The Faculty of Applied Sciences at Durban University of Technology (DUT) is celebrating a standout achievement by PhD student Halimat Yusuf Lukman, who claimed second place in a commercialisation pitch competition at the inaugural African Metabolomics Conference, held in South Africa in March 2026.
A member of the Faculty’s Computational and Systems Biology Research Group, Lukman is pursuing her doctorate in the Department of Biotechnology and Food Science. Her research focuses on identifying bioactive compounds from citrus plants with potential applications in diabetes management, translating Africa’s rich plant biodiversity into practical, affordable health solutions.
Hosted by Metabolomics South Africa, an affiliate of the International Metabolomics Society, the conference ran from 11 to 13 March 2026 at the Misty Hills Hotel and Conference Centre. It brought together scientists, postgraduate researchers, policymakers and industry leaders working across metabolomics, biotechnology, food science and artificial intelligence.
Lukman’s pitch, “African Plants, Smart Diabetic Nutrition,” showed how metabolomics, AI, molecular modelling and laboratory assays can be combined to identify and validate bioactive compounds from citrus plants. “Africa has a rich diversity of medicinal plants, but much remains unexplored,” she said. “I hope to combine traditional knowledge with modern scientific tools to create solutions that genuinely benefit communities.”
Her supervisor, Professor Saheed Sabiu, described the recognition as a testament to both her work ethic and her promise as a researcher. “This achievement highlights Halimat as a goal-getter who is ready and willing to learn. Without a doubt, she belongs to an exclusive group of the next generation of researchers to watch.”
Prof Sabiu also pointed to the broader scientific and commercial significance of the project. “Her research aligns strongly with the concept of waste to wealth, or waste to health. Through comprehensive characterisation of citrus peels and detailed metabolite profiling, the work explores how natural compounds can be repurposed for diabetes care. The findings hold strong commercial potential and are already being published in high-impact journals such as Computers in Biology and Medicine, which affirms the scientific quality of what is being undertaken.”
For Lukman, placing second was both validating and motivating. “I felt deeply honoured. It affirms the work I have invested over the past four years and reassures me that this research can make a meaningful impact.”
Faculty of Applied Sciences Executive Dean Prof Suren Singh congratulated Lukman and her supervisor on the achievement. “Her inspiring pitch on citrus-derived compounds for diabetes management showcases the power of Africa’s biodiversity and applied science coming together for real-world impact. Congratulations also to Prof Saheed Sabiu, whose guidance has been instrumental in producing research of this quality. This is a proud moment for both of you, the Faculty and the University.”
Looking ahead, Lukman hopes her findings will attract collaboration from the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors, ultimately translating her research into tangible health solutions for communities across Africa.
Pictured: Halimat Yusuf Lukman at the African Metabolomics Conference, March 2026.
Picture: Supplied.
Silindile Buthelezi
