Latest News & Developments
uwc
UWC's Priscilla Baker honoured with prestigious L’Oréal–UNESCO award
Professor Priscilla Baker from the University of the Western Cape has been awarded the L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science International Award for her groundbreaking work in analytical chemistry and her commitment to mentoring future scientists.
Prof Priscilla Baker: a trailblazer in science and the 2025 L'Oréal-UNESCO laureate
Discover how Prof Priscilla Baker, a pioneering scientist from the University of the Western Cape, is transforming healthcare with her innovative research in wearable electrochemical sensors, earning her the prestigious title of 2025 L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Laureate for Africa and the Arab States.
Inspiring the next generation: How the iAccelerate SA programme at UWC empowers young entrepreneurs
As the final competition approaches, pupils in the iAccelerate SA programme at the University of Western Cape showcase their entrepreneurial skills through interactive sessions with industry leaders, preparing to secure mentorship and funding for their innovative projects.
Exploring the harsh realities of app-based workers in sub-Saharan Africa
A groundbreaking report reveals the harsh realities faced by app-based transport and delivery workers across sub-Saharan Africa, highlighting systemic issues that undermine decent work standards.
UWC's Open Day: A vibrant showcase for prospective students
During its recent open day, the University of the Western Cape welcomed an enthusiastic crowd of prospective students, parents, and educators, showcasing its diverse offerings and vibrant campus culture.
UWC academics call for end to commercial milk formula sponsorship
UWC academics are leading the charge to protect public health by calling for an end to sponsorship from commercial milk formula manufacturers, as highlighted in a newly published paper in the Journal of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa
UWC’s Prof Renette Blignaut recognised for excellence in education and data science
Discover how UWC’s Prof Renette Blignaut is shaping the future of Analytics, Data Science, and Artificial Intelligence, earning recognition for her impactful educational contributions
Transforming UWC: professor Balfour's vision in his first 100 days
Discover how Professor Robert Balfour has made a significant impact in his first 100 days as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Western Cape, focusing on social justice, community engagement, and sustainable initiatives
The significance of interim maintenance rights post-Talaq: Insights from the Gauteng High Court
The case was brought forth by a woman seeking interim maintenance and legal costs while her divorce was pending.
Beyond hair: UWC students share their journeys of identity and self-expression
"I am not my hair. I am not this skin. I am the soul that lives within. "
The legal implications of emojis in South African courts
Explore how emojis have transformed courtroom dynamics, becoming crucial evidence in legal proceedings. Discover insights from University of Western Cape researchers on the complexities of interpreting these digital symbols in a multicultural society.
Prof Helen Schneider | UWC's modern-day Nightingale transforming South African healthcare
Prof Helen Schneider, dubbed a modern-day Florence Nightingale, is recognised for her transformative work in South African healthcare, receiving the prestigious Research Capacity Development and Transformation Award at the SAMRC Scientific Merit Awards.
Celebrating World Wetlands Day: protecting our common future
World Wetlands Day is celebrated every February, and this year focuses on a unique theme to highlight the significance of wetlands: Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future. The University of the Western Cape proudly boasts its very own seasonal wetlands, which made their appearance after the heavy rains of winter 2024, showcasing beautiful fauna and flora that can be seen whenever the wetlands emerge.
Inauguration of prof Robert Balfour as UWC Vice-Chancellor: a new era begins
The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, has assured Professor Robert Balfour that he has her full support. Prof Balfour is the newly installed eighth Rector and Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Western Cape (UWC). The Chairperson of the UWC Council, Xoliswa Mpongshe, UWC SRC President McIntosh Khasembe, and the board of Universities South Africa (USAF), Prof Francis Petersen, also conveyed messages of support.
Minister backs newly installed UWC VC during inauguration
Newly installed UWC Rector and Vice-Chancellor Professor Robert Balfour outlined his vision to ensure continued accountability and transparency at UWC.
UWC Nature Reserve sees remarkable growth in fauna and flora
The University of the Western Cape’s (UWC) Cape Flats Nature Reserve (CFNR) has recorded a significant increase in biodiversity, with the number of documented species rising from 558 in 2023 to an impressive 769. This growth highlights the reserve’s critical role in conserving vulnerable and threatened species while fostering a thriving ecosystem within an urban environment.
Zama zamas victims of an exploitative system
The South African government’s approach - “smoking out” miners and branding them as criminals - fails to address the root causes of the crisis. Instead, it exacerbates their suffering, reducing them to obstacles in the state’s pursuit of control over mining resources, writes Dr Jonathan Mark Hoskins.
The Road to Mossel Bay: A tribute to Bruce Kannemeyer and the legacy of his generation
Reflecting on the life and legacy of Bruce Kannemeyer, a prominent activist, as I journey to Mossel Bay for his final farewell.
Student housing crisis: Western Cape universities face challenges ahead of academic year
Universities in the Western Cape brace for an influx of students as the Private Student Housing Association calls for urgent payment from NSFAS to address accommodation challenges.
New UWC rector reflects on his colourful journey
From being an only child, who attended boarding school to leading the University of the Western Cape (UWC) one of the country's most prestigious and meritorious universities, Professor Robert Balfour has built a career rooted in curiosity, art, learning, and a commitment to serving others.
UWC's new VC champions inclusion through personal journey
Professor Robert John Balfour, UWC's new Rector and Vice-Chancellor, brings a powerful personal narrative of transformation and inclusion to his leadership role.
New Rector champions community integration at UWC
Professor Robert Balfour, UWC's incoming 8th Rector and Vice-Chancellor, brings a revolutionary vision focused on community integration, curriculum transformation, and inclusive education.
New Rector champions community integration at UWC
Professor Robert Balfour, UWC's incoming 8th Rector and Vice-Chancellor, brings a revolutionary vision focused on community integration, curriculum transformation, and inclusive education.
Lennit Max: From farm labourer to Police Commissioner and Doctorate holder
In a remarkable display of determination and perseverance, Lennit Max, the former Western Cape Police Commissioner, has graduated with a Doctor of Laws (LLD) degree from the University of the Western Cape (UWC).
Exploring food as a lens for interdisciplinary research at UWC
Academics and students are encouraged to play with their food and take a bite out of interdisciplinary research. The University of the Western Cape (UWC) co-hosts the Critical Food Studies (CFS) programme with the University of KwaZulu-Natal and the University of Pretoria.