World Creativity and Innovation Day is observed annually on 21 April. We must do more to promote the local development of health technology. We need to invest in innovation infrastructure.

Join us for Prof Ashenafi Beyene Fanta's professorial inaugural lecture, hosted by the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences.

Researchers “switched off” gene linked to how grapevine plants respond to disease. Plants less vulnerable to downy mildew; able to conserve water more effectively. First time that DNA of woody crop plant in Africa has been edited successfully.

Join us for Prof Cletos Mapiye's professorial inaugural lecture, hosted by the Faculty of AgriSciences.

This April, Prof Deresh Ramjugernath marks one year in office. He reflects on a period focused on setting clear direction and strengthening foundations for long-term impact. With an emphasis on shared responsibility, inclusion and purposeful excellence, the University is advancing its Vision 2040 - ensuring its teaching, research and innovation translate into meaningful societal impact.

An increase in the number and value of medical malpractice claims against the State. Legal system for calculating and payment of future medical expenses and compensation unsatisfactory. Two alternatives: Undertaking-to-pay for future medical expenses and a ceiling cap for pain and suffering.

Mr Bernard Fick, an independent non-executive director of companies, was elected as the Chair of the Stellenbosch University Council. The election of Chair followed the process prescribed in the SU Statute and had to be elected from among the external Council members in specific categories. Fick is a SU alumnus and a member of the actuarial profession (Chartered Actuary, being a Fellow of the Faculty of Actuaries) and has spent more than 30 years working in the financial sector.

SU’s first Student Engagement Conference brought together students, staff and community partners to explore the meaning of being “in service of society.” Speakers emphasised that academic success must be coupled with social responsibility and active citizenship. Student voices and community partners highlighted the importance of sustained, meaningful engagement in addressing inequality and driving social impact.

Hunger does not only affect the body. It affects concentration, energy, participation, emotions, and ultimately success. #GivingMaties: There is something profoundly human in the way our SU community is choosing to engage. A donation, a conversation, a visible act of support – these are not small things. They are part of how culture shifts.

Curiosity about science and a TV programme led Sibulele Tonisi from Mfuleni to a master’s degree in biochemistry. Tonisi chose SU because of its academic excellence. He completed his degree despite financial hardship.