Two Stellenbosch University (SU) students, Haingo Andry and Simon Malan, have been named among the recipients of the prestigious 2025 Global Google PhD Fellowships. These fellowships recognise outstanding graduate students who are conducting exceptional and innovative research in computer science and related fields. The applications are evaluated on the strength of the research proposal, research impact, student academic achievements, and leadership potential.

Prof Herman Kamper from the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering delivered his inaugural lecture on Tuesday 21 October 2025. He focuses on methods that enable machines to learn spoken language autonomously. He aims to develop better speech and language technology.

Graduation Ceremonies: 23 - 26 March 2026

November A3 Assessments: 20/11/25 - 6/12/25

November A2 Assessments: 27/10/25 - 19/11/25

Dr Zara Trafford received a prestigious Wellcome Early-Career Award. To date, she is the only SU recipient of this specific grant. Her project focuses on disabled young people in low-resource communities.

Many packaged foods for babies sold in South Africa contain flavourings. Flavourings could harm the eating habits and health of babies. Flavourings need to be re-evaluated, and labelling regulations properly enforced.

Google and policymakers join SU’s Policy Innovation Lab to explore the future of AI in policymaking. The Lab recently hosted a workshop with Google and the Policy and Research Services branch in the Presidency of South Africa to explore how AI could transform policymaking. By involving Google, the workshop added the perspective of experts on the newest AI technologies and applications.

Stellenbosch University hosted the 10th Russel Botman Memorial Lecture celebrating his legacy of hope and transformation. The event honoured Prof Russel Botman’s lasting impact on leadership and social justice. A new publication, Dare to Hope: The Russel Botman Memorial Lectures, 2014–2024, was launched.

Dr Bambesiwe May won a L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Award. She develops sustainable frameworks to manage mining waste. Her work reduces environmental risks and makes the industry more sustainable.