Master’s student Jamie-Lee Carle, under the supervision of Professor Alison Leslie and Dr Katy Williams, and in collaboration with the Cape Leopard Trust, conducted a study on predicted leopard movement corridors in the Western Cape using a socio-ecological approach. The research involved camera trap surveys to verify whether leopards use these predicted corridors. Additionally, interviews with landowners were carried out to gain insights into local attitudes towards leopards and to identify potential threats to their survival in the area. Jamie-Lee recently presented her findings to the relevant landowners and stakeholders at her study sites. The results of her study not only confirmed that leopards are indeed using the predicted corridors but also highlighted significant threats, such as snaring and lethal predator control measures, which endanger leopards and other wildlife in these areas.

This project sought to establish a foundation for landowners and stakeholders to connect and engage in meaningful dialogue, addressing the challenges faced by landowners and exploring how they can be better supported by stakeholders and organisations like the Cape Leopard Trust, especially in areas of human-wildlife conflict. The feedback presentations to landowners serve as a crucial step in building trust and fostering meaningful relationships for future initiatives. Ultimately, these corridors must offer safe passage for leopards in a fragmented landscape, while simultaneously supporting the livelihoods of landowners.

Jamie-Lee will also be presenting her findings at the Southern African Wildlife Management Association conference in Namibia in October, courtesy of a travel grant awarded by the post graduate office of Stellenbosch University.

Photo 1. MSc student Jamie-Lee Carle showing locations of predicted leopard movement corridors across the Western Cape, South Africa

Photo 2. MSc student Jamie-Lee Carle presenting interview findings to the landowners she interviewed in Villiersdorp, Western Cape, South Africa.

Photo Above: left to right: Esmé Louw (HORT434 module coordinator and lecturer, Department of Horticultural Science, Stellenbosch University), Dr Keanu Martin (pre-harvest researcher, Department of Horticultural Science, Stellenbosch University), Schalk Reynolds (Marketing and Technical Manager, Philago SA), Dr Nigel Cook (Cook Horticultural (Pty) Ltd) and Dr Elke Crouch (Chair of the Department of Horticultural Science, Stellenbosch University).

Horticultural science is more than just cultivating crops; it’s a blend of science, art, and passion instilled in every undergraduate student at the Department of Horticultural Science. Access to quality resources is vital for nurturing this next generation of horticulturists. This past semester, the journey of each Horticulture 434 student was enriched by the receipt of sponsored copies of “Fundamentals of Temperate Zone Tree Fruit Production” (Editors Tromp, Webster & Wertheim, Backhuys Publishers, Leiden, 2005).

This textbook, a successor to the esteemed Dutch publication “Grondslagen van de Fruitteelt” (“Fundamentals of Fruit Production”) from 1976, features contributions from fruit researchers across the Netherlands, Belgium, and South Africa. Its comprehensive coverage of topics related to temperate pome and stone fruit production, spanning fundamental principles to applied methodologies, renders it a revered resource in the field.

Tailored to complement the rigorous curriculum of the HORT434 module, aimed at providing final-year students with a profound understanding of physiological principles behind pre-harvest horticultural practices, these textbook promises to enrich the academic experience of the students.

The sponsorship of these textbooks was made possible through the collaboration of Dr. Nigel Cook of Cook Horticultural (Pty) Ltd. and Philagro SA (Pty), a supplier of plant nutrition products to the South African agricultural industry. Their joint initiative ensured that each fourth-year Horticulture student received a copy of this invaluable resource, empowering them to delve deeper into the intricacies of fruit production.

The Department of Horticultural Science extends its gratitude to Dr Cook and Philagro SA for their support. This sponsorship not only underscores the department’s commitment to fostering industry-academia partnerships but also signifies a crucial investment in building human capacity for the fruit industry.

Article supplied by: Dr Esme Louw, Dr Elke Crouch
Photo credit: Kyra-Kay Rensburg; Hortgro

On Friday, 16 August 2024, the South African Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB) hosted a successful Knowledge Donation Day at the L’Avenir Wine Estate. This event, designed to enrich the educational experience of students from Stellenbosch University, Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), and Elsenburg Agricultural College, brought together future leaders of the wine industry in a day of learning, competition, and networking.

The highlight of the day was the Pruning Competition, where students showcased their skills and knowledge in viticulture. In a thrilling display of precision and expertise, a student from Stellenbosch University’s Department of Viticulture and Oenology claimed the top spot, taking first place with an outstanding performance. The competition was closely contested, with two students from Elsenburg College securing second and third places, respectively.

In addition to the competition, the Knowledge Donation Day featured insightful presentations from industry experts. Kachne Ross of SA Wine provided an overview of current trends and challenges in the wine industry, while Deborah Isaacs, a viticulturist at Anthonij Rupert Wines and an alumna of Elsenburg College, shared her journey from student to professional. Mabatho Selebeli from M3 Human Capital Management offered valuable advice on structuring a CV, career development and opportunities within the wine sector.

The event was made possible by the generous support of various sponsors, with a special thank you extended to L’Avenir Wine Estate for providing the venue. Their contribution ensured a successful and memorable day for all involved.

The Knowledge Donation Day proved to be an invaluable experience for the students, offering them a chance to connect with industry professionals and gain practical insights into their future careers. SAWIPB’s commitment to fostering the growth and development of the next generation of wine industry professionals was evident throughout the day, and the success of the event highlights the importance of such initiatives in the educational landscape..

Congratulations to all the participants and winners, and a heartfelt thank you to all the sponsors for making this day a resounding success.

Article supplied by Ms Precious Canham

Looking for getting some practical economic price comparisons? Use the Food Price Monitoring and Analysis Toolfrom FAO that lets you compare prices on both a local and an international range. Here’s an example showcasing the rise in egg prices over the last few years in South Africa:

Figure 1: Egg prices per dozen in South Africa over the last three years (July 2021-June 2024) from the FPMA tool

Want to stay informed? Use PressReader to keep up to date with access to thousands of newspapers and magazines from around the world. With PressReader you are able to read, download, and share content across multiple devices using the PressReader app.

Access it via your library guide.

Resource roundup brought to you by AgriSciences Faculty Librarian: Mrs Elizabeth Moll-Willard

As we look ahead, the agricultural sector is set to encounter a myriad of challenges—from the impacts of climate change to rapid technological advancements, from market fluctuations, and the increasing demand for sustainable practices. To continue leading in this dynamic environment, , the Faculty of AgriSciences must be prepared to adapt and evolve.

In response to these anticipated changes, the Dean and Chairpersons of the Faculty have launched a forward-thinking initiative called “Faculty of the Future.” This strategic initiative aims to design a comprehensive roadmap that will enable the Faculty of AgriSciences to sustainably meet the future needs of South Africa’s agriculture, food, fibre, and beverage industries. This roadmap will focus on strategic management, operational efficiency, and inform critical processes such as the Campus Renewal project and the repositioning of the Plant Science groupings.

Central to this initiative is the consideration of the Faculty’s Strategic Focus Areas. These areas, viewed from both disciplinary and interdisciplinary perspectives, will guide future resource and budget allocations, ensuring that human resources, infrastructure, and operations are optimally aligned for the future. Additionally, the initiative will emphasise the importance of external partnerships and networks, both within the industry and internationally, to enhance collaboration and innovation.

Our motivation is clear: to remain relevant and impactful, we must be ready to adapt to a rapidly changing world. The “Faculty of the Future” initiative is our commitment to enhancing the value proposition of SU AgriSciences, capitalising on our diverse skill sets and capacities to meet the evolving realities of the agricultural sector.

Leading this crucial project is a dedicated task team headed by André Jooste, with members including Pieter Gouws, Brink van Zyl, Gunnar Sigge, Melané Viviers, Altus Viljoen, Pieter Swanepoel and Wandile Sihlobo. This team is focused on identifying and developing the core disciplines necessary for the faculty’s continued success, assessing our current expertise, and pinpointing future-oriented competencies that will be essential moving forward.

As valued members of the Faculty, your involvement and insights will be crucial as we move progress with this important initiative. Together, we can ensure that AgriSciences remains at the forefront of agricultural research, education, and innovation, well-equipped to address the challenges of the future. A suitable time will be arranged for all faculty members to provide input, ensuring that everyone’s expertise and perspectives are considered to shaping the future of our Faculty.

Article supplied by Prof André Jooste
For enquiries: Prof André Jooste joostea@sun.ac.za

A distinguished group of South African delegates, including leading academics from Stellenbosch University, recently made notable contributions at the 32nd International Conference of Agricultural Economists (ICAE). This event, which draws global experts to address critical issues in agricultural economics, featured several insightful presentations from Stellenbosch researchers.

Dr Melissa van der Merwe of Stellenbosch University, the immediate Past President of the Agricultural Economics Association of South Africa (AEASA), played a significant role in the conference. She presented a contributed paper titled “Transformations in South Africa’s Agri-Food Exports to the European Union,” offering a comprehensive analysis of the evolution of these exports. Dr van der Merwe further highlighted Stellenbosch University’s influence by participating in the African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) ‘quick-fire’ panel discussion, where she shared her experiences as a mentee in the second cohort of this impactful mentorship program funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Dr van der Merwe also took part in two high-profile sessions: an invited panel on alternative protein organised by Claudia Ringle from the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) and a symposium on Trade and Supply Chain Organisation in the Wine Market. In this symposium, Prof Nick Vink, an emeritus professor at Stellenbosch University, presented their joint work on “Trends in South African Real Wine Grape Prices.” Prof Vink also concluded his impressive 12-year service as an executive of the International Association of Agricultural Economists (IAAE), where he made substantial contributions to the field.

The participation of Stellenbosch University academics at the ICAE underscores the institution’s growing influence and expertise in agricultural economics. The contributions by Prof Vink and Dr van der Merwe offer valuable insights into global discussions on the dynamics of food system transformations.

Article supplied by Dr Melissa van der Merwe

From 18 July until 15 August 2024, the Faculty of AgriSciences hosted a webinar series aimed at prospective students who have applied to the faculty but have not yet accepted their offers. These information sessions were designed to provide applicants with in-depth insights into each programme, including alumni experiences, career opportunities in various fields, and the experiences of current students.

Applicants have until 30 September 2024, to accept their offers, and these sessions were invaluable in helping them make informed decisions about their academic futures. The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many noting that the webinars provided them with clarity and confidence in choosing a programme that truly aligns with their interests.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to each department, our current students, and alumni who generously shared their knowledge and experiences. Your contributions were instrumental in making these sessions a success.

Looking ahead, we plan to host these webinars annually during July to continue supporting prospective students in making informed choices about their education.

supporting prospective students in making informed choices about their education.

For those who could not attend or would like to revisit the discussions, recordings of the webinars are available below:

• Agricultural Economics
• Grapevine and Wine Science
• Plant and Soil Science:
• Conservation Ecology and Entomology
• Animal Science
• Forest and Wood Product Science

Article supplied by Ms Precious Canham
For programme enquiries: Mrs Monika Basson mh@sun.ac.za

Adaptation and resilience of grapevine to limiting water

Several projects are available for PhD and Masters level studies from 2025 in a multidisciplinary programme titled: “Adaptation and resilience of grapevine to limiting water”. The programme is funded by SA Wine and the Water Research Commission and would be ideal for students interested in topics such as crop science, viticulture, plant physiology plant biology, molecular biology, biotechnology and plant environmental stress responses.

The following three projects, with confirmed bursaries, are available:
Masters level study: Physiological analysis of grapevine water relations (Contact person: Dr Philip Young – pryoung@sun.ac.za)
This study investigates the adaptability and resilience of grapevine to water limitation. This will be tested both in a potted vineyard planted with multiple rootstock-scion combinations. Different scenarios of water limitation will be generated to test (i) the impact of the timing and (ii) the severity of the water limitation, as well as (iii) the ability of the vines to adapt to the limitation and recuperate after successive drought scenarios. Plant physiological measurements as well as continuous logging of soil moisture will be implemented to evaluate the plant responses, which could include molecular responses as well.

Masters level study: A grape-to-wine analyses of the impacts of prolonged water constraint and the adaptive mechanisms used by grapevines to build water stress resilience (Contact person: Prof MA Vivier – mav@sun.ac.za
This project has as aim to elucidate the mechanisms that grapevine plants implement when they are subjected to prolonged water constraint. The study will use a model vineyard that was established and characterised over the past three seasons, with the experimental design and parameters now fully validated. The main objective that will form part of the study is to evaluate the ability of cultivar/rootstock combinations to adapt to water constraint and investigate the metabolic mechanisms underlying the mitigation. The study will follow a grape-to-wine analysis and will provide scope for students interested in the study of climate change impacts on woody perennial crops over seasons.

PhD level study: Profiling of epigenetic stress memory responses in grapevine plants undergoing water stress (Contact person: Prof MA Vivier – mav@sun.ac.za)
The physical structure of plant DNA (specifically chromatin) can change in response to stresses and these epigenetic changes will modify the way the genetic information is used by the plant, leading to stress memories and adaptation to subsequent stress events. When specific epigenome features can be linked to the phenotype and environmental (stress) conditions, it is possible to start to investigate the role of the epigenome and epigenetic control linked to the stress factors. In this project we want to evaluate whether we can find proof that young grapevines, representing different scion-rootstock combinations, display changes in their epigenetic markers when the plants are exposed to water stress conditions.

Please send a CV, as well as a cover letter (as soon as possible) to Prof MA Vivier (mav@sun.ac.za) to indicate your interest in this opportunity.
Please note that if you are interested in PG study at SAGWRI; you must apply via the Stellenbosch University portal. You will find all the necessary information and important dates and deadlines at How to apply (sun.ac.za)

Contact person for the project: Prof MA Vivier: Director of SAGWRI (mav@sun.ac.za)

General contacts for SAGWRI:
Prof MA Vivier: Director of SAGWRI mav@sun.ac.za
Mr Charl Newman: Postgraduate Admin officer cnewman@sun.ac.za

The South African Grape and Wine Research Institute (SAGWRI) currently has 80 postgraduate students enrolled, including 22 PhD, 47 MSc, and 11 BScHons students. On 25th and 26th April, the new MSc students (18 of the 47 enrolled) presented their project proposals to an audience of academics, researchers, postgraduate students, and industry partners. The projects are funded by various local and international organisations, including the Department of Science and Innovation, the National Research Foundation, the Water Research Commission, Lallemand, Oenobrands, Fermentis, South Africa Wine, Heineken Beverages (formerly Distell) South Africa, and the South African Table Grape Industry.

The presentations covered various topics across SAGWRI’s core disciplines: viticulture, oenology, biotechnology, sensory and consumer science, and chemistry. Some projects receive support from the Chenin Blanc Association and the Pinotage Association. The proposals showcased the diversity of research topics addressing industry-relevant questions around wine premiumisation, authentication methods, grape performance improvement, and wine quality improvement. An integration of basic microbiology, molecular biology, and -omics technologies, along with classical winemaking techniques, digital viticulture, spectroscopy, chromatography, and mass spectrometry, was evident in the various projects.

The MSc students’ projects will utilise SAGWRI and DVO facilities, such as model vineyards, experimental cellars, sensory, and chemical analytical laboratories. The presentations stimulated vibrant and enriching discussions both in the room and during networking opportunities during breaks.

New MSc students at SAGWRI: From left to right, Front row (Chrissade Farao, Stehan Malherbe, Dominnique Plaatjes); Middle row (Theo Jacobs, Julian Pietersen, Rianca Lotter, Inneke Heroldt , Saskia Bubberman, Nokwethemba Mthalane, Sindiswa Zandile); Back row (Donnathea van der Watt, Gustav Smook, Terri-Lynn Naidoo, Ndivhuho Simali, Zahn Truter, Godfrey Singo). Missing in the photo: Manja Strever and Anriënka Vlok van Zyl

On June 16, 2024, the Department of Viticulture and Oenology (DVO) within the Faculty of AgriSciences, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) and the Cape Winemakers Guild (CWG), welcomed 22 matriculants from across the country for an exciting Viticulture and Oenology winter programme.

The learners were accompanied by Prof. Maret du Toit, Monika Basson, Votelwa Ndana (DALRRD), and Russia Maluleke (DALRRD) for the week-long programme. The week kicked off with a lively drumming session, setting the stage for an incredible week of learning, exploration, and friendship. The programme included introductory sessions on the DVO and Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute degree programmes, a Sensory Workshop, and Vineyard and Cellar tours to various wine farms.

Below are some reflections from staff and learners:

Prof. Maret du Toit (DVO) said, “Watching these learners immerse themselves into the organized programme with everything being new was inspiring, seeing their amazement and their WOW moments with every visit and interaction with mentors or role models from industry, has been truly rewarding and heartwarming on our youth and their future contribution to the country. It was a privilege to witness their newfound excitement for their future studies and life opportunities, knowing that this experience has broadened their horizons and ignited their passions, reminding me why I love what I do.

Quinetha Links (Diazville High School) remarked, “The wine industry is incredibly diverse, with a wide range of producers, regions, grape varieties, and styles. It’s a dynamic industry influenced by factors like climate, geography, and consumer preferences. Its allure lies not only in its diverse flavours but also in its ability to connect people across borders and generations. Getting to visit KWV and seeing how they make their wines was a dream come true. I have always been impressed with their impressive stature in wine production.”

Zikhona Vakele (Usasazo High School) shared, “The highlight was visiting Bosman Adama. I didn’t realise how much work goes into growing grapes; I underestimated that part. It was so much fun and interesting to learn about all the steps and processes you have to go through to get good grapes to make good wine.”

Patricia Leshilo (Derek Kobe) said, “Meeting all the Protegés and listening to their journeys was the best part because at first, I was afraid of the transition. They helped me see and realise that having a different background does not define you, but it allows you to be strong and strive toward your goals. I used to think that only students from Cape Town were suitable for winemaking, but the Protegés changed all that. They also helped me overcome my biggest fear, which is change.”

A huge thank you goes to Magda Vorster (Protegé Programme Facilitator) for securing funding for most of the programme and being instrumental in making this program possible, to DALRRD for assisting with funding for transport and flights for the learners, and to all the wine farms and brands (KWV, Heineken, JC le Roux, Thokozani, Bosman Adama, Three Quarters Wines) who facilitated wine and cellar tours and exceptional talks for the learners. We also extend our gratitude to our current students and alumni who availed themselves to mentor and provide the learners with insights into the realities of Viticulture and Oenology.

We look forward to welcoming some of these learners to our AgriSciences programmes in 2025

Article and Photos supplied by Precious Canham