UCT Chemistry Honours 2024: Research, Recognition, and Celebration

The Department of Chemistry recently celebrated the achievements of the 2024 Honours class with a poster presentation and year-end function held on Friday, 29 November in the Chemistry Boardroom. The event marked the culmination of a rigorous and rewarding year for the Honours cohort, as students presented the outcomes of their research projects to staff and peers.
The poster session followed a day of oral presentations on Thursday, 28 November, where each student had the opportunity to showcase their project findings and scientific communication skills. 
Two students stood out for their exceptional performance:

• Vuyolwethu Polson was awarded Best Oral Presentation.
• Justin Powell received the awards for Best Poster Presentation and Overall Honours Project. He was also recognised as one of the top-performing Honours students in Chemistry, receiving the Percy Gordon Memorial Award and earning a nomination for the prestigious SACI James Moir Medal.

The Department congratulates all Honours students for their outstanding presentations and successful completion of the programme. Their work reflects the depth of talent and dedication within the student body.
A special thank you is extended to Ms Deirdre Brooks for coordinating the décor and catering for the celebratory event, which added a festive touch to the occasion. Appreciation is also due to Dr Siya Ngubane, the Honours course convenor, for his leadership and guidance throughout the year.
The 2024 Honours presentations not only celebrated academic excellence but also reinforced the Department’s commitment to fostering the next generation of chemists through rigorous training, mentorship, and support.