WATCH | Rhodes University names Nanotechnology Institute after renowned scientist, Distinguished Professor Tebello Nyokong

As part of its celebration of 120 years of academic excellence, Rhodes University unveiled the Tebello Nyokong Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation (Nyokong Institute), described as a “one-stop shop” and the only facility of its kind on the continent.

When Distinguished Professor Tebello Nyokong heard the news that Rhodes University's cutting-edge nanotechnology institute would bear her name, she had to pinch herself to confirm she was still among the living!

"I wondered if I was dead because buildings are typically named after people who have passed away. They never name buildings after those who are alive—except for Mandela—so I had to pinch myself," she quipped with a cheeky grin.

As part of its celebration of 120 years of academic excellence, Rhodes University unveiled the Tebello Nyokong Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation (Nyokong Institute), described as a “one-stop shop” and the only facility of its kind on the continent.

The institute aims to spearhead pioneering research in nanotechnology and advanced sciences, tackling critical challenges like cancer treatment, energy shortages, and water purification. Among its noteworthy projects are initiatives to combine nanoparticles with cancer drugs to improve treatment efficacy and research on solar cell materials to tackle energy challenges.

The Distinguished Professor said that the institute will elevate research in South Africa.

"I want us to advance our research to the next level. In South Africa, we face what's called an innovation chasm. We conduct research but don't transform it into products. I believe nanotechnology will significantly aid the cancer research we’re conducting, which is now entering the clinical trial stage," she stated.

The cancer research at the institute holds special significance for co-supervisor Dr Muthumuni Managa, influencing her decision to join under Nyokong’s tutelage.

"What inspired me to study at Rhodes University from Honours to PhD under the supervision of Distinguished Professor Tebello Nyokong was my personal connection to cancer as my mother was diagnosed with cancer. The project that has truly mattered to me involved designing molecules specifically targeting breast cancer cells," Managa explained.

The institute’s deputy director, Professor Philani Mashazi, remarked that Nyokong’s dedication and achievements in science deserved all the recognition they have garnered.

"She has worked so hard and generated outstanding research outputs that has put Rhodes University on a global stage. The university is recognising her by naming the building after her. It's not just the University acknowledging her; she has made significant impact nationally and internationally. Hence, the numerous accolades and recognition that come from all over the world," he stated.

In her early days studying in Canada, Distinguished Professor Nyokong was driven by the scepticism she encountered as a black African woman. Today, with six honorary doctorates from institutions around the world, she stands as a beacon of inspiration for young black women like Dr Sixolile Centane, a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Nyokong Institute.

"I studied under her guidance from honours all the way through to my PhD degree because she mirrored my identity, making me believe I could achieve anything. She is remarkable and inspired greatness in me. There's no space I can't enter with confidence. I found my voice through her, and I know my worth," Centane shared.

As a testament to her commitment to students, Distinguished Professor Tebello Nyokong recently launched the Tebello Nyokong Scholarship Fund for Master’s and PhD students. The scholarship, totalling approximately R3.5 million, is funded by her award-winnings accumulated over the years.

"That money was always meant for you," Nyokong told her students during the institute’s launch.

Click HERE to donate and learn more about the scholarship fund.