During the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Research Week 2024, the University introduced the Centre for Global Change (CGC), formerly the Risk and Vulnerability Science Centre. The new name and expanded mandate of the CGC was unveiled during a glittering black-tie event, that marked a pivotal moment in SPU’s commitment to addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary research.
Vice-Chancellor Prof Andrew Crouch opened the evening by emphasising the urgency of addressing critical issues such as climate change and food insecurity. He noted the growing scope of SPU’s research efforts, including the introduction of a Desert Studies research thrust, and highlighted the CGC’s key role in fostering innovation and collaboration.
Dr Doug Harebottle, Director of the CGC, detailed the centre’s achievements and growth, particularly in supporting postdoctoral researchers and students in different disciplines. He explained how the CGC’s research now spans areas like grassland ecosystems, biofuel optimisation, air pollution prediction, and water purification technologies. The renaming, he said, aligns the centre more closely with global change paradigms.
A thought-provoking address by Prof Guy Midgley from Stellenbosch University warned of humanity’s impact on the planet, with potential species extinction and environmental devastation looming. He stressed the importance of the CGC’s work in finding sustainable solutions.
Dr Gugu Moche, from the National Research Foundation, commended the centre’s potential to drive impactful change through innovation. Mr Imraan Patel, Department of Science and Innovation, reinforced this by praising SPU’s rapid growth and advocating for innovative approaches to communicating scientific research.
Prof Paul Green, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, concluded the event by reflecting on the discussions, emphasising the collaborative efforts needed to achieve the centre’s goals and acknowledging the critical role the CGC will play in shaping future research at SPU.
The launch of the CGC marks a transformative step for SPU, reinforcing its ambition to be a leader in global change research. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, the CGC will tackle societal and environmental challenges impacting both local and global communities.
