The NRF Next Generation and Emerging Researchers Symposium a Success

Two hundred and ten (210) of South Africa’s top postgraduate students, postdoctoral research fellows and emerging researchers left the inaugural National Research Foundation (NRF) Next Generation and Emerging Researchers (NGER) Symposium empowered on aspects such as Intellectual Property (IP), research management, commercialisation of their research, research ethics and integrity, research impact, as well as innovation and entrepreneurship. The NRF symposium took place from 23 to 25 October 2024 at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre, Boksburg.

Held under the theme Research for a Better Society, the inspiring symposium provided a platform for the participants to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and share innovative research projects. The participants applied to the NRF for selection and participation in the symposium following a call for applications, ensuring attendance by some of the country’s brightest next-generation scholars.

In his opening remarks, NRF CEO Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, said the symposium is meant to align with the vision of the NRF, which is research for a better society. Such research prioritises the wellbeing of members of society, and therefore always aims to be impactful. “We believe that research must be deeply intertwined with human conditions, with the needs of society, with the aspirations that we have. This could relate to healthcare, education, technology, and social justice –  it doesn’t matter which field you’re in,” said Dr Nelwamondo.

“We believe that research is not simply about pushing the boundaries of knowledge just for the sake of it; it is about impacting lives, improving them, empowering communities and addressing disparities. Our vision of research for a better society needs to foster inclusive, forward-thinking approaches that ensure research outcomes contribute to tangible societal progress. This is the driving force behind our investments, and also behind our policies and the programmes that we initiate in partnership with universities, government departments, and other institutions.”

Delivering closing remarks, NRF Acting Deputy CEO: Research, Innovation, Impact Support and Advancement (RIISA), Dr Gugu Moche, reflected that the symposium traversed various topics with an intention to equip the young scholars to become leaders in impactful research.  “We heard several speakers sharing insights on research integrity, research impact, innovation and entrepreneurship, commercialisation, science engagement and even NRF success stories. We even heard words emphasising that we must push; we must have an entrepreneurial mindset; we must plan for impact,” said Dr Moche.

But what would make the NRF say the symposium was a success? “For us, it will be a success if you walk away with reflections on your journey; with reflections on your approach to your studies and research; with reflections on possible collaborations, and with reflections on your intentionality,” Dr Moche said.

“Further, we hope that you’re walking away not just as an NRF grant recipient, but also as an NRF partner. It is clear to you that there’s an army of people behind your success. All that we ask for is that you do your part. If necessary, create opportunities where it is possible to commercialise. If possible, be entrepreneurial. Just do your part.”

Dr Sinazo Nqeketo, a 27-year-old pharmaceutical researcher who is making great strides in HIV treatment and prevention drugs, said she learnt a lot of new things at the symposium. Dr Nqeketo developed two drugs critical to the fight against HIV. The first one is Dolutegravir, an antiretroviral therapy recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO); and the second one is Cabotegravir, an HIV pre-exposure prophylactic approved in South Africa in 2022.

Dr Nqeketo said, “I’ve learned a lot at the symposium. What better way of doing it than being around other young scientists who are doing amazing work. The theme Research for a Better Society aligns a lot with the work that I’m currently doing. I’m working towards manufacturing drugs in Africa by African scientists. As young African scientists, we have solutions in our hands. I see the passion that this upcoming generation has. I feel like we’re going to do great and amazing things toward achieving many of our African Union and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Let’s just continue doing research for a better society.” 

Dr Benton Otieno, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, said the symposium deepened his knowledge of research commercialisation. Dr Otieno has conducted extensive research on water and wastewater management, renewable energy and green economy. Dr Otieno said, “The highlight of the symposium was the presentation on commercialisation. I got to learn a lot about the process of commercialisation and the need for a shift in the way we do research. When you want to commercialise, you should do it right from the planning stages; you should not do the research, come up with the research, and then think of commercialising.”