Dr Karishma SinghA tone for research is being set at the top, and researchers are on board. This week, Professor Nokuthula Sibiya, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Engagements, shared with the Vice-Chancellor, the great news that a second University academic, Dr Karishma Singh, has been nominated to join the Future Professors Programme (FPP). Dr Singh is a senior lecturer in the Department of Nature Conservation. She was informed of the good news in a letter from Dr Nkosinathi Sishi, Director General of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). Dr Singh will be joining the third implementation of the FPP by the DHET. Her application passed a “rigorous” review by a selection committee, and she was one of the “most suitable candidates”.
Dr Sishi went on to say more: “The committee recommended candidates for my consideration and I am pleased to inform you that your application to participate in the FPP Phase 2 Cohort 2 has been successful. Congratulations on your well-deserved success and best wishes for an excellent experience as a participant in the programme.”
Responding to the news, Dr Singh said she was honoured to be given such a prestigious opportunity to further develop herself as a young female scientist. Dr Singh said that being part of the FPP would enhance her professional development as an aspiring academic. “Joining this programme will lead to personal growth and self-discovery as it challenges me to expand my intellectual horizons, develop critical thinking skills, and build a deep understanding of my field ultimately making me renowned in my field of expertise,” she said.
Dr Singh was nominated by the Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences, Professor Roger Coopoosamy. Dr Singh’s focus area is phytomedicine and plant biotechnology. “Being part of the phytomedicine team in the Department of Nature Conservation under the leadership of Professor Coopoosamy, I have gained valuable insights in the field. We are currently advancing our research into drug-discovery using plant bioactive compounds towards the fight against cancer,” said Dr Singh.