Invitation to Cover the NRF Next Generation and Emerging Researchers Symposium

Invitation to Cover the NRF Next Generation and Emerging Researchers Symposium

The inaugural National Research Foundation (NRF) Next Generation and Emerging Researchers Symposium (NGER) will take place from 23 to 25 October 2024 at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg, Gauteng. Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, NRF Chief Executive Officer (CEO), will open the symposium along with Deputy Director General of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), Mr Imraan Patel. Journalists are invited to cover the symposium.

As the largest funding agency supporting next generation and emerging researchers in South Africa, the NRF will bring together 300 postgraduate students, postdoctoral research fellows, and early career researchers to participate in the 2024 NGER symposium. The symposium will provide a platform for the participants to connect, exchange knowledge, and share innovative research projects. The participants applied to the NRF for selection following a call for applications, ensuring attendance by some of the country’s most formidable next generation scholars.

Established and seasoned scholars who have demonstrated a vested interest in supporting the development of the next generation of scholars will also be in attendance to provide invaluable support to their younger colleagues and to deliver presentations. These will include research experts and associates from South African universities; senior NRF executives; A- and B-rated NRF researchers; and industry leaders. Among these stakeholders, Prof Keolebogile Motaung, CEO of Global Health Biotech, will present on Innovation and Entrepreneurship; Dr Lyn Horn from the University of Cape Town (UCT) will provide a talk entitled Fostering Research Integrity; Dr Genevieve Simpson and Dr Mamoeletsi Mosia from the NRF will present Research Impact and Science Engagement respectively; and Mr Dayanandan Naidoo from the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) will speak about Research Commercialisation.

Dr Gugu Moche, NRF Acting Deputy CEO: Research, Innovation, Impact Support and Advancement, has described the symposium as a pioneering intervention in the holistic support of next generation and emerging researchers. “As the NRF, we are thrilled to gather brilliant minds and passionate young researchers under the inspiring theme Research for a Better Society. This year, the symposium aims to explore innovative ideas and impactful solutions that can shape a brighter future for our communities and the world at large. The symposium will delve into ways our funded researchers can address pressing societal challenges, foster inclusivity, and drive sustainable development and this will be possible through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and creative thinking. We encourage all the participants to engage, share their insights, and connect with fellow researchers as we embark on this exciting journey of discovery and growth. Their contributions are invaluable in creating a better society through research,” says Dr Moche.

Event details

Venue: Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre, Boksburg

Dates: 23 to 25 October 2024 

Start Time: 14:00 on the opening day and 08:30 during the last two days 

Journalists should contact NRF Media Relations Officer, Bongani Nkosi, on b.nkosi@nrf.ac.za or 061 477 3064, for accreditation and/or any requests. 

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