South African Professors Salim Abdool Karim, Tulio de Oliveira and Keertan Dheda were among a select group of individuals to be awarded National Orders, the highest accolades conferred by the South African government, on Tuesday, reports The Post.
National Orders are the highest awards that South Africa, through the President, bestows on its citizens and eminent foreign nationals who have contributed towards the advancement of democracy and who have made a significant impact on improving the lives of South Africans.
The Order of Mapungubwe, which recognises South Africans who have accomplished excellence and exceptional achievement to the benefit of South Africa and beyond, in gold, were bestowed on Karim and De Oliveira, and silver to Dheda.
An officlal statement from the Presidency announced the awardees:
The Order in Gold was bestowed on:
Professor Tulio De Oliveira: For his contribution in the field of scientific research with a ground-breaking discovery of the Omicron variant of Covid-19. His discovery put South Africa on the international stage with cutting edge research and a swift response to prevent infection and possible deaths in our country and globally.
Professor Salim Abdool Karim: For his contribution to medical science and public health, particularly in respect of HIV/Aids and TB research, and health policy development, which is placing South Africa on the international stage. His tireless leadership and swift response during the Covid-19 pandemic was outstanding and commendable.
The Order in Silver was bestowed on:
Professor Keertan Dheda: For his contribution in scientific research, specifically pulmonology, that has enabled improved management globally of TB and other respiratory infections. An acclaimed international expert, his combination of cutting-edge research and clinical prowess has produced numerous scientific breakthroughs and shaped public health policy in many countries, enhancing community health.
The Order in Bronze was bestowed on:
Professor Priscilla Baker: For her contribution to scientific research. She is well recognised internationally as a scientific leader and knowledge advocate for science and technology. She is active in the advancement of public understanding and implementation of electro-analytical chemistry through community engagements and media interaction on both radio and television.
Professor Karen Sliwa-Hahnle: For her contribution to global understanding of cardiovascular diseases, including cardiac disease in pregnancy. As a cardiologist, her pioneering research has deepened international understanding of cardiovascular conditions that are common in Africa and induced policy changes in a broad range of countries. Her work has shaped guidelines that significantly reduced maternal mortality in Africa and beyond.
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