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Prof Lise Korsten (centre) with her promotors, Prof Marijke D’Haese (left) and Prof Mieke Uyttendaele (right). Photo Mirco Photo – www.mircophoto.com/Ghent University.

Ghent University has awarded an honorary doctorate to Professor Lise Korsten, co-director of and Food Safety lead at the DSTI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Food Security (CoE-FS), in recognition of her outstanding contributions to plant pathology, food safety, and food security.

The ceremony took place on Friday, 21 March 2025, in the Leon De Meyer Auditorium, Ufo Building, Ghent, Belgium. Ghent University awarded an institutional honorary title to former executive secretary of the United Nations (UN) Framework Convention on Climate Change, Christiana Figueres, and honoured five distinguished scientists for their contributions to various fields, with Professor Korsten being celebrated for her pioneering research in food safety and crop protection.

Professor Korsten’s promotors for the honorary doctorate were Professor Marijke D’Haese and Professor Mieke Uyttendaele from Ghent University’s Faculty of Bioscience Engineering.

In a video ahead of the ceremony, Professor D’Haese and Professor Uyttendaele said Professor Korsten, the “internationally renowned expert” at the Food and Agricultural Organization of the UN and the World Health Organization, “actively uses her knowledge and makes an impact”.

Prof Korsten and fellow recipients. Photo Mirco Photo – www.mircophoto.com/Ghent University.

Professor Korsten, who is based at CoE-FS co-host institution, the University of Pretoria, was honoured alongside visual artist Gunter Demnig, eminent legal scholar Professor Sandra Fredman, lifelong animal welfare advocate Professor Marina von Keyserlingk, and Professor Klaus Kümmerer for his outstanding contribution to sustainable pharmaceutical sciences and chemistry.

A lifetime of innovation

Professor Korsten has played a leading role in shaping food security research, both in South Africa and on a global scale. In 1992, she developed South Africa’s first biological control agent for the fruit sector, an achievement that marked the beginning of her extensive work in crop protection, good agricultural practices, and post-harvest processes. Her research has consistently taken a holistic food systems approach — long before the term became widely recognised — ensuring that plant production remains both economically viable and sustainable.

An internationally renowned expert in Plant Pathology, Prof Korsten developed South Africa’s first biological control agent for the fruit sector. Photo Mirco Photo – www.mircophoto.com/Ghent University.

With over three decades of experience, Professor Korsten has made significant contributions to ensuring that food production systems are both resilient and responsive to global challenges. Her commitment to bridging the gap between research and real-world applications has made her an influential figure in international food security dialogues.

“Professor Korsten is an inspiring example of how to combine research with social engagement. With innovative research in the Global South, she is committed to food security and the sustainable development of local and global agriculture,” said Professor D’Haese.

Strengthening global collaborations

Professor Korsten’s longstanding collaboration with Ghent University dates back to 1996, highlighting her commitment to fostering academic partnerships between South Africa and Belgium. Her multidisciplinary approach has allowed her to integrate scientific research with policy and community engagement, making a tangible impact on global food security efforts.

“Anyone who has met Professor Korsten will have been blown away by her dedication and keen eye. She is a true pioneer in multidisciplinary research,” said Professor Uyttendaele.

“‘Collaboration’ is not just a word for her; it’s an intuitive approach”.

Prof Korsten made history as the first woman president of the African Academy of Sciences. Photo Mirco Photo – www.mircophoto.com/Ghent University.

Beyond her research contributions, Professor Korsten has been actively involved in various international initiatives. Since August 2023, she has served as the president of the African Academy of Sciences, further amplifying her influence in shaping the continent’s research agenda. Her work aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in ensuring food security, reducing hunger, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

“She puts all her dedication into strengthening and empowering Africa,” said Professor Uyttendaele.

‘No Food, No Future – Let’s Fix That!’

In addition to receiving her honorary doctorate, Professor Korsten delivered a keynote address at the mini-symposium titled “No Food, No Future – Let’s Fix That!” on Tuesday, 25 March 2025. The event, held at Ghent University’s Campus Coupure, brought together leading researchers and students, to discuss solutions for resilient nutrition and food security systems.

For the mini-symposium hosted in her honour, Prof Korsten explored how both formal and informal food sectors can enhance resilience. Photo Mirco Photo – www.mircophoto.com/Ghent University.

Her keynote explored how both formal and informal food sectors can enhance resilience, particularly in Africa. The symposium featured a range of discussions, including talks on international food safety standards, the role of research in bridging disparities, and the importance of food agency in ensuring dignity in food security. The event concluded with reflections from Professor Els Van Damme, Dean of the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, followed by a networking reception.

“We learned from [Lise] how important it is to understand and appreciate others’ perspectives and worldviews, so that together, we can find solutions to the many challenges facing society,” said Professor Uyttendaele.

Impact and inspiration

“Professor Korsten’s recognition by Ghent University underscores her exceptional contributions to food safety research and her dedication to creating a more sustainable global food system,” said Professor Julian May, CoE-FS director.

In addition to colleagues from around the world, Professor Korsten was supported at the ceremony by her son Lawrence Korsten, her cousin Roelf Botha and his wife Carolien Botha, as well as Prof Korsten’s PhD graduate, Dr Koen Dekeyser. Photo 📷 Mirco Photo – www.mircophoto.com/Ghent University.

“Her work has not only shaped policy and practice in South Africa but has also influenced international approaches to food safety and plant pathology.

“As she continues her research and advocacy, Professor Korsten remains a vital force in addressing global food security and safety challenges. Her honorary doctorate serves as a testament to her pioneering spirit, multidisciplinary expertise, and unwavering commitment to ensuring that food security remains a priority on the global agenda,” he said.

Watch the full recording of the ceremony, Dies Natalis 2025, here.