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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

UFS waives application fees for studies in 2016

2015-10-22

The University of the Free State (UFS) has waived application fees for all prospective undergraduate and postgraduate students - nationally and internationally - who want to study at the institution in 2016.

"Universities charge application fees that vary in amount. With 25 universities in South Africa, this fee becomes a burden for students who want to apply to more than one university. The university leadership has also realised that tens of thousands of students who qualify for university entrance stumble at the first hurdle: finding the money to apply,” says Prof Jonathan Jansen, Vice-Chancellor and Rector.

According to Prof Jansen, the UFS would like to set an example and a challenge to all public universities to scrap the application fee, so that many more young people from poor communities can realise their dream of accessing higher education. At the same time, the universities will benefit from more top talent coming into higher learning. "The more students that enrol and graduate, the stronger the financial position of universities will be; it is a win-win policy, and the university leadership has done the maths on this," he says.

The application fees for 2016 were R235 for South African students and R500 for international students. Prospective students, who have already applied for admission in 2016, will not be refunded. However, students who have already registered successfully for 2016 may apply to have the application fee credited to their tuition fee account after they have registered next year.

To support this initiative, UFS Marketing will be conducting an on-site application campaign by visiting East London, Port Elizabeth, Kimberley, Qwaqwa, Kathu, Pretoria, Johannesburg, Newcastle, Durban, Pietermaritzburg, and Ladysmith from 28 August 2015. Further details of the venues in each town will be available on the Kovsie2b Facebook page.

All prospective students currently doing their final-year undergraduate studies at either the UFS or any other university will also pay no registration fee if they want to continue with an Honours degree in 2016. The registration fee for 2016 was R950.

The closing date for applications for admission is 31 December 2015.

Apply for undergraduate or postgraduate studies at the UFS for 2016.

For enquiries, please call +27(0)51 401 9111.

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