ASSAf Distinguished Visiting Scholar (DVS) Programme 2025/26

Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf)

doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/assaf.2026/126

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Abstract (English) : This proceedings report synthesises a series of public lectures and academic engagements delivered by Prof Dr. Lindiwe Majele Sibanda, ASSAf Distinguished Visiting Scholar (DVS) for 2025/26, across four South African institutions [STIAS in Stellenbosch (STIAS_Streaming), University of Mpumalanga UMP_Streaming), University of Venda, and University of Pretoria (UP_Streaming)] between 4 and 12 March 2026. The aim is to consolidate the core arguments regarding the agriculture–climate–food systems nexus as a unifying framework for health, equity, and Africa’s future. Prof Sibanda posits that the sustainable transformation of food systems demands both scientific innovation and moral imagination. Tracing the four agricultural revolutions, she identifies Africa’s missed opportunities during the Green Revolution and advocates a paradigm shift from production‑focused agriculture towards integrated food systems that embed climate resilience, nutrition, and planetary stewardship. Across institutional engagements, consistent priorities emerged: democratising food systems knowledge through accessible short certification courses; investing in indigenous African crops; strengthening university‑policy interfaces; and empowering youth as entrepreneurs and innovators. The report preserves institutional distinctiveness while presenting a cohesive narrative of Prof Sibanda’s messages. These proceedings affirm that food systems transformation in Africa requires reimagining the nexus of health, climate, and equity through locally rooted, morally guided, and action‑oriented scholarship and policy engagement. About the ASSAf Distinguished Visiting Scholar (DVS) Programme The Academy annually invites one or more distinguished scholars from abroad to present lectures at various higher education institutions around the country. The scholars are internationally prominent academics who are inspirational speakers and usually with an ability to bridge the divides between disciplines. The purpose of the Distinguished Visiting Scholar’s Programme is to fulfil one of the Academy’s strategic goals, viz. the promotion of innovation and scholarly activity. Through interaction with distinguished individual scholars from around the world, ASSAf aims to enrich and stimulate research endeavours at South African higher education and research institutions.

Description : 29 pages

Contributor ORCIDs : Mabotha, Tebogo