MSc in Agriculture (Pasture Science), University of South Africa, 2024. BSc. Agriculture (Pasture Science) (Honours), University of Limpopo, 2014. Project Management (Certificate), University of Pretoria, 2024. Introduction to Seed Science (Certificate), University of Pretoria, 2022. Scientist Profession (SACNASP Registration), 2018. Senior Certificate, Nyanisi Secondary School, 2010
š¼ Experience
Fortune has served as a Research Technician at ARC since December 2019, managing forage production projects, conducting veld condition assessments, and overseeing the evaluation of various forage species. She coordinates field trips, trains farmers, and supervises the forage production team. Previously, she worked as a Scientific Production Intern, Agricultural Advisor, and Postgraduate Trainee, gaining expertise in pasture management, research development, and sustainable agricultural practices.
š Awards and Honors
Accepted Publications in African Journal of Range & Forage Science and Grasses Journal, 2024. Contributed to the development of scientific methodologies in forage crop preservation and seed germination research. Recognition for outstanding research contributions, including the publication on “The Potential for Endozoochorous Dispersal of Vachellia nilotica Seeds”. Active in national research initiatives for South African rangeland improvement, including funding for forage production trials and demonstration plots.
š¬ Research Focus
Fortune’s research focuses on sustainable forage production, seed germination, and the evaluation of Brachiaria and other indigenous grass species. She investigates methods to improve livestock feed through better crop practices, evaluating crops like Calobota sericea and Vachellia nilotica in semi-arid rangelands. Her work also addresses bush encroachment and water-limited agricultural conditions, striving for solutions in the optimization of forage resources in South Africa’s challenging ecological zones.
Conclusion
Fortune Lindy Manganyi-Valoyi is a highly promising candidate for the Young Scientist Award, demonstrating a blend of academic excellence, practical research contributions, and leadership potential. Her work in the forage and pasture science sector addresses key challenges in South Africaās agricultural landscape, particularly regarding sustainable feed production and bush encroachment management. Given her solid academic background, significant research involvement, and leadership skills, she stands out as a deserving candidate for this recognition.