University of Limpopo

𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫

The International Workshop and Seminar is equipping researchers and health professionals with advanced skills in research methodology, clinical trials, biostatistics, evidence synthesis and scientific communication. The programme also promotes research leadership, mentorship and international collaboration, with a strong focus on translating research evidence into improved healthcare practice, policy and patient outcomes.

𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫

Professor Pitso Mphasha’s presentation emphasised the importance of translating research evidence into meaningful practice. He highlighted that research should go beyond academic publication to drive improvements in healthcare practices, strengthen health systems and enhance quality of life.

The presentation also underscored the importance of collaboration and co-design in ensuring that research is effectively translated into sustainable, real-world impact.

𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫

Professor Lehana Thabane, Professor of Biostatistics and Clinical Trials Methodology at McMaster University, delivered a keynote address on the future of health research in Africa and beyond.

He emphasised the importance of accelerating Africa-led research and innovation, strengthening clinical trial capacity, advancing community-based healthcare solutions and promoting practice-based research. Central to his address was the message: “Research is care, and care is research.”

Professor Thabane highlighted the need for an Africa-informed health research ecosystem grounded in evidence, health equity, sustainable leadership and African values such as Ubuntu.

𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫

Professor Mabitsela Mphasha, Associate Professor in Public Health, presents the University of Limpopo’s Research and Innovation Strategy at the International Workshop and Seminar.

𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫

The Director of the University of Limpopo’s School of Medicine, Professor Shisana Baloyi, officially opened the three-day International Workshop and Seminar, emphasising the vital role of research in strengthening clinical care, teaching, postgraduate training, innovation and community health.

Prof. Baloyi stressed that research at UL must go beyond academic qualifications and publications, focusing instead on generating evidence that responds to the health priorities of Limpopo, South Africa and the African continent.

He highlighted the need to develop clinician-scientists, researchers, academic leaders and supervisors equipped with strong skills in research methodology, clinical trials, biostatistics, evidence-based medicine and scientific communication.

Prof. Baloyi encouraged participants to use the workshop to develop research ideas, address methodological challenges, establish collaborations and build sustainable research programmes. He called for research to translate into meaningful improvements in healthcare and the lives of communities. “Research is care. Evidence must lead to action, and the knowledge we generate must ultimately serve humanity.”

𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫

The Executive Dean of the University of Limpopo’s Faculty of Health Sciences, Professor Mamare Bopape, welcomed delegates to the three-day International Workshop and Seminar, emphasising the importance of strengthening health research that responds to the needs of communities, South Africa and the African continent.

Prof. Bopape highlighted key areas of the programme, including research design, clinical trials, biostatistics, research ethics, grant writing, high-impact publishing, systematic reviews and meta-analysis, research leadership and mentorship, and international collaboration. She encouraged participants to actively engage, share experiences, challenge assumptions respectfully, build professional networks and translate the knowledge gained into their research, postgraduate supervision and clinical practice.

The workshop reflects the Faculty’s commitment to building a rigorous, ethical, innovative and collaborative research culture, while advancing African-led research programmes that address the continent’s health priorities and contribute meaningfully to global research.

𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔

A Gateway to Shaping Africa’s Solutions for the World

The University of Limpopo is honoured to join the Public Sector Leaders Summit as an official Exhibition Partner. Embodying our core commitment - "Finding solutions for Africa". UL stands as a globally engaged institution dedicated to driving excellence, innovation, and impactful scholarship.

Located at South Africa's northern frontier, UL occupies a unique strategic position where borders intersect and real-world challenges are pmet head-on. Positioned alongside Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Botswana, while seamlessly connected to South Africa's key economic provinces, the university delivers an engaged scholarship model that is both locally grounded and internationally relevant. UL’s academic qualification framework and research mandate respond directly to societal urgent needs.

By addressing critical issues such as climate change, healthcare, water security, economic growth, and digital innovation, the University of Limpopo continues to fulfill its mission of finding solutions for Africa that resonate across the globe.

📌 Be sure to meet the team! Get your tickets to the Public Sector Leaders Summit here: hubs.la/Q04t1-Xq0

𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐌𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

“I have come to learn that some of life’s greatest joys and most profound lessons come from putting yourself in situations that scare you to death. It is in those moments that you are forced to dig deeper into your soul, discover your strength, and find that much-needed push to keep going.” - Augustine Tsaru Mankgaba, Post Graduate Diploma in Science Communication student, Law Graduate, Debater and Public Speaker for University of Limpopo Debating Society (ULDS), Former chairperson of ULDS, Former Deputy Chairperson of UL Promaths Chapter

𝐄𝐬𝐤𝐨𝐦 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐨 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐫

The 2026 Eskom Expo for Young Scientists was a remarkable success, bringing together young innovators, researchers and aspiring scientists to showcase their ideas, creativity and solutions to real-world challenges.

Through the continued support of the University of Limpopo’s Science Education Centre, university students had the opportunity to serve as judges, contributing their research knowledge and expertise while engaging with and encouraging the next generation of scientists.

The event provided learners with a meaningful platform to explore their potential, develop innovative solutions to challenges in their communities and beyond, and gain valuable exposure to scientific research. Their achievements were celebrated through awards, trophies, medals and certificates, recognising their hard work and performance throughout the competition.

The University of Limpopo’s contribution was also recognised, with Noksy Letsoalo and Sandile Rikhotso from the Science Education Centre receiving recognition awards for their long-standing service, dedication and commitment to the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists. Their recognition reflects the importance of sustained partnerships and the impact of individuals who continue to invest their time and expertise in nurturing young talent.

As the University of Limpopo continues to champion community engagement, education, research and innovation, partnerships such as these remain essential in creating opportunities for young people to grow, discover their potential and contribute towards a better future.

A successful Expo, a celebration of achievement, and a continued commitment to nurturing the scientists and innovators of tomorrow.