The Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) proudly celebrates Dr. Bafedile Dorcas Tlhapi, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, who has been selected to participate in the Global Young Scientists Summit (GYSS) 2026. The summit, hosted by the National Research Foundation Singapore, will take place from 5 to 9 January 2026 at the Stephen Riady Centre, National University of Singapore.

Under the mentorship of Professor Ntsoaki Malebo at the Centre for Applied Food Sustainability and Biotechnology (CAFSaB), Dr. Tlhapi’s research focuses on Natural Products Chemistry, with particular emphasis on discovering novel molecular scaffolds for the treatment and management of microbial infections.

Her work is rooted in phytochemistry and medicinal plant sciences, investigating the phytochemical properties of Angolan and South African medicinal plants. Through comprehensive screening of plant extracts, fractions, and pure compounds, she explores their potential biological activities, with a special focus on diseases of public health concern such as diabetes, cancer, and microbial infections.

Dr. Tlhapi’s research contributes significantly to identifying new phytoconstituents that may lead to the development of novel therapeutic agents. Her growing scholarly reputation is reflected in numerous publications in accredited journals and presentations at national and international conferences.

Reflecting on her selection, Dr. Tlhapi expressed deep gratitude and pride: “Being chosen to participate in the Global Young Scientists Summit is an incredible honour. It is a privilege to represent my university and country on such a highly respected global platform. I am sincerely grateful to Professor Ntsoaki Malebo for her invaluable mentorship and to Dr. Idah Tichaidza Manduna for her unwavering support on my postdoctoral project. This opportunity will allow me to engage with some of the world’s leading scientists, learn from emerging research trends, and explore meaningful collaborations that could expand the impact of my work.”

She further emphasised that her selection is not only a personal milestone but also a testament to CUT’s nurturing research environment: “CUT has created an enabling environment for young researchers like me to grow and thrive. I am proud to be part of a university that champions innovation and contributes to solving global challenges through science," she concluded.

The Global Young Scientists Summit is a renowned multidisciplinary conference that gathers exceptional young researchers, scientists, and innovators from across the world. It provides a vibrant platform for engagement across disciplines such as chemistry, engineering, computer science, physics, mathematics, and medicine, fostering dialogue on cutting-edge research and global challenges. The summit features lectures and interactive sessions with some of the world’s most celebrated scientific minds, including Nobel Laureates and recipients of the Fields Medal, Millennium Technology Prize, and Turing Award.

Uploaded: 13 November 2025