DUT researchers nominated for 'Science Oscars’

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) researchers, who have been nominated for the 2023/2024 National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF), are Dr Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, a Research Fellow/Principal Investigator with the Green Engineering Research Group (GERG); Prof Ajay Mishra, Professor in the Department of Chemistry; and Prof Saheed Sabiu, an Associate Professor in the Department of Biotechnology and Food Science.

They have been announced among individuals or organisations who have made an outstanding contribution to science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation, under 14 different categories.

Dr Tetteh and Prof Sabiu are nominated in the TW Kambule — NSTF Award: Emerging Researcher category — looking at an individual through research and its outputs, who conducted up to six years of research work in South Africa, from the commencement of their research career. While Prof Mishra is nominated in the NSTF — Water Research Commission Award category, looking at an individual or an organisation who worked towards achieving sustainable water management, knowledge generation and solutions, with demonstrated leadership and impact over the last five to 10 years.

The first finalist, Prof Sabiu, apart from his active involvement in teaching and learning including Collaborative International Online Learning (COIL), currently leads the Computational and Systems Biology Research Group. His works involves the bio-prospect for secondary metabolites against degenerative and microbial diseases, for new small molecule therapeutic targets discovery and development.

“I am elated and humbled that my name was mentioned as a finalist in NSFT Awards. These awards showcases the kind of relevant and timely research being conducted by the students and researchers at the institution,” said Prof Sabiu.

In 2023, Prof Sabiu was awarded both the Faculty Researcher of the Year (Gold) and Emerging Researcher of the Year awards at the DUT ENVISION2030 Institutional Awards.

The second finalist, Prof Mishra, described the NSTF Awards as one of the science hubs a person needs to represent with full pride.

“I am glad I have been nominated by DUT and hopefully will keep the DUT flag on a high note. Those selected for this award must always feel proud to be a part of the NSTF Awards,” he said.

Also sharing his excitement on the nomination, the third finalist, Dr Tetteh attributed his nomination to his commitment to work.

“My sterling research contribution in the field of SET and innovation in South Africa as a young emerging researcher, made them consider my nomination that was submitted by the Acting Executive Dean in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, Professor Sudesh Rathilal,” said Dr Tetteh. “Being nominated by DUT means a lot to me because it shows that my hard work is being recognised and acknowledged. I am honoured to secure nominations in the NSTF Awards considering my hard work over the years and putting DUT on the global map of thriving excellence.”

Dr Tetteh believes his win at the NSTF Awards will instil tremendous confidence and reflection in emerging researchers in the DUT community, who strives for excellence to do more. He said he was looking forward to more collaboration with stakeholders to promote green engineering research, in the field of water-energy nexus for a sustainable environment.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Engagement at DUT, Prof Fulufhelo Nemavhola congratulated the three nominees and commended them on their work.

“On behalf of DUT, I am delighted to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh, Prof Ajay Mishra and Prof Saheed Sabiu, on being announced as finalists for the prestigious 2023/2024 NSTF-South32 Awards. This recognition is a testament to their exceptional contributions to science, engineering and technology, reflecting the high calibre of research being conducted at DUT. Their achievements elevate the status of DUT and inspire our entire academic community to strive for excellence. This recognition also aligns perfectly with our DUT ENVISION2030 strategy, which aims to position the university as a globally recognised institution of higher learning, known for its impactful research and innovation. We are honoured to have these three respected researchers represent us and we wish them the very best at the NSTF Awards Gala Event,” said Prof Nemavhola.

The winners will be announced at the NSTF Awards Gala Event, which will take place as a hybrid event broadcast simultaneously from two cities and venues, namely at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg and the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on Thursday, July 11, 2024.