Inaugural QS World University Rankings: Sub-Saharan Africa released on 12 February 2026. SU academics are the most prolific in Africa when it comes to papers published. SU has the second highest number of academic staff with PhDs in South Africa (third in Africa).

The Policy Innovation Lab at Stellenbosch University (SU) recently hosted a hybrid workshop to explore how regulatory sandbox approaches could support South Africa’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). Participants examined how governments can regulate increasingly complex digital systems in ways that enable innovation while safeguarding public values. The workshop created space for informed, context-sensitive reflection and laid the groundwork for evidence-based approaches to governing South Africa’s digital future.

Would you like to work on your grammar skills and improve your understanding of the inner workings of English? Join us in this course and take your communication skills up a notch.

Women scientists contribute to solutions to real-world problems and flexible ways of thinking. Women advance science in the academia and through entrepreneurship and product development. Mentorship, broader exposure, and more inclusive recognition can attract more women and girls to science.

SU at number 275 on TIME magazine and Statista R’s inaugural “World’s Top Universities of 2026” ranking. SU recorded its highest score in innovation and economic impact. Only the 500 universities with the highest final scores were included.

World Cancer Day was observed on 4 February. Treating cancer remains a challenge. Timely and inclusive care can help combat cancer.

A Matie alumnus is helping to take the fight against invasive vegetation to new heights. Leon Visser (64) took part in an initiative in which volunteers were airlifted by helicopter into the nearly inaccessible Boosmansbos wilderness area near Barrydale in the Western Cape to clear invasive pine trees. Helihack’s work is aimed at maintaining vital ecosystem services and securing future water survival in the face of climate change.

New research project will explore the long history of human relationships with extinct wildlife in South Africa. The project will bring together environmental historians, artists, biologists, and museum curators. Prof Sandra Swart is based in the African Anthropocenes Research Centre.

Between 9 124 and 17 969 tonnes of fruits and vegetables go to waste every year. Break in cold chain a significant challenge in the market. Cold storage, transport, and how produce is handled must be improved.