South Africa’s best and brightest ideas are on display in Sochi, Russia, as young researchers and innovators highlight what innovation can do for communities at the 9th BRICS Young Scientist Forum (YSF) and Young Innovator Innovation Prize competition.
More than 150 young people from the BRICS+ countries are forging valuable partnerships and exchanging experiences and best practices to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges using scientific research.
The Young Innovator Prize is a special recognition of young talented entrepreneurs and researchers whose outstanding innovations have the potential to make a profound impact on the lives of the citizens of BRICS countries.
The Department of Science and Innovation (DSTI), in its commitment to supporting young researchers and innovators in their pursuit of science-based solutions to address the complex challenges facing South Africa and the world, selects young researchers and innovators to attend the event, which is held in the BRICS host country in that year.
Dr Nomcebo Ubisi, a researcher at the Human Sciences Research Council, is presenting a mobile app designed to support rural smallholder farmers in South Africa. Currently under construction, the app aims to bridge the gap between farmers and extension services, providing farmers with access to market information, climate information, and support.
“In South Africa, smallholder farmers contribute significantly to the country’s food security, yet they face numerous challenges, including limited access to information and markets,” said Dr Ubisi.
Hoping to complete the development of the app early next year, she says it will be available in 11 official South Africa languages, will not require data to operate, and will allow farmers to receive important updates and information in real time.
Another young scientist from the University of Venda, Mr Milton Munyai, presented his research on the impact of climate change on aquatic biodiversity in the Kruger National Park.
“The BRICS YSF provides a valuable platform for young researchers like me to share our work, learn from others, and build collaborations that can help address the complex challenges facing our country and the world,” he said.
His project focuses on the north of the nature reserve, which is home to several wetlands systems, which are facing a loss of aquatic biodiversity such as fish and frogs. He is studying the remaining intact biodiversity in rivers and wetlands within the park, with the goal of protecting and preserving these ecosystems.
Climate change, he said, is having a devastating impact on our planet, and it is essential that we take action to mitigate its effects.
Dr Maurine Musie, a senior nursing lecturer at the University of Pretoria, is at the YSF to share her project on mobile health technology for maternal and child healthcare.
Her project aims to incorporate mobile health for the management of obstetric emergencies and complications, with the goal of reducing South Africa’s high maternal mortality rate.
“South Africa has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world, with 536 deaths per 100 000 live births,” said Dr Musie. “My project has the potential to make a significant impact on maternal and child healthcare in South Africa, and I am excited to share my research with the global community.”
An innovator from East London, Mr Siyanda Sitemele, is competing for the Young Innovator Prize with his sugar-free alternative to traditional tomato jam.
“We have noticed that the population in the BRICS countries is suffering a lot with diabetes and obesity, and we want to provide a solution to this problem,” said Sitemele.
“Our sugar-free tomato jam product is made from sun-ripened tomatoes and is perfect for health-conscious consumers.”
Prof. Katleho Moloi, associate professor at the Durban University of Technology, made a presentation on the use of artificial intelligence in mitigating the effects of climate change.
“We need to transition to renewable energy sources, improve energy efficiency, promote sustainable agriculture practices, and implement carbon capture and storage technologies,” said Prof. Moloi.
He emphasised that transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy, can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. He also highlighted the importance of improving energy efficiency through the implementation of energy-saving technologies in industries, buildings, and transportation.
The five-day forum ends on 29 November 2024 with the awarding of the Young Innovator Prize.
