Pretoria: Seven emerging and established women researchers have been awarded the Professor Keolebogile Shirley Motaung Fellowships at the 2026 South African Women in Science Awards, in recognition of their research efforts that span marine biodiversity, tax justice, honeybee health, infectious disease diagnostics, forestry, agricultural genetics, and astronomy.
According to South African Government News Agency, the doctoral fellowship recipients are involved in groundbreaking research with the potential to tackle several of South Africa's pressing social, economic, environmental, and scientific challenges. Their work showcases a strong commitment to mentorship, innovation, and science communication.
The South African Women in Science Awards, held annually during Women's Month, recognize and reward excellence by South African women in the fields of science, technology, and innovation (STandI). The awards also aim to inspire the next generation of women and girls to pursue careers in these fields by celebrating outstanding researchers and scientists.
In honor of the late Professor Shirley Keolebogile Motaung, a distinguished black woman scientist and academic, the DSTI Fellowships have been renamed. These fellowships are awarded to young women pursuing their master's and doctoral degrees in recognition of their academic excellence and research potential.
Among the recipients is Makwena Melita Sebone, pursuing a PhD in Genetics with a specialization in Marine Molecular Ecology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). Her research, conducted in collaboration with the Oceanographic Research Institute of the South African Association for Marine Biological Research, focuses on mapping and understanding marine pelagic ecosystems along the South African coastline using DNA metabarcoding of zooplankton communities.
Another notable recipient, Associate Professor Jane Ndlovu from Wits University, is examining how South Africa's tax system impacts caregivers, particularly black African women. Her research seeks to transform tax policy into a tool for economic protection and empowerment, potentially aiding women in escaping abusive environments and contributing to the fight against gender-based violence.
At North-West University, Nolwandle Nolen Khumalo is investigating the relationship between honeybees, pollen, and microorganisms during sunflower pollination. Her work aims to develop probiotics to improve honeybee health and agricultural productivity.
Nondumiso Nkosi, a PhD candidate and Junior Lecturer in Medical Virology at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, focuses on hepatitis B virus diagnostics and the detection of occult infections. Her research could revolutionize disease detection, especially in resource-limited settings, and she has been recognized with numerous scientific awards for her innovative work.
Vhuhwavho Tshavhungwe, a Lecturer at the University of Venda, is studying the competitiveness of South Africa's sawmilling industry. Her findings aim to strengthen the industry's competitiveness and contribute to economic development in surrounding communities.
Victoria Rankotsane Hlokoe, a PhD candidate in Agriculture at the University of Limpopo, is researching genetic variations in chickens to improve egg quality and market value, which could benefit smallholder farmers and strengthen household food security.
Lastly, Annarien Headley, pursuing a PhD in Astronomy at the University of South Africa, is exploring the physical properties of stars in the Milky Way. Her research on star-forming regions could provide valuable insights into the formation of transition disks and the galactic environment.
Together, these fellowship recipients exemplify the diverse research being conducted by women scientists in South Africa, showcasing their potential to address complex challenges and drive innovation in their respective fields.