Established in partnership with the Benjamin Raymond Oppenheimer Trust through Oppenheimer Generations Research and Conservation (OGRC), this multi-year, multi-million-rand initiative will advance innovative research, build postgraduate capacity, and influence biodiversity policy at both local and global levels.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Thoko Mayekiso described the launch as a defining moment in UMP’s journey towards becoming a research-intensive university that contributes to global solutions through locally grounded scholarship.
“This partnership marks an important development for the University,” she said. “It not only establishes the first research chair at UMP but also reflects the confidence our partners have in our vision and capabilities. Through this collaboration, we aim to foster sustainable development guided by excellence, integrity, and collaboration.”
The Chair, led by Professor Dan Parker – a wildlife biologist and NRF-rated researcher – will focus on habitat restoration, species conservation, and the impacts of climate change. Drawing on expertise from ecology, genetics, and the social sciences, the initiative will promote postgraduate training and support emerging researchers through an interdisciplinary approach that strengthens UMP’s growing research base.
Ultimately, the Research Chair aims to generate knowledge that informs biodiversity policy, develops human capacity, and contributes to addressing the environmental challenges facing society today.
A Visionary Partnership for Biodiversity
Chairperson of Oppenheimer Generations, Mr Nicky Oppenheimer, said OGRC’s work centres on issues such as biodiversity loss, sustainable land use, climate change, and the wildlife economy. “We look forward to seeing how this Chair will build on UMP’s strengths and contribute to a deeper understanding of Africa’s unique ecosystems,” he said.
The Chair aims to generate knowledge that informs biodiversity policy, develops human capacity, and contributes to addressing the environmental challenges.
Dr Duncan Macfadyen, Head of Research and Conservation at Oppenheimer Generations, highlighted the importance of such collaborations. “They empower students, develop the next generation of African scientists, and ensure that contextually relevant, data-driven insights shape our shared future,” he said.
“We are delighted that this Chair has been awarded to Professor Parker, whose track record in wildlife biology and conservation speaks for itself. We believe he is the right person to advance this work and help build resilience in the face of an uncertain environmental future.”
Building Human Capital for a Sustainable Future
Professor Parker expressed gratitude to both UMP and the Oppenheimer family for the confidence placed in him to lead the initiative. He described the Research Chair as an opportunity to strengthen human capital and drive impactful, globally relevant research rooted in African contexts.
“Biodiversity underpins all life on Earth. It supports economies, provides essential medicines, and allows humans to connect deeply with nature,” said Professor Parker. “Yet biodiversity is declining at an alarming rate. This Chair is not only about studying the problem but also about finding practical, evidence-based solutions that will make a tangible difference.”
He also introduced one of his master’s students whose research is supported through the Chair, Nosipho Mlotshwa. Nosipho shared her education journey thus far story as an example of how access to education and research opportunities can transform lives and communities.
The launch was officiated by Professor Ndola Ludidi, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, who congratulated all partners and reaffirmed UMP’s commitment to producing high-impact research that transforms lives and sustains ecosystems.
This strategic partnership reflects UMP’s expanding research excellence, the Oppenheimer family’s enduring commitment to conservation, and the value of collaboration between higher education and the private sector.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by JB Creative Cinema. Copyright © UMP