line of defenders
“Wits has a very dynamic community. Every day is Day One at Wits.”
Bumper year for feminist scholar
A book, international academic residency and a fellowship on the cards for Professor Srila Roy.
Keeping information flowing
“I simply could not sit back and do nothing when I knew that I could try to make a difference and help the students out.”
Anti-vax parents
Unpacking parents’ reasons for not vaccinating their children: why it matters
Independent Tanzanian publisher: Walter Bgoya
Books should influence public opinion, contribute to nationwide debates, and stimulate an appreciation of reading and writing.
Leaving no one behind
Scott Smalley instrumental in the safe return of students and staff, and the vaccination drive on campus.
President awards Witsies National Orders
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has awarded four Witsies his office’s highest honour for their services to South Africa.
These learners just love problems
Most people avoid problems but not these learners.
EIE Open Day 2021
From ‘sniffing’ for an internet connection to estimating poverty from space, Open Day had you covered.
Lighting up the digital divide with ‘Fibre, Before the Fibre’
Wits leads efforts to develop low-cost, long-range free-space optics that can connect informal settlement communities to high-speed internet.
Let’s just do more with less
South Africa’s health system is on its knees: the 2021 medium-term budget policy statement offers no relief.
WitsReview wins best corporate publication award
Wits University's multi-award winning publication adds another accolade.
Africa heats up more, and faster
Report: By 2030, up to 118 million extremely poor people will be subject to the devastating impacts of drought and intense heat.
Why does cold air go down and hot air go up?
Associate Professor Jennifer Fitchett answers this question in Curious Kids, is a series for children published in The Conversation-Africa.
Breaking walls after the Berlin Wall
Which wall needs to fall in society and science?
Wits, British Council to boost innovation in Africa
The new Wits Entrepreneurship Clinic will form part of the Innovation for African Universities Project that will drive economic development.
Africa-UK partnerships for climate action
Wits Vice-Chancellor and Principal participates in strategic climate change conversation on COP26 and COP27.
Contact or online? Moving away from binary approaches
We need to move away from this binary approach, consider our contextual realities, and start with the end goal in mind.
The 10 babies hoax
South African newspaper proprietor Dr Iqbal Survé has long pushed the boundaries of credibility, but recently he crossed the line into full fantasy.
The promise of Damon Galgut
Will white South Africa ever give up part of its privilege? Booker-winning novel probes white South Africa and the land issue
Covid-19: Should South Africa be vaccinating 12-17 year olds
The focus of the government seems to be about how many people can get vaccinated rather than ensuring the greatest protection against severe disease and deaths.
Covid-19 Update 75: Senate supports mandatory vaccination policy
"We will also continue to engage with the broader Wits community on the proposed policy in the coming weeks."
A child of darkness
Meet Leti, a Homo naledi child discovered in the Rising Star Cave System that yielded Africa’s richest site for fossil hominins.
Harnessing Thor’s hammer
How forensic science is unlocking the mysteries of fatal lightning strikes that could help save thousands of lives.
Wits and Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital strengthen partnership
Extended partnership will enable partners to advance critical areas in child health.
The smoking gun
This tool can identify cause of death by fatal lightning strike in skeletonised remains.
Switching allegiance will bring loyalty to SA
It is important to impress upon those who boycott elections that their votes do count and they can force change.
Religion can be a blessing, and a curse
How religion has shaped the experiences of displaced LGBT people in South Africa.
In 25 years, what has changed for women?
The provision of better health services and social grants has aided rural women’s progress but there are still tremendous needs to be met.
Harnessing Africa’s knowledge tank
African universities have great potential to accelerate development and advance knowledge on the continent.
Untreated mental illnesses impact SA's economy, social and family stability
The shame which many South Africans, particularly black communities, place on people who live with mental illnesses are preventing sufferers from seeking help.
Wits ergonomics expert joins prestigious Academy of Science of South Africa
Professor Andrew Thatcher from the School of Human and Community Development has been appointed as a member of the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf).
A new era in cricket research
Wits University has launched a cricket research hub for science, medicine and rehabilitation.
Acclaimed wordsmith publishes new book
Wits alumnus and contemporary writer, Dr Mandla Langa, has added a new novel to his literary works.
Spotlight on President of the African Real Estate Society
Lessons from his father and mentors have shaped Akinsomi's journey.
VC celebrates Wits Olympians and Paralympians
Wits Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Zeblon Vilakazi hosted Witsies who were part of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Can gaming transform the way we learn?
Professor Barry Dwolatzky explains what gamification in learning is and how it is on a path to change the future of higher education.
No-go zones have no place in a democratic society
IEC must come down hard on parties that refuse to allow others to campaign in what they see as their areas.
Climate change has already hit southern Africa
With mitigation and adaptation strategies and policies driven through COP26, southern Africa can reduce the impacts on local livelihoods.
New Migration Academy calls for applications
Members of the African Research Universities Alliance open new opportunities in migration studies.
'Punish or deter outrageously false campaign promises'
Poll chancers: politicians who make false promises must be punished.
Wits Top in Africa and in top 15 Emerging Economies
Wits University ranked in top 15 by The Times Higher Education in the latest ranking of universities in emerging economies.
Wits and Russian Embassy unveils Yuri Gagarin bust
Unveiling of the bust celebrates 60 years of space exploration and human space travel.
Wits – Edinburgh to collaborate on academic, research and innovation projects
Universities committed to translating MoU into action that benefits staff and students.
Online teaching and learning: Towards a realistic view of the future
The shift to emergency remote teaching and learning enabled academics to start questioning some long-held assumptions about in-person teaching and learning.
Aggrey Klaaste and nation-building
How the South African editor put himself on the line with his contrarian idea.
Young Wits scientists shine at FameLab
Three Wits students are in the top 10 of the national FameLab competition.
‘Foreplay’ judgment: problematic judicial views around consent in rape cases persists
In SA it is alarming and legally dangerous to have a judgment that consensual foreplay implies consent for penetration and sex, and thus rape did not occur.
New Surgical Skills Lab to train specialists and sub-specialists
R22-million project to enhance the training of surgeons in South Africa.
New Wits laboratory will advance African genetics research
The Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience today launches a new research lab to understand African genetics and advance precision medicine in Africa.
Staff awards celebrate the best of Wits
The annual Staff Awards reflect the Wits values that drive the ethos and excellence across our remarkable institution.
Red tape is choking biodiversity research in South Africa
There are calls for measures to reduce the burden of red tape and promote and facilitate biodiversity research in South Africa.
Covid-19 Update 74: Wits Mandatory Vaccination Framework
The proposed Framework has been developed and will be shared with staff, students, senior managers, organised labour, and other constituencies for comment.
My story: from Kenyan villager to international researcher
My name is Francis Otieno and I am telling this story to inspire school kids, emerging researchers, and everyone – your dreams are possible!
Top matriculants prepare for the Wits experience
The top applicants are set to join Wits as it turns 100 in 2022.
South Africa urgently needs to update its mental health policy
Mental Health: How are we doing? What do we need to do?
A look at new abortion guidelines
International Safe Abortion Day – celebrated every year on 28 September – marks a woman’s fundamental reproductive right to access safe, legal abortion.
Wits celebrates 99 years of excellence
Wits launches global appeal, former Wits SRC President donates $100,000 to support students
Former presidents rise to the #Wits100 challenge
Wits SRC president pledges USD100,000 to aid students, challenges others to #WitsForGood challenge.
Palliative care and Covid-19: A patient’s quality of life and dignified death are paramount
Calls to permit nurses in South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania to prescribe morphine to help ease patient's suffering and give them a dignified death.
Witsies win six Science Oscars at prestigious national research awards
Wits researchers won six National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)-South32 research awards .
Science superstar reaching for the stars
The sky is the limit for science superstar and PhD student, Mpho Kgoadi.
Head of UNAIDS unpacks the knock-on effects of Covid-19
Greater urgency is needed in the response to pandemics, to end AIDS and to end COVID-19.
Developing countries should inform global debates on inequality
Greater urgency is needed in the response to pandemics, to end AIDS and to end COVID-19.
R70m to transform the ‘Bara Burns Unit’ into a world-class facility
New specialised Wits Roy McAlpine Burns Unit will treat burn survivors and will create a high-tech skin bank and tissue engineering laboratory in Soweto.
Wits employees go the extra mile for students and academics stranded abroad
Dr Yan Yang and Alison Simons from the Wits Strategic Partnerships Office supported Witsies who were abroad at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Serving all equally – Service before self
Fears of Covid-19 did not stop Wits network support technicians to service staff at academic hospitals during hard lockdown.
SA ICT sector navigates pandemic unscathed but skills gaps remain
The 2021 ICT Skills Survey results were released on 28 September 2021.
Passion, love and dedication for teaching
A source of inspiration for his students.
Skills survey finds SA ICT not moving to gig economy - yet
Survey shows a shift to the gig economy has not occurred in SA, but it's plausible that this might change in future.
Wits-educated billionaire launches R3-billion vaccine development project in SA
It will help to establish two research centres to boost cancer and vaccine research at the University of the Witwatersrand.
Covid vaccine mandates don’t have to undermine your rights
While South Africa has steered clear of compulsory vaccination for now, the country’s laws do allow such a policy.
Robben Island Museum: The making and breaking
Robben Island Museum aspired to be part of the reconstruction and development of the national soul.
Majozi to lead the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
Esteemed process engineer to steer the Faculty as Wits embarks on its strategic journey to 2033.
All about developing people
Wits Hero Dr Lisa Ware has first-hand experience of what can happen when youth are without hope.
A rising research star
The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust (OMT) has awarded the Rising Star Fellowship to Associate Professor Peace Kiguwa.
Oppenheimer donation advances African Future Studies at Wits
The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust (OMT) has donated R15 million towards the African Future Studies Initiative at Wits University.
Remote work a win for South Africa's ICT professionals
JSCE-IITPSA ICT Skills Survey results will be released on 28 September 2021.
Team work makes the Science Faculty work
A love for teaching and learning, and a deep commitment to the provision of high quality educational experiences drives the Faculty of Science.
IRR’s current approach does a disservice to the people of South Africa
The Institute prioritises its own ideological predilections rather than devoting itself to the betterment of race relations.
Millions of children miss routine vaccinations amid the chaos of Covid-19
Urgent catch-up plans are needed.
The Expropriation Bill and the 18th Constitutional Amendment process
The cart is still behind the horse
Blended learning and the people bold enough to implement it
Notes from the School of Therapeutic Sciences’ Learning I3 (Ideas, Innovation, Inspiration) symposium
Wits mourns the passing of Professor Ivor Sarakinsky
Sarakinsky was a political philosopher, passionate about public governance and the green economy.
Angola: old authoritarian practices remain
The optimism Angolan president João Lourenço’s election generated four years ago has dwindled as electoral promise after another have failed to materialise.
Covid-19 Update 73: Return to campus plans
Details on vaccination and the return of staff members to campus.
Lego blocks and pasta trigger dentistry students
If you think that macaroni, spaghetti and lego blocks only excite preschoolers then you’d be shocked to discover that these also stimulate university students.
Leadership behind the scenes keeps WBS ticking over
He leads with respect, dignity, and passion for excellent IT support and service delivery on the Parktown Management Campus.
Wits humanities scholar a Falling Walls winner
Professor Dilip Menon’s transnationalism research earns him prestigious Falling Walls Award.
Lifeline to LGBTQI+ migrants, refugees and asylum seekers
Our hope is really to inspire other members of the Wits community to say that there are things that we can do to change the lives of those around us - Harie.
Let’s DIY future democracies for good
#DIYAfrica 2021 creates space for Africans to “Do It Yourself” and realise the potential of new and emerging technologies to bring about change.
Wits to coordinate South Africa’s national quantum initiative
The South African Quantum Technology Initiative (SA QuTI) aims to drive local quantum technology research and innovation.
Work as we knew it has changed. Time to think beyond the wage
Recent developments in the organisation of production have led to the decline of wage employment across much of the world.
Covid fallout: Vulnerability and signs of recovery in Gauteng
There is no doubt about the enormous scale of the shocks South Africa has experienced over 2020-21.
The democratic transition in 1994 did little to undermine the foundations of white economic power
Race and capitalism: no easy answers, but posturing will get South Africa nowhere
How Messenger RNA works in nature and in making vaccines
Thanks to the collaborative efforts, the large-scale manufacturing of mRNA drug products is becoming a reality.
Dung beetle experiment suggests carbon dioxide is bad for insects too
Beetles exposed to elevated carbon dioxide emerged later and smaller and had a reduced chance of making it to adulthood.
How Zimbabwean artist Kudzanai Chiurai has reinvented the library
With vinyl records, zines and political posters instead of just books, The Library of Things We Forgot to Remember offers a way to reimagine African history.
Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine shows promise in protecting people with HIV
The Wits Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Analytical (VIDA) research unit conducted the phase 1B/2A clinical trial.
African Research on Kidney Disease begins in Mpumalanga
It’s South African Kidney Awareness Week from 6-10 September and the ARK Consortium has begun a unique African study.
Quality of Life in Gauteng declines amidst pandemic – study
The Gauteng City-Region Observatory (GCRO) has released the results of the latest iteration of the Quality of Life Survey 6 2020/21 (#QoL2021).
Wits leads ambitious partnership to drive AI in Africa
The AI Africa Consortium partners with Cirrus AI to bring large-scale AI infrastructure capacity and expertise to the African research community and industry.
Campus vaccination site to fight Covid-19
Staff and students choose to protect each other as they receive their Covid-19 vaccination on campus.
Burning of fossil fuels directly impacts dung beetles
Elevated carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere negatively affects dung beetles size and survival.
Finding solutions to complex challenges. For Good.
This article has been published in the print and online edition of the Daily Maverick.
How to build credibility in the agricultural sector
To rebuild lost credibility, the South African government can start by listening to social partners and the business sector.
Covid-19 Update 72: Netcare vaccination site at Wits
Wits staff and students can now get their Covid-19 vaccine at the Netcare site on campus.
Johannesburg turned into live laboratory to measure 'killer' lightning
DEHN AFRICA donates R500 000 to the Johannesburg Lightning Research Laboratory at Wits University to support pioneering research in lightning protections.
New lineage of SARS-CoV-2: what’s known so far
We are being cautious about the implications for vaccine efficacy and transmissibility while we gather more data to understand this lineage.
Are you quantum or not? Wits PhD student cracks the high-dimensional quantum code
A new and fast tool for quantum computing and communication.
South African shack dwellers show how grassroots democracy is done
Trevor Ngwane shows how structures that emerged in the struggle against apartheid continue in democratic South Africa, now in conflict with the ruling ANC.
Postponing SA's local elections: what the Constitutional Court must decide
The right to free and fair elections may be undermined if political parties cannot campaign due to COVID-19 restrictions by the state.
African Human Rights Court undermined by resistance from states
The court has lived up to its promise in most cases, issuing some progressive and ground-breaking decisions and remedies.
Students place trust in Wits as they vaccinate
Wits students who got the Covid-19 vaccine jab at the SABC vaccination site on Thursday morning say they chose to place their trust in Wits and science.
In conversation with Reserve Bank Governor, Lesetja Kganyago
Central bankers must act independently, without fear or favour.
Update 71: Witsies can also vaccinate at the SABC vaccination site
Wits staff and students can now get their Covid-19 vaccine at the SABC vaccination site in Auckland Park.
Remember GBV victims
Wits pays tribute to victims of GBV and solidifies action on the ground.
Covid-19 Update 70: Dedicated slots for Witsies to vaccinate in Braamfontein
Wits staff and students who are 18 years and older can now get their Covid-19 vaccine at the Liberty vaccination site in Braamfontein.
Protecting Covid positive pregnant women
Pregnant women who have tested positive for Covid-19 require a different approach.
Healing students humanely with heart
“Covid-19 reminded me of my oath”, says Head of Campus Health and Wellness Centre, Anna Moloi.
Staying connected in sport during a pandemic
From the sports fields to online spaces, Wits Sports staff kept things moving amidst the pandemic.
Ruth Mohamed’s food pack revolution
The expression, “sharing is caring,” is the source behind Covid-19 hero, Ruth Mohamed’s philanthropic values.
Providing a safe home away from home
All titles went out the window – there was no manager or boss position – we all had to help where we could.
Covid-19 Update 69: 18+ you're up! Don't hesitate - vaccinate
Covid-19 vaccinations are open to all persons 18 years and older as from Friday, 20 August 2021.
Research shows that female sex workers are exposed to extremely high levels of violence
This is the first time evidence has been available from a national sample and illuminates the health and complex life experiences of these vulnerable women.
A Servant to the youth
“I’m that person that if you want someone to work with in assisting students, people just think of Lucy.”
Why building collapses are all too common in Lagos
Private developers, building professionals and the government all share responsibility for building collapses.
Guarding the arts in a pandemic
I wanted to help the School of Arts because the lecturers were busy dealing with so many other issues concerning students.
South Africa’s bandit slaves and the rock art of resistance
The scandalous times of a book louse
Deborah Minors interviews Professor Robert Muponde on his new book, 'The Scandalous Times of a Book Louse: A Memoir of a Childhood'.
Protecting frontline healthcare workers
There is no question that without the PPE training, the virus would have spread more rapidly in the hospital where students and staff were placed.
Sibanye-Stillwater broadens its sponsorship with Wits University
Wits University and Sibanye-Stillwater today signed a Memorandum of Understanding regarding a sponsorship of some R52 million over a 10-year period.
Former Witsie wins 2021 Dirac Medal
Physicist Professor Saul Teukolsky receives the prize for theoretical work essential to the detection of gravitational waves.
Wits launches new Centre for Journalism
The Wits Centre for Journalism will engage with the rapidly changing world of African journalism.
Climate change: South Africa and the latest IPCC assessment
The report makes it clear that climate change is widespread, rapid, intensifying and unprecedented in thousands of years.
South Africa’s basic income versus jobs debate: a false dilemma
Basic income must be embedded within a broader strategy of economic reform, aimed at increasing the social wage and improving working conditions.
Angola’s constitution is under review but a great deal has been left undone
The Angolan political elite lost an extraordinary opportunity to improve significantly the country’s constitution.
Variants, the fourth wave, vaccines and the unlikelihood of herd immunity
What might happen in South Africa?
Curios.ty 12 (#Solutions): Advancing society for good
Our cutting-edge research offers #Solutions to some of the most challenging problems facing society today.
Wits.For Good. solutions inspire hope
Editorial: From solutions to the structural, political, and socioeconomic challenges in South Africa, to those ‘moonshot moments’ that advance society for good.
Reinventing higher education
We need to rethink higher education by asking what kind of society we want to create.
No place for politics in bricks and mortar
South Africa’s infrastructure seems to be falling apart at the seams. What needs to be done to save the country from further deterioration?
Building a better city
A ‘world class African City’ begins and ends with history and geography.
Pay the taxman his dues
A wealth tax could make a significant contribution to alleviating South Africa’s ailing fiscal situation.
What adds up when teaching maths?
To help close the maths gap in South Africa, Wits experts believe the focus should lie on the teacher.
Getting serious about gaming
Games from the Game Design programme at the Wits School of Digital Arts tell important stories, and allow for solutions to many real-world problems.
Zoom in. Team up. The new era of therapy
Can online platforms help therapists and tutors transform teaching and care beyond the pandemic?
Love in the boardroom
Can love be the central guiding value in big business and in complex decisions?
Mathematics solutions to boost tourism numbers
Numbers in tourism translate into revenue for the sector. Mathematicians are now number-crunching creatively to solve tourism challenges.
Photographing ghosts in space
Photographing a black hole in space, 55 million light years from Earth, seems an impossible task but scientists went to unprecedented lengths to achieve this.
How the brain solves problems
The connections among areas of our brain and how they interact is what counts when trying to find solutions to problems.
Think big to heal South African society
The ructions caused by the pandemic are an opportunity to reconsider core values and spending priorities to address our social ills.
Sense and sensuality in people with disabilities
Wits researchers are creating the space and support for people with disabilities to talk about sex.
Enabling engagement
Breaking down the perceptual barriers between students and people living with disabilities.
Engineering empathy
In search of ways to help his father recover from injuries suffered in a motorbike accident, Nabeel Vandayar enrolled at Wits to study medicine.
Healing South Africa’s public health headache
Academia binds the public and private healthcare sectors in the move towards universal healthcare .
Another brick in the pay wall
The media industry in South Africa has been sputtering along for several years. How do we prevent it from totally collapsing?
Social media regulation: Can we trust the tech giants?
Some scholars consider these ‘liberating technologies’ because they empower citizens to speak back to power and hold leaders accountable.
What the world needs now
As the world looks to COP26 in Glasgow, Scotland in 2021, it’s clear that the time for sitting on the side-lines is over.
Repurposing drugs to treat dangerous diseases
In drug repurposing new uses are identified for a drug outside of its original scope of indication, resulting in more effective treatment.
Can philanthropy grow Africa?
Despite the fact the philanthropy is pervasive – benefactors and beneficiaries abound – relatively little is known about its practice in an African context.
Make South Africa great again!
Column: We don’t just have the ability to turn South Africa around, we have a responsibility to do so.
Weekend theatrics so the show could go on
The solution was to convert the school hall of the McAuley House convent, The Nunnery, into a theatre – over one weekend.
Wits celebrates its stars in 2021 M&G Top 200
The Wits Senior Executive Team hail Witsies in the 2021 Mail & Guardian Top 200 for making a positive impact in society.
Teaching and learning beyond the pandemic
Wits Vice-Chancellor and Principal speaks at an international plenary session on the impact of the pandemic on public higher education.
Higher education awards recognise excellence in Wits Alumni Relations and Wits Communications
The Advancement Division at Wits won seven awards at the Marketing, Advancement and Communication in Education (MACE) Excellence Awards held online on 29 July.
Covid-19 herd immunity is not going to happen, so what next?
When politicians and others speak about herd immunity, unfortunately, they are under the misconception that the current tools that we’ve got are adequate.
How a land reform agency could break SA's land redistribution deadlock
An agency could accelerate land reform by removing the process from political and bureaucratic control.
One of the world’s rarest chameleons found clinging to survival
Chapman’s pygmy chameleon, long feared to be extinct in the wild has been found surviving in patches of rainforest in Malawi.
How light pollution affects dung beetles
Light pollution makes it difficult for dung beetles to see the stars which they use to orientate, Wits researchers find.
SA's skills problem cannot be fixed outside of the economy
It must be part of the messy process of structural change.
Covid-19: Herd immunity is not achievable
Pasha 118: We need to learn to live with COVID-19.
Six myths about vaccination for Covid-19 put to rest
The circulation of misinformation about the Covid-19 vaccine poses the danger of hampering the government’s efforts to control the pandemic.
Human trafficking victims and survivors: Hear their voices
Their lived experiences offer the most authentic understanding and familiarity of this life-changing criminal practice.
R&D are key to resilient food systems in Africa
Stronger agricultural research and development systems will enable agriculture to power Africa’s transformation.
Excluding migrants undermines the success of Covid-19 vaccine rollouts
Failure to ensure access for all to prevention and treatment, including vaccines, undermines national responses to Covid-19.
Staff jump to get vaccinated
Wits staff happy about the arrangement to support vaccination drive.
Rural doctors did it for local communities and schools
The Wits Heroes Series celebrates staff members who went beyond the call of duty at the onset of Covid-19 in 2020.
Wits Vice-Chancellor on the purpose of education in the 21st Century – escaping Plato’s cave
Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Wits was part of an eminent panel to discuss the purpose of education in the 21st Century.
IT Administrator at the forefront, providing innovative online learning solutions
The Wits Heroes Series celebrates staff members who went beyond the call of duty at the onset of Covid-19 in 2020.
In pursuit of the pink academic hood
A love for the bright pink graduation hood turned Wits Deputy Registrar into a Wits engineering alumna.
Sunnyside housekeeper keeps the virus at bay
The improved working conditions she found as a Wits employee made it easy for Mncwabe to dedicate her time to the institutions’ fight against the virus.
The proud Witsie moment
“Getting a degree from Wits brought a sense of pride,” says new staff graduate, Timothy Mudau.
Fears forgotten, Students first
“I want this University to know there is nothing I wouldn’t do for it.”
How to finish 2021 strong
There are many ways to use the remainder of the year to set ourselves for success says experts.
A Covid-19 Hero for WBS
The Wits Heroes Series celebrates staff members who went beyond the call of duty at the onset of Covid-19 in 2020.
Leave no one behind: We must urgently address vaccination of undocumented migrants and asylum seeker
We call on Acting Health Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi to do the right thing to ensure the Covid-19 vaccination programme is inclusive.
Everything you need to know about vaccines — our only viable strategy for living with Covid-19
We are likely to keep being hit by further waves of this virus until at least all adults have immunity.
Covid-19 in children: the South African experience and way forward
Schools are not driving the COVID-19 pandemic and can safely remain open provided people stick to the non-pharmaceutical interventions for COVID-19 prevention.
Building an art gallery in the midst of war in Zimbabwe
Gallerist and writer Robert Huggins and his wife, the artist Helen Lieros, have passed away.
Learnership empowers Soweto youth
Gauteng has one of the highest number of young people who are not in employment, education or training.
How a staff bursary liberated potential
Campus Housing and Residence Life staff member funded by the Wits staff bursary earns master’s degree, which has enabled new career prospects.
What last week’s vandalising of our research clinic in Kliptown, Soweto, means to science
Despite the critical role of the PHRU as part of the national and international Covid-19 response team, it was not spared during the recent unrest.
TB prevention has relied on the same vaccine for 100 years. It’s time for innovation
BCG remains the only widely available vaccine for TB but the COVID-19 vaccine shows that there is capacity to rapidly create new vaccines.
What drove South Africa’s recent violence and looting and what to do about it
Pasha 117: South Africa's recent violence is a cause for concern but there are opportunities to build a stronger nation.
'Grand Geek' to lead Wits’ Innovation Strategy
Professor Barry Dwolatzky has been contracted as Director of Innovation Strategy.
Hope amidst despair
6 712 students will graduate from Wits during the July graduation season.
The vulnerable points in South Africa’s fuel supply chain
The glaring failure by authorities to secure an area notorious for attacks on trucks prompts questions about, at best, utter ineptitude, or at worst, complicity
From the flames of looting to democratic regeneration
Over the past week, democratic constitutionalism and the rule of law have undergone a massive stress test.
South African riots and food security: why there’s an urgent need to restore stability
South Africans should not panic about the food system. But authorities will need to act swiftly and assertively to restore stability.
South Africa in flames: spontaneous outbreak or insurrection?
Corruption thrives in a destabilised state with weak institutions. South Africa cannot be allowed back to that space because there will be no turning back.
Re-inventing the Doppler effect
Wits and HUST researchers report a new form of the Doppler effect.
Wits graduates awarded start-up capital for pharmacy innovation
Wits Pharmacy graduates were awarded seed funding for their automated, antimicrobial-surface coated pill-dispensing innovation, Ra-Pill.
Covid-19 vaccine research ALIVE and thriving at Wits
The Wits African Leadership in Vaccinology Expertise (ALIVE) has awarded research grants for cross-disciplinary Covid-19 vaccine-related projects.
Message from the Senior Executive Team
We hope that you are holding up during these very difficult times.
Spike in COVID-19 cases points to gaps in South Africa’s response
Preventing new infections and containing the pandemic protects health systems from getting close to collapse.
SA-French research cooperation fostering scientific excellence with CNRS-Wits bipartite agreement
Wits and the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) today signed a bipartite agreement of research cooperation to foster scientific excellence.
The Covid gender gap
Women suffered a large and disproportionate effect in the labour market as a result of the hard lockdown, but they’ve also been slower to recover.
Steve Kekana: an 80s South African pop star, and much more
We should remember him as just another ordinary human being who did extraordinary things.
Wits tackles water crisis through new water research programme
The Claude Leon Foundation will fund two research chairs and a research programme in water stewardship worth R15.7 million.
Water, power cuts and neglect are taking their toll on South Africa’s top hospitals
South Africa is quite capable of delivering world-class healthcare to all its citizens. But this is constantly being hampered.
Breathing life into bone
An international Wits-led team of scientists used high-powered X-rays to show how an extinct South African dinosaur, Heterodontosaurus tucki, breathed.
Healthcare in South Africa: how inequity is contributing to inefficiency
Patients shouldn't be treated better simply because they can afford to pay more.
Professor Bheki Peterson - A forever man
“Bheki Peterson was a forever person, a forever teacher, a forever writer, a forever friend.”
South Africa’s vaccine quagmire, and what needs to be done now
South Africa has clearly suffered the consequences of poor strategic decisions to this point. It doesn't need to continue along these lines.
The Delta variant and South Africa’s vaccination problems
Pasha 113: The Covid-19 resurgence in South Africa is likely to take a heavy toll. It is important for vaccination efforts to be ramped up.
Hate killings of black lesbians in South Africa
“We only write about them when they are dead."
Fak’ugesi Festival 2021 #BUILDCOZYOUHAVETO
This year’s Fak’ugesi Festival will be a hybrid event and takes place from 14 to 24 October 2021.
Angola’s peculiar electoral system needs reforms
Angola needs a mixed electoral system. This would promote accountability through the direct election of representatives from constituencies.
Jacarandas in parts of South Africa are flowering earlier: why it’s a warning sign
Climate change is causing jacarandas to flower earlier.
False story about decuplets was a low point for journalism: how to fix the damage
Tighter controls are not the answer; the opportunity should be used to think differently about trust and journalism.
Wits’ young movers and shakers
Several staff, students and alumni are featured in the 2021 Mail and Guardian Top 200 list of trailblazing young South Africans.
The passing of Professor Audrey Msimanga
Professor Audrey Msimanga, the Head of the Wits School of Education, has passed away.
Level 4 COVID-19 lockdown puts spotlight back on vaccination failures
South Africa didn't engage early enough with pharmaceutical companies in bilateral discussions to ensure it could get vaccines early.
Fresh insights into social habits of our non-mammalian ancestors
Finding a fossil tooth embedded in bone is the gateway to some otherwise out-of-reach understanding of the behaviour of extinct animals.
VOW FM bolsters youth entrepreneurship
The award-winning youth radio station, VOW FM has put money to support ventures of young entrepreneurs.
Listening, speaking, learning, thriving
Therapy offered by the University Speech and Hearing Clinic enables communication and advances societal good.
Covid-19 Update 68: Implications of level 4 regulations on Witsies
What the new regulations mean for Wits staff and students.
Professor Zeblon Vilakazi on the impact of the third Covid-19 wave
Gauteng is currently the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic, with almost 11 000 new infections reported in the province on Wednesday.
New senior executive appointments
Professor Ruksana Osman has been appointed as Senior DVC: Academic and Professor Ian Jandrell as DVC: Systems and Operations.
Universities SA Condemns Attack on SAHPRA
It is an essential part of the national science system and it must be protected to perform its regulatory work.
An intellectual love letter to a South African literary giant
For Professor Bhekizizwe Peterson theoretical reflection went hand-in-hand with practice; knowledge had to be made in and outside the academy.
Punitive laws are failing to curb misinformation in Africa
The majority of those punished under the laws to combat false information are opposition politicians or journalists.
Tribute to Prof. Mzilikazi Khumalo
A celebrated composer of choral and traditional music, Professor Mzilikazi Khumalo passed away on 22 June 2021 following a long illness.
South Africa’s underground astronaut
Profile: NatGeo Emerging Explorer Dr Keneiloe Molopyane.
Covid-19 resurgence in Gauteng: A crisis that is likely to worsen rapidly
Despite the predictability of the resurgence, unfortunately, Gauteng health facilities are seemingly underprepared to deal with the spike of Covid-19 cases.
Children with hearing problems: why acting early can make all the difference
Unidentified or late identified hearing impairment has significant implications for the speech-language, cognitive and scholastic development of the child.
Why it’s important to improve Africa’s research output
Pasha 111: It is crucial to improve research training in Africa. This can help solve complex issues on the continent.
Small towns are collapsing and affecting farming
The collapse of local government in small towns is beginning to affect investment in farming, and the ability of agribusinesses to operate.
Wits mourns the passing of Professor Bhekizizwe Peterson
Award-winning screenwriter and producer, literary critic, a towering intellectual and generous mentor.
Wits pays tribute to Jabu Mabuza
Influential leader, distinguish businessman and role model for all South Africans.
Dream team heads for world robotics soccer cup
For the first time, a Wits University team will compete in the international RoboCup tournament.
Scottish graveyard in Kolkata reveals untold stories of colonial women in India
The disregarded lives and achievements of Scotswomen in colonial India are brought to light in new research from a 19th century graveyard in Kolkata.
Stereotypes about young jobless South Africans are wrong
Many unemployed young people are engaged in a variety of economic activities. These may not necessarily be recognised as a form of self employment.
Covid-19 has worsened SA's system of developing the skills of young people
The pandemic has heightened existing weaknesses in South Africa's skills training regime.
Photonics unlocks second quantum revolution
Wits University’s future hub of Quantum Technology is switched on.
Update 66: Reporting infections
We are in the midst of the third wave, infection rates are rising steeply across the country and hospital beds are filling up quickly.
The sex organs of baobab flowers may solve the puzzle of trees that bear more fruit
Baobab flowers have male and female parts but individual trees appear to be favouring one rather than the other.
Wits neuropsychologist awarded prestigious global scholarship
Dr Sahba Besharati in the Department of Psychology is one of just 19 CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars, a programme that supports early-career researchers.
The Wits Quantum Initiative launches at Wits
WitsQ will provide first a forum for quantum scientists in all fields across the continent to connect.
Pandemic impact on ICT skills in the spotlight in 2021 ICT Skills Survey
The JCSE-IITPSA Skills Survey assesses skills demand and supply from both a corporate and practitioner perspective.
WhatsApp + maths tutors = a solution for poor learners
An innovative maths WhatsApp hotline threw high school teens an educational lifeline during 2020.
GCRF Funding of Synchrotron Techniques for Africa lauded as great success
Results include 80+ researchers now collaborating from multiple continents, over 50 world class papers published and a new generation of scientists trained.
Survey to unearth health info practices around Covid-19 in SA
Various studies have been conducted to understand the issues surrounding the Corona virus, and its impact on different population groups.
Remembering Zim Ngqawana 10 years on, a singular force in South African music
Zimasile ‘Zim’ Ngqawana, died unexpectedly and too soon on 10 May 2011 at the age of 51, leaving bereft a family and a musical community that spanned the globe.
Rhino anti-poaching research goes nuclear
From 2010 to 2019 over 9 600 rhinos were killed in poaching attacks. On this current trajectory, South Africa’s rhino will be nearing extinction in nine years.
Children are easy targets for exploitation and traffickers during Covid-19
The theme for this year’s Child Protection Week, which began on 31 May, is “Let us all protect children during Covid-19 and beyond”.
We must seize the moment for a global pandemic surveillance and response scheme
No more pandemics—this is the ambitious goal set by the Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response
Colonial ports, customs and censorship: tracking books from ship to shore
How colonial Customs protocols shaped copyright and censorship.
Current priorities for South Africa’s electricity policy
This summary of a presentation made to a colloquium organised by Capacity Building Programme for Employment Promotion outlines priorities for SA’s power policy.