Umthombo: UCT’s new research magazine

UCT has launched the first issue of its research magazine Umthombo, featuring stories from across the university that illustrate the diversity and quality of our research.

“Umthombo is a visually engaging and exciting new way for UCT to share its research with the world,” said Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Internationalisation, and Vice-Chancellor designate. “It is a showcase of our research and innovation excellence.”

Umthombo is the isiXhosa word for a natural spring of water or fountain. The most notable features of a fountain are its natural occurrence and limitlessness. Umthombo as a name positions the University of Cape Town, and this publication in particular, as an undepletable well of knowledge. In the context of the Cape Town water crisis, umthombo represents hope itself.

The title of Umthombo was conceptualised by Thando Mgqolozana, a novelist, screenwriter and founder of Abantu Book Festival. He works as a research development officer at the University of Cape Town.

This inaugural issue includes a spotlight feature on the future of water – a topical subject in Cape Town and the rest of the world. There are also features on the surprising research findings about predators’ choice of prey in the Karoo, Professor Lungisile Ntsebeza – sociologist, political prisoner and defender of democracy – and the new South Africa Research Chair who will be investigating the beauty of the unknown in astrophysics.

Read the complete first issue online…

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