UWC academics land female leadership awards

Two UWC academics have received awards from a non-profit organisation that promotes female leadership in higher education.

Professor Priscilla Baker, of Kuils River, and Dr Rekha Rambharose, of Table View, received the awards from Higher Education Resource Services South Africa (HERS-SA) during a ceremony at the Two Oceans Aquarium, at the V&A Waterfront, last month.

Prof Baker won the Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) category while Dr Rekha Rambharose was a finalist in the Emerging Young Women Leaders in Support Services category, according to UWC spokesperson Harriet Box..

Professor Baker, a senior professor of chemistry, is the director of the electrochemical  sensors node at the nano-micro manufacturing facility at the UWC. Her work focuses on combining nanomaterials engineering and high-end analytical instrumentation to create technological solutions, through electrochemical systems.

“To me, quality leadership is achieved through committed engagement with colleagues and students, consistent efforts to advance the frontiers of learning and development, and also courageously leading by example,” she said.

Dr Rambharose, who is the head of the recognition of prior learning department, was also awarded the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic’s Achiever Award as the Excellent Individual Community Engagement winner at UWC just a day after HERS-SA acknowledged her in her category, Ms Box said.

Dr Rambharose was acknowledged as a teaching and learning specialist at UWC and for the impact of her work in the recognition of prior learning, Ms Box said.

“To every woman navigating the challenging yet rewarding terrain of academia, embrace your journey with courage and determination. Lean into the support of our global network, harness the power of your unique voice, and never underestimate the profound impact you can make,” Dr Rambharose said.