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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.
UFS staff among proud PhD graduates
2013-06-28
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Prof Dave Lubbe with his two daughters, Leandi Steenkamp (left) and Nandi Lubbe.
Photo: Stefan Lotter
An exceptional moment at this year's graduation ceremony was when the two daughters of an academic, Prof Dave Lubbe of the Centre for Accounting, obtained their master's degrees. "It is indeed a highlight in my career that my daughters received their master's degrees cum laude at the same graduation ceremony, under my supervision!"
Prof Lubbe's two daughters, Nandi Lubbe and Leandi Steenkamp, both received their MCom with distinctions in Accounting. They completed their degrees under the supervision of Prof Lubbe and Nandi also won the Dean's medal as the best M student in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences. |
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Julia Ramabenyane Mamosebatho and Emmie Smit. Julia, of the Faculty of Education: School for Social Sciences and Language Education, received her PhD in Curriculum Studies. Her thesis was on The facilitative role of Grade 1 teachers in the development of reading skills in Sesotho. Emmie, from the Office of the Dean: Education, did her thesis on Appreciating the University of the Free State's transformation: A juxtaposed journey with Alice to Wonderland. With this, she obtained her PhD in Higher Education Studies.
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Merridy Wilson-Strydom and Deidre van Rooyen. Merridy obtained her PhD in Higher Education Studies. Her thesis A framework for facilitating the transition from school to university in South Africa: A capabilities approach, is a comprehensive and ambitious research project that was accomplished with great academic mastery. With her thesis, Civic culture and local economic development in a small town, Deidre obtained her PhD in Development Studies.
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| The Institute for Groundwater Studies (IGS) boasted with five students who received their doctor’s degrees at this Winter Graduation. They are, from the left, front: Vierah Hulley, Chris Moseki, Ferdie Linde, Abdon Atangana and Jacob Nyende. Back is Prof Jopie Botha, Prof Gerrit van Tonder and Dr Danie Vermeulen. |
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Modulathoko Irvin Mabokgole received his master's degree in Mathematical Statistics and Actuarial Science. He also received the Senate Medal for best master's student at the university. |
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Dave Mills obtained his master's degree in Practical Theology.
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Manie Moolman received his PhD in Higher Education Studies. With his thesis, Competence directives for enhancing the employability of hospitality management graduates in South Africa, he addresses one of the most important challenges facing higher education training in hospitality management, namely the training of employable graduates. |
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Jo-Marí Visser obtained her PhD in Criminal and Medical Law. With her thesis First generation forensic evidence and its influence on legal decision-making: A South African perspective, she investigates forensic evidence and the collection thereof at the crime scene. |
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Maralize Conradie received her master's degree in Commercial Law. The subject of her thesis is A critical analysis of the right to fair labour practices. |
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Jan Beukes received his PhD in Music – Performing Arts. This lecturer at the Odeion School of Music's thesis is titled: Oorwegings by die realisering en dokumentering van 'n duet- of duo-orreltranskripsie van Fauré se Requiem (op. 48). |