The Executive Dean in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Professor Nokuthula Sibiya, has won the Distinguished Woman Scientist Award in the Human Sciences category at the 2018 South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA), which took place last night, 23 August 2018 at The Ranch Hotel in Polokwane.
Prof Sibiya, who is a C3-rated researcher, is the author of 40 peer reviewed publications, two books and 10 books chapters and she has presented her papers at national and international conferences. She has successfully supervised eight doctoral, 45 masters and 22 BTech students and Prof Sibiya is currently supervising a further eight doctoral and five master’s students.
When quizzed about what might have contributed to her receiving this prestigious award, Prof Sibiya said, “When I submitted my nomination for the award, I had to include a motivation of how my research innovation had enhanced inclusive growth and development of women in particular. Of the 53 postgraduate students I have successfully supervised, 47 are women. The majority of these women graduates (19) are currently appointed as lecturers in higher education at institutions and in colleges. One of my women PhD graduates holds a senior position in the National Department of Correctional Services.”
Prof Sibiya said this recognition is also a huge motivation for her to continue with her contribution towards the research output at DUT. “Besides contributing a new body of knowledge through research, the resultant research output subsidy also contributes to the financial sustainability of our University. So, I take research seriously, as this is one of my core business as an academic at DUT,” said Prof Sibiya.
“In order to build capacity, experienced researchers should strive to involve students in research projects and empower them with skills of writing for publication. As the Executive Dean, I have limited time to focus on research but I always work with teams to maintain the momentum,” she added.
Prof Sibiya also extended her gratitude to DUT for affording her the opportunity to grow and develop as a researcher. “As women academics, we need to join hands and support each other in pushing the boundaries,” she said.
This glamourous event hosted by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has been in existence since 2003. The awards recognise the achievements of women scientists and it provides motivation for the increased participation of women in research. This helps to profile women scientists and researchers and encourages and rewards the next generation of young women who are starting their careers as researchers and scientists.
The 2018 edition of SAWiSA was held under the theme, “100 years of Mama Albertina Sisulu: Women united in moving South Africa forward”.
Professor Nokuthula Sibiya can be contacted at: 082 466 0642
Pictured: Prof Nokuthula Sibiya (middle) alongside Minister of Science and Technology, Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane (left) and former First Lady Mrs Bongi Ngema-Zuma (right).
Nduduzo Ndlovu
