Dr Mpho Tshikororo (Head of the Department of Agi-business and Agri-economics in the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Agriculture) secured the Best Oral Presentation Award in the PhD holder category under the Equity in Climate Action sub-theme at the ASSAf Annual Young Scientists Conference (AYSC).
The Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) and the South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS), in partnership with the World Academy of Science Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Partner (TWAS-SAREP), the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), the National Research Foundation (NRF), and the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), jointly hosted the 2025 AYSC from 13 to 14 October 2025 at Anew Hotel, O.R Tambo International, Johannesburg. The conference theme, “Climate Change and Well-being,” fostered a collaborative platform for scientific exchange, networking, and knowledge sharing among emerging African researchers across multiple disciplines.
The programme featured three sub-themes:
- Resilience in Adaptation and Mitigation: A Holistic Approach
- Climate Change Impact on Human and Planetary Health
- Equity in Climate Action
Aligned with the S20 theme of Climate Change and Well-being, the AYSC provided early-career scholars with an opportunity to engage on the nexus of food, water, land, energy, society, and climate dynamics. The conference underscored the complex challenges confronting African communities and highlighted the pivotal role of science in developing solutions. Addressing healthcare inequalities, environmental sustainability, technological progress, and socio-economic development requires strong scientific ecosystems driven by rigor, curiosity, and inclusivity.
The conference advanced inclusive, cross-sectoral approaches that strengthen resilience and sustainability. The scientific contributions of early-career researchers remain vital in shaping the future well-being of both people and the planet. AYSC continues to serve as a dynamic platform for researchers and innovators to exchange insights, forge partnerships, and map the trajectory of scientific progress across Africa and beyond.
The Equity in Climate Action sub-theme emphasised the importance of socially just responses to climate change. It calls for policies and interventions that prioritise the needs of vulnerable communities, ensure active participation in climate-related decision-making, and promote solutions that acknowledge intersecting inequalities. Equity must remain central to adaptation and mitigation strategies to prevent further marginalisation and to support sustainable development outcomes.
Dr Tshikororo delivered an award-winning presentation titled “Advancing Agricultural Entrepreneurship Through Tailored Coping Mechanisms on Food Systems Synergy Discrepancies Caused by Climate Change.” His research contributes to strengthening climate resilience and advancing equitable economic participation within agricultural value chains.
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