The conference was hosted by the Department of Science and Innovation, the Academy of Science of South Africa, the National Research Foundation, and the Human Sciences Research Council, under the theme: Educating an African Fit for the 21st Century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa.
In the PhD Presentation category, Ms Prudence Kutumela, a Crop Physiology Lecturer in the School of Agricultural Sciences, won the award for Best PhD Oral Presentation. Her presentation, under the theme Transformative Education for Lifelong Learning, was entitled 1H NMR-Based Metabolomics and Antimicrobial Activity of Bush Tea (Athrixia phylicoides DC.) in Response to Organic and Inorganic Nutritional Management.
Ms Kutumela said that the recognition acknowledges her effort to communicate her research effectively and highlights her contributions to academia.
Her presentation aligned with the sub-theme Transformative Education for Lifelong Learning.
“I emphasised how lifelong learning is crucial in adapting to a rapidly changing world. My research promotes innovative approaches to education that encourage continuous skill development and knowledge acquisition.
It also showcased how the study can be incorporated into curriculum development to foster critical thinking, experiential learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and sustainable education (SDG 14/15) to support sustainable agriculture," she said.
In her presentation, Ms Prudence Kutumela emphasised how lifelong learning is crucial in adapting to a rapidly changing world.
Dr Ndhlovu, a lecturer in the School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, was awarded the prize for Best Post-PhD Oral Presentation. Reflecting on the recognition, he remarked that it validates his countless hours of research and preparation.
“This recognition motivates us to keep pushing the boundaries of our research and to share our findings with a wider audience. Knowing that my contributions are valued by my peers inspires me to continue striving for excellence. It also serves as a reminder to my postgraduate students that perseverance leads to success.”
His winning presentation focused on Improving the Livelihoods of Indigenous Knowledge Holders through the Commercialisation of Medicinal Plants Used for Childhood Diseases: Evidence from Rural South Africa.
I aimed to highlight the role of medicinal plants in supporting the livelihoods of Indigenous Knowledge Holders (IKHs) through descriptive statistical analysis, as well as to explore the complex socio-economic, ecological, and external factors influencing the benefits they gain from medicinal plant commercialisation. This was done through Propensity Score Matching (PSM) and an ethnobotanical study,” he explained.
Dr Ndhlovu was awarded the prize for Best Post-PhD Oral Presentation.
Dr Ndhlovu also pointed out that the study identified various medicinal plants, alongside restrictive government policies and legislation. These, combined with the disadvantaged positions of collectors in the commercialisation process, mean that the overall benefits of treating childhood diseases in rural South Africa are currently limited.
“We provided detailed recommendations and frameworks to enhance IKHs' involvement in the cultivation of medicinal plants. This includes greater support for research, extension and advisory services, and targeted inducements for IKHs through contracts and off-take agreements. These measures aim to promote a poverty-alleviation-focused economic development strategy. The positive feedback was very rewarding; it’s gratifying to see my hard work resonate with others in the field,” added Dr Ndhlovu.
The conference serves as a platform where emerging scholars, researchers, and innovators come together to exchange ideas, foster collaborations, and shape the future of scientific advancement in Africa and beyond.
It also represents a vital opportunity to harness the collective intellect and creativity of Africa’s brightest minds, while acknowledging the complex challenges facing African communities and the critical role science plays in addressing them.
Story by Lisa Thabethe. Pictures supplied.