Prof. Ntsoaki Malebo is an accomplished scientist and leader whose career exemplifies dedication to academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and transformative education. With a PhD in Microbiology from the University of the Free State and additional qualifications in higher education and leadership from Rhodes and Stellenbosch universities, she has become an inspiration in academia and beyond.

Prof. Malebo began her academic journey at the Central University of Technology as a postdoctoral fellow, gaining international exposure through her selection for the 5th HOPE Meeting with Nobel Laureates, hosted by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science. This opportunity set the tone for a career of innovation and global collaboration.

Her pioneering research leverages indigenous knowledge systems, particularly indigenous oils, and food preservation. Prof. Malebo has secured multiple NRF Thuthuka Grants and a Research Career Advancement Fellowship, reflecting her exceptional contributions to the scientific community.

Currently, she leads a SASSCAL-funded project that investigates the nutritional and antimicrobial properties of indigenous plants in Angola and South Africa. This interdisciplinary research fosters international partnerships with institutions in Angola and Germany and local collaboration with knowledge holders in Tweespruit.

Prof. Malebo has held numerous senior positions, including Research Manager, Head of Department (HoD), and Assistant Dean of Teaching and Learning. As HoD, she mentored young academics, particularly those in the nGAP initiative, shaping the next generation of educators. She has also contributed to institutional governance through her Senate, Institutional Forum, and Management Committee roles.

Her current role as Senior Director at CUT’s Centre for Innovation in Learning and Teaching highlights her leadership prowess. She oversees academic staff and student development, e-learning, and disability services while managing key grants like the UCDG and nGAP. Her co-leadership of the Siyaphumelela student success project underlines her commitment to improving educational outcomes.

Prof. Malebo’s contributions to academic development extend to national and international programme reviews. She coordinates the academic developer special interest group within HELTASA and spearheaded CUT’s iKudu project, which champions the Internationalisation of the Curriculum (IoC) and Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL).

As a registered Professional Natural Scientist with SACNASP, Prof. Malebo has published extensively, presented at prestigious conferences, and inspired countless students through her teaching and leadership. Her unwavering dedication to advancing knowledge, fostering sustainability, and empowering students has made her a respected figure in academia and a trailblazer for future generations.