Faculty of Science celebrates landmark publication in The Conversation Africa

TUT’s Faculty of Science proudly celebrates a significant academic milestone and first for the Faculty: the publication of Dr Mokgadi Hlongwane’s article in The Conversation Africa.

Dr Mokgadi Hlongwane Titled “South Africa’s farmers aren’t yet replacing chemical fertilisers with sustainable alternatives – this is why”, Dr Hlongwane from the Department of Chemistry’s article explores a critical issue facing the country’s agricultural sector. It highlights the continued reliance of small-scale farmers on chemical fertilisers, despite growing awareness of their environmental and long-term soil impacts.

Drawing on her research, Dr Hlongwane examines the barriers to adopting sustainable alternatives such as biological fertilisers. These include limited access, lack of awareness, and the practical realities faced by rural farming communities. The article also explains how natural solutions—such as rhizobia-based fertilisers—can improve soil health, enhance crop growth, and offer more sustainable, long-term agricultural outcomes.

The Conversation Africa is a globally respected platform that connects academic expertise with the public. Through a rigorous editorial process, it ensures that research-based insights are accessible, credible and relevant to current societal challenges. Articles published on the platform are often shared internationally, significantly amplifying the reach and impact of contributing scholars.

Dr Hlongwane’s publication is therefore not only a personal achievement but also a reflection of the Faculty’s commitment to research excellence, public engagement and knowledge that makes a difference. Her work contributes meaningfully to ongoing conversations around sustainable agriculture, food security and environmental stewardship in South Africa and beyond.

The Faculty extends its sincere congratulations to Dr Hlongwane on this outstanding accomplishment and looks forward to many more contributions that elevate both academic scholarship and public understanding.

Read the full article here: https://theconversation.com/south-africas-farmers-arent-yet-replacing-chemical-fertilisers-with-sustainable-alternatives-this-is-why-278144