North-West University (NWU) academic Prof Olubukola Oluranti Babalola and student Sinenhlanhla Mthembu have been named finalists for the 2024 South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA).
These awards recognise outstanding contributions by women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Prof Babalola and Sinenhlanhla will join other distinguished women at the awards ceremony on 15 August in Mbombela.
The event is hosted by the Department of Science and Innovation, and this year’s theme is "Transition towards an innovation economy: The role of women leaders in science, technology, engineering and mathematics".
Prof Babalola is the director of the NWU’s Food Security and Safety research niche area and leads the Microbial Biotechnology subject group. She is also the vice-president of the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), which oversees operations spanning 46 African countries.
Prof Babalola is widely recognised for her groundbreaking research on plant-microbe interactions, which has far-reaching implications for sustainable agriculture and food security. Her innovative approaches have paved the way for enhanced crop productivity and resilience, particularly in the context of climate change.
In response to the announcement, she expressed her gratitude and emphasised the importance of supporting women in science.
"Being recognised as a finalist is a tremendous honour. It underscores the critical role that women play in advancing science and addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time. I hope this recognition inspires more young women to pursue careers in science and contribute to our collective understanding and betterment of the world," she said.
Sinenhlanhla is a PhD student in biochemistry and collaborates with the South African Medical Research Council. She obtained her BSc in biochemistry and microbiology in 2017, her BScHons in microbiology in 2018, and her MSc in biochemistry in 2020 at the University of Zululand.
She is currently involved in type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular research, investigating the implications of dyslipidemia and statin-associated dysregulations on CoQ biosynthesis. Beyond this, she is also investigating the potential therapeutic properties of dietary compounds like aspalathin and sulforaphane on their cardioprotective properties.
She said she is incredibly grateful for this recognition.
“This award represents more than just personal achievement; it signifies opportunities for my career as a young female scientist. I believe it will open doors for collaboration as I strive to establish myself in the field. Moreover, I hope it serves as an inspiration to other young researchers who look up to me, showing them that hard work pays off, no matter where you come from. Lastly, I am profoundly grateful to my supervisors for their support and guidance,” said Sinenhlanhla.
Prof Olubukola Oluranti Babalola.
Sinenhlanhla Mthembu.
