TWO researchers from the National University of Science and Technology (Nust) came first and second at the recent 8th Africa institute of South Africa, African Young Graduates and Scholars conference. NDUDUZO TSHUMA STAFF REPORTER
The researchers from the Institute for Development Studies Buhle Francis and Nqobizitha Dube came first and second respectively for their innovative research projects at the conference held in South Africa.
Dube revealed that they were first time participants in the showcase which involved more than 50 countries from all over the world including Canada, Japan South Korea and Germany.
Francis did a research on the exotic cactus tree in Gwanda and its effect on the ecosystem.
“The cactus plant originated in Mexico and came to Zimbabwe when someone brought it from South Africa. My research was on how the cactus tree, the indigenous tree and the soil content, diversity, abundance and level of nutrients,” she said.
“Communities are complaining about the tree, some are even relocating because it affects their livestock. If it affects the bio-diversity of our trees, it affects the livestock.”
Dube’s research on the other hand was broadcast on CNBC Africa on February 18 under the title Young emerging African Scholars: Africa at a Crossroads.
Nust director of information and public relations Felix Moyo said the institution’s mandate lay on the universal mandate of universities in the world to research and provide solutions to challenges affecting the community.
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He said the research by Francis provides solutions to the people of Gwanda.
“As Nust we will continue to tackle problems that are faced by the community wish government would pour funds in research because therein lies the turnaround of the country,” Moyo said.
He said research would also work in the implementation of the government Zim-Asset’s economic blue print.
