Three notable researchers from the Durban University of Technology (DUT) have been announced as finalists for the prestigious 2023/2024 National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) South32 Awards, which is referred to as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa.
The three DUT researchers who have been nominated are Dr Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, a Research Fellow/Principal Investigator with the Green Engineering Research Group (GERG); Professor Ajay Mishra, Professor in the Department of Chemistry; and Professor Saheed Sabiu, an Associate Professor in the Department of Biotechnology and Food Science. They have been announced amongst individuals or organisations who have made an outstanding contribution to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation, under 14 different categories.
Dr Tetteh and Prof Sabiu are nominated in the TW Kambule-NSTF Award: Emerging Researcher category, looking at an individual through research and its outputs, who conducted up to six years of research work in South Africa, from the commencement of his/her research career. Meanwhile Prof Mishra is nominated in the NSTF-Water Research Commission Award category, looking at an individual or an organisation who worked towards achieving sustainable water management, knowledge generation and solutions, with demonstrated leadership and impact over the last five to 10 years.
The first finalist, Prof Sabiu, apart from his active involvement in teaching and learning including Collaborative International Online Learning (COIL), currently leads the Computational and Systems Biology Research Group, where they bioprospect for secondary metabolites against degenerative and microbial diseases, for new small molecule therapeutic targets discovery and development.
When asked about his thoughts on the 2023/2024 NSTF-South32 Awards, Prof Sabiu commented that he was highly elated and humbled that his name was mentioned as a finalist. Prof Sabiu indicated the importance of such awards, as it showcases the kind of relevant and timely research being conducted alongside the students and researchers involved in active research at the institution.
In 2023, Prof Sabiu was awarded both the Faculty Researcher of the Year (Gold) and Emerging Researcher of the Year awards at the DUT ENVISION2030 Institutional Awards.
The second finalist, Prof Mishra, described the NSTF Awards as one of the science hubs a person needs to represent with full pride.
“I am glad I have been nominated by DUT and hopefully will keep the DUT flag on a high note. One must always feel proud to be a part of the NSTF Awards,” he said.
Sharing his excitement on the nomination, the third finalist, Dr Tetteh said: “My sterling research contribution in the field of SET and innovation in South Africa as a young emerging researcher, made them consider my nomination that was submitted by the Acting Executive Dean in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, Professor Sudesh Rathilal,” said Dr Tetteh.
Being nominated by DUT means a lot to Dr Tetteh because it shows that his hard work was being recognised and acknowledged.
“I am honoured to secure nominations in the NSTF Awards considering my hard work over the years and putting DUT on the global map of thriving excellence. I am eternally grateful to God almighty for making it to this stage at the awards,” shared Dr Tetteh.
Dr Tetteh believes his win at the NSTF Awards will instil tremendous confidence and reflection in emerging researchers in the DUT community, who strives for excellence to do more. He further looks forward to more collaboration with stakeholders to promote green engineering research, in the field of water-energy nexus for a sustainable environment.
Sharing his congratulatory message, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Engagement at DUT, Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola said: “On behalf of the Durban University of Technology, I am delighted to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, Professor Ajay Mishra and Professor Saheed Sabiu, on being announced as finalists for the prestigious 2023/2024 NSTF-South32 Awards. This recognition is a testament to their exceptional contributions to science, engineering and technology, reflecting the high calibre of research being conducted at DUT. Their achievements elevate the status of DUT and inspire our entire academic community to strive for excellence. This recognition aligns perfectly with our DUT ENVISION2030 strategy, which aims to position DUT as a globally recognised institution of higher learning, known for its impactful research and innovation. We are honoured to have them represent DUT and wish them the very best at the NSTF Awards Gala Event.”
Prof Nemavhola further stated that DUT was proud of their dedication and the innovative work they are doing. He shared that their success paves the way for many more groundbreaking advancements, significantly advancing the DUT vision and mission and demonstrating the transformative impact of the university’s research on society.
The winners will be announced at the NSTF Awards Gala Event, which will take place as a hybrid event broadcast simultaneously from two cities and venues, namely at the Sandton Convention Centre and the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on Thursday, 11 July 2024.
Pictured: The three DUT researchers who are finalists, Dr Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, Professor Ajay Mishra, and Professor Saheed Sabiu.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Waheeda Peters/Simangele Zuma
