Professor Dipane Hlalele, Dean of the Faculty of Education at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), has again been ranked among the Top 100 education scientists in South Africa in the AD Scientific Index 2026, released on 22 July 2026. It is the third consecutive edition in which he has been recognised.
The AD Scientific Index is an independent international ranking that measures the scholarly impact of individual researchers rather than institutional reputation. Its 2026 edition assesses more than 2.6 million scientists across 221 countries and 13 major fields, using transparent bibliometric indicators. In plain terms, it reflects both how much a researcher publishes and how widely that work is cited and used by others.
In the 2026 rankings, Professor Hlalele is placed 70th among education scientists in South Africa, with a total H-index of 21, a five-year H-index of 16, and an H-index momentum score of 76.2%, which points to the continued growth of his research influence in recent years.
The recognition reflects a sustained body of work in rural education, inclusive education, teacher development, educational leadership and social justice. Through his publications, research collaborations, postgraduate supervision and externally funded projects, his scholarship has contributed to educational policy, practice and theory both nationally and internationally.
As Dean of the Faculty of Education, Professor Hlalele’s research leadership continues to strengthen the Faculty’s research profile, postgraduate education and community engagement, while supporting emerging scholars in pursuing research that responds to real educational challenges.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, Professor Paul Green, said: “Professor Hlalele’s sustained presence among South Africa’s leading education scientists speaks to the depth of scholarship we are building at Sol Plaatje University. Recognition held over three consecutive editions reflects not a single achievement but a consistent body of work that strengthens our Faculty of Education and the University’s research profile.”
The recognition adds to a growing record of research achievement at SPU and reflects the University’s commitment to scholarship that creates meaningful social impact.
