The University of Johannesburg (UJ) continues to showcase its commitment to scientific innovation and excellence, as evidenced by sixteen researchers receiving nominations across eight categories in the prestigious 26th National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) Awards. Often dubbed the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa, these awards, held in collaboration with South32, honour outstanding contributions in science, technology, and innovation. With a focus on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), this year’s ceremony promises to highlight research and technological advancements shaping the nation’s future trajectory.
The broad spectrum of categories in which UJ researchers have earned nominations demonstrates the University’s steadfast dedication to excellence across diverse scientific fields. Regardless of whether it’s for lifetime achievement or emerging talent, each nomination stands as proof of the enduring dedication and expertise within UJ’s academic community.
UJ’s nominees are:
Contribution over a lifetime (fifteen years or more)
- Prof Ben-Erik van Wyk: DST/NRF SARChI Chair in Indigenous Plant Use
- Prof Suprakas S Ray: Distinguished Professor of Chemistry
TW Kambule-NSTF Award: Researcher
- Prof Charlenè Downing: Professor of Nursing
- Prof Blassan George: Associate Professor, Laser Research Centre
- Prof Samuel O Oluwafemi: Professor and Project Leader, Nanomaterials Synthesis and Applications Laboratory
- Prof Umesh Ramnarain: Professor of Science Education
- Prof Mahloro H Serepa-Dlamini: Associate Professor and Head of Department, Biotechnology and Food Technology
- Dr Fidele Tugizimana: Lecturer and Research Scientist, Department of Biochemistry
TW Kambule-NSTF Award: Emerging Researcher
- Prof Tebogo Mashifana: Associate Professor and Head of Department, Chemical Engineering Technology
- Prof Habib Noorbhai: Professor and Director, Biomedical Engineering and Healthcare Technology Research Centre
- Prof Phoka Rathebe: Associate Professor, Department of Environmental Health
- Dr Ridhwaan Suliman: Senior Research Assistant, UJ
Engineering Research Capacity Development Awards
- Prof Soraya P Malinga: Associate Professor and Co-Director, Joint Research Centre for Water, Environmental Science and Technology
- Prof Samuel O Oluwafemi: Professor and Project Leader, Nanomaterials Synthesis and Applications Laboratory
NSTF-Water Research Commission (WRC) Award
- Prof Abayneh A Ambushe: Associate Professor, Department of Chemical Sciences
Green Economy Award
- Prof Langelihle N Dlamini: Associate Professor, Department of Chemical Sciences
Communication Award
- Prof Habib Noorbhai: Professor and Director, Biomedical Engineering and Healthcare Technology Research Centre
- Prof Umesh Ramnarain: Professor of Science Education
Special Annual Theme Award: Fourth Industrial Revolution in South Africa
- Prof Habib Noorbhai: Professor and Director, Biomedical Engineering and Healthcare Technology Research Centre
The winners of these prestigious awards will be announced on 11 July 2024