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Advancing Biogeochemistry Research at the UFS

12 November 2024 | Story Jacky Tshokwe | Photo Supplied

Dr Mariana Erasmus (Vice Director, CMBG) demonstrates some of the equipment in the newly established, state-of-the-art laboratories at the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry.

The University of the Free State (UFS) recently hosted a landmark event-the national launch of the South African Biogeochemistry Research Infrastructure Platform (BIOGRIP) - in the Centenary Complex on its Bloemfontein Campus. This significant occasion marked the establishment of the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry at the UFS and underscored South Africa’s growing commitment to biogeochemistry research.

Prof Anthea Rhoda welcomed the distinguished gathering of scientists, students, industry leaders, and stakeholders, highlighting the launch as a collaborative milestone in South Africa's scientific journey. In her address, Prof Rhoda emphasised the importance of the interdisciplinary nature of biogeochemistry, where biology, geology, and chemistry converge to offer insights into critical issues such as climate change, water quality, and soil health. She remarked on the necessity of collaboration, explaining that BIOGRIP’s platform, built on shared resources and expertise, exemplifies the power of uniting across institutional boundaries to accelerate impactful discoveries.

The programme featured insightful scientific talks by leading experts, each focusing on how biogeochemistry addresses key environmental issues such as sustainability and resource management. These presentations reinforced BIOGRIP’s commitment to advancing knowledge that can influence policy and improve practices.

Attendees were also given guided tours of the state-of-the-art laboratories in the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry, which provided a behind-the-scenes look at the advanced tools and methods employed in studying interactions between minerals, biology, and the environment. For many, this was a highlight, as they observed firsthand how biogeochemical research is conducted and contributes to soil health, pollution control, and environmental conservation.

The launch provided ample networking opportunities, fostering connections among academics, government representatives, industry professionals, and environmental organisations. Over a catered lunch, participants engaged in vibrant discussions about potential collaborations and the role of biogeochemistry in addressing South Africa’s environmental challenges.

The BIOGRIP national launch stands as a milestone event, not only for the UFS, but for the broader South African scientific community. With the establishment of this research platform, South Africa is well-positioned to tackle pressing environmental issues through innovative research and cross-sector collaboration. The event left attendees inspired and motivated, setting an optimistic tone for the future of biogeochemistry research in the region.

News Archive

Forensic investigation at UFS Computer Services division in final stage of finalisation

2007-02-01

Statement by prof Niel Viljoen, Chief Director: Operations

The case in which possible irregularities were investigated at the University of the Free State’s (UFS) Computer Services Division at the end of 2005, and which led to two Deputy Directors’ compulsory leave pending an investigation, is making good progress and is in the final stage of finalisation.

One of the Deputy Directors resigned unconditionally a day before his disciplinary hearing was to take place. He is one of two staff members who were placed on compulsory leave after an internal investigation ordered by the UFS management indicated possible irregularities in the division.

“As a result of the extent of the case and the involvement of more than one local business, the investigation had a long course,” said Prof Viljoen.

“The Deputy Director who resigned would have appeared before a disciplinary committee with Judge Joos Hefer as chairperson on charges of misconduct, involving more than R500 000,” said Prof Viljoen.

“We are going ahead with the process of criminal prosecution against this person and a docket was opened at the commerce branch of the South African Police Services (SAPS). A civil action to recover damages from him was started,” Prof Viljoen said.

With a couple of exceptions, the internal disciplinary process of the other persons involved in the case is also finalised. “The disciplinary hearing of the Deputy Director, who is still in the service of the UFS’s Computer Services division, is scheduled for May 2007. This person is still on compulsory leave,” Prof Viljoen said.

“To demonstrate our commitment to the enhancement of honest work ethics and to give to personnel and students a mechanism to bring any unethical business practices to the attention of the UFS management, a fraud hotline was installed last year. The hotline is operated 24 hours a day for 365 days of the year by KPMG,” Prof Viljoen said.

Prof Viljoen thanked everyone who was involved in the investigation for their cooperation. This includes staff as well as people from outside the UFS. “We are committed to transparent corporate management. Any possible irregularities will be investigated and if staff or students are found guilty of any irregular behaviour, strict actions would be taken against these persons,” Prof Viljoen said.

Media release

Issued by: Lacea Loader

Media Representative

Tel: (051) 401-2584

Cell: 083 645 2454

E-mail: loaderl@mail.ufs.ac.za
2 February 2007

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