A Milestone Year for South Africa’s Science Community
The Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) marked a significant milestone this year by inducting 45 of the nation’s most accomplished scholars and scientists into its prestigious fellowship. The new members were formally inaugurated during the ASSAf Annual Awards Ceremony held on 30 October 2025, underscoring the Academy’s ongoing commitment to celebrating scholarly excellence and advancing science for the public good.
Established as the official national science academy, ASSAf recognises individuals who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, innovation, and leadership in their fields. Election to ASSAf Membership is considered one of the highest honours in South Africa’s academic landscape—symbolising both intellectual distinction and a sustained contribution to national and societal progress.
This year’s additions bring the Academy’s total membership to 772 distinguished scholars, representing a diverse cross-section of disciplines spanning engineering, health sciences, humanities, economics, environmental science, and technology.
Rigorous Selection and Recognition of Excellence
Each year, new ASSAf Members are elected through a rigorous peer-review process conducted by the full Academy Membership. The process ensures that inductees embody both research excellence and a commitment to applying science for social advancement.
“ASSAf represents the pinnacle of South African scholarship,” said an Academy spokesperson. “Our new members are leaders who not only push the boundaries of knowledge but also work to make that knowledge accessible and impactful.”
Distinguished Scholars: 2025 Cohort Highlights
The 2025 cohort features leading thinkers and innovators from across South Africa’s major universities and research institutions, as well as scholars of international repute with strong local affiliations.
Among the notable inductees are:
- Prof John Ataguba – Canada Research Chair in Health Economics at the University of Manitoba, also affiliated with the University of Pretoria and the University of Cape Town.
- Prof Kevin Behrens – Director, Steve Biko Centre for Bioethics, University of the Witwatersrand.
- Prof Klaus Beiter – Expert in Intellectual Property Law and Socio-Economic Rights, North-West University.
- Prof Michael Claeys – Chemical Engineering researcher at the University of Cape Town’s Catalysis Institute.
- Prof Imraan Coovadia – Writer and Director of the Centre for Creative Writing, University of Cape Town.
- Prof Serges Djoyou Kamga – Dean, Faculty of Law, University of the Free State, specialising in Human Rights Law.
- Prof Hasina Ebrahim – UNESCO Co-Chair in Early Childhood Education, UNISA.
- Prof Raymond Durrheim – SARChI Chair in Exploration, Earthquake and Mining Seismology, University of the Witwatersrand.
- Prof Lucy Gilson – Health Policy and Systems expert, University of Cape Town and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
- Prof Roula Inglesi-Lotz – DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Just Energy Transition, University of Pretoria.
- Prof Philiswa Nomngongo – SARChI Chair in Nanotechnology for Water, University of Johannesburg.
- Prof Özlem Tastan Bishop – Professor of Bioinformatics, Rhodes University.
- Prof Vusi Gumede – Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Durban University of Technology.
- Prof Annet Oguttu – Director, African Tax Institute, University of Pretoria.
- Prof Adam Haupt – Director, Centre for Film and Media Studies, University of Cape Town.
(Full list available on ASSAf’s official website.)
Diversity Across Disciplines and Institutions
The newly elected members represent a rich blend of disciplines — from the hard sciences and engineering to the social sciences, humanities, and creative arts. Their inclusion reflects the Academy’s ongoing efforts to build an inclusive, interdisciplinary network of scholars who can collectively address South Africa’s pressing challenges — from healthcare and education to climate resilience and technological innovation.
This year’s inductees hail from leading universities, including the University of Cape Town, University of Pretoria, University of Johannesburg, University of the Witwatersrand, Rhodes University, University of South Africa, Durban University of Technology, University of the Free State, and others.
ASSAf’s Role in Shaping National Research and Policy
Since its establishment, ASSAf has played a pivotal role in advising the South African government and society on science-based policy, education reform, and innovation strategy. The Academy functions as an independent, merit-based body, providing expert insights that bridge academia, industry, and government.
Through its policy reports, fellow networks, and science communication initiatives, ASSAf promotes:
- Evidence-based policymaking for sustainable development
- Research collaboration across disciplines and institutions
- Ethical and inclusive scientific leadership
- Mentorship and capacity building among early-career researchers
“Our members serve as thought leaders in their fields,” said ASSAf President Prof. Jonathan Jansen. “They help ensure that South African science remains globally competitive while staying rooted in the needs of our society.”
Recognising Science as a Driver of Social Change
The 2025 ASSAf induction underscores the growing recognition of science as a cornerstone of South Africa’s social and economic transformation. The Academy’s newest members are expected to contribute not only through academic excellence but also through mentorship, public engagement, and community-driven research.
Their collective expertise — spanning climate science, medicine, education, humanities, and technology — strengthens South Africa’s capacity to produce knowledge that informs policy and empowers communities.
Looking Ahead: Building a Knowledge-Driven Future
With its expanding membership, ASSAf continues to build a stronger, more connected research ecosystem. The 2025 cohort’s induction signals a renewed commitment to fostering innovation, equity, and scientific integrity in the decades to come.
As global challenges like climate change, health inequities, and digital transformation reshape societies, ASSAf’s growing network of scholars stands poised to ensure that South Africa’s voice in global science remains strong and forward-looking.
The induction of these 45 new members not only celebrates academic brilliance but also reaffirms the Academy’s vision — to advance science in service of society.
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