University of Venda under the auspices of the Directorate of Research and Innovation (DRI) organised a half day workshop to prepare researchers who are interested in becoming NRF Rated. The workshop took place at UNIVEN Research Conference Centre on the 16th January 2020. It was facilitated by the NRF Director of Reviews and Evaluation – Ms Joyce Olivier, who was assisted by the Professional Officer of the NRF Reviews and Evaluation – Ms Gomotsegang Monaise. The Research Coordinator in DRI – Dr ON Sotshangane was tasked with the organisation of the workshop.
Director Research and Innovation (Senior Professor GE Ekosse) addressing UNIVEN potential applicants for NRF rating
In his opening remarks, the Director Research and Innovation – Senior Professor GE Ekosse, gave the history of growth of NRF Rated Researchers at UNIVEN from 2008 – 2019. In 2008, UNIVEN had only one Rated Researcher. With regular annual growth, in 2019 there were 29 UNIVEN NRF Rated Researchers. This number would have been about 40 had it not been for deaths, resignations and retirements. Importantly, Rated Researchers contribute immensely to university core business particularly in academic leadership, postgraduate supervision, journal articles publications, and related research outputs released through various dissemination outlets. It is disappointing though that the number of Female Rated Researchers at UNIVEN has not increased from four over the years. That notwithstanding, there is an on-going Customised NRF Assisted Project in which staff in DRI are working with UNIVEN female researchers in assisting with their career growth and development.
NRF Director of Reviews and Evaluation (Ms Joyce Olivier) making her presentation and responding to questions from prospective applicants during the workshop
The NRF Director of Reviews and Evaluation – Ms Joyce Olivier, spoke extensively on the NRF Rating and Evaluation System. She highlighted the processes and procedures to be adhered to and pointed out common pitfalls which should be avoided by prospective applicants. The workshop had an interactive session in which UNIVEN researchers asked many questions on aspects of how to become rated. Attendees were encouraged to complete their applications online for the 2020 NRF Evaluation and Rating submissions which is closing on the 31 January 2020 internally. She pointed out that all people affiliated with NRF recognised institutions, whether permanently employed researchers/academics or fixed term contract researchers are eligible to apply for evaluation and rating. Prospective applicants are advised to develop a clear focus and avoid supporting predatory publishers. More information is available at http://www.nrf.ac.za/rating 3
Group Photo of Participants of the 2020 NRF Evaluation and Rating Workshop
Issued by:
Department of Communications & Marketing
University of Venda
Tel: (015) 962 8525
Date: 17 January 2020
