On Wednesday, 21 August 2019, University of Venda (UNIVEN) Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Dr Bernard Nthambeleni accompanied by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic, Prof Jan Crafford and the Director Research and Innovation, Senior Prof Georges-Ivo Ekosse took a tour around the SARCHI Museum and Resource Centre at the University’s Life Sciences building.
UNIVEN Vice -Chancellor and Principal, Dr Bernard Nthambeleni
UNIVEN Vice -Chancellor and Principal, Dr Bernard Nthambeleni appreciated the work that has been done so far by the SARCHI chair. “I do recall some few years ago (2011-2012) when the Minister of Higher Education and Training allocate funds to establish 62 SARCHI chairs” Dr Nthambeleni continued to explain that the funds were intended to improve the Historically Disadvantaged Institutions of higher learning. “I am pleased that UNIVEN was awarded two chairs,” said Dr Nthambeleni.
He added that having this tour to witness the great achievements, he is delighted. “This programme was introduced to ensure that all institutions of higher learning in South Africa can be globally competitive. I am happy to see that UNIVEN has talented, credible researchers and scientists who are doing incredible work in heading this Museum.”
Dr Colin Schoeman shared a short history of how Prof Peter Taylor who is the SARCHI Biodiversity Chair started the museum. He explained that the SARCHI Chair had his vision for a little museum as part of the University to support education and research.
“We have worked so hard with dedication to ensure that this museum becomes a reality,” said Prof Peter Taylor while rendering a brief overview of the SARCHI Biodiversity progress and plans. He added that, in the past five years they have trained 500 participants in skills workshops and seminars and
in the next five years in terms of biodiversity, they have planned to bring culture and nature close to the society.
Dr Colin Schoeman showing Dr Bernard Nthambeleni some of the biological species through the microscope
Dr Aluwani Nengovhela (Middle)
On behalf of postgraduate students and PhD candidates, Dr Aluwani Nengovhela commended the SARCHI staff members for giving them a platform to conduct their research. “As students who embark on different projects, we know we cannot do everything on our own, but we are thankful to have the University’s support to ensure that our projects become a success,” she said.
Dean of the School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Deputy Dean of the School, Prof Peter Tshisikhawe
In his vote of thanks, on the behalf of the Dean of the School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Deputy Dean of the School, Prof Peter Tshisikhawe said that the School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences considered Dr Nthambeleni’s visit to the School as an honour. “We believe that the school will receive more support,” he said.
Staff members from the School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences photographed at the SARCHI museum and resource centre with UNIVEN management
Issued by:
Department of Communications & Marketing
University of Venda
Tel: (015) 962 8525
Date: 22 August 2019
