Researchers from the North-West University (NWU) have done it again. The finalists for the 2018/2019 NSTF-South32 Awards have finally been announced, and this year two esteemed researchers from the NWU have been nominated.
The “Science Oscars”, also known as the NSTF-South32 Awards, aim to recognise and applaud researchers and academics that are committed to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation in South Africa.
Every year numerous NWU researchers and academics are nominated in the different award categories. Last year the university received 13 nominations at the awards.
Two nominations for Prof Cilliers
Chairperson of the subject group Urban and Regional Planning, Prof Juaneé Cilliers, received two nominations.
The first nomination is for the Communication Award for creating awareness on SET and innovation during the last five years.
She was also nominated in the Green Economy and Innovation category. This award goes to an organisation or individual for outstanding contributions to science, engineering, technology and innovation, helping the country achieve biodiversity conservation, environmental sustainability and a greener economy over the past five to 10 years.
“I am truly honoured for being nominated,” says Prof Cilliers. “As Prof Thuli Madonsela said at the recent NWU PhD graduation, ‘it is grace that brought me here’. Grace – and of course the support of an exceptional team. I am extremely thankful to have students, colleagues, friends, family and a university structure that support my research and my passion.”
Emerging researcher recognised
Prof Elvis Fosso-Kankeu who is an associate professor at the School of Chemical and Minerals Engineering, has been nominated for the TW Kambule-NSTF Awards: Emerging Researchers category.
The award aims to recognise researchers for their contribution through research and its outputs over a period of up to six years of research work from the commencement of their research career, predominantly in South Africa.
“Being nominated as finalist for the 2018/2019 NSTF-South 32 Awards is a real honor,” says Prof Fosso-Kankeu. “I am thankful for the support received from the Almighty, my family, the NWU’s management, my students and collaborators, as well as the recognition of my achievements.”
The 21st annual Awards Gala Dinner will take place on 27 June 2019.
The NWU knows that Prof Cilliers and Prof Fosso-Kankeu will fly the university flag high and wishes them well on their quest.
