Prof Annie Joubert, Head of the Department of Physiology successfully applied for a New Generation of Academic Programme (nGAP) position for 2023 for her department. The University of Pretoria secured four nGAP lecturer positions for 2023, one of which was awarded to the Faculty of Health Sciences within the Department of Physiology, where Prof Joubert leads.

The nGAP, initiated in 2015 by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), aims to recruit highly qualified scholars to become academics, thus playing a vital role in enhancing South Africa's higher education system. Ms Tebogo Lebelo was appointed as nGAP lecturer in the Department of Physiology.

The nGAP is structured as a six-year program, divided into two phases. The first three years involve a developmental phase where nGAP lecturers enrol in a doctoral or postdoctoral program with a reduced academic workload. The subsequent three years focus on induction and early career development, with increased academic responsibilities.

Dr Abe Kasonga and Ms Tebogo Lebelo at the nGAP workshop at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg.

DHET recently hosted a 2-day nGAP workshop on the 14^th and 15^th of September for nGAP lecturers and mentors at Emperors Palace, Johannesburg. The purpose of the workshop was to familiarise delegates with nGAP regulations, policies and standard operating procedures. Opportunities available to nGAP lecturers were highlighted, as well as the importance of team dynamics and good mentor-mentee relationship for the successful completion of the programme. Ms Lebelo and her mentor, Dr Kasonga, a senior lecturer in the Department of Physiology, were fortunate to attend the workshop where they were able to network and learn more about the programme.

Prof Joubert explained her commitment to nurturing emerging scholars and addressing demographic disparities within her department. She emphasised the importance of creating a supporting environment for mentorship, thereby contributing to the career development of promising young academics. Prof Joubert believes in recognising the achievements and excellence of colleagues, while fostering talent management and personal development programs.

With 27 years of lecturing experience in the natural sciences and medical sciences, Prof Joubert brings a wealth of knowledge to assist with mentoring the newly appointed nGAP lecturer. She has also received formal training in leadership development and management. Throughout her career, she has contributed significantly to teaching undergraduates and postgraduates, engaging in research and publishing in peer-reviewed internationally accredited publications, and supervising students at various academic levels.

As the Head of the Department of Physiology, Prof Joubert is responsible for overseeing approximately 4,000 undergraduate students and plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of education and research within the discipline.

Her mission for the department includes providing high-quality educational programs, promoting mentorship and critical thinking, supporting staff and student diversity, fostering research culture, and enhancing research outputs. She aims to strengthen the department's international profile while prioritising teamwork and collaboration.

Prof Joubert's vision aligns with her longstanding commitment to academic excellence, mentorship, and transforming South Africa's higher education landscape. Her contributions are poised to have a lasting impact on the field of Physiology and the academic community as a whole.

From left to Right: Ms Tebogo Lebelo (nGAP lecturer), Dr Kgadi Mathabathe (Deputy Director: Education Innovation), Dr Abe Kasonga (nGAP mentor) and Dr Louw Botha (nGAP manager) at the UP nGAP Induction meeting.