Young innovators and scientists from South Africa have joined about 150 of their peers in Sochi, Russia, to compete for the BRICS Young Innovator Prize, an initiative of the BRICS Young Scientist Forum (YSF).
As 2024 chair of BRICS, Russia is hosting the 9th BRICS YSF from 25 to 29 November in Sochi, where the winners of the BRICS Young Innovator Prize will be announced.
The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) has selected five outstanding young innovators and 12 scientists to compete for the prize in Russia.
The competition identifies top research and innovation projects with the potential to contribute to global scientific and economic development and engage large numbers of young scientists in scientific and technical cooperation internationally.
The themes for this year include green technologies for the chemical, food, and agricultural industries, respectively; artificial intelligence (AI) technologies; and the special category "Palladium and future technologies".
The South African researchers participating in the forum gain access to training, mentorship and knowledge-sharing programmes, which aid in building a new generation of scientists who are better equipped to tackle complex global issues.
The YSF aims to develop international relations among the youth, consolidate scientific knowledge in search of answers to common social problems, and solidify BRICS members' position in global science and technology.
The forum serves as a cornerstone of South Africa's international scientific collaboration. It helps the country advance its research capabilities, empower its youth, and strengthen ties with key global partners – all while ensuring African issues remain central to the BRICS agenda.
Among the five innovators in the South African delegation is Ms Caroline Matenchi, CEO of Agr-Smart Tech, a soil testing company that, among other things, empowers farmers and food producers with innovative agritech solutions to enhance productivity, profitability and sustainability.
Ms Matenchi is a BSc in Life Sciences graduate at the University of South Africa, saying, "The BSc gave me a strong foundation in analytical thinking and problem-solving."
She also has a diverse background in science, customer technical support and entrepreneurship.
Prof. Katleho Moloi, who is currently the Acting Deputy Dean in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment at the Durban University of Technology is among the 12 selected young scientists.
His research interests include the application of AI in power and energy systems, condition monitoring, and renewable energy systems. Prof. Moloi was recently granted the status of Chartered Engineer by the Institute of Engineering and Technology in the UK. This internationally recognised accolade signifies his competence, expertise and commitment to engineering excellence.
An integral part of the forum, the Young Innovator Prize recognises the contributions of talented young entrepreneurs and researchers whose innovative solutions have the potential to significantly improve socio-economic conditions and environmental sustainability across BRICS nations.
The winners will be announced before the plenary session of the 4th Young Scientists Congress on 28 November.
Issued by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation.
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