Under the leadership and vision of the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Prof Dumi Moyo, the 2026 International Spring Week also reflects a strong commitment to developing emerging scholars and strengthening a vibrant research culture within the faculty. As part of this commitment, the faculty will host its inaugural Undergraduate and Honours Research Conference, creating a dedicated platform for student researchers to engage in academic dialogue, interdisciplinary collaboration, and future-oriented humanities scholarship. 

Theme: Humanities in conversation: Undergraduate and Honours Research Across Disciplines 

The 2026 Faculty of Humanities Undergraduate and Honours Conference is the first initiative of its kind at the NWU, creating a dedicated platform for undergraduate and Honours students across the Faculty of Humanities to showcase their research, engage in interdisciplinary dialogue, and develop their academic confidence. Taking place on 28 – 29 September 2026, the conference brings together representatives from all schools within the Faculty of Humanities and aims to strengthen a culture of emerging scholarship and collaborative learning. 

To support students in this journey, participants will be guided through a series of developmental workshops leading up to the conference. These workshops will introduce students to key academic and professional skills, including topics such as ‘What is Research?’, ‘Writing an Abstract’, ‘Presentation Skills’, ‘Academic Communication’, and ‘Research Ethics’. More than a conference alone, the initiative serves as a mentorship and capacity-building opportunity that encourages students to see themselves as active contributors to knowledge, critical dialogue, and future-oriented thinking within the humanities.