UMP stood alongside some of the nation’s most accomplished researchers and scientists at a distinguished ceremony held in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, under the theme: "Celebrating 20 years of the SKA Project in South Africa."
The University of Mpumalanga clinched the NRF CEO’s Special Recognition Award, a distinction reserved for past recipients of the NRF Award. It stands as a testament to UMP's sustained progress and unwavering dedication to excellence in research performance, as evaluated against a set of crucial benchmarks.
Last year, UMP secured the NRF Excelleration Award, further underlining its dedication to advancing research excellence, as gauged against various performance metrics.
UMP’s research output has experienced a remarkable surge over recent years, boasting one of the highest research productivity rates per academic staff member in South Africa, as well as a notable proportion of academic staff holding PhDs.
Marking UMP’s 10th anniversary, this remarkable performance and advancement is a testament to the University’s dedication. The quality of NRF submissions is further evidenced by the annual escalation in funding and the substantial success rate of proposals. With over 8 400 students, including 600 at postgraduate level, UMP's commitment to growth and investment in research and innovation is commendable.
Prof Thoko Mayekiso, UMP Vice-Chancellor, expressed the University’s delight at the continued national recognition of its research profile, asserting, “Our rapid expansion and stringent quality assurance measures position the University to compete effectively and maintain a significant role in Mpumalanga Province, in South Africa, and on the international stage.”
Dr. Aldo Stroebel, the inaugural Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Internationalisation, affirmed that these awards honour and acknowledge UMP's strategic direction and impressive performance. He emphasised that the University remains resolute in its commitment to furthering its research capacity and capabilities.
Story by UMP Communications Division. Pictures supplied.