UJ’s Prof Bhekisipho Twala a finalist in the 2016 NSTF Awards

Date: Jun 29, 2016 | News

​Prof Bhekisipho Twala from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a finalist in the 2015/2016 NSTF Research Awards in partnership with South 32. Prof Twala is Professor in Artificial Intelligence and Statistical Science and Director of the Institute for Intelligent Systems at UJ. His research focuses on creating computer-based ‘human-like thought processes’ that can solve complex problems based on big data.

Prof Twala is rated as an Established Researcher (B) by the National Research Foundation (NRF) in the subject areas of Artificial intelligence, Applied Artificial Intelligence, Classification, Sensory analysis, Signal processing, Image processing, Machine learning and Intelligent systems.

See more about Prof Twala and the Institute for Intelligent Systems here.

Prof Twala is one of nine finalists for the TW Kambule-NSTF Awards, which recognise research and research outputs for an outstanding contribution to Science, Engineering, Technology (SET) and innovation by an individual over a period of up to 15 years after award of a PhD or equivalent, predominantly in South Africa.

Outreach and awareness – Ms Nicky Janse van Rensburg

Also named as a finalist at the awards is Ms Nickey Janse van Rensburg, for her work in communication for outreach and creating awareness for an outstanding contribution to SET and innovation by a team or individual. Ms Janse van Rensburg is a Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering and coordinator of the UJ Energy Movement Programme, which designs and builds the UJ Solar Car.

The award ceremony takes place on the evening of Thursday 30 June 2016, with a live Twitter feed and photos as events unfold on Facebook.

The National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) Awards recognise outstanding contributions to science, engineering and technology (SET) and innovation for researchers and other SET-related professionals. This includes experienced scientists, engineers, innovators, science communicators, research and engineering capacity builders, organisational managers/leaders, and research managers.