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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.
KOVSIE XTRAVAGANZA 2004: Pedro on his way to entertain Kovsies!
2004-09-09
The annual Kovsie Xtravaganza will take place on Tuesday 21 September in the Sand du Plessis Theatre. Once again the best of the Kovsie artists will be show cased in this spectacular of colour, sound and movement. The well known performing artist, Pedro Kruger will act as your host for the evening.
Some of the Kovsie artists who will be performing, will include: Brilliant Cut, Cantare Student revue group, the UFS Choir, the UFS Choral Choir, KARPOS, Voices Incorporated, Bea vd Vyver, Hanno and Andries (currently ZING finalists), Thabo Hlongwane, Lucy Letsoaka, UFS Gospel Mass Choir and the serenade and talent competition winners. For the first time ever at the Xtravaganza, a live band, Music Incorporated (udo Dieperink Moller), will accompany the soloists. Wayne Flemming will act as the director for the production.
The official residence culture winners will also be announced at this gala event.
Hereby all staff, students and people interested are invited to this centenary spectacular.
Tickets are available from PACOFS (+27 51 447 7772) at R25 per person. For all enquiries, contact Louis Botha (+27 51 401 2819).