The Indigenous Knowledge Systems Center (IKSC) at the Mahikeng Campus of North-West University has appointed Prof Milingoni Peter Tshisikhawe as an Extraordinary Professor, recognising his scholarly leadership in ethnobotany and plant ecology. The honorary appointment is effective from 1 December 2025 to 30 November 2028.
In this role, Prof Tshisikhawe will support the IKSC’s academic programmes, with a particular focus on postgraduate training. He will also contribute to the evaluation and assessment of students, strengthening research capacity and advancing the Centre’s work in Indigenous Knowledge Systems.
Prof Tshisikhawe serves as a Full Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences within the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Agriculture (FSEA) at the University of Venda. He is an active National Research Foundation (NRF) C3-rated researcher specialising in ethnobotany and plant ecology. Over the course of his academic career, he has supervised numerous Honours, Master’s and PhD candidates to completion and has authored more than sixty peer-reviewed journal articles, in addition to three book chapters.
Welcoming the appointment, Prof Tshisikhawe described it as a valuable opportunity to deepen collaboration between the two institutions. He noted that the partnership would enhance knowledge exchange and provide meaningful benefits to both staff and students.
Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Agriculture, Prof Natasha Potgieter, congratulated him on the honour, noting that the recognition affirms the strength of the University of Venda’s academic community. She highlighted his respected expertise in Indigenous Knowledge Systems, particularly his research on Venda plants and products, which continues to make a significant impact in the field.
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Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
