iYunivesithi Walter Sisulu (Walter Sisulu) has reached a significant milestone in research excellence, with the National Research Foundation (NRF) recognising a sharp rise in its research output.
The institution has grown from just four NRF-rated researchers in 2020 to 44 by late 2024, marking a historic transformation in its research capacity and national standing. In 2026, the university added two SARCHI chairs.
This achievement reflects deliberate institutional efforts to build a stronger research culture. Under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor & Principal Professor Thandi Mgwebi, the university introduced programs to enhance postgraduate support and the advancement of the women professoriate.
The growth was celebrated at the NEF awards last year, and the universityβs Vice-Chancellor, Prof Mgwebi, received the award as the university was recognised in second place.
Further momentum continues. The university has deepened engagement with the NRF on partnership opportunities linked to its strategic research themes, including areas relevant to societal impact in the Eastern Cape and beyond.
Individual researchers have also earned external recognition, such as Professor Fortune Gandaβs NSTF-TIA Green Economy Award for work on sustainable finance and green transitions.
From a historically disadvantaged comprehensive university with limited rated researchers a few years ago, Walter Sisulu is steadily positioning itself as a growing contributor to South Africaβs research landscape.
The rise in recognition of the university through NRF awards stands as concrete evidence of that advancement.
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