National Science Week: Speaking with Professor Chibale

In honor of National Science Week this week, we spoke with Professor Kelly Chibale. At UCT, Professor Chibale teaches Organic Chemistry and is also a director of Africa’s only integrated Drug Discovery and Development Centre. He promotes employment in science jobs and believes the government should pro-actively seek out and nurture existing excellence in Africa and focus on science and entrepreneurship.

Professor Chibale spoke about the importance of becoming scientifically independent as a country. Most drug research occurs abroad, but Professor Chibale believes that South Africa should step up and cultivate scientists from a young age so that a new generation of scientists can contribute to South African work in the science sector.

A love and interest for science begins at a young age, Professor Chibale believes, which means that schools need strong science programs in primary school. He says that role models are key to instill delight and passion for science, so schools should focus on creating better science programs. Jobs in science and entrepreneurship are on the rise, so for all the young scientists out there, study hard!

Presenter: Mkhuseli Khusi Veto

Producer: Sophie Breck