EMS academics inaugurated into prestigious science academies

The Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) hosted its annual awards ceremony on 11 October 2017, where new members of ASSAf and the South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS) were also inaugurated.

Prof Jenny Hoobler, Deputy Dean for Research and Postgraduate Studies in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS), was among a record number of 41 leading scientists who were inducted as new members of ASSAf. 'I'm honoured to be a part of this prestigious group of scholars,' she said following the event. 

The core function of ASSAf is to honour and recognise the country's most outstanding and celebrated scholars across the full spectrum of disciplines, by electing them to membership of the Academy. The criterion for election is significant achievement in the advancement and application of science/scholarship, both nationally and internationally.

Prof Roula Inglesi-Lotz, Associate Professor in the Department of Economics, was among nine new SAYAS members that were inaugurated. SAYAS is the voice of young scientists in South Africa and aims to contribute towards solutions to national and global challenges facing society. It provides a platform for young scientists to influence policy decisions; contribute towards the development of scientific capacity in the country through mentoring and role-modelling of future scientists; and foster opportunities for interdisciplinary collaborations amongst young scientists.

Welcoming the new cohort of members, Prof Esther Akinlabi, Chair of the SAYAS New Member Selection Committee, indicated that the committee was impressed by the high level of academic merit and depth of the nominations received. 'Your membership is critical in contributing to many of the vital activities and functioning of SAYAS, and we look forward to your active contributions to the further development of growth of SAYAS,' she said.