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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.
Simposia on Sentencing - 14 March 2008
2008-03-07
The Centre for Juridical Excellence of the Faculty of Law, University of the Free State (UFS) is hosting a simposia on 14 March 2008 on sentencing in South African criminal courts in the Senate Hall, CR Swart Building on the Main Campus in Bloemfontein.
Two guest speakers from the Department of Mental Health Law and Policy, Louis de la Parte Florida Mental Health Institute, University of South Florida, USA will speak on sentencing issues pertaining to speciality courts as well as diversion programmes. The Hon Judge of Appeal Brand and the Hon Judge Yekiso will also address the audience on sentencing issues.
The simposia is open to the public free of charge and bookings can be made at (051) 401 2698 or 401 9181 (office hours) or 051 444 5013 (fax no). Translation services will be available.
Contact: Prof Elizabeth Snyman-Van Deventer (051 401 2268).
Please confirm your attendance by Thursday, 13 March 2008.