Welcome to the University of Cape Town News
Wamkelekile, Welkom
Wamkelekile, Welkom
UCT brings global legal leaders together to shape the future of constitutional democracy
As South Africa marks three decades of constitutional democracy, the University of Cape Town (UCT) will host leading judges, legal scholars and practitioners from around the world to examine the future of public law and democratic governance.
30 Jun 2026
Media release
UCT-led study finds planting trees in savannas can do more harm than good
A University of Cape Town (UCT)-led study has found that planting trees in African savannas may undermine biodiversity without delivering the expected gain in carbon storage. The study, led by Dr Heidi-Jayne Hawkins of UCT’s Department of Biological Sciences and Conservation South Africa , found that grasses, not trees, are responsible for most of the carbon stored in a sandy African savanna soil. The findings challenge the common belief that increasing tree cover will always lead to more carbon being locked away underground.
30 Jun 2026
Media release
UCT public health experts join national call to protect refugees and migrants
A group of South African public health workers, academics, researchers, healthcare practitioners – including some from the University of Cape Town (UCT) – and concerned individuals has called upon government to protect refugees and migrants from violence, intimidation and harassment – including the full and visible enforcement of existing court orders and the law in a petition with over 460 signatories released on Monday, 29 June 2026.
30 Jun 2026
Media release
Council statement on recent xenophobic incidents
The University of Cape Town (UCT) Council has noted with concern recent reports of xenophobic incidents and tensions in parts of South Africa. Such incidents are deeply troubling and stand in opposition to the values upheld by the university, including human dignity, inclusion, respect and social justice that underpin our constitutional democracy and our UCT community.
24 Jun 2026
Babies exposed to polluted air before birth face greater risk of breathing problems
Pregnant women exposed to indoor air pollution and tobacco smoke may be putting their babies at greater risk of poor growth and breathing difficulties at birth, according to research by pediatricians at the University of Cape Town (UCT).
24 Jun 2026
Media release
Six hours in pain: Cape Town study highlights opportunities to improve trauma pain management
For thousands of South Africans arriving at emergency centres after experiencing violence and severe injuries, surviving the trauma is only the beginning. Trauma remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, with South Africa alone witnessing over 60 000 trauma-related deaths annually. Up to 70% of trauma patients in the prehospital setting and 91% in the emergency centres setting experience pain, making it a significant public health concern.
24 Jun 2026
Media release
