These awards aim to foster research potential, support emerging researchers, and encourage postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows to actively engage in research.

In his opening remarks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Internationalisation, Professor Aldo Stroebel, emphasised the value of collaboration.

“Our academic project is strong. We are resolute in partnering with external stakeholders to strengthen and advance it further,” he stated highlighting that the event seeks to embed a research culture within the University and position UMP as a premier research partner.

UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thoko Mayekiso, underscored the importance of recognising excellence.

“Research, teaching, and engagement are the pillars of our university. Pursuing excellence across these areas allows us to create an impact locally, nationally, and internationally.

The road to excellence is always under construction. It demands persistence, refined skills, deep knowledge, and a commitment to lifelong learning. As we celebrate these accomplishments, we are reminded that while weeds grow unaided, flowers require cultivation," she said. 

Honours and Awards

The following academics and teams were recognised for their exceptional contributions:

Faculty Emerging Researcher of the Year Award: Dr Tshepiso Ndhlovu, Lecturer and Indigenous Knowledge Systems Researcher (Plant Medicinal Compounds), School of Biology and Environmental Sciences. This award celebrates a young researcher, up to Senior Lecturer level, who has made the most significant research advancements during the reporting year.

NRF-rated Researcher Award:  Dr Tim Forssman, Senior Lecturer in Cultural and Heritage Studies, School of Social Sciences. This award is given to researchers who during the reporting year receive an NRF rating for the first time, retain their NRF rating through a re-evaluation by the NRF, and improve their NRF rating through a re-evaluation by the NRF.

Engagement Excellence Team Award: UMP Centre for Entrepreneurship and Rapid Incubator (CFERI) Team. This award honours a group or individual who has made an exceptional contribution to advancing engagement as a core university function.

NRF-rated Researcher Award: Dr Mazanai Musara, Senior Lecturer in Entrepreneurship and Business Management. This award is given to researchers who during the reporting year receive an NRF rating for the first time, retain their NRF rating through a re-evaluation by the NRF, and improve their NRF rating through a re-evaluation by the NRF.

NRF-rated Researcher Award: Professor Daniel Parker, Professor in the School of Biology and Environmental Sciences. This award is given to researchers who during the reporting year receive an NRF rating for the first time, retain their NRF rating through a re-evaluation by the NRF, and improve their NRF rating through a re-evaluation by the NRF.

Faculty Teacher of the Year Award: Dr Ayanda Shabalala, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader for Bachelor of Science, School of Biology and Environmental Sciences. This award acknowledges an individual who made the most significant contribution to teaching and the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) in the faculty.

Keynote Address

Professor Teboho Moja, Professor of Higher Education at New York University, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address on the transformative power of research and innovation in creating a sustainable future.

Applauding UMP’s research achievements, she called for projects prioritising societal impact, emphasising that impactful research is not solely about publications or citations but also its measurable outcomes.

“The true value of research lies in its ability to transform lives and create lasting, meaningful change,” observed Professor Moja, and stressed the need for a reciprocal exchange of knowledge with local communities to ensure solutions are both practical and culturally relevant.

“Universities thrive when they engage with the communities they serve, co-designing sustainable solutions to shared challenges,” she concluded. 

Story by Lisa Thabethe. Pictures by ChrisplPhoto.

The day aims to build on a robust trajectory of research excellence and celebrate the significant achievements of researchers, postgraduate students, and collaborators across the University’s faculties.

In his opening address, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Internationalisation, Professor Aldo Stroebel, described the Research Day as a celebration of UMP’s progress and a moment to reflect on strengthening its research capacity.

“This event honours the accomplishments of UMP researchers and collaborators. It recognises their achievements and sets the stage for innovation and further development,” remarked Professor Stroebel.

He emphasised that the theme: Sustainability and Impact, strategically aligns with UMP’s mission and vision, positioning the institution as a key player in critical academic discourse and global research networks.

“The day is aimed at encouraging academic staff and emerging researchers to actively engage in research while positioning UMP research to internal and external stakeholders. It supports emerging researchers, postgraduate students, and postdoctoral fellows, fostering a research culture across the institution. This positions UMP as a research partner of choice,” explained  Professor Stroebel.

This year there were 14 research exhibitions where researchers and students showcased groundbreaking projects.

UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thoko Mayekiso, highlighted the importance of the event, showcasing the University’s commitment to advancing impactful, sustainable research at local and global levels.

“The theme reflects our dedication to addressing local challenges while contributing to global sustainability goals. Guided by Agenda 2063 and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we aim to support research excellence and foster innovation that drives change. Together, we are building a future of impact and sustainability,” she said.

Professor Mayekiso also celebrated the University’s achievements and growing recognition within South Africa and internationally, noting key milestones such as:

• Recognition through prestigious awards, including the NRF Acceleration Award and the NRF CEO Special Award.
• UMP researchers, Dr Tatenda Dalu and Professor Gordon O'Brien, were named finalists in the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) Awards.
• Professors Ludidi and Mlambo were inducted into the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf).
• UMP’s membership in the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), underscores its commitment to sustainable development challenges.

The Research and Innovation Day aims to foster a research culture across the institution.

Dr Heide Hackmann, Chair in Science Futures at Stellenbosch University, delivered a presentation titled ‘Research Impact in Today’s Global Context: Challenges and Opportunities.’ She explored the transformative role of universities in addressing pressing global challenges, urging them to embrace their role as agents of societal change.

“Universities must become institutions for transformation, informing and involving society while supporting systemic change,” said Dr Hackmann.

She called for building future literacy, fostering collaboration, and equipping teams with the skills to tackle interconnected global challenges. Reflecting on the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), she remarked:

“The SDGs present a universal, indivisible agenda addressing intertwined global challenges. However, implementation has been hindered by a convergence of crises – a poly-crisis – spanning the pandemic, climate change, and geopolitical tensions.”

Dr Hackmann also highlighted the importance of transitioning from ‘science for society’ to ‘science with society,’ ushering in a new era of relevance and impact.

Key Highlights of the Day:

• Research exhibitions: 14 researchers and students showcased groundbreaking projects advancing knowledge and impact.
• Science and Art Exhibition: The first of its kind at UMP, demonstrating the intersection of creativity and research.
• Panel discussions: Focused on artificial intelligence in research and sustainability’s role in the Just Transition.
• Three-Minute Thesis Competition: Postgraduate students presented the potential impact of their research in concise, engaging presentations.

The day concluded with the 2024 Research, Engagement, and Teaching and Learning Excellence Awards Ceremony to honour UMP’s top-performing academics.

Story by Lisa Thabethe. Pictures by ChrisplPhoto.

Welcoming the delegation from the Provincial Government, UMP Chairperson of Council, Mr Sabelo Mahlalela, indicated that the occasion is an important engagement to cement the relationship between the University and the Mpumalanga Provincial Government.

Premier Ndlovu was well impressed with UMP's contribution to the province.

Speaking during the visit, the Premier Ndlovu, acknowledged the magnificent work that the University has done for the province.

“UMP has set high standards of excellence. You have put our province on the map for the right reasons. May you continue with the excellent work of producing hard-working and well-rounded graduates for our province and our country,” he said.

UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thoko Mayekiso, highlighted that UMP places great emphasis on its quality educational offering, and the holistic development of students in line with the mission of the University.

“As an engaged university we value partnerships and we appreciate the strategic partnership that we have with the Mpumalanga Provincial Government,” said Professor Mayekiso.

The premier and his delegation were taken on a campus tour.

Some of the Identified areas of collaboration include:

• Research focusing on Just Energy Transition to avert job losses.
• Hosting of the Mining Indaba and establishment of the Mining School.
• Expediting the process of offering Health Sciences at UMP.
• Entrepreneurship Development.
• Skilling and re-skilling of youth.
• Addressing youth and graduate unemployment.

In the future, UMP and the Mpumalanga Provincial Government will explore the process of signing a Memorandum of Understanding to focus on the identified areas of collaboration.

Story and Pictures: UMP Communications Division.

This prestigious annual event celebrates individuals and groups for their outstanding achievements across various categories, reflecting the institution’s dedication to holistic student development.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thoko Mayekiso, highlighted the significance of acknowledging hard work and success.

The awards were presented across various categories. 

“It is always a joy to attend the ceremony earmarked to celebrate and honour those who have excelled. These awards remind us that persistence and tenacity of purpose are always worthy of celebration,” she said.

Professor Mayekiso also underscored the transformative role of co-curricular activities in preparing students for their futures.

“At UMP, we are committed to offering our students a life-changing experience through high-quality curricula and co-curricular programmes. These activities complement classroom learning and enable students to realise their potential in all dimensions - cognitive, social, aesthetic, physical, and personal,” she said.

Reflecting on the broader impact of co-curricular excellence, she added: “Later on in life, when you seek employment, awards in co-curricular excellence make you stand out among your peers. You invariably become a pool of excellence, separate from the sea of mediocrity.”

The University recognised outstanding individuals and groups.

The Vice-Chancellor also commended recipients of the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship certificates and ENACTUS team members for their leadership and entrepreneurial achievements.

“By learning and applying skills such as mindfulness, resilience, interpersonal refinement, and innovative thinking, these students have positioned themselves to cope better with future challenges. You are an inspiration to others and have enhanced UMP’s brand reputation.”

The following awards were presented to groups and individuals: 

Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards for Leadership:

• Male Student Leader: Boikgantsho Magaseng
• Female Student Leader: Esihle Lukashe

Group Awards

• Residence of the Year: Emthonjeni – Siyabuswa Campus
• Society of the Year: Teachers of Transformation
• Arts and Culture Group of the Year: Mbombela Campus UMP Choir
• Sports Team/Club of the Year (Female): Siyabuswa Campus Female Volleyball Team
• Sports Team/Club of the Year (Male): Siyabuswa Campus Male Soccer Team
• Overall Sports Team/Club of the Year: Siyabuswa Campus Female Volleyball Team

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mayekiso, applauded the awardees for their dedication.

Individual Awards:

• SRC Member of the Year: Boikgantsho Magaseng
• House Committee Member of the Year: Randy Cossa
• Choir Member of the Year: Kulani Mashimbye
• Arts and Culture Performer of the Year: Kgadisho Mamolatji
• Student Society Administrator of the Year: Bongumusa Nkabinde
• Sportsman of the Year: Themba Mahlangu
• Sportswoman of the Year: Samkelisiwe Themba
• Living and Learning Achiever of the Year: Klaasina Jiyane

The recipient of the Female Student Leader under the Vice-Chancellor's Excellence Awards for Leadership: Female Student Leader, Esihle Lukashe said: "I'm deeply humbled. This recognition is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the power of embodying the seven UMP values: Excellence, Integrity, Diversity, Collaboration, Adaptability, Relevance, and Inspiration. These values have been my compass, driving me to lead with purpose and to uplift those around me." 

In her closing remarks, Professor Mayekiso reaffirmed UMP’s commitment to excellence. “We have a decade of success behind us and will not be complacent. Disruption and agility are the order of the day.

Congratulations to all award recipients: "You have put UMP on the map and shown us all the value of playing the game fairly, enthusiastically, and with commitment.”

Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by ChrislPhoto.

As we mark 30 years of Freedom and Democracy in our beloved South Africa, we stand on a foundation built on the sacrifices of those who fought for equality, dignity, and justice. Yet, as we celebrate this milestone, we must also ask ourselves: Are our institutions truly free for everyone? For many students who do not identify within the rigid binary constructs of male or female, the answer is no.

Today, there is an urgent need to destabilise heteronormative spaces in our higher education institutions. Heteronormativity, the assumption that heterosexuality and binary gender identities are the norm, infuses many aspects of our educational spaces, from policies to practices, from curriculum to campus culture. This systemic rigidity affects exclusion, fosters stereotypes, and, in many cases, poses direct threats to the safety and well-being of students who do not conform to these norms.

As a Gender Studies student and an activist against gender-based violence, I understand that these rigid constructs are not just theoretical concepts but lived realities for many of our students. These realities include being misgendered in classrooms, facing discrimination in residences, and feeling alienated in spaces where they are supposed to grow and thrive.

To destabilise heteronormative spaces, we must begin by recognizing the diversity of gender identities and expressions that exist within our student body. We must reject the idea that gender is binary and instead embrace its fluidity. This requires us to confront the deeply ingrained stereotypes and attitudes that marginalize those who do not conform to traditional norms.

Creating Safe Spaces  

Understanding gender diversity means more than simply tolerating differences, it means actively learning about them. Institutions must prioritize inclusive education through workshops, seminars, and curriculum reform. Gender diversity and inclusivity should be embedded in the academic content we teach and the policies we implement. By doing so, we challenge ignorance and foster a culture of respect and empathy.

But understanding is not enough; we must also act. Higher education institutions should establish tangible support structures for LGBTQIA+ students and those who identify outside the binary. This includes gender-neutral bathrooms, housing options that respect diverse identities, and accessible counselling services with trained professionals. It means creating safe spaces where students can express themselves without fear of judgment or harm.

Our constitution guarantees every person the right to dignity, freedom, and equality. This is not a privilege; it is a promise. And yet, when students are harassed, silenced, or excluded because of their gender identity, that promise is broken. To truly honour the spirit of freedom and democracy, we must ensure that every student feels free. Not just free to exist, but free to thrive.

Yes, we are all free, and yes, we must all remain free, when I say free, I mean free from violence, free from discrimination, and free from the chains of societal norms that seek to confine us. Higher education institutions are not just spaces for intellectual growth; they are places where young people learn to challenge the status quo and imagine a better future. By dismantling heteronormative spaces, we are not just addressing a present injustice; we are shaping a society that values and uplifts every individual.

Let us embrace our differences, protect one another’s rights, and live out the values of our Constitution. Let us ensure that our campuses are beacons of inclusivity, where diversity is celebrated, and where every student can proudly say, “I belong here”.

Dr Nonzwakazi Maqubela is a Senior Lecturer in Sociology and Gender Studies at the University of Mpumalanga School of Social Sciences in the Faculty of Economics, Development and Business Sciences. Dr Maqubela is also the Chairperson of the UMP Gender Forum.

The forum is one of the world’s largest events focused on ending violence against women and children. The Sexual Violence Research Initiative Forum offers a critical platform for United Nations Women to strengthen coordination and collaboration with key stakeholders, including researchers and funders working on ending violence against women and girls.

UN Women is committed to fostering joint efforts and taking urgent action to end violence against women, particularly in the face of increasing challenges such as the backlash against women’s rights, armed conflict, climate change, and technology-facilitated gender-based violence.

Representing the University of Mpumalanga, Ms Mkhonto was a panellist in a session on "Addressing Gender-Based Violence and Enhancing Resilience through Transforming Harmful Norms and Young Women Empowerment."

She represented the Young Women for Life Movement under UN Women, and advocates for young women's empowerment to confront societal norms perpetuating gender-based violence (GBV), inequality, and marginalisation.

As an ambassador for the Young Women for Life Movement, Ms Mkhonto’s role is to empower young women and girls by educating them on sexual and reproductive rights, consent, and autonomy.

Ms Mkhonto (fourth from the left) attended the forum, which is one of the world’s largest events focused on ending violence against women and children.

Through her work, she aims to foster critical thinking skills that empower young women to challenge harmful societal norms and practices, including those that support violence, sexual abuse, and inequality.

“My advocacy is deeply rooted in my journey as a young woman whose path was transformed by receiving the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship, which supported her master’s degree in science."

At SVRI, UN Women is dedicated to promoting advocacy priorities in anticipation of the Beijing +30 Review, with a particular emphasis on accountability, eliminating impunity, and strengthening the protection of the rights of women and girls. A key aspect of these initiatives is to boost investments aimed at eradicating violence, by supporting women’s rights organisations and fostering transformative change through evidence-based policies and actions. UN Women’s involvement highlights its role in galvanising global commitment to ending violence against women and girls and promoting gender equality.

At the Forum Ms Mkhonto connected with young women and advocates globally, enhancing a shared vision for a future where women are educated and free from violence, inequality, and marginalisation. Her participation in the SVRI Forum underscored her commitment to excellence and represented UMP on a global platform, where she contributed alongside international researchers and advocates, highlighting the University’s dedication to socially impactful research and community engagement.

“I aspire to inspire other young women by sharing my journey to illustrate the transformative power of education. My goal is to cultivate a ripple effect, motivating young women to envision themselves as educated advocates and agents of change.”

Ms Mkhonto’s role as a Young Woman for Life ambassador aligns with UMP’s mission of fostering leaders equipped with academic knowledge and a deep sense of social responsibility.

Story by Lisa Thabethe. Pictures Supplied.

The International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) is a global research institute based in Austria. It advances systems analysis and applies its research methods to identify policy solutions to enhance the resilience of natural and socioeconomic systems.

UMP Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation, and Internationalisation, Professor Aldo Stroebel, spoke on advancing quality research and impactful supervisory models.

“Our mission is to equip researchers with the tools to turn scientific insights into policy outcomes; engaging with global experts to strengthen our science philosophy and help address complex environmental and social challenges.”

Professor Stroebel highlighted the value of systems analysis in creating actionable insights for policy and practice. “To ensure impactful research, we must not only uphold rigorous academic standards but also equip our scholars with the skills to turn research into usable, policy-relevant outputs,” he said.

“IIASA’s extensive experience in systems analysis provides a unique opportunity for researchers to examine complex environmental and social problems through approaches such as causal inference modelling, which allows us to establish stronger cause-and-effect relationships.”

He further reflected on the importance of quality and depth in research, “The success of young researchers who have gone on to win prestigious awards, from Nobel Prizes to Fields Medals, shows the power of effective mentorship and training. UMP is dedicated to fostering this excellence, and collaboration with IIASA helps us build a well-rounded supervisory model that supports scholarly growth on a global scale.”

Renowned scientist, and new Deputy Director-General of IIASA, Professor Karen Lips, shared the urgency of multidisciplinary approaches to interconnected challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss.

Professor Stroebel highlighted the value of systems analysis in creating actionable insights for policy and practice.

“We are witnessing cascading environmental impacts that directly affect human health and well-being,” she explained, sharing examples from her research.

“In Central America, the extinction of frog populations has led to increased mosquito populations, exacerbating the spread of vector-borne diseases. The situation in Texas, where farmers face economic losses due to bat population decline, further illustrates how biodiversity loss is linked to ecosystem and human health,” she said.

Professor Lips further stressed the role of systems analysis in understanding and mitigating these complex challenges.

“The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, has had ripple effects across various systems – from food supply chains to healthcare access to the economy itself. Systems analysis enables us to study these interconnected impacts and provides a path forward for resilience.

“IIASA’s Young Scientists Summer Program (YSSP) offers young scientists hands-on experience with these approaches. We encourage students to apply and contribute to global research efforts that address sustainable development goals.”

Adding to the seminar’s depth, Dr Priscilla Mensah addressed the Science Technology Strategy for Africa 2034, emphasising the role of capacity development in empowering African youth.

Highlighting the impact of doctoral training programmes like the Southern African Systems Analysis Centre (SASAC), Dr Mensah continued, “The Southern African YSSP introduced the concept of ‘research in triplets,’ where young scientists work alongside two senior experts. This model allows them to develop their skills while contributing to collaborative networks that extend across continents.”

Renowned scientist, and new Deputy Director-General of IIASA, Professor Karen Lips.

She added, “Plans include a hub for capacity building that will support networking, policy dialogues, and offer programmes for mid-career researchers – creating pathways for African researchers to lead internationally.

Africa is the youngest continent, and we need innovative strategies to tap into this potential. The Science Technology Strategy for Africa 2034, coupled with South Africa’s Presidential PhD programme, is designed to empower young researchers to address developmental challenges.

UMP has already demonstrated significant achievements in this area through its support of doctoral programmes and initiatives like SASAC," she explained.

Professor Stroebel echoed Dr Mensah’s sentiments, emphasising the importance of capacity-building in higher education. “Our goal at UMP is to establish a comprehensive support structure that enables doctoral candidates to contribute meaningfully to science and policy. Programmes like the Future Professors Programmes as well as initiatives aimed at creating strong international networks, equip scholars to lead in their fields and make an impact on global challenges.”

Professor Lips also encouraged researchers to engage with local communities and policymakers from the outset. “It’s critical to involve stakeholders early to ensure research directly addresses their needs and has an impact on sustainable development goals,” she said, referencing a citizen science project in Ghana that involves locals in tracking plastic pollution.

“Such collaboration not only enriches scientific understanding but also builds community investment in environmental issues.”

The seminar concluded with a focus on actionable steps for both students and faculty, including encouraging applications to the IIASA Young Scientists Summer Programme, exploring new IIASA academic exchange programmes in Africa, and aligning doctoral research with SASAC’s focus areas to promote sustainability in policy and practice. Dr Mensah added that IIASA Africa’s focus for 2034 is designed to empower young researchers and address developmental needs.

Story and Pictures by Cleopatra Makhaga. 

Authored by renowned ichthyologist Emeritus Professor Paul Skelton, this revised third edition is an invaluable resource for academics, conservationists, and enthusiasts of the region’s aquatic biodiversity.

The newly updated edition explores over 300 species, offering fresh insights with newly described species, recent taxonomic revisions, updated maps, and vivid new illustrations. Readers can delve into the biology, ecology, and conservation of southern Africa’s freshwater fish species in this comprehensive volume.

“The book aims to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public understanding, making complex ideas accessible. This guide is about celebrating the incredible diversity of our freshwater fish and educating people on their significance in our ecosystems,” explained Professor Skelton.

Emeritus Professor Paul Skelton is a highly-regarded expert in his field.

He further reflected on the importance of sustainable practices and urged for greater awareness around environmental conservation.

“The degradation of our rivers and water systems due to pollution and invasive species like tilapia is a serious concern. We must foster a culture that respects and conserves these natural resources not only for the health of the ecosystem but for our dignity and survival.”

Professor Skelton concluded with encouragement for young scientists to contribute their talents and help build upon Africa’s rich biodiversity knowledge.

“Through collaboration, illustrations, and infographics, we hope to inspire future conservationists and researchers to take the lead in this vital work. The book also extends beyond scientific documentation; it is a call to action for the next generation.”

Professor Albert Chakone is a chief scientist at the South African Institution for Aquatic Biodiversity. 

UMP Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Internationalisation, Professor Aldo Stroebel, honoured Professor Skelton, whose remarkable career brings a wealth of knowledge and inspiration, especially to young scientists.

He further spoke about the UMP and SAIAB relationship, which intends to collaborate on a research framework, that includes additional funding and resources to support capacity-building and scientific excellence in the field of aquatic biodiversity.

“Our university, only 10 years old, has become competitive nationally, and partnerships like these advance our mission to contribute meaningfully to the scientific community,” he remarked.

Representing SAIAB, Professor Albert Chakona spoke warmly about UMP’s rapid development and the importance of the partnership,

“We are grateful to join hands with UMP, a young institution on a remarkable growth trajectory. Today’s event is not just a book launch but a celebration of the shared vision of our two institutions.”

Chakona encouraged students to take advantage of SAIAB’s cutting-edge resources, including tools for molecular analysis and deep-sea exploration.

Published by Struik Nature, the book is available at leading book retailers.

About the Book

The fully revised third edition of Freshwater Fishes of Southern Africa is an invaluable resource for those passionate about the region’s rich aquatic biodiversity. Featuring more than 300 species, this comprehensive guide presents newly described species, recent taxonomic updates, stunning new photographs and illustrations, and the latest distribution maps. The book offers a wealth of information, including:

• A brief history of fish science in the region.
• Details on the ecoregions in which species occur.
• Insights into the anatomy, biology, and ecology of freshwater fishes.
• Human impacts on fish populations.
• Conservation status updates and new evolutionary findings on fish groups.
• Descriptions of large taxonomic fish groups with global distribution charts.
• Detailed species accounts covering size, identification, distribution, biology, and uses by humans.
• Full-colour illustrations and updated distribution maps for each species.

The event underscored UMP and SAIAB’s commitment to advancing aquatic biodiversity research and fostering a collaborative approach to conservation efforts. Freshwater Fishes of Southern Africa stands as both an educational resource and a rallying point for protecting the unique aquatic life of the region.

Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by ChrisplPhoto.

The SDSN serves as a significant platform for UMP to strengthen its focus on the Just Energy Transition (JET) and to engage actively in the SDSN’s programme to build educators’ capacity in Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). This partnership aligns seamlessly with UMP’s commitment to sustainability and its regional and international impact.

Speaking during the launch, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Internationalisation, Professor Aldo Stroebel, said becoming a member of the SDSN is an invitation for a young university that is rapidly developing an extraordinary research and scholarly trajectory to engage intellectually, academically, and strategically.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Internationalisation, Professor Aldo Stroebel.

“UMP is now in a position to share knowledge, build capacity, foster highly strategic collaborations, and implement policy changes that contribute meaningfully to the sustainability debate,” he said.

Professor Stroebel further highlighted UMP’s achievements in sustainability and mentioned that the membership will allow UMP to contribute actively to SDGs by focusing on three pillars: People, Planet, and Prosperity.

“From a business model and infrastructure perspective, sustainability is central to UMP’s vision. A recent survey showed our contributions to SDGs, including critical areas such as SDG 17: Partnerships, SDG 13: Climate Action, and SDG 4: Quality Education.”

Ms Priscilla Morley, SDSN Network Manager for South Africa.

UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thoko Mayekiso, further mentioned that the SDSN membership will provide the University with opportunities to access global expertise, networking, collaboration, and new funding avenues:

“We strongly believe that knowledge and skills are key assets to deepen the quality and scope of democratic life. This partnership enables us to position UMP as a key player in sustainable development.

As an African University rooted in the Mpumalanga province, we are responsive to socio-economic and geographic contexts while actively engaging on a global scale. Our Vision 2030 is to lead in creating sustainable development through innovation, and our SDSN membership is perfectly aligned with that mission,” she said.

Providing further context, Ms Priscilla Morley, SDSN Network Manager for South Africa, mentioned that the organisation promotes integrated approaches to implement the SDGs, National Development Plan, and Agenda 2063 through four pillars: education, research, policy analysis, and global cooperation.

Highlighting the urgency of the climate crisis and the need for innovative and inclusive solutions was distinguished Professor Coleen Vogel from the Global Change Institute at Wits University. She also noted the critical role that youth can play in developing transformative solutions and urged UMP students to be at the forefront of this mission.

“Today’s youth have the passion and drive to lead in creating a sustainable and caring planet. A systems approach is essential to bring about real change in climate action, with universities and communities working together.

Professor Coleen Vogel from the Global Change Institute at Wits University.

The University of Mpumalanga’s membership in SDSN signifies a powerful step forward in its journey to address complex sustainability issues, engage in transformative research, and build a brighter, more sustainable future for all,” she said.

Being a member of the SDSN, the University of Mpumalanga joins over 1 900 institutions worldwide. The institution is now part of an extraordinary international network that mobilises academic, policy, and development resources to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement.

Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by JB Creative Cinema.

Director of Scholarly Publishing at the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf), Ms Susan Veldsman, was speaking during the Open Access Colloquium, recently hosted by the University of Mpumalanga (UMP).

The Open Access Week Colloquium brings together academics, researchers, and thought leaders to explore the role of Open Access in enhancing knowledge accessibility.

Ms Veldsman noted that South African researchers and institutions face barriers to accessing scientific knowledge because of the high costs associated with journal subscriptions, making equitable distribution of knowledge across the continent a critical issue.

“Universities should establish a common understanding of Open Science, which promotes collaboration, data sharing, and the exchange of ideas, all of these are essential for enhancing research capacity within South African institutions,” she said.

“Open Science facilitates collaboration, data sharing, and the exchange of ideas, which are vital for building research capacity within South African institutions. It also encourages international and intra-African collaboration, helping to integrate African research into global discussions and ensuring that African perspectives are considered
science and innovation,” Ms Veldman explained.

The Open Access Week Colloquium was hosted under the theme: Community over Commercialization, aimed to discuss a publishing model for scholarly communication that makes research information freely available to readers, unlike the traditional subscription model where access requires payment, typically through libraries.

UMP Vice-Chancellor Professor Thoko Mayekiso added that the University is committed to Open Access of prioritising public good over profit. The institution signed the Berlin Declaration in 2019, joining the global movement to support Open Access for the benefit of science and society.

“This declaration solidified our support for Open Access and our commitment to the Open Access paradigm, aiming to benefit science and society,” she said, adding that Open Access plays a critical role in enhancing the global reach of research outputs, particularly for South African universities.

Bright Future for Open Access Publishing

Professor Mayekiso further said Open Access aligns with the Institution’s core values of excellence and diversity, reinforcing its mission to foster equitable knowledge-sharing pathways, and UMP’s dedication to addressing the prohibitive costs of research subscriptions, advocating for a more equitable knowledge-sharing landscape.

“Our vision as the University of Mpumalanga is to be an African university leading in creating opportunities for sustainable development through innovation, placing knowledge generation at the core of our being. In line with UMP Vision 2030, we aim to make pioneering, critical contributions through the production and dissemination of knowledge.”

She acknowledged UMP’s active participation in discussions on Open Access, facilitated by Universities South Africa, which seeks to create a unified approach to open access across South African higher education institutions.

Professor Aldo Stroebel, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Internationalisation, added that the future of Open Access publishing will be defined by accessibility, increased collaboration, and a strong commitment to ethical practices.

He further emphasised four key areas poised for transformative growth: innovative platforms for faster research dissemination, AI integration to streamline publishing workflows, an increase in interdisciplinary collaboration, and a commitment to ethical practices in Open Access.

“The ultimate future of Open Access publishing is likely to be characterised by greater accessibility, enhanced collaboration, and a commitment to ethical practices. The journey toward a more open and equitable publishing ecosystem is certainly underway, and in a sense, we are celebrating it during this session and throughout this year.”

Some of the key topics that were discussed included: Generative AI in research, which was presented by Dr Gagandeep Singh: Senior Publisher- STEM CRC Press Taylor and Francis Group, and funding was presented by Dr Nokuthula Mchunu: Deputy Director- African Open Science Platform, National Research Foundation.

UMP Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, Professor Ndiko Ludidi presented the Open Access Scholarly Community: Researcher Networks. In closing Professor Ferdinand Niyimbanira, a Senior Lecturer from the School of Development Studies at UMP, shared his research experiences.

Story by Lisa Thabethe.