Professor Kwena Modibane (centre) is congratulated by Prof Richard Mampa, Head of the Department of Chemistry at UL (right) , and Maropene Rapholo, Head of the Department of Geology and Mining at UL, for his contributions to the field of chemistry. Â Photos: Linah Raphela
 By Nzumbululo Munzhelele & Phishego Mohubedu – ulpublications@ul.ac.za
Professor Kwena Modibane, a distinguished scholar in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Limpopo (UL), has been recognised for his excellence, innovation, and leadership in the field of chemistry
The Inaugural Awards Ceremony, hosted at UL under the auspices of the South African Chemical Institute (SACI) North Section, celebrated significant contributions to the discipline, recognising academics who have made a notable impact.
It was a proud moment for UL as Prof Modibane, the leader of the Nanotechnology Centre for Renewable Energy and Water Sustainability (NanoCREWS)Â received a prestigious award for his exceptional research and leadership. He was specifically honoured for his outstanding performance in the SACI North Section, securing the DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Photoelectrocatalytic Hydrogen Production.
A highly respected figure in chemistry, Prof Modibane has made remarkable scholarly contributions, authoring 71 research articles in high-impact journals and 24 book chapters. His work focuses on energy storage and conversion, hydrogen energy, corrosion, water purification, and photovoltaic cells. His dedication to academic mentorship is evident in his supervision of 15 master’s graduates and six PhD graduates, with an additional 20 postgraduate students currently under his guidance.
Prof Modibane’s accolades include the 2024 UL Faculty of Science and Agriculture Best Researcher Award and the 2019 Vice-Chancellor’s Research Award. His work continues to push the boundaries of scientific discovery, further cementing his reputation as a leader in the field.
Expressing his gratitude for this latest recognition, Prof Modibane stated: “I am honoured to receive this award for my contributions to the chemistry industry. This achievement motivates me to continue my research and develop solutions to various challenges facing our country.”
Prof Richard Mampa, Head of the Department of Chemistry at UL and organiser of the SACI North Section event, congratulated Prof Modibane on his achievement.
“His dedication and commitment to excellence are a testament to both his hard work and the department’s collective efforts in advancing chemical research,” he said.
Other winners included academics from the University of Pretoria (UP), Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), and the University of Venda (UNIVEN).
Prof Mampa also extended congratulations to all the awardees for their contributions to chemistry and material science.
“These individuals are pushing the boundaries of science and innovation, inspiring future generations. Their achievements highlight a commitment to excellence and advancing science for a sustainable future.”
Professor Patricia Forbes, a full professor in Analytical Chemistry at the University of Pretoria.
As part of the event, Prof Patricia Forbes, a leading expert in Analytical Chemistry at UP, delivered the plenary lecture. She emphasised the crucial role of energy provision in quality of life and economic growth, while addressing the environmental impact of fossil fuel combustion.
“Alternative, sustainable energy sources are imperative. Research rooted in the chemical sciences must focus on less polluting technologies for energy provision and storage,” said Prof Forbes.
Her lecture explored key global advancements, including cleaner fuel production, solar energy materials, and hydrogen storage. She also emphasised the importance of a circular economy in reducing environmental impacts, highlighting innovative research into recycling wind turbine blades through pyrolysis and solvolysis technologies.