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14 June 2024
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Story Anthony Mthembu
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Photo Suplied
Jeremiah Hlahla, a UFS student completing his PhD in Botany at the University of Debrecen as part of an exchange initiative funded by the Erasmus+ Mobility Programme.
As part of an exchange initiative facilitated by the Erasmus+ Mobility Programme, Jeremiah Hlahla, a student at the University of the Free State (UFS), is nearing the completion of his PhD studies at the University of Debrecen in Hungary. Hlahla’s journey, which began in February 2024 and is set to conclude in July 2024, has been a remarkable learning opportunity. “As a first time-traveller to Europe, I have thoroughly enjoyed engaging with people from different countries and cultures,” he said.
The benefits of international collaboration
Hlahla is currently pursuing a PhD in Botany, focusing on plant stress physiology. “My current PhD project investigates the physiological, biochemical and morphological responses of vegetable-type soybean, or edamame, to combined drought and heat stress,’’ he explained. He considers the University of Debrecen the ideal institution to complete his research due to its extensive expertise and resources in similar projects. He noted that his colleagues at Debrecen conduct significant work on plant protection against biotic and abiotic stresses, including salt and drought stress, as well as proteins and amino acids in barley and other legumes.
Given the vast knowledge available on similar projects, Hlahla has found substantial engagement with his work at the University of Debrecen. “Upon arrival, I delivered an introductory lecture presenting my UFS project on the synergistic effects of combined drought and heat stress on the physiology and biochemistry of edamame. It was an engaging session as everyone could relate to my work and asked many questions,’’ he said.
Insights gained from the exchange
Hlahla has also gained valuable lessons that will assist him in his research career, including biotechnology and physiology tools. “I learned how to prepare samples and use high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and reversed-phase ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) to quantify proteins and amino acids,’’ he said. These techniques are beneficial not only for his current work but will also support future soybean research.
As his experience at the University of Debrecen nears its end, Hlahla reflects on the collaborations and friendships he has formed, which stand out as a significant highlight.
Remembrance wall celebrates Kovsies
2012-08-21
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SRC members leading the Proudly Kovsie March. From the left are: Biejangka Calitz, SRC member: Media, Marketing & Liaison Marketing; William Clayton, SRC member: Accessibility & Student Support; and Bonolo Thebe, SRC member: Sport.
Photo: Linda Fekisi
21 August 2012
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One of the highlights of the recent Proudly Kovsie March was the unveiling of the SRC Remembrance Wall. The wall is a board with photos of the everyday Kovsie student.
Biejangka Calitz, SRC member: Media, Marketing & Liaison, says the board was set up to give students a feeling of Kovsie unity. “It will also create a sense of pride of being part of an iconic place with a melting pot of talent and creativity that is never boring.”
Biejangka says the inspiration comes from a theatre overseas that has a wall with photos and experiences quotes of people who have visited the theatre.
The board of photos will be put up on the wall between the Student Life Centre and Träumerei, behind Van Schaik Bookshop on the Thakaneng Bridge. It will be on display for five years and could remain on display for longer.