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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 facilitates historic meeting between NAFU and FS agriculture
2007-06-14
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Attending the meeting were, from the left: Mr Louw Steytler (President of Free State Agriculture), Prof. Herman van Schalkwyk (Dean of the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the UFS) and Rev Otto Mbongula (President of NAFU in the Free State).
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UFS facilitates historic meeting between NAFU and FS agriculture
A significant breakthrough in the agricultural sector has taken place today (13 June 2007) following a historical meeting between Free State Agriculture and the National African Farmers Union (NAFU) during which it was decided to work together in future in various areas to achieve collective objectives for the sector.
Prof. Herman van Schalkwyk, Dean of the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the University of the Free State (UFS) facilitated the process. The meeting was attended by Rev Otto Mbongula, President of NAFU in the Free State and Mr Louw Steytler, President of Free State Agriculture.
“I am excited about the openness of the discussions between the two parties as it holds great advantages for the agricultural sector in the Free State Province,” says Prof. van Schalkwyk.
The parties proposed co-operation on various terrains and agreed to talk to each other on a regular basis, and to identify differences and similarities to the advantage of the province’s economy. This agreement is closely linked to the intended co-operation between AGRI SA and NAFU SA which was agreed to at a meeting last year in Pretoria.
During the meeting the parties also agreed to involve other role players in the discussions in due course, and communication with the Provincial Government was highlighted as an important point of departure.
“NAFU and Free State Agriculture can set an example at provincial level for the agricultural sector as a whole to ensure sustained participation about the economic future of the sector,” says Prof. van Schalkwyk.
Media release
Issued by: Lacea Loader
Assistant Director: Media Liaison
Tel: 051 401 2584
Cell: 083 645 2454
E-mail: loaderl.stg@ufs.ac.za
13 June 2007 |