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27 January 2025 | Story Precious Shamase | Photo Thabang Mokoena
Assistant Deans Qwaqwa
Dr Calvin Mudzingiri, Prof Cias Tsotetsi & Prof Jared McDonald.

In a remarkable feat of academic excellence, the Qwaqwa Campus of the University of the Free State (UFS) celebrates a series of significant achievements by its esteemed academics. These accomplishments highlight the exceptional talent and dedication within the campus community.

Dr Calvin Mudzingiri, Assistant Dean: Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, has achieved a significant milestone with the attainment of a C2 NRF rating. This prestigious recognition acknowledges his outstanding research contributions and solidifies his position as a leading scholar in his field. Dr Mudzingiri is also highly regarded for his teaching and mentoring skills. He is known for his engaging lectures, his ability to connect with students, and his dedication to their academic success.

 

Prof Aliza le Roux's groundbreaking achievement

Prof Le Roux, Assistant Dean: Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, made history by becoming the first woman to be appointed as a full professor on the Qwaqwa Campus. Prof Le Roux is also a respected leader and mentor, known for her guidance and support of students and colleagues. This groundbreaking achievement serves as an inspiration to aspiring female academics and further strengthens the university's commitment to gender equality. Prof Le Roux is a highly accomplished researcher with a strong track record of publications in her field.

 

From Assistant Dean: Faculty of Education to Vice-Principal

Prof Cias Tsotetsi's promotion from Assistant Dean: Faculty of Education to Vice-Principal is a testament to his exceptional leadership qualities and dedication to the university's mission. His expertise and guidance will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Qwaqwa Campus. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role, having served as Assistant Dean: Faculty of Education.

 

Double success for Prof McDonald

Prof Jared McDonald, Assistant Dean: The Humanities, has also achieved a remarkable double success. He was promoted to a higher academic rank – from doctor to associate professor – while simultaneously securing a C2 NRF rating. This accomplishment highlights his commitment to both teaching and research excellence.

These achievements by the assistant deans on the Qwaqwa Campus exemplify the high calibre of academics within the institution. Their dedication to research, teaching, and leadership serves as an inspiration to students and colleagues alike. The Qwaqwa Campus is proud to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of these exceptional individuals.

In acknowledgment of exceptional academic prowess, the Campus Principal, Prof Prince Ngobeni, remarked, “In academia, it is not every day that we witness a blend of exceptional leadership, unyielding commitment, and a deep-rooted passion for education. I extend my sincere gratitude to our esteemed assistant deans for their unwavering commitment. The calibre of our faculties with their inquisitive minds, relentless pursuit of knowledge, and dedication to nurturing future researchers, truly defines the excellence of our university. Your contributions to both the university and the advancement of knowledge are deeply valued. Thank you for your invaluable effort,” concluded Prof Ngobeni.

News Archive

Researcher in Plant Breeding one of nine women on the African continent to receive acknowledgement for work in food security
2015-08-04

 
 Prof Maryke Labuschagne

Prof Maryke Labuschagne, Plant Breeding researcher in the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of the Free State (UFS), is one of only nine women on the African continent to receive the prestigious ‘Country Lifetime Achiever Award’ from Africa’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government Programme (MIW) this year.

During a breakfast event, CEO Communications recognised the Most Influential Women in SADC South who are Building Nations. The event took place at the Vodacom Dome in Midrand on 28 July 2015.

She received the award for her commitment and continuous contributions to food security. “I am concerned about this. We need to develop people who can go into Africa to work together for food security on the continent,” says Prof Labuschagne.

Prof Labuschagne
and her students’ research focuses on the genetic improvement of food security crops in Africa, including such staples as maize and cassava. “These crops are genetically improved for yield, drought tolerance, disease, and insect resistance, as well nutritional value.”

“Food security is one of the key factors for stability and prosperity on the continent,” she says.

Apart from the fact that her research is helping to provide food for thousands of people on the continent, she is also an NRF-rated researcher, and author or co-author of over 160 articles in accredited journals.

This is not the firstaward that Prof Labuschagne has received for her work. In 2008, she was chosen as the National Agriculturalist of the Year by the Agricultural Writers Association of South Africa. In 2012, she received the Researcher of the Year award from Grain South Africa, as well as the African Union’s Kwame Nkrumah Science Award for Life Sciences on the continent. 

The Country Lifetime Achiever Award is a prestigious award that recognises and honours the lifelong efforts, achievements, and contributions by individuals in their local communities. This recognition covers all sectors and countries, to create a platform where the work and involvement of extraordinary people can be displayed and noted.

About the award, Prof Labuschagne says: “It is always great to be recognised for your work.”

Elana Meyer (athlete) and Thuli Madonsela (Public Protector and advocate) have also received awards from the programme this year.

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