Dr Hildegard Witbooi-Masayiti, a Lecturer and Faculty Research Higher Degrees Committee (FRHDC) member in the Department of Agronomy at the University of Fort Hare (UFH), has been honored with a prestigious Thuthuka Grant Award. This recognition from the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Science and Innovation will support her groundbreaking research from 2025 to 2027.
A Groundbreaking Research Project
The awarded grant is for Dr Witbooi-Masayiti’s study that she modestly titled ‘Production-to-Agroprocessing of Cape Wild Indigenous and Underutilized crops.’ The project is deeply rooted in her upbringing and exposure to plants from a very young age.
“This research is rooted in my early exposure to plants and my lifelong passion for agriculture. We aim to investigate the effects of various stresses—nitrogen, phosphate, and salt stress—on indigenous, underutilized food plants,” she explains.
“Our goal is to cultivate these plants using commercial methods that will increase productivity and quality while minimizing input costs. By doing so, we aim to conserve soil and water, improving farming practices to make them both safer and more sustainable.”
Dr Witbooi-Masayiti emphasizes that there is limited research on the utility of these targeted crops. As a result, the team is generating new data on their potential. “The rich natural resource linked to South African biodiversity is largely untapped, and we’re working to unlock its value. These bioactives, which are already used in human applications, hold tremendous potential for South Africa’s bioeconomy,” she adds.
Potential Impact on South Africa’s Agroprocessing Sector
The implications of this research extend far beyond academia. “The production strategies we explore will result in high-quality crops grown with low input costs, which can stimulate the agroprocessing sector in the Eastern Cape and across South Africa. Our research has the potential to significantly boost food security, support sustainable farming, and drive innovation in the agroprocessing industry.”
Supporting Growth as a Leading Researcher
Receiving the Thuthuka Grant Award is not just a financial boost for Dr Witbooi-Masayiti’s project—it is a significant step forward in her academic career. The funding will enable her to conduct cutting-edge research and publish high-quality findings, thus strengthening her professional profile. Moreover, the award will facilitate collaboration with researchers both locally and internationally, providing opportunities to engage in relevant conferences, workshops, and symposia.
“All of these activities will enhance my expertise in horticulture and help me establish myself as a leading researcher in the field,” she says.
For her, receiving the prestigious NRF Thuthuka funding for a three-year period is an extraordinary personal achievement. “It means my research is not only valued but also supported by experts in the field. This award gives me the opportunity to conduct innovative, high-quality research that can make a real impact on food security and agricultural practices.”
A Positive Reflection on the University of Fort Hare
This award is not only a triumph for Dr Witbooi-Masayiti but also a major recognition for the University of Fort Hare’s Department of Agronomy. “This funding boosts the department’s visibility and reputation, offering new opportunities for collaboration and attracting future funding. It’s an exciting time for the university, and I’m proud to be part of this growing momentum.”
Dr. Witbooi-Masayiti also views the award as an opportunity to position the University of Fort Hare as a leader in research on undervalued indigenous plants. “This research could open doors to future funding opportunities and collaborative partnerships with other institutions, both in South Africa and internationally,” she adds.
“I’m deeply thankful for the guidance and support I’ve received from senior researchers such as Prof. Alen Manyevere (UFH) and one of my mentors, Prof Nokwanda Makunga (US). Their advice and encouragement have been invaluable in helping me navigate this journey.”
Pursuing Excellence in Research and Education
Dr Witbooi-Masayiti is committed to both research and teaching. Alongside her project, she is completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education at the University of Cape Town. “This award motivates me to continue pursuing excellence in both areas. It is a testament to the hard work I’ve invested in my academic career since joining the University of Fort Hare in 2023, and I am honored to have my efforts recognized.”
Her accomplishments already include publishing over 11 peer-reviewed papers in agricultural education. She has also been a recipient of the UFH Govan Mbeki Research and Development Centre’s seed grant for the past three years, which helped her immediately activate her research.
In late 2024, she was awarded a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship for 2025 by UFH’s Research, Partnerships, and Innovation (RPI) office. This opportunity will further support her work on undervalued indigenous plants and new agricultural technologies.
Additionally, she is a new member of UFH’s Research Niche Area Sustainable Agriculture, Land Use Strategies, Enhanced Food Security, and Climate Change, a key focus for her ongoing research.
Passion and Dedication to Agriculture and Research
Dr Witbooi-Masayiti attributes her academic success to her unwavering passion for agriculture and research. “I have always been driven to succeed in the field of plant production. Growing up surrounded by nature and useful plants, I’ve learned the importance of discipline, goal-setting, and time management. With the support of dedicated mentors and colleagues, I’ve learned that success is not just about hard work but also about maintaining focus and prioritizing what matters most.”