Get to know some of the researchers at the University of the Free State whose work is inspiring excellence and transforming lives globally.
In addition to the experts listed below, the UFS also boasts a unique research centre: The International Studies Group (ISG), which comprises a wide network of postgraduate researchers each with their own specialist field.
To arrange an interview with any of our experts, please contact our media office at news@ufs.ac.za.
Prof Jan Swanepoel
Area of expertise: Sustainable Food Systems, Sustainable Agriculture, Agriculture Extension, and Economics
Faculty/Department: Department of Sustainable Food Systems and Development
His endeavour to further develop his professional acumen and passion for making a difference in people’s lives, led Prof JW Swanepoel to become part of the University of the Free State after leaving the private sector at the end of 2015. Currently, Prof Swanepoel is an Associate Professor affiliated to the Department of Sustainable Food Systems and Development at the University of the Free State. Some of his current responsibilities include leading the Centre for Sustainable Agriculture and the Development section of the department. His fields of expertise include agricultural extension, sustainable agriculture, food systems and economics, where he accordingly developed a new curriculum for master’s and honours students in Sustainable Agriculture and the B degree in Food Systems. Furthermore, Prof Swanepoel manages all third-stream and community projects in the department.
Prof Swanepoel holds the following degrees from University of the Free State:
• MScAgric in Animal Production
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• PhD in Sustainable Agriculture, specialising in Food Security and Urban Agriculture
• Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Planning (CFP).
Prof Swanepoel has written successful proposals to obtain funding for numerous projects to the value of more than R20 million. Some of the projects are seen as flagship projects of the University of the Free State. He also fulfils the role of Chief Editor of the South African Journal of Agricultural Extension (SAJAE) – a highly acclaimed journal for agricultural extension around the world – and serves as director on the boards of some companies.
Contact Details:
Telephone: +27 51 401 9665
E-mail: SwanepoelJW@ufs.ac.za
