Teenagers to Save the World: Spotlight on Wits University's Latest Insights

The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) has once again positioned itself at the forefront of critical health research with a compelling feature in its CURIOS.TY magazine titled "Teenagers to Save the World." Published on March 11, 2026, this piece highlights the revolutionary potential of adolescence while addressing the stark realities of adolescent mortality in South Africa. Professor Nicole de Wet-Billings, Wits' Senior Director of Academic Affairs, draws from her extensive doctoral research on the causes and determinants of adolescent mortality to argue that teens should not be dying prematurely. These deaths, she notes, signal systemic failures in environment, support, and opportunity.

Adolescence, spanning ages 10 to 24, is a phase of profound brain development, social identity formation, and heightened sensitivity to experiences. In South Africa, where adolescents form a significant demographic—17.4% of the population contributing 2.1% to total mortality—protecting this group is vital. Wits' research underscores the university's role in tackling these challenges through innovative, youth-centered approaches.

Current Landscape of Adolescent Mortality in South Africa

South Africa's adolescent mortality remains a pressing concern. While under-five mortality has declined to 28.6 per 1,000 live births in 2024, adolescent deaths persist due to preventable causes. In sub-Saharan Africa, nearly half the population is under 25, projected to reach one in two by 2050, amplifying the urgency.

Recent data from Statistics South Africa and global reports indicate that HIV/AIDS, injuries, and emerging non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like mental health disorders drive these rates. For instance, 20-30% of South African adolescents grapple with depression and anxiety, often untreated, leading to disability, educational disruption, and heightened suicide risk. Wits researchers emphasize that these figures reflect broader socio-economic disparities.

Professor Nicole de Wet-Billings: A Pioneer in Wits Adolescent Mortality Research

Professor de Wet-Billings' career at Wits exemplifies higher education's impact on public health. Her 2013 PhD thesis, "Levels, Causes and Determinants of Adolescent Mortality in South Africa, 2001-2007," analyzed death records to pinpoint patterns. Leading causes identified included HIV, self-harm, and transport injuries.

As a contributor to the second Lancet Commission on Adolescent Health and Wellbeing (2025), she advocates for viewing adolescence as a "second window of opportunity." Her work stresses listening to, investing in, and supporting youth to harness their innovative spirit.Research assistant roles at institutions like Wits offer opportunities to contribute to such vital studies.

"Teenagers should not be dying at all. These deaths speak to failures of environment, support and opportunity," she states.

Key Determinants: Socio-Economic and Contextual Factors

De Wet-Billings' research reveals contextual determinants like low household socio-economic status, overcrowding (six or more people per residence), and high racial diversity in communities increase mortality odds. Households with few assets face elevated risks, highlighting inequality's role.

• Low socio-economic status: Fewer assets correlate with higher death odds.
• Household overcrowding: Six+ residents heighten vulnerability.
• Community diversity: Racial heterogeneity linked to increased risks, possibly via social fragmentation.

These findings, from national death records analysis, call for targeted interventions in vulnerable areas. Wits' demography programs train researchers to address these gaps.Explore university jobs in South Africa.

Photo by Clodagh Da Paixao on Unsplash

Leading Causes of Adolescent Death in SA

Historical data from de Wet-Billings' thesis shows HIV as a top killer, alongside injuries (transport, interpersonal violence) and self-harm. Recent trends incorporate NCDs; mental health issues exacerbate risks, with untreated depression leading to suicide.

In eastern/southern Africa, HIV/TB remains prominent for adolescent boys (CSMF 5.8%). Maternal mortality among adolescent girls often stems from hypertension. Wits' longitudinal studies via Agincourt Unit provide real-time insights.

Wits Agincourt Unit and AfriCAT: Innovating Mental Health Solutions

The SAMRC/Wits Agincourt Unit leads with AfriCAT, a digital adaptive testing tool for depression/anxiety, co-designed with adolescents in SA and Kenya. Led by Dr. Bianca Moffett, it won the Mental Health Data Prize, using AI to tailor assessments efficiently.

This addresses 20-30% prevalence, reducing stigma and enabling early intervention—key to curbing mortality. Builds on DoBAt app for behavioral therapy.Research jobs at Wits.

Global Perspectives from the Lancet Commission

The 2025 Lancet Commission, with de Wet-Billings' input, warns of tipping points: obesity rise (464 million by 2030), mental health crises, climate threats. By 2100, 1.8 billion adolescents face a 3°C warmer world with food insecurity.

South Africa mirrors global LMIC trends (90% adolescents), urging adolescent-led action.

Empowering Adolescents: From Research to Action

Wits advocates co-design ("nothing about us without us"), fostering resilience against digital overload, climate anxiety. Solutions include policy for mental health integration in schools/clinics, youth innovation funding.

• Early screening via tools like AfriCAT.
• Address socio-economic determinants via education access.
• Promote safe environments reducing injury risks.

Universities like Wits train future leaders; postdoc advice supports such careers.

Photo by Sharaan Muruvan on Unsplash

Challenges and Future Outlook

Pandemic worsened mental health; climate projections dire. Yet, SA youth innovation offers hope. Wits' research projects 2050 demographics demand investment now.

Stakeholders: government, NGOs, universities must collaborate. Implications: reduced mortality boosts economy, education outcomes.

Wits University's Role in Shaping Health Policy

Wits exemplifies higher ed impact: from PhD theses to global commissions. Programs in demography/population studies equip researchers. For academics eyeing SA roles, lecturer jobs abound.Rate your professors and share experiences.

"We must listen, invest and stand beside adolescents," urges de Wet-Billings.