Varsity launches research journal
AS part of Stellenbosch University’s (SU) centenary commemoration, the university launched its Research@ SU100 publication, which contains 100 research stories highlighting 100 areas the university’s printing has impacted over the past century.
The publication, which was launched at the Wallenberg Research Centre at The Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (Stias), also doubled as SU’s inaugural Media Excellence Awards ceremony, where 30 media commentators at the university were recognised.
Some of the headlining research topics covered in the publication include research on tuberculosis, antenatal care, diabetes, food security, renewable energy, wine, climate change, wastewater, invasive species, sexual violence, artificial intelligence and ecological restoration.
SU rector and vice-chancellor, Professor Wim de Villiers, said the publication is a celebration of achievements in one of the institution’s key performance areas.
“If one looks at the research report being launched, it is clear that we have a solid foundation on which we can build going forward. We are very proud of all of our researchers – a group of highly talented and dedicated individuals.
“The publication that we are launching is about sharing their work with the world,” said De Villiers.
Echoing De Villiers’s sentiments, senior director of the Division for Research Development, Dr Therina Theron, said it’s a proud product for the researchers who worked relentlessly to make the world a better place, and to positively impact on people’s lives.
“This publication really helps us to illustrate and disseminate the impact of our research. The impact of SU’s research is evident when we read through this publication.”
The publication that we are launching is about sharing (our researchers’) work with the world PROFESSOR WIM DE VILLIERS SU rector and vice-chancellor
Many of the researchers who made the Research@SU100 publication also made it on the list at the Media Excellence Awards, where academics were honoured in three categories: newsmakers; media thought leaders; and contributing towards getting other colleagues in the media.
Among the newsmakers were the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS) TB Research; The SU Choir and the SU Law Clinic. Some of the thought leaders and commentators honoured included Electrical and Electronic Engineering Professor Thinus Booysen, Political Science Professor Amanda Gouws and Education Policy Studies Professor Jonathan Jansen.
De Villiers congratulated the first recipients of the awards and highlighted the importance of communication of the institution’s research to the public in an accessible way.
“This will inform, educate and inspire the public,” said De Villiers, adding that sharing research with the public also holds benefits for SU and its academics.
The Research@SU100 publication will be sent to SU’s partners and stakeholders all over the world, including government departments, science councils, industry partners, stakeholders in higher education and international organisations.
A virtual copy of Research@SU100 is available at https://bit.ly/2QEUGky. For a printed copy, please liaise with Maryke Hunter-Hüsselman, director: Research Information and Strategy, at 0218084623 or email mh3@sun.ac.za | Staff Reporter