Professional registration–a pathway to enhancing excellence and integrity in science
Science is a dynamic and evolving field, characterised by constant exploration, discovery and refinement of knowledge and understanding. These discoveries expand the boundaries of knowledge, uncovers new phenomena, facts and relationships that were previously unknown or misunderstood, and thus open new avenues for research and innovative solutions. Scientists play a critical role in this process, as they contribute to the ever-expanding body of scientific knowledge. Hence, competence in scientific fields is crucial for scientists to contribute meaningfully to the creation of knowledge. When a scientist becomes professionally registered, it indicates that they have met specific standards of competence, education, and expertise set forth by a recognized regulatory or professional body in their field.
“Professional registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) involves a rigorous assessment of the scientist’s qualifications, experience and skills. By successfully obtaining registration, the scientist demonstrates that they have the necessary competence to practise in their field. Registration enhances one’s credibility and reputation as a professional scientist. Furthermore, the commitment to ethical conduct and professional standards ensures that their contribution to the body of knowledge is conducted with integrity and thus enhances public’s trusts in the scientist work.” explains Dr Nompumelelo Obokoh – nee Masubelele (Pri.Sci.Nat.), the CEO of SACNASP.
SACNASP is the registration and regulatory body for natural science professionals. The organisation was established in terms of the Natural Scientific Professions Act (27 of 2003) (hereafter referred to as the NSP Act) as amended by the Science and Technology Laws Amendment Act (7 of 2014). The Council is mandated as the Accounting Authority to implement the provisions of the Act, under the oversight of its Executive Authority, the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation.
Dr Obokoh is a Plant Molecular Biologist and holds a PhD from the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom. She joined SACNASP in October 2022, as the Chief Executive Officer. She is the immediate past Chairperson of the Board of the National Research Foundation (NRF) and she’s currently an independent non-executive Director of FruitSA and the Vice Chair of the Independent Science for Development Council (ISDC) for the Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centers (CGIAR), the world’s largest agricultural innovation partnership. She has also served as a Commissioner in the Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
As a seasoned executive, Nompumelelo has led multi-institutional, multi-disciplinary, and multi-national teams in Biotech research, development and innovation systems. In addition to extensive research experience in South Africa, she has worked in the agricultural innovation value-chain throughout Southern, East, and West Africa. She has held various leadership positions as the Country Representative with the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) in Abuja, Nigeria, CEO of AfricaBio, a biotechnology stakeholder at the Innovation Hub in Pretoria, Divisional Head of the Innovation Support and Protection Division at the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission, and as the General Manager: Bioeconomy at The Innovation Hub Management Company, amongst others.
“Many employers and organizations prefer or require professionals to be registered with SACNASP. Having this registration can open opportunities for career advancement, promotions, and increased responsibilities within the various field of practice” adds Dr Obokoh.
Continuous professional development is essential for scientists to stay up to date with the latest advancements in their fields and thus contribute to the continuous growth of knowledge. SACNASP provides several opportunities for continuous professional development, which are essential for keeping up with the latest trends, advancements, and best practices in various industries. According to Dr Nompumelelo “Participating in such activities, helps scientists to stay competitive and excel in their careers. Registration also opens opportunities for networking and collaboration with other registered professionals. This facilitates knowledge sharing, interdisciplinary research, and the collective effort to solve societal challenges.”
As a scientist and scholar, some of the notable awards and honors she has received includes the Mandela Cambridge Scholarship, Mandela Magdalene College Scholarship, Fellow of the Cambridge Commonwealth Society, best Biotech Communicator award from the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and she was featured in the 2020 Women’s Report: Celebrating Black Women’s Excellence and by the Art of Superwomen–A Woman Belongs: In The Biotechnology & Agricultural Industry.
Over the past 2 decades, SACNASP has played a pivotal role in championing the advancement of scientific research and innovation for societal impact. Through collaborative partnerships with academic institutions, government entities, and industry stakeholders, we continue to cultivate an environment that fosters inclusivity, diversity, knowledge exchange, collaboration, and ongoing professional development aligned to the national imperatives – driving transformational change.
Building a Future-Proof SACNASP: as SACNASP reflects on its 20 year journey since inception in 2003, Dr Obokoh’s vision for the organisation going forward is to foster a culture of continuous learning among the workforce, lead digital transformation, enhance strategic operational processes and future-proofing the organisation.
Thus, SACNASP has started exploring and embracing AI-driven solutions and other technological advancements to enhance some of its customer registration processes. “This is an exciting period that will catapult SACNASP’s operational efficiencies and capabilities and position it as an agile, smart and responsive organization that is ahead of the curve to deliver true value to its customers and for sustainable growth.” SACNASP will be well positioned to thrive in the digital era, delivering exceptional customer experience and remain future-ready to cater for an ever-evolving science and technology landscape.
