North-West University (NWU) scientist Prof. Olubukola Babalola received the prestigious 2026 Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) Science-for-Society Gold Medal on 29 October 2026, recognising her outstanding contribution to scientific research and its impact on society.

ASSAf presented the award during its annual awards ceremony at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg. The medal honours scientists who apply scientific knowledge to address societal challenges, improve people's lives and promote sustainable development.

Prof. Babalola, a distinguished microbiology researcher at the Mahikeng Campus of the NWU, has earned national and international recognition for her work in agricultural microbiology, soil health and sustainable agriculture.

Her research focuses on how beneficial microorganisms can improve crop production, restore soil health and reduce reliance on harmful agricultural chemicals. Through this work, she contributes to efforts to strengthen food security, protect the environment and promote sustainable farming practices.

Reacting to the achievement, Prof. Babalola expressed her gratitude to ASSAf and acknowledged the importance of using scientific knowledge to benefit society.

"I am deeply honoured and delighted to have received the prestigious ASSAf Science-for-Society Gold Medal Award 2026, in recognition of excellence in applying outstanding scientific thinking in the service of society," she said.

She credited her achievement to the support of research collaborators, mentors, institutions, students and colleagues. She also thanked the NWU and several national and international scientific organisations for supporting her research journey.

Prof. Babalola said the recognition strengthened her determination to advance scientific excellence, mentor emerging researchers and build partnerships that translate research into practical solutions.

"Science must not only advance knowledge; it must also transform lives," she said.

ASSAf president Prof. Thokozani Majozi congratulated Prof. Babalola on the achievement and recognised her contribution to advancing scientific knowledge that serves society.

ASSAf established the Science-for-Society Gold Medals in 2002 to recognise exceptional scholarly excellence and the application of scientific thinking to societal needs. Each year, the Academy awards a maximum of two medals to scientists whose work demonstrates the practical value of research.

The award includes a gold medal and a monetary prize.

Prof. Babalola's achievement highlights the role of scientific research in addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, food insecurity and environmental degradation.

Beyond her scientific contributions, she actively supports the next generation of researchers through postgraduate supervision, mentorship and collaborative research projects. Her work helps develop scientific skills and strengthens research partnerships across institutions and countries.

The recognition also reinforces the NWU's commitment to research excellence, innovation and knowledge that responds to societal needs.

By recognising Prof. Babalola's scientific achievements, ASSAf has highlighted the value of research that moves beyond academic publications to deliver meaningful benefits to communities and society.

Prof. Olubukola Babalola