The University of Johannesburg (UJ) recently celebrated Prof Mthokozisi Simelane for his groundbreaking work in diabetes management. Recognised at the prestigious 2024 Vice-Chancellor’s Distinguished Awards, Prof Simelane walked away with the Innovation of the Year award. His pioneering research focuses on indigenous medicinal plants, with a special emphasis on chronic disease management, including diabetes, cancer, and parasitic infections.
Since joining UJ in 2019, Prof Simelane has secured over R18 million in research funding, including a significant R14.9 million grant from the Technology Innovation Agency. His efforts have led to the development of a patented diabetes treatment prototype, demonstrating his commitment to translating research into practical, life-changing solutions.
Advancing Indigenous Knowledge and Community Partnerships
Prof Simelane’s work stands out not only for its scientific innovation but also for its ethical commitment to community benefit-sharing. He has established partnerships with local communities to ensure they benefit from the commercialisation of indigenous knowledge systems. This approach has earned him international acclaim, including being named a finalist in the Business Ethics and Impact category of the Leaders in Innovation Fellowships (LIF) Programme by the Royal Academy of Engineering in the UK.
In 2023, he also received the GAP Biosciences Award, further solidifying his reputation as a leader in biotechnology and innovation. His advancements in phytomedicine are setting new benchmarks in chronic disease research, making a global impact.
UJ’s Vice-Chancellor Celebrates Excellence
UJ’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof Letlhokwa Mpedi, lauded Prof Simelane’s contributions, saying, “Universities achieve greatness because of individuals who work tirelessly to realise the institutional vision. Prof Simelane is one of those individuals who continuously push boundaries and seek to make a tangible difference.”
Other Notable Award Recipients
In addition to Prof Simelane’s recognition, the Vice-Chancellor’s Distinguished Awards honoured several other outstanding academics and staff:
Most Promising Young Teachers of the Year:
- Dr Hellen Agumba (Faculty of Education): Known for transforming curricula with her dynamic, inclusive approach.
- Dr Naadhira Seedat (Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment): Recognised for integrating mental well-being into her teaching.
- Dr Meghan Finn (Faculty of Law): Celebrated for fostering critical thinking and social justice advocacy.
Teacher Excellence Awards:
- Prof Dustin van der Haar (Faculty of Science): Inspires students with experiential learning in Computer Science.
- Prof Geoffrey Lautenbach: Innovated online education during the pandemic, enhancing collaborative learning.
- Prof Dumisani Sibiya (Faculty of Humanities): Engages students through unique teaching methods like incorporating Kwaito music into isiZulu grammar lessons.
Outstanding Researcher of the Year:
- Prof Clinton Aigbavboa: Lauded for over 1,300 publications in construction management and sustainable infrastructure, focusing on the Global South.
Book of the Year:
- Dr Siphiwo Mahala: Honoured for Can Themba: The Making and Breaking of the Intellectual Tsotsi, a deep dive into African literary history.
Service Beyond the Call of Duty:
- Mr Bongani Senne: Recognised for his contributions to the UJ Art Gallery and mentorship in the arts.
- Ms Doret Heyneke: Instrumental in transforming UJ’s postgraduate application process.
- Ms Precious Maputle: A leader in societal impact projects like the 3D Printed Housing Project in Limpopo.
UJ’s Commitment to Excellence
UJ Chancellor, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, praised the awardees: “You’ve inspired all of us. It is because of people like you that the University’s standards continue to rise.”
These awards highlight the vital role that innovation, teaching, and service play in advancing UJ’s mission of transformation, inclusivity, and academic excellence.
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