Addressing the pressing challenges of climate change in Southern Africa, the University of the Free State (UFS), in collaboration with the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) and the department of agriculture, has inaugurated four new research chairs within its faculty of natural and agricultural sciences.
The ARC-DALLRD-UFS research chairs focus on critical areas such as climate change and agriculture, innovative agro-processing for climate-smart food systems, agriculture risk financing, and sustainable livestock production. These chairs are part of the ARC and government’s initiative on climate smart agriculture, aimed at fostering innovation and impactful research in agriculture.
Professor Johan van Niekerk, vice-dean for agriculture at UFS, and Professor Sonja Venter from the ARC are coordinating the ARC-UFS consortium, with Joel Mamabolo representing the department. These chairs mark the university’s initial steps towards establishing industry chairs, with ongoing negotiations for further expansion.
“The establishment of these research chairs underscores our commitment to enhancing research and food security in South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa,” explained Van Niekerk. “Through collaboration with the ARC, we leverage our agricultural expertise to make a lasting impact.”
Multidisciplinary collaboration for climate-smart agriculture
The research chairs will operate under co-chair principal scientists appointed jointly by the ARC and UFS, facilitating collaboration and resource sharing across disciplines like agronomy, genetics, economics, and engineering. This multidisciplinary approach aims to innovate sustainable food systems amidst global climate challenges.
The first two chairs, climate change and agriculture led by Professor Linus Franke, and innovative agro-processing for climate-smart food systems under Dr Alba du Toit, commenced in July 2024, with the remaining chairs scheduled to begin in December. Professor Maryke Labuschagne, a noted expert, has been appointed as mentor to enhance expertise within the chairs.
“These chairs represent an exciting opportunity to advance our understanding of climate change aligned with our agricultural strengths,” remarked Professor Vasu Reddy, deputy vice-chancellor for research and internationalisation. “They symbolise our commitment to impactful partnerships and addressing global challenges with local focus.”
The initiative also aims to attract global scientific expertise and foster collaborations with other universities and research institutions. Professor van Niekerk expressed gratitude to the ARC, the department of agriculture, and university leadership for their support and vision in developing sustainable solutions for agricultural challenges.
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