The National Science and Technology Forum-South32 (NSTF-South32) Awards were recently held in Cape Town and Johannesburg, honouring top achievements in science, engineering, technology, and innovation.
The awards, which celebrate excellence in science, engineering, technology, and innovation, are supported by the Department of Science and Innovation and are regarded as one of the highest accolades in the country’s science sector.
This year’s event was held under the theme: “Quantum Science and Technology in South Africa” and the slogan “SET for a quantum leap.”
The ceremony recognised some of South Africa’s most outstanding scientists, engineers, technologists, and practitioners across 16 distinct categories.
Among the winners was Professor Lise Korsten of the University of Pretoria, who received the prestigious Lifetime Award for her contributions to food safety and agricultural sustainability.
According to the university, Korsten, a Professor of Plant Health and Food Safety and Co-Director of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence in Food Security, has played a key role in turning science into practical action.
Speaking after receiving the award, Korsten called on young people
“I want to encourage everyone to pursue a career in agriculture and food sciences — because we all need food to survive, and it is a basic human right. Most importantly, become scientists so we can take this journey further and tackle the biggest challenges on our planet, including climate change, its impact on agriculture, soil integrity, food security, and the environment.
We must take responsibility. This is my challenge to young people: don’t complain — be active, be agents of change, and help us make the world a better place for all,” she said.
Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Blade Nzimande who delivered the keynote address congratulated the recipients, commending their contributions to advancing science and innovation in South Africa.
Another highlight of the evening was the NSTF Brilliants Programme, which celebrated the achievements of the country’s top-performing male and female learners in mathematics and science.
These exceptional learners shared their testimonies on how they excelled in their final Grade 12 examinations in the previous year, inspiring the next generation of innovators.
The 2025 NSTF-South32 Awards were particularly significant, marking the 27th anniversary of the awards and the 30th anniversary of the NSTF as an organisation.