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UCT researcher maps out blueprint for greener industrial future What if one of the world’s most influential yet least visible scientific processes could help solve some of the biggest challenges facing humanity? A University of Cape Town (UCT) lecture by Professor Nico Fischer explored how advances in catalysis could drive cleaner industries, alternative energy systems and a transition away from fossil resources while supporting economic inclusion and sustainable development. 17 Jun 2026 Media release

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

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 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

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

Climate hazards deepen health risks across Africa – UCT study Climate-related hazards are impacting community health and healthcare provision across the African continent, resulting in increased vulnerability and reduced capacity to withstand further impacts, a paper by the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Elzarie Theron and Dr Wayne Smith of the Division of Emergency Medicine in the Faculty of Health Sciences warns. 02 Jun 2026 Media release

UCT lecture explores how catalysis can drive a just and sustainable transition A University of Cape Town (UCT) Inaugural Lecture by Professor Nico Fischer will examine how one of the most influential yet often overlooked areas of science could help redefine the relationship between industrial growth and environmental sustainability. 02 Jun 2026 Media release

UCT signs renewable energy agreement with Discovery Green The University of Cape Town (UCT) has signed a groundbreaking long-term renewable electricity supply agreement with Discovery Green as part of a broader strategic partnership focused on advancing sustainable energy and skills development. 02 Jun 2026 Media release

Sightings of blue and fin whales on the rise in the South-East Atlantic More than 40 years after the end of commercial whaling, new research led by the University of Cape Town (UCT) reveals a recent increase in sightings of the world’s two largest whale species in the southeastern Atlantic. 01 Jun 2026 Media release

Study finds surveillance technologies can marginalise local communities A new research paper co-authored by Grant Oosterwyk of the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) School of Information Technology has argued that surveillance technologies imported from the Global North into postcolonial cities can reshape public debate, governance and understandings of safety in ways that deepen inequality and marginalise community voices. The paper will be presented at the Pacific-Asia Conference on Information Systems in Jakarta, Indonesia in July 2026. 01 Jun 2026 Media release

UCT to host over 70 universities in pan-African moot court competition For the first time in its history, the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Faculty of Law will host the 34th Christof Heyns African Human Rights Moot Court Competition from 29 June to 5 July 2025 in Cape Town. 26 Jun 2025 Media release

UCT hospitality establishment gets three-star tourism grading The University of Cape Town’s (UCT) bed-and-breakfast establishment, All Africa House, has acquired a three-star tourism grading as a small hotel and shared self-catering facility. This achievement is in line with the university’s commitment to service excellence. 25 Jun 2025 Media release

Books, bikes, and big dreams: UCT student heads to Triathlon World Champs Third-year University of Cape Town (UCT) student Rebecca Monk is proving that excellence knows no boundaries. At just 21, she’s navigating the rigorous demands of a double major in geology and oceanography while earning accolades as a competitive triathlete – and this month, she’ll represent South Africa at the 2025 World Triathlon Multisport Championships in Pontevedra, Spain. 23 Jun 2025 Media release

Another UCT rugby star signs pro deal after Varsity Cup glory Another University of Cape Town (UCT) rugby sensation, Thomas Nel, has signed with professional outfit Suzuki Griquas, following a stellar season in which he played a pivotal role in the UCT Ikey Tigers’ Varsity Cup victory this year. 23 Jun 2025 Media release

UCT achieves highest QS ranking in a decade The University of Cape Town (UCT) has been ranked 150th globally, up from 171st in 2025 in the latest Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings. This upswing places the university firmly within the top 3% of 8 467 institutions evaluated, reinforcing its status as Africa’s highest-ranked university for another year. 19 Jun 2025 Media release

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