FNAS

Learners enjoy hands-on robotics and coding experience

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 05 May 2025 09:57:30 +0000

Learners enjoy hands-on robotics and coding experience

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 05/05/2025 - 11:57

Whatever shape the future takes, robotics and coding are likely to be part of it. Fifty primary school learners from the Mahikeng area had the opportunity to learn basic coding and robotic skills during a training programme at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus from 22 to 24 April.

The group of Grade 6 and 7 learners and two educators from DP Kgotlheng Primary School spent three days at the Science Centre of the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences.

They explored robotics principles, programming languages, and software management systems, and were exposed to artificial intelligence (AI) applications such as drones and virtual reality technologies.

The participants also learned about problem-solving, teamwork and creativity by building functional robots. The final day’s competition was a highlight, with the winning teams awarded prizes and certificates.

Olebogeng Matsheka, the Science Centre’s project coordinator, says coding is becoming more accessible to future innovators living in under-resourced communities near the university. “We appreciate how fascinated with robotics and coding, and how willing they are to learn.”

Lerato Molebatsi, centre manager, highlighted how this initiative supports the integration into schools of techno-blended education models in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) to foster sustainable development. “These skills will assist learners to consider STEM careers and increase their interest about further learning in technology.”

The programme concluded with a guided tour around the Science Centre, stopping at various science departments to motivate and inspire learners to pursue science and technology fields.

The centre regularly hosts groups of primary school learners hungry for knowledge and eager to learn what the future holds for them.

Learners from DP Kgotlheng Primary School explore robotics software.

Call for climate-smart cattle breeding to promote food security

MARELIZE SANTANA — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 08:10:15 +0000

Call for climate-smart cattle breeding to promote food security MARELIZE SANTANA Tue, 04/29/2025 - 10:10

By Gofaone Motsamai

Heat stress is among the most urgent climate-related challenges affecting beef cattle productivity, requiring South African cattle breeders to adopt climate-smart strategies to bolster food security under changing environmental conditions.

“Heat stress is becoming a major threat to livestock productivity,” said Prof Giel Scholtz of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) in an online guest lecture hosted by the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences on 24 April 2025.

Prof Scholtz is a specialist researcher in applied animal breeding at ARC Animal Production and a researcher focused on sustainable livestock systems.

He explained that when humidity levels rise above 80%, the temperature threshold for heat stress in beef cattle drops from 30°C to 27°C. This heat stress reduces feed intake, delays growth, impairs fertility and affects meat quality.

Heat stress can also lead to reproductive inefficiency in both male and female cattle, Prof Scholtz said. “If the temperature goes above 27°C, semen quality decreases and some sperm die. It takes eight weeks for new sperm to be formed, meaning even one day of extreme heat can influence bull fertility.”

He presented data showing how indigenous breeds such as the Afrikaner and Nguni are more resilient than exotic breeds. “In 2015/16, the hottest and driest year recorded, Angus and Simmental types showed a 70% decrease in growth rate during heat waves, while the growth rate of Afrikaner and Nguni only dropped by 9%.”

The importance of feed efficiency under climate pressure was also raised. “We saw bulls eating less but weighing more, probably due to increased water intake,” he noted. “Nguni bulls increased water intake by up to 50%, while the Afrikaner bulls did not change their water intake at all.”

Prof Scholtz stressed the importance of using indigenous or adapted breeds for future breeding strategies. “Our indigenous breeds are our heritage for food security,” he said. “They are better adapted to survive and reproduce under harsh environments.”

He concluded the lecture by calling for new breeding priorities focused on smaller body size, lighter hair colour, darker skin pigmentation and the effective use of crossbreeding. “We need animals that are resilient, that recover quickly, and that can bounce back after extreme climatic events.”

Prof Giel Scholtz

New study explores future biology teachers’ views on AI in the classroom across two continents

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 04:56:32 +0000

New study explores future biology teachers’ views on AI in the classroom across two continents

by Mafumane Tlhapi

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 04/25/2025 - 06:56

A new international study is shedding light on how future biology teachers from South Africa and Indonesia perceive the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom, and what they believe is needed to make it work effectively.

Dr Moleboheng Mokhele-Ramulumo, a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Education and member of the Research Unit for Self-Directed Learning at the North-West University (NWU), led the comparative study. It focused on the perceived benefits of AI in biology education and teachers’ self-reported Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK).

“There is growing interest in how AI can be used in classrooms, but we found that teachers still need support to understand how to use it effectively,” says Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo.

The international research team included:

· Prof Lindelani Mnguni – University of Pretoria

· Prof Prasart Nuangchalerm – Mahasarakham University, Thailand

· Dr R Ahmad Zaky El Islami – Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa, Indonesia

· Dr Doras Sibanda – University of KwaZulu-Natal

· Dr Indah Juwita Sari – Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa, Indonesia

The study surveyed 113 participants, 62 from South Africa and 51 from Indonesia, via an online questionnaire. Results revealed that Indonesian participants reported higher levels of technological knowledge and technological pedagogical knowledge. Despite this, both groups expressed similarly strong views on the benefits of integrating AI into biology teaching.

“AI was generally seen as useful for collaboration and for helping students engage with the content, but without the right training, these benefits may not be fully realised,” says Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo.

A key finding was that among Indonesian pre-service teachers, higher technological knowledge was significantly associated with stronger beliefs in AI’s educational value, particularly in promoting peer collaboration.

“This suggests that when future teachers feel confident in their tech skills, they are more likely to see value in using AI,” she adds.

The study also highlights ongoing gaps in teacher preparation and emphasises the need for improved training and equitable access to technological tools in teacher education.

“We need to think about how institutions support pre-service teachers,” says Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo. “If we want classrooms to benefit from AI, we have to start by equipping the teachers.”

This research contributes meaningfully to the global discourse on AI in education by identifying the conditions necessary for its successful integration in schools.

Future biology teachers from South Africa and Indonesia weigh in on the promise and challenges of integrating AI into classrooms, highlighting the need for better training and support.

Weevils alone will not permanently eradicate Hartbeespoort Dam’s hyacinth problem

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 06:30:39 +0000

Weevils alone will not permanently eradicate Hartbeespoort Dam’s hyacinth problem BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 04/24/2025 - 08:30

By Gofaone Motsamai

While the release of weevils into the hyacinth-infested waters of the Hartbeespoort Dam is a welcome development, these insects alone cannot be expected to permanently solve the dam’s pollution problem.

“The use of weevils must be part of an integrated plan to resolve the issue,” says Prof Wynand Malherbe from the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Water Research Group in the Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management.

“They can help treat the symptoms of the problem, but they won’t address the root cause – which is nutrient-rich inflows and poor water quality in the catchments of Hartebeesport Dam.”

Prof Malherbe, commenting on the recent release of a weevil biotype – a small beetle species used in biological control – into the dam, says weevils can help combat the rapid spread of water hyacinth, but that reinvasion will reoccur if the underlying causes are not addressed.

On the one hand, the use of weevils is part of a scientifically backed method of restoring ecological balance without the use of chemicals, he says, noting that research from the Centre for Biological Control at Rhodes University has shown limited risk to the ecosystem.

On the other hand, biological control of this kind is not without its challenges.

“These weevils are unable to survive the region’s cold winters, which naturally limits their population and prevents uncontrolled spread,” Prof Malherbe says. “They also take time to become effective, and their performance is affected by environmental conditions such as water quality, temperature and pollution, making outcomes difficult to predict from year to year.”

He says biological control works best when combined with mechanical removal and, in some cases, the use of selective herbicides. “It is a very effective method to control water hyacinth in the long run, but it will never fully eradicate the problem.”

Ongoing management and coordination are essential, he adds. “Water hyacinth will return in the new season, so continuous efforts and monitoring are essential. Without proper oversight, there’s also a small risk that the biological agents could impact indigenous systems, especially if mismanaged.”

Prof Wynand Malherbe.

ReneWable Rangers game earns academic nomination for South Africa’s ‘Science Oscars’

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 11:29:35 +0000

ReneWable Rangers game earns academic nomination for South Africa’s ‘Science Oscars’

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 04/23/2025 - 13:29

Dr Moleboheng Mokhele-Ramulumo, a senior lecturer in Natural Sciences Education at the North-West University (NWU) and a member of the Self-Directed Learning (SDL) Research Unit, has been nominated for the prestigious National Science and Technology Forum’s (NSTF)-South32 Awards.

She has been nominated for the TW Kambule-NSTF Award in the Emerging Researcher category. This award celebrates emerging researchers who make significant impacts early in their careers.

Recognised as South Africa’s “Science Oscars”, the NSTF-South32 Awards honour outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology, and innovation.

Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo’s nomination highlights her work on ReneWable Rangers, an educational digital game currently in its production phase, with assets and coding actively underway. Developed in collaboration with Prof Byron Bunt, deputy director of the School of Commerce and Social Studies in Education, and Dr Lance Bunt, senior lecturer in computer science and information systems, the project introduces children aged four to six to concepts of renewable energy, sustainability, and environmental responsibility through a culturally resonant, exploration-driven digital platform.

Inspired by the experiences of her children, Wavhudi and Rivhavhudi, who faced early speech delays, Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo began exploring digital learning environments to support language development.

This personal journey evolved into a research-led innovation grounded in self-directed learning (SDL) theory and culturally responsive pedagogy. The game adopts a pragmatic, convergent parallel mixed-methods research design to explore how SDL principles - such as independent exploration, critical thinking, and problem-solving - can deepen young learners’ understanding of renewable energy while fostering lifelong learning habits.

Set across diverse South African landscapes, players journey through provinces to solve realistic energy challenges - with characters inspired by Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo’s children - promoting agency, representation and identity. Therefore, by weaving indigenous knowledge systems into the narrative, the game encourages environmental stewardship and pride in cultural heritage.

Feedback from both Grade R learners and teachers further reinforces its classroom relevance and pedagogical impact. As an educational tool, ReneWable Rangers not only enhances sustainability education, but also cultivates the cognitive and socio-emotional skills essential for self-managed, intrinsically motivated learning in early childhood.

Winners will be announced at the 27th NSTF-South32 Awards Gala that will take place on 31 July 2025 under the international theme of “Quantum Science and Technology”.

The NWU community and the Self-Directed Learning Research Unit proudly support Dr Mokhele-Ramulumo, whose innovative work advances both national priorities in environmental education and the NWU’s commitment to fostering lifelong, self-directed learners.

Dr Moleboheng Mokhele-Ramulumo.

NWU to revolutionise agriculture through its Ask-a-Prof initiative

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:01:27 +0000

NWU to revolutionise agriculture through its Ask-a-Prof initiative

by Oscar Mosiane

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 04/16/2025 - 12:01

When smallholder farmers face agricultural challenges, who can they turn to for advice? The new Ask-a-Prof initiative of the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, in collaboration with the Zen Raseto Joint Venture, is at their service.

This pioneering programme is set to revolutionise agricultural support in the North West Province by providing farmers with real-time, expert guidance from leading university professors and researchers.

Addressing agricultural challenges in the North West Province

Agriculture is the backbone of the North West Province’s economy, yet many farmers, particularly smallholder farmers, face significant challenges. Limited access to expert advice, knowledge gaps in modern farming practices, and environmental uncertainties hinder agricultural productivity and sustainability. The Ask the Prof initiative seeks to bridge this gap by offering farmers direct access to academic expertise, helping them overcome obstacles in crop management, pest control, soil fertility, livestock health and climate adaptation.

How does the initiative work?

The Ask the Prof initiative is designed as a multi-platform support system, ensuring accessibility for all farmers:

· Online portal: Through a user-friendly web-based platform, farmers can submit questions, access expert responses and browse a knowledge base of common agricultural challenges and solutions.

· Mobile support: Recognising the limited internet access in some areas, farmers can submit questions via SMS or WhatsApp for direct responses from university experts.

· Radio interviews: Weekly radio presentations by experts will cover various agricultural topics including research done by the university.

· Workshops and on-site consultations: Regular in-person engagements will provide farmers with practical demonstrations and tailored advice to address complex farming issues.

The Zen Raseto Joint Venture comprises Neo Rampa and Jovi Chen who are business experts, partnering with Motlatsi Tolo, a farmer in the North West Province. The venture approached the NWU to partner with it in facilitating knowledge transfer and guidance through the rich base of agricultural experts from the university. It is anticipated that this

partnership will enhance the unique role of the NWU’s veterinary services in providing support to farmers in the North West.

“This initiative will be driven by university professors, lecturers and postgraduate students specialising in agricultural sciences, environmental sciences, economic and management sciences, and engineering,” says Neo.

“These experts will be available on a rotational basis across the various platforms to ensure comprehensive and specialised support to the farmers. Furthermore, the Ask the Prof initiative will document farmer queries, providing valuable data for academic research and helping shape future agricultural innovations,” he adds.

Expected impact

This initiative should yield short-term and long-term benefits to the farmers in the province, says Prof Sydney Mavengahama, an associate professor who specialises in agronomy and plant breeding and is one of the implementers of this initiative.

“It will assist farmers with short-term benefits that include immediate expert advice, leading to better farm management decisions, improved crop yields and enhanced operational efficiency. In the long term, the initiative is expected to foster a deeper collaboration between the NWU and the agricultural community, drive sustainable farming practices and contribute to economic growth in the region,” Prof Mavengahama says.

The Ask the Prof initiative marks an exciting step towards integrating academic knowledge with real-world agricultural needs. By making agricultural expert advice more accessible, this programme has the potential to transform farming practices and strengthen the agricultural sector in the North West Province.

For more information, stay connected with NWU’s Faculty of Natural and Agriculture Sciences, and following interviews on the NWU radio stations NWU FM (105.5) every Thursday at 17:15, and at Mahikeng FM (96.7) every Tuesday at 19:40.

Unveiling the evolution of intelligence science in South Africa

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 07:20:49 +0000

Unveiling the evolution of intelligence science in South Africa BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 04/14/2025 - 09:20

By Gofaone Motsamai and Nikelo Mehlomakulu

The evolution of South Africa’s intelligence services and the academic study of intelligence science took centre stage at a public lecture hosted by the North-West University (NWU) on 3 April 2025. Delivered by retired lecturer and intelligence expert Henning van Aswegen, the lecture explored the historical foundations, transformation and modern-day challenges of intelligence in South Africa.

Henning, a former lecturer at the South African Intelligence College and author of Die Buro and Spioenmeesters, provided an in-depth analysis of how intelligence evolved from a wartime necessity into a sophisticated academic discipline. “Intelligence is not just about secrecy – it is about understanding the world,” he remarked, emphasising the role of intelligence in governance, national security and democratic accountability.

The lecture traced the roots of South African intelligence back to the colonial era, where intelligence gathering was a strategic tool in military and political conflicts. During the apartheid years, intelligence agencies such as the Bureau of State Security played a controversial role in state surveillance and counterespionage, often operating with limited oversight.

However, Henning noted that intelligence had to transition from a purely operational tool to a structured academic field. The establishment of the South African Intelligence College marked a turning point, with intelligence being studied alongside disciplines such as psychology, criminology and political science. “The perception of intelligence as just ‘spying’ is outdated,” he said. “It has become a structured science that requires strategic thinking, ethical considerations and advanced analytical skills.”

The role of intelligence in post-apartheid South Africa

Following the advent of democracy in 1994, South Africa’s intelligence agencies underwent significant restructuring. The formation of the National Intelligence Agency and the South African Secret Service aimed to align intelligence work with democratic principles, ensuring transparency and accountability while maintaining national security.

Henning highlighted the shift from a security-driven intelligence model to one that focuses on counterterrorism, cyber intelligence and economic security. He pointed out that intelligence professionals today are tasked with protecting not just state interests but also economic stability and digital infrastructure. “In the modern era, intelligence agencies are combating cyber threats, organised crime and geopolitical risks that extend far beyond traditional espionage,” he explained. “The field has evolved, and so must its practitioners.”

The lecture emphasised the need for ongoing academic engagement with intelligence science. Henning commended institutions such as the NWU for fostering discussions on the subject and encouraged students to consider careers in intelligence analysis, risk assessment and cybersecurity.

Intelligence expert Henning van Aswegen explored the historical foundations, transformation and modern-day challenges of intelligence in South Africa.

Focus Area for Pure and Applied Analytics at NWU: Where curiosity meets mathematical mastery

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 08:41:50 +0000

Focus Area for Pure and Applied Analytics at NWU: Where curiosity meets mathematical mastery

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 04/10/2025 - 10:41

In the ever-evolving landscape of academia, certain institutions stand out not only for their age or size, but also for their unyielding commitment to curiosity and innovation. North-West University (NWU) in South Africa exemplifies this spirit, particularly through its Focus Area for Pure and Applied Analytics (PAA) research entity. This group is not only pushing the boundaries of mathematical and statistical sciences, but also redefining how these disciplines intersect with real-world applications.

At its core, the PAA is dedicated to fundamental research in the basic principles and paradigms of the mathematical and statistical sciences. Its mission is ambitious: to operate at an internationally competitive level, advancing scientific knowledge while fostering an environment where different branches of the mathematical and statistical sciences converge. This holistic approach encourages the integration of different sub-disciplines to provide a comprehensive understanding of complex research problems.

What sets PAA apart is its eclectic mix of research areas. The group has unique expertise in areas such as Applied Linear Algebra and Operator Control Theory, Quantum Field Topology, Quantum Function Spaces, Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) and Dynamical Systems, as well as Measure, Probability, Stochastic Processes and Predictive Analytics. This diverse portfolio enables PAA to tackle a wide range of challenges, from the abstract realms of pure mathematics to tangible, real-world applications.

The PAA is committed to keeping abreast of new developments in the mathematical sciences and to strategically expanding its capabilities to remain at the forefront. This commitment is not just about keeping up with trends, but setting them, ensuring that its research remains relevant and impactful in academia and in practice.

Recognising that today's young researchers are tomorrow's pioneers, the PAA places a strong emphasis on mentoring and development. By providing an accessible forum for graduate students and emerging researchers, the group fosters an environment where new ideas can flourish. This inclusivity extends to the wider South African mathematical and statistical sciences community, ensuring that the benefits of its research are widely disseminated.

The scope research projects undertaken by the PAA is as diverse as it is impressive. In Functional Analysis, Operator Theory, and Applied Linear Algebra, researchers delve into Banach Spaces and Operator Algebras. The Algebra, Topology, and Combinatorics team explores areas such as Algebraic Combinatorics and Quantum Field Topology. Meanwhile, the Mathematical Physics group is working on Noncommutative Analysis and Theoretical Fluid Dynamics. Each project reflects a commitment to exploring new frontiers and applying mathematical principles to solve complex problems.

PAA doesn't just dwell on the theoretical; it actively seeks to apply its research to global challenges. The Modelling team, for instance, works on Life Science Modelling and Financial Modelling, demonstrating the real-world applicability of its work. Similarly, the Environmental Mathematics group tackles pressing issues such as Disease Modelling and Climate Change Linkage, demonstrating how mathematical insights can inform and improve our understanding of environmental challenges.

Behind the PAA's success is a team of dedicated experts. Director Prof Roelof Coetzer leads the group with a vision that balances depth and breadth. The team also includes specialists such as Dr Gabriel Magalakwe, the Applied Mathematics subprogramme leader, known for his work in Symmetry Analysis and Theoretical Fluid Dynamics. This leadership ensures that PAA remains both innovative and grounded in rigorous academic standards.

For those whose curiosity is piqued by the intricate dance of numbers and theories, PAA offers a gateway to a world where mathematics and statistics are not just subjects, but tools for unlocking the mysteries of the universe. Whether you're a budding mathematician looking for a nurturing environment or an industry professional seeking cutting-edge analytical insights and solutions, PAA is ready to engage, collaborate, and innovate.

In a world increasingly driven by big data and complex systems, PAA’s research and development is not only relevant, but essential to solving global problems related to industry, government and social challenges, including the environment, climate change and risk, financial risk, urbanisation, and others. By leading through curiosity and innovation to explore new ideas, PAA exemplifies the transformative power of the mathematical and statistical sciences.

Academic elected as the new president of the African Astronomical Society

MARELIZE SANTANA — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 11:48:18 +0000

Academic elected as the new president of the African Astronomical Society

by Mafumane Tlhapi

MARELIZE SANTANA Mon, 04/07/2025 - 13:48

Prof Amare Abebe, research director at the Centre for Space Research at the North-West University (NWU), has been elected as the new president of the African Astronomical Society (AfAS).

AfAS was established to create a globally competitive and collaborative astronomy community in Africa.

Prof Abebe’s focus will be on expanding membership, fostering research collaboration and enhancing astronomy education and outreach across Africa.

He highlights the need to increase membership across African nations, noting that Africa, with a population of nearly 1,5 billion people, has about 500 active AfAS members.

"To put matters in perspective, in the United States, with 340 million people, the American Astronomical Society has more than 6 000 members, and in the United Kingdom, with 68 million people, the Royal Astronomical Society has over 3 000 members."

Prof Abebe also emphasises the importance of building stronger ties between AfAS, governments, industries and international organisations to foster interdisciplinary research, industry partnerships and policy support.

"Out of the more than 50 countries in Africa, no more than 20 of them have any meaningful astronomy programme. There is a lot of room for growth, and there needs to be enhanced public awareness of astronomy across Africa, particularly in underserved regions."

He identifies outreach programmes, educational initiatives and integration into school curricula as key to increasing interest in astronomy. "Improving data-sharing infrastructure across African nations, possibly facilitating better collaboration and access to global astronomical databases, will lead to enhanced collaboration," he says.

Prof Abebe mentions the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project, led by South Africa, as an example of infrastructure that supports collaboration between African countries and scientists.

"One of AfAS’s objectives is to bring leading African and international scientists together during its different annual activities to foster collaboration and create professional networking opportunities for its emerging astronomers and students."

He stresses the need to use traditional media and digital platforms to raise awareness. He says active outreach and education campaigns, especially in astronomically speaking underdeveloped regions, as well as formal workshops and conferences, are a great way to introduce astronomy to future astronomers.

Prof Abebe notes that astronomy has long captured human imagination and encourages critical thinking. "On the practical side, it encourages interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), fostering a skilled workforce and driving technological innovation. Astronomy has become a highly collaborative endeavour, enhancing collaborations among people from different cultural, geographical, and socio-economic backgrounds."

Prof Amare Abebe, research director at the NWU's Centre for Space Research, has been elected as the new president of the African Astronomical Society (AfAS).

Indigenous agricultural practices promote food security

MARELIZE SANTANA — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:09:05 +0000

Indigenous agricultural practices promote food security

by Oscar Mosiane

MARELIZE SANTANA Fri, 04/04/2025 - 14:09

Although indigenous agricultural practices play a major role in enhancing food security in local communities, they are still undervalued, overlooked and regarded as old fashioned. A master’s student at the NWU is conducting research that could help to give indigenous agricultural practices a place in the sun.

Thato Hazel Seemise, a master’s student in indigenous knowledge systems at the Mahikeng Campus, is studying the indigenous agricultural practices used to enhance food security among the Batswana of Moruleng in the North West province.

Since food security (having access to an adequate amount of nutritious food) is a basic need, Thato says that understanding indigenous knowledge associated with indigenous agricultural practices is fundamental to promote food security at household level.

These practices have the potential to gear the agricultural sector towards sustainable agricultural production, which promotes at least three United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These are SDGs 1 (No poverty), 2 (Zero hunger) and 12 (Responsible consumption and production).

“Indigenous agricultural practices are significant for small-scale farming worldwide, as they are crucial in guaranteeing food abundance, community well-being and economic benefit,” Thato says.

She further adds that regardless of the challenges, indigenous agricultural practices remain the shield in preventing food insecurity within the Bakgatla-Ba-Kgafela in Moruleng.

“Documenting, disseminating and recognising these practices deserves special attention. There is a need for policymakers to stimulate the utilisation of indigenous agricultural practices and acknowledge their contribution to the agricultural sector.”

Thato Hazel Seemise