Lucius Mokwena, addressing delegates at the BRICS Summer Institute in Russia, proudly representing South Africa and the University of Limpopo. Photos: Supplied
By Caroline Khoza – ULpublications@ul.ac.za
A dedicated PhD candidate in Agronomy at the University of Limpopo’s (UL) Centre for Global Change, Lucius Mokwena, aged 25, recently represented South Africa at the prestigious BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) Summer Institute in Russia
Selected for her academic excellence, serving as an usher at church, in leadership, and in community engagement, she joined 25 international peers to explore advanced themes of sustainable development. Her participation not only enriched her doctoral research but also showcased UL’s growing contribution to global academic discourse.
As one of just three representatives from South African universities, Mokwena’s selection highlights her outstanding academic achievements and social contributions. At UL, she mentors students, leads agricultural and community projects, and runs her enterprise, LUPHUPHO Pty Ltd. Her innovative spirit has also earned her awards in pitching competitions hosted by major South African corporations, further demonstrating her ability to translate research into real-world solutions.
The Summer Institute took participants across multiple Russian regions—including Western Siberia, Yekaterinburg, Tobolsk, Khanty-Mansiysk, Moscow, Abdak, and Tyumen—covering critical topics such as future energy, climate balance, eco-technologies, and the restoration of oil-contaminated land. These themes were aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly clean energy (SDG 7), climate action (SDG 13), and sustainable industry innovation (SDG 9).
Through lectures, industrial site visits, and cultural exchanges, Mokwena gained first-hand insights into ecological management of the oil and gas sector, carbon cycle research in peatlands, contaminated soil restoration, and advanced environmental monitoring. “This new knowledge directly complements my PhD research while equipping me to strengthen sustainable farming practices in South Africa,” she noted.
Reflecting on the experience, Lucius said, “It enhanced my research through networking opportunities with peers from different countries and through valuable knowledge exchange. I gained deep insights into topics related to my PhD while also learning from diverse cultural and societal experiences that broadened my understanding of sustainable agriculture.” She added that the interactive lectures on climate change, workshops, and discussions sharpened her skills in food security, soil management, climate-smart agriculture, and sustainable development.
Lucius Mokwena at Ural Federal University during the BRICS Summer Institute in Russia, where she enhanced her skills and research expertise in the field of agronomy.
She encouraged fellow students to seize similar opportunities. “Students must familiarise themselves with UL’s International Affairs Office, as BRICS opportunities take place every year. Stay informed, connect with experts, and be willing to share and learn knowledge that can advance your career. These opportunities are truly transformative, and I encourage everyone to apply.”
During the programme, Mokwena built collaborations with leading Russian scientists, expanded her professional network, celebrated her first international journal publication, and earned three certificates recognising her academic and internship achievements. She praised the Summer School’s balance of academic rigour, practical training, and cultural immersion—including traditional Cossack activities and archaeological museum visits—which created a holistic learning environment.