Cape Peninsula University of Technology

02/14/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 02/14/2024 03:12

Outstanding scientific work central to inducted SAYAS member

Senior Lecturer at the Department of Chemistry, Dr Ncediwe Ndube-Tsolekile, is "very proud" to be part of the newly inaugurated 10 new members of the esteemed South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS).

"To have my scientific and community work recognised nationally for me is truly an honour."

Ndube-Tsolekile attributes her achievement to the years of consistent hard-work and just "giving my best to everything I do". SAYAS is a scientific organisation that was launched by the Minister of Science and Technology in 2011. It's the brainchild of the Academy of Science of South Africa.

SAYAS's objective is to have its members contribute towards solutions to challenges faced by societies both nationally and globally. SAYAS represents the voices of young scientists in South Africa and provides a platform for young scientists to influence policy decisions.

The requirements to be inducted include: members must be below the age of 40, hold a PhD, and be deemed excellent in their fields of expertise. They must have a track record of engagements in community development, capacity building, and mentoring activities.

SAYAS members are selected from across all 26 institutions of higher learning.

"Personally, it means I am doing something right somewhere that is being recognised within the scientific field and community. For CPUT, it reflects the calibre of academic staff within the institution. It highlights that CPUT academics are geared up to making meaningful contributions both within academia and communities at large.

"To have one of your staff members selected is something the University can be proud of."

SAYAS members are expected to avail themselves in order to drive the goals of SAYAS which include the capacity building for scientific excellence, build strategic partnerships and policy influence, engage in community work and scientific communication.

The hard-working mother is very driven and ambitious. "But I fear God and I am a mother first above everything. So, I can say, I am a well-balanced academic."