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Professor Tesfaye Birke from the Discipline of Geological Sciences in the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science has been appointed to serve as a member of the American Geophysical Union’s (AGU) Honors and Recognition Committee.
The AGU is an international association of more than 60 000 advocates and experts in earth and space science. Through initiatives such as mentoring, professional development and awards, AGU members uphold and foster an inclusive and diverse scientific community.
The AGU also hosts numerous conferences, including the largest international earth and space science meeting as well as publishing high quality earth and space journals.
The Honors and Recognition Committee provides oversight and guidance to the AGU’s Honors and Recognition programmes at all levels including Union-level awards, prizes, and medals; AGU Fellows programme; and all Section-level awards. It promotes excellence and transparency to ensure that all awards are consistent with the organisation’s diversity and inclusion policy. Birke will meet twice a year with the committee in the United States.
‘I am privileged to serve on the AGU’s Honors and Recognition Committee. This is proof that I have achieved a high level of repute and respect in my career. Serving on the committee will also boost UKZN’s profile. I will use this opportunity to advocate for and evaluate strategies to increase the diversity of nominees,’ said Birke.
Words: Leena Rajpal
Photograph: Supplied