“It is such a proud moment to be a part of this organisation. Look at the breadth of work being done, from growing bio-engineered livers to delivering power satellites to emerging farmers, supporting SMMEs for the last 10 to 15 years, delivering 18 000 ventilators during a global pandemic and being at the centre of every home during these national elections; the list goes on. Team CSIR, you make me proud; thank you,” said the Group Executive for Business Excellence and Integration, Dr Kaven Naidoo. He was speaking at the 2024 CSIR Excellence Awards, held on Friday, 22 November 2024, at the CSIR International Convention Centre.

Under the theme “Celebrating EPIC Achievements”, the day marked a momentous occasion as team CSIR came together to celebrate exceptional individuals and teams who have contributed to the organisation’s mission of touching lives through innovation. Dr Lawrence Dube, Corporate Business Manager at Wits Business School, facilitated the event with his charisma and enthusiasm as the Master of Ceremonies for the day.

Honouring new leaders in research

The event served as a suitable platform to recognise the organisations newly promoted chief and principal researchers. Fourteen researchers have advanced to the principal researcher level, and two have achieved the esteemed title of chief researcher. Dr Naidoo acknowledged their accomplishments, stating, “You are the future, for the next five years, of this organisation. We look forward to witnessing some remarkable contributions you will be making,” said Dr Naidoo. Hats off to the following newly appointed principal and chief researchers:

Spotlight on excellence

In a moment of inspiration and reflection during his welcome, CSIR CEO, Dr Thulani Dlamini, quoted South Africa’s first democratically elected president, Nelson Mandela: “A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.” Dr Dlamini emphasised that at the CSIR, the driving force is a collective curiosity, a passion for learning, advancing knowledge and solving the complex challenges facing our nation and the world. “Our work is driven by purpose, a purpose that extends far beyond the walls of this institution,” he remarked.

A hearty vote of thanks

The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Dr Naidoo, who praised the exceptional work being done at the CSIR, “Excellence has always been the hallmark of our organisation. It makes us special. We represent the best of our country.”

He also took the opportunity to recognise Dr Dlamini’s visionary leadership and presented him with a special award, “This vote of thanks and award ceremony would not be complete without a special recognition of our leader and CEO, Dr Thulani Dlamini,” he said.

With 20 award categories, 217 finalists and 80 winners, the event celebrated remarkable achievements. Congratulations to the following award winners:

Career Achievement Award: Dr Susan Taljaard
Established Researcher Award: Dr Maya Mathew
Emerging Researcher Award: Dr Tracey Hurrell
Innovation Award: Dr Nicolette Chang
Health and Safety Award: Agro-manufacturing process and product development Team
Professional Support Excellence Award: Legal and Compliance Services Team
Administrative Support Excellence Award: Lerato Mokoena
Technical Support Excellence Award: SANReN Large Data Transfer Team
Human Capital Development Award: Prof. Bonex Mwakikunga
Employee Engagement, Inclusion and Diversity Award: Women’s Forum
Best Doctoral Student Award: Dr Lebogang Thobakgale
Best Masters Student Award: Njabulo Mtetwa
Best Undergraduate/Honours Student Award: Vishal Bhaga
DSI Inter-Programme Bursary Scheme: Dr Kwanele Andy Nxumalo, Safeera Sabjee and Thabang Theka
Outstanding Contribution by a Research Team: Bioplastics and Biocomposites Team
Business Development Award: Biomanufacturing Workforce Development Programme Team
Collaboration Award: SADC Support to Industrialisation and Productive Sectors (SIPS) Project Team
Compliance Award: Legal and Compliance Services Team
Emerging Leader Award: Dr Viren Chunilall
Leadership Award: Phatheka Ndzotoyi

Any form of appreciation, even a small word, is important

The CSIR Excellence Awards are a vital part of our recognition programme, designed to inspire motivation and enhance employee engagement while honouring those who have exemplified excellence in their fields.

Dr Lebogang Thobakgale, who won the Best Doctoral Student Award, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, saying, “I am really grateful and humbled by the CSIR’s continued recognition of the hard work I have invested in my field of research and innovation. It is really motivating and inspiring to know that the blood and sweat that come with my vocation do not go unnoticed.”

He emphasised the importance of perseverance and dedication in achieving success. “I hope that these achievements carry the same inspiration and motivation for those who aspire to grow in their respective fields. The key is to always be in tune with your passion, apply your craft habitually, stay strong in your faith and eventually, the rewards will manifest,” he added.