Welcome to the University of Cape Town News
Wamkelekile, Welkom
1976: Reckoning with the past, shaping the future As South Africa marks 50 years since the 16 June 1976 Soweto Uprising, UCT reflects on the enduring legacy of student activism and its role in shaping transformation, justice and belonging in higher education. 12 Jun 2026
UCT researcher committed to developing first human lung challenge model of its kind University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Professor Keertan Dheda regards the Order of Mapungubwe recently bestowed on him as recognition for his commitment to developing the world’s first human lung challenge model for tuberculosis (TB) using live Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) directly in the human lung. 11 Jun 2026 Media release
Positioning 1976 in higher education Students speak about 16 June 1976 in the context of higher education, the present and a story of hope. 11 Jun 2026
In remembrance: Faheem Khan It is with heartfelt sadness that we inform you of the passing of our colleague Faheem Khan (55), a handyperson at the Forest Hill Residence in the Student Housing and Residence Life section of the Department of Student Affairs. 11 Jun 2026
UCT invites African architects to design living memorial to Nelson Mandela The University of Cape Town (UCT) invites members of the media to the launch of the UCT Nelson Mandela Memorial Centre and School of Public Governance Architectural Design Competition. 11 Jun 2026 Media release
UCT-led study links violence and chronic stress to elevated suicide risk A new study led by researchers at the University of Cape Town (UCT) has examined the prevalence of suicidal thoughts and behaviours among adults attending public-sector primary healthcare facilities in Cape Town. 11 Jun 2026 Media release
UCT celebrates nine ‘Science Oscars’ finalists Several UCT academics across and research teams from various disciplines have been named finalists in the 2025/2026 NSTF-South32 Awards. 11 Jun 2026
SA’s breast cancer care system is failing too many women A UCT study has revealed deep systemic inequities in breast cancer care across South Africa. 11 Jun 2026
Protecting the legacy of student protests UCT DVC Prof Elelwani Ramugondo reflects on the 16 June 1976 uprisings and notes key moments that have shaped the institution. 11 Jun 2026
Renowned TB researcher recognised with prestigious national honour Prof Keertan Dheda is one of two UCT academics who received the Order of Mapungubwe from President Cyril Ramaphosa. 11 Jun 2026
UCT study reveals bodies recovered from Cape Town waters are difficult to identify Cape Town oceans and waterways may be central to the city’s beauty, but a landmark study from the University of Cape Town (UCT) showed they can also make forensic investigations far more difficult. The findings are published in the journal Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology . 10 Jun 2026 Media release
World’s first biodiversity heat warning system predicts risks months in advance A global team of scientists, including researchers from the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) African Climate and Development Initiative (ACDI) , has developed the world’s first early warning system capable of predicting unprecedented heat exposure for species up to nine months in advance. 10 Jun 2026 Media release
South Africa’s breast cancer care system is failing too many women – UCT study A study by the Department of Surgery at the University of Cape Town (UCT) and Groote Schuur Hospital has revealed deep systemic inequities in breast cancer care across South Africa, including critical shortages of surgical services, specialist staff and diagnostic capacity, leaving many women without access to life-saving treatment. 10 Jun 2026 Media release
Cities as contested sites: A conversation navigating urban land use This UCT conversation series explores the urgent complexities of urban land use, specifically through the lenses of justice, ecology and climate resilience. 10 Jun 2026
Gun violence is South Africa’s neglected public health emergency – experts Gun violence should no longer be viewed primarily as a criminal justice issue but as a sustained public health problem requiring urgent intervention across South Africa’s health system, according to a new editorial published in the South African Medical Journal . 09 Jun 2026 Media release
UCT’s nine finalists in sought-after SA “Science Oscars” It gives me great pleasure to share that nine University of Cape Town (UCT) academics and research teams have been named among the finalists in the prestigious 2025/2026 National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)-South32 Awards. 09 Jun 2026
Collective Conversations on urban land use: Navigating justice, ecology and climate The fourth Collective Conversation: Science for Society series, brought together experts in urban planning, environmental governance and food systems to examine how land-use decisions shape justice, ecological sustainability and climate resilience in South African cities. 08 Jun 2026
Safe sport – the only sport that matters Researchers, policy makers, athletes and sport administrators from 65 countries recently gathered at UCT’s Neville Alexander for the Safe Sport International Global Conference 2026. 08 Jun 2026
Load More
TOP