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Unisa's distinguished scholars to bolster research on key fields crucial to SA's development
Unisa Principal and Vice-Chancellor (VC), Prof Puleng LenkaBula, recently met with the newly appointed distinguished scholars across various colleges to discuss how Unisa can bolster research, innovation and engaged scholarship in critical niche areas. The appointments of the distinguished scholars target ten key fields crucial to South Africa's development and global impact, which are as follows:
- Marine Studies: Unisa recognises the growing importance of oceanography and sustainable marine resource management.
- Aviation and Aeronautical Studies: Focuses on propelling South Africa's aerospace industry to new heights.
- Automotive Studies: Research in this area will address the future of transportation and mobility solutions.
- Energy Studies: Unisa is committed to exploring renewable energy sources and efficient energy solutions.
- Space Studies and the Square Kilometre Array: This exciting area focuses on space exploration and astronomy.
- Fourth Industrial Revolution and Digitalisation: Unisa acknowledges the transformative potential of digital technologies.
- Biotechnological Studies: Groundbreaking research in biotechnology will be a key focus.
- Health/Pharmaceutical Studies: Unisa is dedicated to improving healthcare delivery and medical research.
- Feminist/Womanist/Bosadi Theorisations: Champions gender equality and empowers women's voices in scholarship.
- Student Support and Co-Curricular Activities: Fostering a supportive learning environment and enriching student life.
Distinguished Unisa professors comprised of college deans and vice-principals, together with the Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Unisa, Prof Puleng LenkaBula.
The appointments affirm the university's commitment to becoming a leading research institution in the country and globally. The distinguished scholars bring a wealth of expertise and experience that will propel groundbreaking research and innovation across these critical niche areas.
Unisa Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Puleng LenkaBula
The VC expressed her unwavering confidence that their esteemed expertise and visionary leadership will be instrumental in unlocking groundbreaking discoveries and advancements within their respective fields. She emphasised the scholars' crucial role in propelling Unisa's research and innovation agenda, particularly in the catalytic niches. The VC further underscored the university's unwavering commitment to maintaining its position as a globally leading Open Distance and eLearning (ODeL) institution. By fostering a vibrant research culture and attracting exceptional talent, Unisa aspires to solidify its leadership in ODeL for the next 150 years and beyond.
The university's strategic appointments position the university at the forefront of addressing South Africa's most pressing challenges and opportunities. By fostering research excellence in these critical areas, Unisa is poised to significantly contribute to the nation's social, economic, and scientific progress.
Find individual distinguished scholars' profiles using #UnisaDistinguishedScholars on digital platforms.
* By Godfrey Madibane, Acting Journalist, Department of Institutional Advancement
** Photography by Shooheima Champion, Multimedia Centre
Publish date: 2024-04-09 00:00:00.0
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