University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Professor Shenuka Singh has been appointed as the president of the International Association of Dental Research South African (IADR-SA) Division.
Her appointment, announced at the IADR international conference in Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal recently, marks a significant achievement in her career.
“Thank you, IADR, for your confidence in entrusting me with leading the South African Division for the next two years,” she said.
“I think it is important that I highlight IADR’s critical role in fostering discussions, networking, as well as collaboration in dental, oral, and craniofacial research. The IADR offers a global platform for disseminating research findings, however, we must also ensure that dissemination occurs locally as well, especially at the research participant interface. I can assure that the IADR-SA Division would continue to promote visibility in dental research through webinars and platforms for discourse.”
UKZN’s College of Health Sciences (CHS) Dean and Head of School, Professor Busi Ncama, congratulated Professor Singh on her appointment.
“These accolades reflect the confidence placed in the staff within the Discipline of Dentistry. This growth underscores the mentorship and support that CHS provides to nurture the personal and professional development of staff, enabling them to become productive and recognised contributors in their fields,” said Professor Ncama.
Professor Singh expressed gratitude to the Deans of various universities and faculties for their support in sustaining IADR’s mission. As well as acknowledging the 53rd scientific meeting of the Association, she also thanked Professor Ahmed Bhayat, past president of IADR-SA, for his role in including UKZN representation in the IADR-SA executive committee.
Professor Singh said the key focus of her leadership will be addressing the financial challenges of membership fees, particularly for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). She called for a review of these fees, saying, it would alleviate the financial burden for many members who have paid out of their own pockets.
In addition to her role as IADR-SA president, Professor Singh is a full professor within the UKZN Dentistry Discipline, and an honorary extraordinary professor in Medical Ethics and Law at Stellenbosch University. She holds two doctoral degrees – one in Clinical and Research Ethics from Stellenbosch University and another in the area of Dental Public Health from the University of the Western Cape.
Her notable appointments include Deputy Chairperson of the National Health Research Ethics Council (NHREC) in South Africa (2023-2026), and Chair of the Biomedical Research Ethics Committee at UKZN (2024-2026).
Professor Singh’s contributions to research ethics extend internationally. She was invited by the World Health Organization (WHO) to develop a tool for benchmarking research ethics oversight and is an Associate Editor for the BMC Oral Health journal. Her extensive involvement in research ethics committees and as a National Research Foundation (NRF)-rated researcher has gained her national and international recognition.
Dean of the School of Health Sciences, Professor Khathutshelo Percy Mashige, also expressed immense pride and admiration for Professor Singh’s appointment as president of IADR South African Chapter.
“On behalf of the School of Health Sciences, I am honoured to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Professor Shenuka Singh on her esteemed appointment as president of the IADR. This prestigious role reflects Professor Singh’s exceptional contributions to the field and her unwavering leadership in advancing dental, oral, and craniofacial research both locally and globally,” said Professor Mashige.
He highlighted the significance of this achievement, which coincides with UKZN hosting of the inaugural IADR conference and emphasised the vital role of IADR as a global organisation in promoting health and well-being through research.
“We are certain that under Professor Singh’s presidency, she will further strengthen its impact on the global stage, contributing meaningfully to the advancement of dental, oral, and craniofacial health. We are proud to count her among the distinguished members of our academic community and look forward to supporting her efforts in this important leadership role,” said Professor Mashige.
