UMP will proceed to represent South Africa at the 2025 Enactus World Cup taking place from September 26-28 in Bangkok, Thailand.

The Founding Vice-Chancellor of UMP, Prof. Thoko Mayekiso was awarded the Enactus South Africa Champion Award for her extraordinary leadership, unwavering passion, and commitment to the Enactus movement.

In the history of Enactus, this award has only been awarded on five occasions and previous recipients include Dr Patrice Motsepe. Since 2014, Prof. Mayekiso has led UMP with a clear vision rooted in transformation, innovation, and social impact.

Enactus is a global student organisation that empowers young people to use entrepreneurial action to create positive social and environmental impact in their communities.

The UMP team won the competition ahead of SA leading Universities with Wits obtaining position number 2, followed by UCT at number 3 and NMU at position number 4.

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“This is a heart-warming moment, the UMP Enactus continue to make us proud. Our Enactus team have set the bar very high, and they have demonstrated that our students are some of the best in our country.

Their success serves as inspiration to all of us at UMP as we fully understand that when a member of the UMP community does well, the university at large benefits and the UMP brand gets enhanced,” said UMP Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Thoko Mayekiso

Reacting to this historic achievement, UMP Enactus Coordinator and Associate Professor of Economics, Prof. Ferdinand Niyimbanira said, “Firstly, we would like to thank the management of the University for their continued support over the years. To be recognised in such competitive championship is a true honour, and we are thrilled to have crowned the overall winner of Enactus South Africa 2025. This is a testament to our hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit of our team. It validates our approach, values, and commitment to excellence.”

The UMP Enactus Team which has won 48 trophies since participating in the national competition in 2017.

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This strategic move is aimed at strengthening collaboration with industry and expert stakeholders to ensure that the institution's academic offerings remain current, relevant, and responsive to rapid developments in the ICT sector.

The boards comprise a diverse group of professionals, including representatives from industry, academia, public sector institutions, the School’s alumni, and international partners.

UMP Head of School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, Professor Ntombovuyo Wayi-Mgwebi, said the broad stakeholder base brings valuable insight into emerging trends and skills requirements, supporting UMP’s goal of aligning ICT education with the evolving needs of the digital economy.

The advisory boards will be chaired by Mr Ayanda Ngcebetsha (BICT) and Professor Stella Bvuma (DIPICT). Mr Ngcebetsha is the GSI Partner Development Director at Microsoft Global Partner Solutions, and Professor Bvuma serves as Director at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in Consumer Intelligence and Information Systems. Both expressed appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to the strategic growth and relevance of the School’s programmes.

Part of the discussion at a meeting recently held at UMP, the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences gave an overview of its academic offerings, with focused attention on the BICT and DIPICT programmes, including curriculum design, student achievements, and ongoing initiatives aimed at integrating innovation and practical application into teaching and learning.

“We also spoke about student participation in national coding competitions, innovation challenges, and the School’s hackathon initiative – all key examples of industry-aligned experiential learning. Other key themes included strengthening student support mechanisms, fostering partnerships to drive industry-and society-based innovation, and developing short learning programmes to address emerging skills gaps,” said Professor Wayi-Mgwebi.

The relevance of hackathons and similar initiatives as platforms for practical problem-solving and exposure to real-world technologies was highlighted. Board members also emphasised the importance of industry-recognised certifications in enhancing graduate employability and competitiveness.

Professor Wayi-Mgwebi further added that the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences is confident that the advisory boards will play a pivotal role in shaping a responsive and future-focused ICT education environment.v

“Through continued collaboration with experts and stakeholders, UMP aims to position its programmes – and its graduates – at the forefront of the fast-changing information and communication technology landscape,” she said.

• Mr Ayanda Ngcebetsha (Chair), Microsoft
• Vishal Maharaj, Nedbank
• Prof Hossana Twinomurinzi, the University of Johannesburg
• Dr Makaziwe Makamba, National School of Government
• Prof Athula Ginige, Western Sydney University, Australia
• Ms Mnyango, Master's Student at the University of Mpumalanga

• Prof Stella Bvuma (Chair), University of Johannesburg
• Dr Jabu Mtsweni, CSIR
• Mr Derick Mboweni, SITA SOC (Ltd)
• Ms Shubna Harilal, Gijima
• Ms Aluwani Netshivhulana, Standard Bank

• Prof Ndiko Ludidi, Dean of Agriculture and Natural Sciences at the University of Mpumalanga
• Prof Ntombovuyo Wayi-Mgwebi, Head of School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences
• Dr Samuel Ogunleye, Lecturer

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Professor Khumalo brings extensive experience to the role, with a focus on fostering learning environments that support both staff and student development through engagement, innovation, and collaboration.

Her academic interests include student success in higher education, throughput, rural education, teacher development, curriculum design, and the enhancement of teaching and learning practices. Her approach is shaped by emotional intelligence, resilience, and a strong commitment to data-informed decision-making that seeks to create equitable academic spaces where all voices are valued, and students are supported to succeed.

Her early professional career includes teaching in schools in both South Africa and the United Kingdom. Prior to joining UMP, she served as Associate Professor and Academic Leader for Teaching and Learning in the School of Education at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN).

Professor Khumalo has held several academic leadership positions, including Academic Leader for the Bachelor of Education programme, Senior Lecturer in Curriculum Studies, and Academic Monitoring and Support Coordinator at UKZN.

She holds a PhD in Education from UKZN, an M.Ed. and B.Ed. (First Class) from the University of Zululand, a B.Paed Science (cum laude), and a Senior Secondary Teachers' Diploma. She is also an alumnus of the HERS-SA Academy and has completed the Women in Leadership Programme (2024) and the Senior Management Development Programme at Stellenbosch Business School.

Her contributions to teaching and learning have been recognised through various awards, including the 2024 Teaching Excellence Certificate from UKZN and multiple institutional accolades.

Professor Khumalo has contributed to national education policy development, serving on the Council on Higher Education (CHE) reference group on Qualification Standards for Initial Teacher Education, and is currently a member of the Umalusi Qualifications Standards Committee.

She has published extensively in local and international journals and has contributed to several academic book chapters. She has successfully supervised numerous Master's and PhD candidates. Her research focuses on academic success strategies, particularly for rural students in higher education. She is the principal investigator on several projects, including a three-year NRF-funded study supporting high-performing students, and previously led a SACE-funded research initiative.

A beneficiary of the STAR Mentorship Programme, she was awarded the University Capacity Development Programme grant in 2018, and was recently recognised by the Golden Key Honour Society Southern Africa as one of South Africa's 300 most influential leaders.

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The meeting, held at UMP's Mbombela Campus, brought together senior representatives from ASASWEI, the Department of Social Development, and UMP to explore partnerships aimed at strengthening social work education and professional practice in South Africa. UMP Vice-Chancellor Professor Thoko Mayekiso reaffirmed the University's commitment to developing professional qualifications that meet national standards.

"This engagement marks a pivotal moment for our Social Work programme. We are looking forward to the path ahead and grateful for the opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues and institutions," said Professor Mayekiso.

She also emphasised the institution's determination to contribute meaningfully to the field. "We are a young institution with a young programme, but we are committed to excellence. We see this as an important step in aligning our academic offerings with the professional expectations of the social work sector."

ASASWEI President Dr Poppy Masinga stressed the importance of partnerships, mentioning that ASASWEI represents 19 universities – 17 public and two private, with a vision that is rooted in equity, decolonisation, and the indigenisation of social work education.

"We welcome UMP into this community and hope to walk the journey together as you grow your programme. We encourage the University to participate in our upcoming events and consider hosting the 2027 ASASWEI International Conference," she said.

UMP, DSD Executive Members of ASASWEI are strengthening relations to benefit the Bachelor of Social Work Programme.

Dr Masinga also outlined the association's broader role in building collaboration between institutions and the government and advancing research, community development, and policy influence. "We believe that consistent standards across institutions can enhance the social work profession and its impact on society."

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Chief Director at the Department of Social Development, Mr Gustav Wilson, applauded the growing partnership and affirmed the Department's support. "We see great potential in this collaboration," he said. "Our collective challenge is to ensure social work remains relevant, professional, and ethical. We cannot afford to launch initiatives and walk away; we must avoid what I call the 'Triple L' approach where we: launch, lunch, and leave."

He noted the Department's commitment to initiatives that build morale and a strong professional identity among social workers, and further referred to the pending Memorandum of Understanding between the Department and UMP, describing it as "a formal step in a long and fruitful partnership that must deliver tangible outcomes for students and communities."

Providing an update on the BSW programme, Acting Programme Leader Dr Nkareng Klaas-Makolomakwe shared progress since the programme's launch in 2023. "We are proud to currently have 174 active students," she said, further adding that UMP is actively engaging with placement agencies across Mpumalanga and is building a support system for fieldwork.

"Ninety-nine students were already registered for practical placements in 2024. We are also proud of our student representation at the celebration of Social Work day event hosted by UMP in collaboration with DSD in March this year. Their confidence and knowledge reflect the solid academic and professional grounding we are building."

The presence of diverse stakeholders signalled a unified commitment to strengthening social work education, practice, and service delivery to communities across South Africa.

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Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures ©ChrisplPhoto

Held in Pretoria on 5 July 2025, the meeting brought together alumni from the province who reflected on their academic journeys, reconnected with fellow graduates, and shared ideas for future collaboration. The elections also provided an opportunity to recognise the contributions of the outgoing leadership and to set priorities for the newly elected committee.

The following members were elected to lead the Gauteng Alumni Chapter:

1. Chairperson: Ms Damaris Masemola
2. Secretary: Mr Innocent Shongwe
3. Treasurer: Ms Ayanda Tshabalala
4. Additional Member: Ms Nokulunga Zikalala

Newly elected Chairperson, Ms Damaris Masemola, holds an Advanced Diploma and Diploma in ICT (Applications Development) from UMP, and a Postgraduate Diploma in eSkills (with a focus on immersive technologies) from the University of the Western Cape. She currently serves as a Salesforce Intern, applying her skills in a dynamic and evolving environment.

Following her election, Ms Masemola said, “I am truly honoured and humbled by this opportunity. Your support means a great deal to me, and I want to acknowledge everyone who participated in this process, including the other candidates who brought passion and dedication to the table.

I’m looking forward to working on this initiative of creating a website and assisting undergraduates with job placement by linking directly to the University platform. I’m also open to getting ideas from everyone as we work together to build a stronger UMP community,” she said.

Ms Masemola pledged to lead with integrity, openness, and respect. "I will ensure that all voices are heard and that decisions are made with the best interests of our institution in mind. Together, we can continue to grow, innovate, and make meaningful progress. I will do my best to foster a spirit of teamwork and to create an environment where everyone feels included and empowered.”

She gave appreciation to the outgoing leadership. “To those who have contributed to our journey so far, thank you for laying a strong foundation. I am excited for what lies ahead and look forward to working with each of you to build on that legacy. Let us move forward with shared purpose and commitment.”

Strengthening the Link Between Alumni and the University

Newly elected Secretary, Mr Innocent Shongwe, brings valuable experience as a Cloud Solutions Architect. He recently completed a Postgraduate Diploma in ICT at UMP and has a strong background in programming and systems development.

“I am truly honoured and excited to have been elected as the Secretary General for the Gauteng UMP Alumni Chapter. This is a responsibility I deeply value, and I look forward to serving alongside all of you,” he said.

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Mr Shongwe explained that his focus will be on fostering an ongoing relationship between the University and its graduates. “As part of the Executive Committee, my main goals are to ensure that our graduates remain connected and engaged with the University, and also to help the University understand how the qualifications it issues are impacting graduates in their professional journeys. I believe maintaining this strong link will benefit both our alumni and the institution as we continue to grow together.”

Transparency and Financial Stewardship

Ms Ayanda Tshabalala, elected as Treasurer, expressed her enthusiasm for contributing to the Chapter’s strategic direction. Ms Tshabalala holds an Advanced Diploma in Agriculture in Agricultural Extension from UMP and is currently pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture Agri-Business.

“I’m truly honoured to have been elected as Treasurer. I’m excited to serve and contribute to the Gauteng Alumni Chapter’s success,” she said.

Outlining her objectives, she added: “My goals include implementing transparent financial management practices, creating prudent budgets that align with our mission, and ensuring our resources are utilised effectively to drive growth and achieve our objectives.”

Ms Tshabalala also emphasised teamwork and accountability. “I’m looking forward to collaborating with the Executive Committee to make informed financial decisions and propel our Alumni Chapter forward. Let’s work together to make a meaningful impact and achieve great things.”

Building Confidence and Career Readiness

The committee also welcomed Ms Nokulunga Zikalala as an Additional Member. A graduate of the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Arts Honours in Sociology, Ms Zikalala currently works as a Learning and Development and Organisational Wellness Coordinator.

“I feel excited to be elected and to be presented with the opportunity to learn from and serve my fellow alumni,” she said. “My goal as part of the Executive Committee is to position and equip my fellow alumni with opportunities to upskill themselves to ensure that they can further assimilate into the job market, and show off their star power, or continue their education.”

Looking Ahead

Graduate Placement Manager, Mr Raymond Mkhwanazi, commended the newly elected leadership and reflected on the broader purpose of the Alumni Chapter. “This election was characterised by a vibrant and cooperative spirit. The formation of the Alumni Chapter is key in fostering collaboration and mutual support among graduates,” he added.

“Let us continue to build a strong, connected alumni community that not only reflects the values of our alma mater but also supports each other in meaningful ways. I am excited about what we can achieve together and welcome your ideas, support, and participation as we move forward."

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Story and pictures by Cleopatra Makhaga.

IMWA has 518 members comprising pragmatic consultants, mining industry professionals, academic researchers (including faculty, graduate students, and undergraduates), and government scientists and regulators.

The conference brings together specialised expertise across multiple disciplines, including chemistry, hydrogeology, microbiology, geophysics, and engineering – particularly mining and civil. Dr Shabalala addressed the global environmental challenge of AMD, which results from mining activities and has significant ecological consequences.

In South Africa, AMD is typically treated using active methods that are costly, energy-intensive, and produce large volumes of toxic sludge, requiring continuous chemical input.

The IMWA conference employed a rigorous review process: abstracts were evaluated by members of the International Scientific Committee, and full papers underwent peer review by two or three experts. Submissions were revised where necessary, and those not meeting IMWA's high standards were rejected.

Dr Shabalala's presentation, co-authored with Master's student Ms Monica Ngomane and Dr Nokuthula Khanyile, was titled The Evaluation of a Pilot Pervious Concrete Treatment System for Acid Mine Drainage Treatment. It investigates the use of pervious concrete-reactive barrier technology for managing polluted water from abandoned mines.

The research demonstrated that this method not only treats contaminated water effectively but also contributes to the rehabilitation of mining-impacted land. Furthermore, it shows that treated mine water has potential for reuse in activities such as agriculture.

"Given these challenges, my presentation focused on exploring more effective, affordable, and simpler solutions for AMD treatment," said Dr Shabalala. "In particular, I highlighted the potential of natural materials – such as porous pavements – as a greener, more sustainable approach."

Dr Shabalala's participation not only highlighted UMP's growing contribution to global environmental research but also facilitated promising international academic connections.

Her presentation was well received, with several international researchers expressing interest in future collaboration. "I'm excited to build on the connections made during the conference and to collaborate on innovative ways to restore mining-impacted environments for a healthier future," she added.

Dr Shabalala has presented her work at numerous local and international conferences and has published in several accredited journals. She is a recipient of the Water Research Commission's Water Technologies Demonstration Programme grant, and holds an NRF Thuthuka grant under the post-PhD track.

Her ongoing academic contributions include developing low-cost, low-maintenance technologies for polluted mine water treatment, designing and implementing green infrastructure solutions to mitigate climate change risks, and enriching the learning experience of her students.

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Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.

Mandela Day 2025 was marked by a strong sense of commitment from both the Mbombela and Siyabuswa campuses, as volunteers took part in a range of meaningful outreach initiatives aimed at meeting community needs and honouring Nelson Mandela's enduring legacy of justice, equality, and human dignity.

UMP volunteers provided career guidance to out-of-school youth, donated sanitary towels, and helped establish food gardens planted with beetroot, spinach, cabbage, and fruit trees at the Knowledge of Success Sinqobile Youth Information Centre in Verulam.

At the Verulam Drop-in Centre, which supports more than 57 vulnerable children who rely on it for daily meals, staff and students donated knitted items, toiletries, seedlings, and sanitary towels, while also planting a food garden and fruit trees.

In Sheba Village, UMP visited the Sandla Semusa Multipurpose Centre, which supports over 200 adults aged 19 to 59. The centre received donations of paint, clothing, hygiene products, sanitary pads, and cleaning supplies.

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Ms Cebisele Ndwandwe, a board member and representative of the Sandla Semusa Centre, expressed deep gratitude: "This is the first time the centre has received such a visit, and I am truly grateful to the University of Mpumalanga. Most importantly, I am thankful for the donations, which will make a significant difference in the lives of our beneficiaries. May God bless you, and may this not be the last time you visit us. Thank you."

At the Sizanani Multipurpose Centre in Bronkhorstspruit, children took part in storytelling, reading, arts and crafts, outdoor play, music, and dance. Volunteers also cleaned the facility and donated sanitary towels and dolls.

In Siyabuswa, UMP teams undertook a clean-up at Valfontein Clinic, promoting a healthier environment through rubbish collection and facility maintenance. At Mareleng Primary School, also in Siyabuswa, volunteers cleaned the schoolyard, removed waste, and cut grass to create a safer and more welcoming space for learners. These combined efforts exemplify UMP's ongoing dedication to community engagement, development, and transformation.

Mandela Day 2025 was not just a day of service: it was a reaffirmation of UMP's values of collaboration and inspiration – and its commitment to shaping a better future for all. As we reflect on the legacy of Nelson Mandela, we are reminded that each act of kindness – no matter how small – can contribute to meaningful change.

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Held under the theme: Shaping Your Professional, Leadership and Entrepreneurship Brand, the symposium provided a platform for students to reflect on identity, purpose, and leadership in a dynamic and supportive environment.

UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thoko Mayekiso, opened the event by reaffirming the University's commitment to fostering spaces where young women can thrive and lead with confidence.

"This symposium is a call to action," she said. "It is an invitation to embrace your identity, to own your voice, and to stand firm in your vision. You are not just students; you are future leaders, innovators and agents of change."

Professor Mayekiso spoke about the importance of self-awareness, resilience and inspiration as key elements in personal development. "Empowerment begins with knowing who you are and what you stand for. It's about taking the time to reflect, to grow, and to step into your power with clarity and confidence."

She also stressed the importance of collaboration and support networks in navigating social barriers, particularly those rooted in patriarchy and inequality. "In a world where toxic masculinities often silence women, your voice must rise. You must see yourself as worthy and capable, and believe that you belong in leadership spaces."

Highlighting studentpreneurs success, Professor Mayekiso commended the UMP Enactus team for winning the 2025 Enactus South Africa National Championship.

"Their win is a shining example of what happens when students are nurtured and empowered. They will represent South Africa at the Enactus World Cup in Bangkok later this year – a testament to their drive, innovation and resilience."

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She encouraged students to use platforms such as SWEEP to sharpen their professional skills and adopt a mindset grounded in possibility.

"We want you to leave this space motivated and inspired to build something that reflects your values and potential. Keep the flame of entrepreneurship burning bright."

Entrepreneur and business strategist, Ms Phumulile Mkhoza, shared her personal and professional journey, emphasising the role of intentionality in shaping a personal brand.

"A future woman leader must understand her influence and impact," she said. "You don't wait to be told you are a leader – you lead from wherever you are, in the lecture hall, in your business, in your community."

Ms Mkhoza, founder of a fragrance company, reflected on her experience starting university in 2013, earning a Master's degree, and launching a business in a competitive industry.

"Balancing academics and entrepreneurship taught me resilience and discipline. We are in a time where qualifications alone are not enough – we need purpose-driven innovators.

"She explained the importance of consistency across digital platforms and the need to cultivate trust through authenticity.

"Your LinkedIn profile is your digital handshake. It should reflect who you are and where you're going. Be intentional about what you post. What you say and how you show up builds your brand."

She also encouraged participants to lead with purpose and to create opportunities for others along the way.

"Personal success means little if it doesn't create opportunities for someone else. If you climb the ladder, extend a hand. Empowerment is not about competing – it's about collaboration."

The symposium was facilitated by Dr Norah Clarke, Former Director of USaf and currently the co-director of AfriLead. She guided students through the foundations of personal branding, and introduced the AfriLead Personal Branding Journal – a new tool to support leadership development.

A returning speaker from the 2024 conference, Dr Clarke said, "It's a joy and privilege to be here again with such a powerful gathering of future leaders. I can already tell this space is alive with potential."

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Her session focused on intentional identity, self-presentation, and the importance of consistency in how one introduces themselves.

"Your brand begins with your name," she told students. "Think carefully about how you introduce yourself, because your name is not only your identifier, it's your promise to the world."

Encouraging participants to reflect on their chosen identities, she invited them to write down the name they truly want to be known by – not for convenience, but as an expression of self.

"So often, we compromise our names to make things easier for others. But your name carries history, culture and value. Don't simplify your identity for someone else's comfort. Teach them to get it right."

She also addressed the cultural and personal implications of name changes in marriage. "When you take on a new surname, particularly in marriage, you risk losing the brand you've spent years building. I'm not saying don't take it – but hold on to your identity. Consider the value of a double-barrelled name. Your identity is yours to protect."

Students were invited to participate actively, greeting one another, introducing themselves with intention, and reflecting on the impressions they leave. "The first seven seconds of any encounter are powerful. That's when people decide who they think you are. You must own that moment," said Dr Clarke.

The masterclass included a panel discussion by professionals who work with brands to guide students on practical ways of building personal and business brands.

The panel included Ms Sfeziwe Mkhabela, Director of Project Artour, Ms Nomthandazo Solani, a Community Development Specialist, Ms Kholofelo Makhubupetsi, Media Officer for UMPCFERI SWEEP Chapter and Director of KCM Group. The discussion was facilitated by Ms Ntsako Mahlaule.

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Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.

The seminar provided a compelling and informative exploration of the future of plant biotechnology and its potential to enhance food security under increasingly variable environmental conditions.

During her presentation, Professor Ngara discussed the complex ways in which crops adapt to environmental stress, focusing on sorghum as a model species due to its natural drought tolerance and genetic diversity.

Her research integrates traditional plant physiology with advanced omics technologies – including proteomics, metabolomics, and transcriptomics – to uncover the molecular changes that occur in plants under abiotic stress conditions such as drought, salinity and heat. By combining these technologies with bioinformatics, her team analyses extensive datasets to map the interactions of molecules within stressed plant systems.

"Sorghum was selected for its high drought resilience and the availability of its genome sequence, which was completed in 2009. In 2014, we published an opinion piece advocating for the use of sorghum in abiotic stress studies."

She explained that her team conducts comparative analyses between drought-tolerant and susceptible sorghum lines to examine their molecular and physiological responses, and further described how cell suspension cultures were developed from sorghum callus tissue to study secreted proteins, known as the secretome, which play key roles in signalling and protection against external stressors.

"Of the seven genotypes tested for this culture development, only the ICSB 338 variety yielded a friable callus suitable for creating suspension cultures. These in vitro systems provide a controlled environment for investigating how sorghum cells respond to drought at the protein level." Physiological assessments conducted in soil potting experiments revealed significant differences between the susceptible variety (ICSB 338) and the tolerant variety (SA 1441). After three weeks without watering, ICSB 338 showed severe wilting and ultimately died, while SA 1441 remained green and vigorous.

Measurements of relative water content, chlorophyll levels, stomatal conductance, and leaf surface temperature confirmed the superior stress resilience of the tolerant variety, which also demonstrated improved recovery following rewatering.

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Uncovering Molecular Mechanisms Behind Drought Tolerance

Professor Ngara also emphasised osmolyte accumulation as a critical element of drought response. Osmolytes such as proline and glycinebetaine act as protective molecules, stabilising cellular structures and enzymes during stress. Through time-course experiments, her team found that the tolerant variety began accumulating these compounds earlier than the susceptible one. "This early response was associated with the activation of key drought-responsive genes, as revealed through quantitative PCR analysis."

One of the most innovative aspects of her research involved proteome analysis using two advanced techniques: two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2D-PAGE) for protein separation and isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) for protein quantification. These methods enabled the identification of over 1 000 proteins across both sorghum varieties, many of which were differentially expressed under drought conditions.

The results revealed marked differences in protein expression patterns between the tolerant and susceptible genotypes. She placed particular focus on the roles of proteases and protease inhibitors during drought stress. Proteases are enzymes that degrade proteins and are essential for nitrogen recycling, programmed cell death and overall protein turnover – processes that are often heightened under stress.

Her findings showed that the tolerant variety exhibited lower proteolytic activity and increased expression of protease inhibitors, contributing to protein stability during drought. Conversely, the susceptible variety showed elevated protease activity and reduced protein content, indicating greater cellular degradation.

"The results from heat stress experiments noted that ICSB 338 cells demonstrated resilience under 40°C conditions for up to 72 hours, while Arabidopsis cells showed an 80% reduction in viability after just 24 hours. The sorghum cells upregulated heat shock proteins, suggesting the presence of adaptive heat stress responses alongside drought tolerance."

Bridging Lab Research with Agricultural Practice

In closing, Professor Ngara emphasised the importance of bridging the gap between laboratory-based molecular research and real-world agricultural applications. She called for stronger collaborations with research groups working in field physiology and functional genomics, and highlighted the need for increased funding to support the high costs associated with omics technologies.

She also encouraged expanded field studies examining plant physiology, yield components, and below-ground traits across multiple cereal species, using tools such as phenomics.

Attendees were urged to contribute to special issues Professor Ngara is editing in Plants (Plants | Special Issue : 'Omics' and 'Multi-Omics' Insights into Plant Responses to Abiotic Stresses) and in Frontiers in Plant Science (https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/68362/omics-applications-for-pathogen-control-and-disease-resistance and Frontiers | The Plant Extracellular Matrix: Dynamics in Composition and Function in Response to Biotic and Abiotic Stresses), expressing her hope that continued research will contribute to the development of more climate-resilient crops.

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Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.

The ecotourism and environmental consulting company offer tours, practical and sustainable solutions that serve both people and the environment.

At Wildheart Ecoteer, Shantell leads projects that combine ecological integrity with social justice. She collaborates with communities, businesses, and other stakeholders to co-create solutions that protect biodiversity, drive local economic development, and promote environmental awareness.

Her journey into the environmental sector formally began with a safari internship in the Timbavati – but her connection to nature was formed long before that. "I've always felt deeply connected to nature. I grew up surrounded by wild spaces that sparked curiosity and a sense of responsibility for the environment," she says.

"But it was during the safari internship that everything became real. I saw how conservation works on the ground – not just the wildlife side, but how it involves people, power, and systems."

That experience highlighted the often-overlooked reality that communities living closest to protected areas are frequently excluded from conservation decision-making – and do not share equally in the benefits. The insight compelled her to act. "I started Wildheart Ecoteer to help change that. I wanted to build something rooted in people, where conservation is community-led, practical, and inclusive – not something done for people, but with them," she explains.

"In 2024, I had the honour of participating in the Mpumalanga Tourism Parks Agency (MTPA) Biodiversity Economy Programme, where I led on behalf of the Mantjolo Traditional Council during the South African National Parks (SANParks) game donation initiative."

Her academic background and hands-on experience have equipped her with a strong foundation in nature conservation, ecological research, and environmental management. She is currently conducting research on microplastics pollution and its ecological impacts – a growing concern with far-reaching implications.

"My time at UMP gave me a strong foundation in both the science and practice of conservation. The learning went beyond classrooms – we spent time in the field, learning how to track, monitor, and manage wildlife, but also how to work within communities and understand the broader environmental context," she adds.

Shantell credits UMP for shaping her perspective on conservation and strengthening her sense of purpose. "I view conservation today as something that has to balance ecological integrity with human needs. That experience taught me to see conservation not as a standalone effort, but as something deeply connected to people, culture, and policy. The university exceeded my expectations – making my dream a reality."

While her path has been driven by purpose, it has not been without its challenges. Shantell has had to navigate structural barriers within a traditionally exclusive industry. "One of the biggest challenges has been navigating limited resources and trying to build credibility as a young, black woman in a space that's still quite exclusive. It's not always easy to be taken seriously – especially when you're proposing ideas that challenge traditional conservation models."

Despite the difficulties, she says they have only strengthened her determination and creativity. "Those struggles have helped me to build resilience and think outside the box. They also reinforced why it's so important to centre communities in conservation. When people are included, respected, and benefit directly – the work becomes more impactful and sustainable." She also acknowledges the role of the UMP Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (UMPCFERI) in her growth. The Centre supported her with business mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to key resources.

"It helped me sharpen my business thinking and turn Wildheart Ecoteer from an idea into something structured and sustainable. I gained access to mentors, workshops, and a network of peers who were all on different journeys – but facing similar challenges," she says. "It also boosted my confidence as a young entrepreneur – knowing that I don't have to have all the answers, just a clear purpose and the willingness to learn and adapt."

Shantell holds a Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation from UMP – and is currently pursuing her Honours in Environmental Studies at the University of the Witwatersrand. Looking ahead, she remains committed to redefining conservation as a shared, community-driven responsibility. She encourages aspiring environmentalists to start where they are – and trust in their potential to make an impact.

"Don't wait until everything is perfect before you start. You already have enough – your ideas, your passion, your lived experience. Whether you're focused on sustainability, research, or business, the key is to stay grounded and act with intention. Learn from others, ask for help, and be willing to grow through the challenges," she says.

"The environmental space needs bold thinkers and doers – people who care enough to act and are humble enough to keep learning." Shantell Mbatha's journey illustrates how conservation can be a powerful vehicle for change – when driven by purpose, rooted in community, and aligned with ecological justice.

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Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.

Co-hosted by UMP and the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), the MAISH activation marks the beginning of the province's leading digital innovation competition, which will take place from 23 to 25th October 2025.

Professor Ntombovuyo Wayi-Mgwebi, Head of the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences (SCMS) at UMP, described the hackathon as "a launchpad for innovation and opportunity", emphasising that it is "more than just a competition; it is a movement".

She explained that MAISH empowers students to be part of global change. "It is about building capacity, creating a culture of innovation, and preparing young people for entrepreneurial futures."

Professor Wayi-Mgwebi also highlighted the hackathon's inclusive and multidisciplinary nature.

"This is a multidisciplinary platform. It provides solutions to social and economic challenges that require collaboration across fields – education, agriculture, or business. Your ideas and perspectives matter."

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Mr Mashitishi Phurutsi, a lecturer in the Faculty of ICT at TUT, explained that the hackathon seeks to identify top talent and encourage research with real-world impact.

"This hackathon is a celebration of knowledge and practice. It honours the legacy of Nelson Mandela by empowering young people with future-facing skills, creativity, empathy and critical thinking, anchored in artificial intelligence."

He added that the initiative aims to move beyond theoretical learning to practical application in collaboration with industry partners. "This is not just an academic exercise. The goal is to incubate digital solutions that respond to real African problems. These innovations must be ready to be commissioned by our industry partners."

During an interactive workshop on Artificial Intellegence (AI) project conceptualisation, Dr Olalekan Ogunleye – programme leader and lecturer in the SCMS at UMP – introduced the Hackathon Initiative, an innovation programme that blends AI technology, collaborative learning, and local problem-solving. He urged students to reflect on the societal role of artificial intelligence.

"AI is no longer science fiction; it is reality. It is a tool to enhance our thinking, not to replace it," he said. "The question is: how do we use it responsibly to improve lives? Your job is not just to code. Your job is to care. You must solve real problems with real impact, respect data privacy, and uphold ethical standards while doing so."

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He encouraged students to explore platforms such as Kaggle and Dirisa for relevant datasets, and to work with technologies including machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, and natural language processing. "Use these tools to ask meaningful questions. Don't just solve problems – solve the right problems. Think about education, health, energy, safety. What do our communities need?"

Dr Ogunleye also stressed the importance of collaboration. "This is not a solo journey. Working in isolation does not pay off. Learn from each other, build together, and stay humble." Participants also received a practical session on how to enter the 2025 MAISH competition, with organisers urging students from all disciplines to register and take part.

"We are building a movement of thinkers, doers, and changemakers," said Mr Phurutsi. "If you believe in technology with a purpose, then MAISH is for you." The 2025 Mpumalanga Artificial Intelligence Student Hackathon will provide students with hands-on training, mentorship, and the opportunity to present their ideas to a panel of academic and industry experts.

Winning teams will have the chance to develop and potentially scale their solutions with support from partner institutions – marking a significant step in digital transformation, student empowerment and community-driven innovation.

Students from all fields of study are encouraged to register and be part of this initiative that brings together knowledge, creativity and purpose.

Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.

The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Department of Health, led by the Head of Department, Dr Lucas Ndhlovu, alongside a delegation of University experts led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, Professor Mashudu Davhana-Maselesele.

Dr Ndhlovu reaffirmed the importance of strengthening collaboration between the Department and the University to help address the province's pressing health workforce needs. Professor Davhana-Maselesele echoed this, noting that UMP is committed to ensuring its programmes respond meaningfully to both local and national health challenges.

"Our mission is to offer high-quality educational and training opportunities that foster the holistic development of students through teaching and learning, research and scholarship, and engagement in collaboration with strategic partners. Through this partnership, we will produce highly skilled graduates who are not only academically grounded but also equipped with the practical experience to make a difference in their communities," she said.

During her presentation, Professor Davhana-Maselesele outlined the new programmes that UMP is planning to start after following the approval processes by relevant regulatory bodies. These include a Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care (EMC), a Bachelor of Dietetics and Nutrition, a Bachelor of Nursing, a Master's in Clinical Psychology, and forthcoming programmes in Pharmacy and Oral Health.

"The need for healthcare professionals in Mpumalanga is urgent. These programmes have been carefully crafted to meet those needs and ensure that we contribute meaningfully to the province's development," she explained.

Key areas of collaboration discussed during the meeting included Work Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunities, access to provincial clinical training sites, professional mentoring, and the provision of student stipends where feasible. The University requested the Department's support in facilitating clinical placements, enabling community service opportunities for graduates, and issuing letters of endorsement to accompany regulatory submissions.

In response, the Department of Health committed to facilitating access to training sites and collaborating on a situational analysis to determine clinical placement capacity. Both parties agreed to develop a formal Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to clearly outline their respective roles and responsibilities.

Professor Davhana-Maselesele expressed her gratitude for the Department's support and underscored the value of collaborative partnerships in strengthening health care training and ultimately improving health outcomes. "We cannot do this alone. It is only through strong partnerships like this that we will be able to transform health outcomes and improve access to quality care across the province and throughout the country," she said.

The meeting concluded with several resolutions:

• Drafting of the MOA;
• Departmental support for community service placements;
• Submission of letters of support in compliance with regulatory requirements for the establishment of new programmes.

All parties reaffirmed their commitment to working together to ensure the successful implementation of the new programmes.

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Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Picture supplied.

The University of Pretoria (UP) hosted the rugby matches, the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) hosted basketball, the University of Cape Town (UCT) hosted volleyball, and Nelson Mandela University (NMU) hosted the netball competitions. UMP was well-represented across all four sporting codes, with teams demonstrating skill, determination, and sportsmanship on a national stage.

Competing Across Campuses

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• Rugby: UMP's rugby teams competed at the Hillcrest Sports Campus at UP in Pretoria. The men's team was placed in Pool C alongside strong rivals such as Rhodes University and Vaal University of Technology, while the women's team competed in Pool B2. The tournament ran over five days.
• Basketball: The basketball tournament, hosted at Wits University, saw UMP's teams competing in the C Section. Fixtures ran from 1 to 6 July, followed by 3x3 matches on 7 and 8 July. The event brought together universities from across the country and provided UMP's players with valuable exposure and competitive experience.
• Volleyball: UMP's volleyball teams travelled to the scenic UCT campus in Cape Town, competing in an indoor tournament focused on performance and tactical development. The event offered an excellent platform for players to participate in high-level matches against peers from other institutions of higher learning.

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UMP's participation in the USSA Games aligns with the university's strategic focus on student development through sport, leadership, and both national and international engagement. Inter-university competition fosters discipline, resilience, and teamwork, while allowing student-athletes to proudly represent UMP on a broader stage.

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UMP commends the dedication, courage, and competitive spirit of all participating teams. Their involvement not only showcases their athletic prowess but also strengthens the university's growing presence in South Africa's university sports landscape.

Story and pictures supplied.