Leading Agricultural Societies Unite at Combined Congress 2025 in Polokwane to Advance Sustainable Farming
The South African Society of Crop Production (SASCP), Soil Science Society of South Africa (SSSSA), and Southern African Society for Horticultural Sciences (SASHS), gathered for the annual Combined Congress 2025 (CC2025) held in Polokwane from 19th – 23rd January. The Combined Congress is a unifying platform for all members of the aforementioned societies. The event fosters a holistic understanding of sustainable agricultural practices and environmental stewardship. Each year, the congress rotates to different locations across South Africa, allowing society members to engage with diverse agricultural landscapes and regional challenges.
The congress was held in Polokwane, Limpopo, at The Ranch Hotel for the first time. Immersed in the rich cultural heritage of Limpopo, society members engaged in discussions about the CC2025 theme: ‘Science for Commercial and Rural Development’; while making network connections in the comfort of the aircon during the summer heat. Constantly refreshed and pampered by the amenities, services, and events, the CC2025 was ideally located, which was evident in the high attendance of the event. Additionally, the locality allowed for field visits to local legends such as ZZ2, Westfalia Fruit, and Torofina Trading Post Farming.
One of the most exciting aspects of the CC2025 was the research presentations and posters delivered by students and researchers from across South Africa. Among the standout participants were the students from Stellenbosch University (SU), who showcased their work across various disciplines. Their research not only highlighted the depth of academic excellence at the university but also underscored the critical role of science in addressing real-world challenges.
The poster sessions were a colorful maze of the latest advancements in agriculture, environmental science, and sustainability. The SU students made a significant impact with their beautiful maroon and gold posters and articulate presentations:
– Jade Andrews explored the benefits of “cover crop integration” in vegetable Conservation Agriculture systems in her poster, demonstrating how this practice can improve weed management and promote sustainable farming. Andrews also took the stage to expand on her poster by presenting the soil health and crop yield effects of the aforementioned systems. For her impressive work, Andrews received the ZZ2 Conservation Student Award.
– Andries Le Roux delved into the pressing issue of climate change, presenting his research poster on its impacts on “canola growth and yield characteristics”. Expanding on his poster, Le Roux presented his climate work in the context of the Swartland region. His work provided valuable insights into adapting agricultural practices to a changing climate.
– Mmakwena Velicia Mabitsela presented a poster titled “The Effects of Rotational Tillage with a Deep Tine to 45 cm Depth” on Canola Productivity in the Swartland Region at SASCP. As a member of the SSSSA, she presented her findings on the nutrient stratification of the aforementioned tillage practices. Her findings highlighted the potential of innovative tillage practices to enhance crop yields and she was honored with the SSSSA Award for Best Presentation.
– Dr. Flackson Tshuma presented his research on the effects of “tillage rotation and biostimulants” on crop productivity and the reduction of synthetic agrochemical use in dryland cropping systems. His work emphasized the importance of sustainable farming practices.
– Okamelang Shao examined “wheat cultivar responses to foliar diseases” under different fungicide spray programs, offering practical recommendations for disease management in wheat production.
– Sandra Hull focused on “genotype-environment interactions in pre-harvest sprouting of wheat”, shedding light on how genetic and environmental factors influence crop quality. Hull was center stage, presenting on this topic, and was awarded the Daan F Retief floating trophy for the best paper (40 years and younger); leading the way for young scientists.
-Louise Bestbier presented on herbicide use in Conservation Agriculture systems. Her work sought to answer the questions posed by farmers looking to transition to more sustainable practices. She received the student award for best presentation.
– Joshua Apples took the stage at the SASHS session, presenting his work on “improving the sustainability of blueberry production through the optimization of preharvest factors”. His research offered actionable strategies for enhancing both yield and sustainability in blueberry farming.
The research presented by the SU students was a testament to their dedication, creativity, and commitment to solving some of the most pressing challenges facing agriculture and the environment today. Stellenbosch continued to shine with additional awards given to Dr PJ Pieterse for the best paper published during 2023 SA Journal of Plant and Soil and Daniel Johannesburg Volschenk receiving the SASCP Student Award for Academic Performance (75%+).
