Professor Mayekiso was awarded the Public Sector Visionary Award sponsored by the Reclamation Group. The Award honours outstanding leaders in the public sector who have demonstrated exceptional leadership.

This award further recognises the commitment to enhance community engagement and exemplary public service. The award is a recognition, acknowledgement and validation of the visionary leadership that has contributed to UMP’s “Decade of Excellence” as part of the pioneering journey, “luhambo lwemhlahlandlela”.

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The Award serves to inspire others to remember that leadership is service and a singular privilege and should never be taken for granted.

BBQ Awards, South Africa's most prestigious and longest running Black Business Awards Ceremony, has for the past 20 years celebrated and recognised champions of excellence in transformation.

The BBQ celebrates good corporate governance, leadership and excellence.

Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.

Enactus empowers students worldwide to address pressing social and environmental issues through entrepreneurship, and fosters lasting impacts through collaboration and innovation. It encourages students from South African universities to present their social entrepreneurship projects, which are evaluated based on innovation, sustainability, and impact. Teams showcase their project development and community impact to judges, with the event promoting networking and knowledge sharing.

The University of Mpumalanga Enactus Team won the following awards:

• Thematic Award in League 1 of semi-final: First Place (Harmony Entrepreneurship & Business Solutions
  for Community Development)
• Thematic Award in League 1 of semi-final: First Place (MTN Digital Transformation for
  Community Development)
• Ford Special Competition: Second Place (Ford C3 Cycle 11 Building Sustainable Communities
  Project Partnership ($3000))
• Harmony special competition: Second Place (Harmony Food & Health, and Water Scarcity Enactus Challenge)
• MTN Digital Innovation Challenge: Top 15 (Laptop)

UMP Enactus Coordinator, Professor Ferdinand Niyimbanira, emphasised the importance of Enactus in fostering entrepreneurial thinking among students, saying: “It is a fantastic organisation that brings students from different fields of study together, a concept which is important in today’s globalised world, where the workplace is constantly getting more diverse and sometimes international."

This year, under the leadership of Bongumusa Nkabinde, the President of Enactus UMP, the team presented the Next Gen Sell, an enterprise by a third-year ICT student. It is a POS software system offering advanced inventory management to SMEs. The business also provides barcoding services and sells the POS hardware system.

“The first presentations in the semi-finals proved we had a good project. The thematic awards are usually a good indication of who will be in the finals, and we took first place in both thematic awards.

We comfortably made it to the finals and presented exceptionally well on the national stage. It was unfortunate that we came second,” said Nkabinde.

"The team received five awards from special competitions, such as the MTN Digital Innovation Challenge, Ford Competition, and Harmony Gold Competition. In Ford, we were second nationally, winning an award and a
R54 000 prize. In the Harmony Gold Challenge, we were second again, winning an award and a R5 000 prize. In the MTN Digital Innovation Challenge, we made it to the top 15, winning a laptop bag, a laptop, and R10 000. One of the judges kindly advised that we need to improve our numbers, which is the only thing standing between us and the World Cup.”

Nkabinde also highlighted other successful projects. Charcool Climate, which secured second place in the Ford Competition, focuses on creating zero-cooling charcoal chambers for informal traders and small-scale farmers. “These chambers can maintain a temperature 10 to 15 degrees Celsius lower than the ambient environment." 

Another project, Psychelink, also received second place. This enterprise developed an app that acts as a highly trained AI psychologist to help people receive mental health support.

“The app is still undergoing major development by our ICT member, Daniel Slinda, who is engaging KIAAT Hospital for a potential partnership,” Nkabinde adds.

"Additionally, the project Maphosa Maps was mentioned, which is software that can be installed in accessories (such as watches and jewellery) featuring GPS, emergency messages, a voice recorder, and a long-lasting battery. This project aims to help address gender-based violence and human trafficking."

The UMP Enactus Team scooped five awards and took second place. 

Professor Niyimbanira further remarked: "To be recognised in such competitive surroundings is a true honour, and we are thrilled to have received five awards. Being the first runner-up nationally is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit of our team. It validates our approach, values, and commitment to excellence.

“Although we did not win first place, we have gained something far more valuable – the knowledge that we have made a meaningful impact to inspire others and pushed the boundaries of what is possible. The journey is a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, determination, and the hunger to grow among the students.

As we look forward to the 2024/2025 Enactus year, I do not doubt that the team will achieve more by refining its ideas, incorporating feedback from the competition judges, and pushing itself to new heights,” he said.

The University of Western Cape won the 2024 Enactus National Exposition. They will represent South Africa at the Enactus World Cup 2024 in Astana, Kazakhstan (Central Asia) where teams present their social entrepreneurship projects to global executives, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and measurable impact.

Story by Lisa Thabethe. Pictures supplied.

Dr Ndhlovu is supervising Sinorita, who grew up in Bushbuckridge villages, where she observed locals using indigenous flora for food security and to treat various diseases. This inspired her interest in working on indigenous flora.

“She is determined to pursue her PhD. I believe that science should start by addressing immediate challenges and problems before fixing something far from the community. Thus, I encourage students to explore their communities and find sustainable solutions using indigenous flora,” he says.

The two conducted the study titled: "Ethnobotanical Appraisal of Wild Fruit Species Used in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa" has revealed that the medicinal and nutritional uses of wild fruit species in Mpumalanga Province are not fully explored across different ethnic groups, and their economic significance is also insufficiently determined.

Mpumalanga province, which occupies only 6% of South Africa's land surface, is home to 21% of its plant species diversity and high levels of endemism in plants. This diversity is concentrated in four centres of endemism and species richness, highlighting the importance of exploring the use of indigenous flora in the province. The province is home to local communities that still rely on consuming wild fruits for treating various diseases, including skin, gastrointestinal, and fertility issues,” says Dr Ndhlovu.

Mpumalanga boasts a rich array of plant species, which play dual roles as medicinal and nutritional resources for the local populace. The province has approximately 4,300 indigenous flora, and most of the plants are not documented for use.

“This raises interest in their use as a medicinal and food source, and their contribution to rural communities' socio-economic status and livelihood is unmatched and significant. Local people consume wild fruits fresh or processed into jams, juice, syrup, and alcoholic drinks, while also using plant parts as a source of medicine for health conditions.

These plants are crucial in providing essential nutrients to the local population due to their availability and affordability. Wild plant species are richer in nutrients than commercial species, and their potential for large-scale recognition for farming, processing, and trade could boost the local economy.”

The study aimed to review wild fruit plant species in Mpumalanga province to identify gaps in ethnobotanical studies, medicinal and nutritional uses, and scientific research.

Dr Ndhlovu further explains that locals use wild fruit species for nutritional and medicinal purposes but lack the resources to conduct scientific research. Therefore, scientific evidence is needed to validate and integrate this indigenous knowledge and broaden the recognition of these plant species.

“To advance research, existing literature needs to be gathered to identify research gaps and deficiencies in phytochemical, medicinal, and nutritional studies on these plants. Indigenous knowledge of using these plants is also crucial. The current study indicates that 20% of the previous investigations have focused on the economic aspects of wild fruit species. Therefore, the study highlights the economic use and domestication of wild fruit species by indigenous communities in Mpumalanga, highlighting the need to encourage the cultivation and processing of these plants for specific products.

Furthermore, we advocate for extensive documentation of wild fruit species in Mpumalanga province and further investigation into their biological properties. Additionally, thorough exploration of the commercial viability and domestication potential of these wild fruit species in Mpumalanga province is recommended to promote and sustain the socio-economic and livelihoods of local communities.”

Story by Lisa Thabethe. Pictures supplied.

This year, Mandela Day is celebrated under the theme: "It is in your hands," which focuses on how individuals can harness their strengths and work together as a nation to create a climate-friendly environment and address food insecurity.

On the day, UMP Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Postgraduate Studies, Engagement and Planning, Professor Moses Mbewe, visited Masitakhe Secondary School in Matsulu Township, where the team planted trees, donated sports kits to learners, and gave a motivational talk.

Speaking at the school, Professor Mbewe urged Grade 12 learners to dedicate time to their studies. 

"There is nothing great that can be achieved without sacrifice. If you are to gain access to higher education, you need to obtain good grades. Your matric results can open doors for you, including getting bursaries," he said.

Professor Mbewe and the team spent time at Masitakhe Secondary School in Matsulu Township.

The Dean of Students, Dr Paul Maminza, led staff and students to visit Tikhontele Secondary School in Mbombela, where they provided career guidance to the learners, offered sports coaching, donated sports kits, and planted a Macadamia Nut Tree.

"The purpose of planting this tree symbolises a new chapter that will address issues around poverty. We trust that educating the younger generation places them in a better position to eradicate poverty in their communities. In addition, the tree, when it grows, will provide shade for the learners to rest during their breaks," he said.

During the career guidance talk, Dr Maminza shared the programmes and learning opportunities offered at UMP. "You are fortunate to be born in this generation. There is no reason why you should not pursue your education further because the university is closer to you, and the government also offers study grants and bursaries. We would like you to apply to study at our university."

The Siyabuswa team went to schools and care centres in the area.

The Siyabuswa team visited Velangezwi Primary and Mmashadi High School. Staff and students cleaned the schools, worked in the gardens, provided sports coaching, and offered motivational talks. Sanitary towels were donated. At Senzokuhle Centre, the team cooked and cleaned for the children, while others engaged in storytelling. Dolls were also donated to the Centre.

Some of the activities conducted by the university staff and students included career guidance workshops, donating sports kits, and planting trees in several schools in Mbombela and Siyabuswa. Staff knitted blankets, scarves, and beanies, which were handed out to those in need at orphanages and care centres. Clothes were also donated.

Story by Lisa Thabethe. Pictures supplied.

SASAS provides a platform to explore the state of animal production and genetics in Southern Africa. The congress aims to highlight the various disciplines covered by the field of animal science, as well as closely related disciplines, and their relevance to environmentally stressed production animals.

The three students, Ntiyiso Chavalala, Siphiwe Zainap Madonsela, and Pumelo Mantho Ganca, first competed in the online preliminaries on 18 April 2024 using the Kahoot! programme. This initial round required a stable, fast online connection and involved answering 42 questions covering animal nutrition (both ruminant and non-ruminant), animal breeding, animal physiology, and general animal science knowledge.

All teams competed simultaneously, and the top three teams based on leaderboard scores advanced to the finals. In total, there were five competing universities: Stellenbosch University, North-West University, the University of Limpopo, the University of Pretoria, the University of Fort Hare, and the University of Zululand.

In the finals, held on 3 July 2024 at the 54th Annual SASAS Congress in East London, the UMP team secured first place. The final round comprised two segments of 24 questions each. During the first segment, all teams competed simultaneously, and in the second segment, the top three teams faced off against audience teams.

The leaderboard score from the first round was crucial in determining the overall winner. Only the winning team was eligible for the Plaas Media-sponsored prize.

The quiz results were announced as follows:

• Third Place: University of Mpumalanga
• Second Place: University of Fort Hare
• First Place: Stellenbosch University

UMP is proud to have been represented for the first time on this national platform, providing the students with an excellent opportunity to showcase their understanding of animal science and related topics through the competition.

The SASAS Congress engages postgraduate students on compelling and relevant topics regarding the current and ever-changing animal production environment. Students also engage in debates and panel discussions led by internationally recognised and well-respected experts.

Dr Xola Nduku, a lecturer in Animal Production, mentored the students for the competition and was supported by the office of the DVC: Teaching and Learning.

Story and Picture supplied.

The Dr SJ Khosa Choral Music Eisteddfod is an annual event that pays tribute to the legendary Dr Shalati Joseph Khosa, a revered conductor and composer of over 800 songs.  The event is hosted annually in Giyani under the Collins Chabane Municipality. Eisteddfod showcases the finest in choral music and draws participants and audiences across the country.

This year, they clinched first place in the Standard Section with their outstanding performance of the prescribed song: Mintirho Ya Vulavula, earning an impressive score of 74% and prize money of R12 000. Additionally, the choir secured third place in the Own Choice Category with the song: Dzundze ra Ndabezitha, achieving a commendable score of 70%.

Master Lonny Mokoena expressed his pride and satisfaction with the choir’s performance. "This year, the competition in the Standard Category was tougher, with nine choirs participating compared to six last year. Our four-day camp before the competition was pivotal in improving the choir’s performance," he said.

Mokoena said the support for the choir was crucial because it ensured the well-being of the choristers and played a significant role in their success. He also highlighted the significance of the competition for the choristers.

"For most of our choristers, it was their first time performing on such a big stage. Despite the high standard set by the choir that performed before us, our team rose to the occasion, earning a standing ovation – a rare accolade in the choral music fraternity. The crowd's enthusiasm and premature celebration before we even finished performing were incredibly rewarding for the choir.”

It is the second year that the UMP Choir made a remarkable impression at the competition.

The UMP Choir's aspirations extend beyond the Eisteddfod. Their next goals include participating in the National Choir Eisteddfod (NCE) and the Battle of Municipalities (BOM).

"We aim to compete in the NCE and BOM. The BOM is particularly personal to us as the choir seeks redemption," Mokoena elaborated on their plans.

The UMP Choir’s success at the Dr SJ Khosa Choral Eisteddfod is a testament to their hard work, resilience, and passion for choral music. As they look forward to future competitions, the choir remains committed to their mission of excellence and representation of the University of Mpumalanga on prestigious platforms.

As the choir basks in their recent success, their eyes remain firmly set on future endeavours. With the support of their University and the guidance of Choir Master Lonny Mokoena, they are poised to continue their journey of musical excellence, bringing pride to UMP and enriching the choral music landscape in the region. 

Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.

The Y2 rating is reserved for young researchers, aged 40 or younger, who have held their doctorate for less than five years and are recognised for their potential to establish themselves as leading researchers within five years based on the quality and productivity of their research outputs during their doctoral studies and early post-doctoral careers.

Dr Mokgehle's extensive expertise in sustainable production techniques and the conservation of endangered indigenous crop species and medicinal plants has earned her significant recognition. Her research focuses on water management, phytochemical profiling of medicinal plants, and the nutritional water productivity of indigenous leafy vegetables, addressing critical issues of hunger, malnutrition, and healthcare in indigenous communities.

In addition to her research, Dr Mokgehle is an accredited facilitator, moderator, and AgriSeta-certified assessor. She has shared her findings at various local and international conferences, including the 10th African Crop Science Society, where she received the best paper and oral presentation award.

Her role as an external moderator of postgraduate research projects at several South African universities further underscores her commitment to academic excellence.

Dr Mokgehle also contributed significantly to academic publications as an associate editor for the South African Journal of Science (Agriculture and Forestry) from 2019 to 2020 and currently serves as an Associate Editor for the South African Journal of Botany.

Before joining UMP, she was a researcher at the Agricultural Research Council, where she focused on plant biology, climate, and crop production.

Her extensive teaching, engagement, and research publication expertise, coupled with her new Y2 rating, highlight her potential to make significant contributions to the field of horticultural sciences and sustainable agriculture.

Story and Picture supplied.

PACE2024, held at Bowie State University in Maryland, USA, under the theme: Building Equity and Sustainable for the Future, is the US Africa Collaborative's signature event, which brings together students, professionals, academics, government officials, and nonprofit agencies in a dynamic, engaging, visionary, learning and teaching environment.

The Exposition intends to create partnerships for change, engage multiple disciplines and explore opportunities for long-term future engagement throughout the African Diaspora through a dynamic exchange of knowledge. and expertise, cross-cultural integration, resource sharing, networking, and collaborating on building a network for change in how we envision, sustain, and nurture our cities, towns, villages, and communities.

At the symposium, Shongwe presented his research, which promotes sustainability by advocating for business investments that are both environmentally and economically viable in the long term. He also explored potential collaborations to broaden his understanding of development issues.

"I attended discussions, and networking sessions, and reached out to presenters whose work aligns with my interests. I also engaged with other participants to learn from diverse experiences." 

PACE2024 was an enlightening and insightful experience for Shongwe.

Shongwe explains that the symposium has provided him with a platform for meaningful exchanges of ideas and exposed him to cutting-edge research and practices in the field of development studies.

“From the feedback I received, I found out that my field of study is not limited and narrow to the scope of my modules, but to the world itself. The only thing that’s required of me is to think, and that on its own will produce good research studies and change the world.

My peers' perspectives have given me new ways to consider and also strengthened my analysis. Additionally, the discussions on innovative financing for rural development have been particularly enlightening."

Shongwe also highlighted a fascinating interaction with an entrepreneur involved in geopolymer 3D house printing.

"Our discussions on sustainable construction methods and potential applications in rural areas were very inspiring. We have exchanged contact information and plan to explore collaborative opportunities," he adds.

"The knowledge and connections I gained from PACE2024 will enhance my research by incorporating new perspectives and methodologies. The insights on sustainable and innovative development practices will inform my approach to addressing rural development challenges. The connections made will provide ongoing support and potential collaboration opportunities for future projects."

Shongwe aspires to become a leading expert in rural development and contribute to policy-making that drives sustainable economic growth in underdeveloped areas. He hopes to work with international development organisations, governments, and NGOs to implement strategies that improve the livelihoods of rural communities.

He says the knowledge and connections gained from PACE2024 will significantly influence his future work.

Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.

Demonstrating exceptional skill and dedication, UMP's Lerato Baloyi and Zanele Kabini were selected for the prestigious Dream Team, C-Division Premier League, while Samukelisiwe Themba was recognised as the USSA
C-Division Mid-Court Player of the Tournament.

Lerato Baloyi, a Bachelor of Education student, has been a standout player since her early days at UMP. Previously recognised as the 2021 UMP Sportswoman of the Year and selected for the Telkom Netball Championships in 2021, Lerato's inclusion in the Dream Team is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the sport.

“Being selected for the Dream Team is a heartfelt blessing, as it's something I've been fervently praying for over the past years. I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for this honour, which feels like a divine answer to my persistent efforts and dedication."

Reflecting on her success, Lerato emphasised the importance of teamwork, discipline, and passion. “I believe my success this season can be attributed to my teamwork, discipline, and passion for netball. My team's unity and support for each other were key factors in our achievements.”

Another player, Bachelor of Education Honours student, Zanele Kabini, adds that being part of the Dream Team in the C-Division Premier League is a great honour for her.

“It motivates me to continue working hard and pushing myself to excel in netball,” says Kabini, noting that her return to UMP for postgraduate studies reignited her passion for the sport.

Her most memorable moment from the tournament was the thrilling victory over Walter Sisulu University. “We fought back and won the game by a two-goal margin. When the final whistle was blown, it was an incredible feeling, the joy, the celebration – it was amazing!”

Master of Science student, Samukelisiwe Themba, was named the USSA C-Division Mid-Court Player of the Tournament, a recognition she attributes to her hard work and support from her teammates and coaches.

“Being recognised as the USSA C-Division Mid-Court Player of the Tournament feels great. It’s a huge honour to see my hard work and dedication pay off. It’s not just a personal achievement but also a testament to the support from my teammates and coaches.”

The achievements of Baloyi, Kabini, and Themba highlight the exceptional talent and dedication within the UMP netball team. Their recognition at the USSA Netball 2024 tournament is a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and the unwavering support of their teammates and coaches. As they continue to excel both on and off the court, they serve as inspiring role models for aspiring student-athletes.

Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.