Bloemfontein, South Africa – The University of the Free State (UFS) in South Africa has recorded a historic achievement after two of its researchers were selected for the prestigious Fulbright South African Researcher Programme in the same award cycle for the first time.
Associate Professor WP Wahl and researcher Zoleka Dikana will undertake research at two American universities, pursuing projects focused on cognitive development in higher education and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the competitiveness of small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Their selection represents the university’s first double success in the Fulbright programme, marking a significant development in its international research partnerships and academic profile.
Administered by the United States Department of State, the Fulbright Programme promotes academic exchange, research collaboration and mutual understanding between countries through education. Over the past eight decades, it has provided thousands of South African students and scholars with opportunities to study and work alongside academics at leading American institutions.
The two researchers will focus on different areas of study, but their projects share a common objective of using research and international collaboration to address challenges affecting communities and economies in South Africa and beyond.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies, Professor Vasu Reddy, congratulated the researchers, describing their achievement as a proud moment for the university.
“This is a proud moment for the UFS. The selection of two researchers in a single Fulbright cycle reflects the growing global relevance, quality, and impact of our research ecosystem. This historic double Fulbright award demonstrates how international partnerships can amplify African scholarship and create meaningful opportunities for research, innovation, and knowledge exchange. From cognitive development in higher education to AI-driven SME innovation, these projects address challenges that matter both locally and globally. We are proud of our colleagues, and especially for what they will bring back home.”
Wahl to study cognitive development
Professor Wahl, from the Department of Curriculum Studies and Higher Education in the Faculty of Education, will conduct his Fulbright research project at the University of Massachusetts Boston’s College of Education and Human Development from 1 November 2026 to 31 January 2027.
His work examines how higher education institutions can create learning environments that support students’ academic development and success, particularly those from marginalised backgrounds.
His research has increasingly focused on cognitive development and critical thinking, which are important for preparing graduates to respond to complex social and economic challenges.
“My research centres on creating higher education environments that are conducive to students’ learning, development, and success, especially students hailing from marginalised backgrounds,” says Prof Wahl. “Lately, I have placed a strong emphasis on the cognitive development of students.”
The Fulbright residency forms part of a broader three year South African research project and is expected to create opportunities for sustained collaboration between the University of the Free State and the University of Massachusetts Boston.
During his stay, Wahl will deliver guest lectures through the American university’s Critical and Creative Thinking Programme, while exploring joint research initiatives, academic exchanges and curriculum development.
His project also seeks to strengthen cooperation between the institutions and support the development of graduates with the analytical and critical thinking skills needed in an increasingly knowledge driven global economy.
Dikana explores AI for small businesses
Dikana, a researcher in the Office of the Dean in the Faculty of Education, will spend nine months at George Mason University in the United States under the Fulbright Visiting Researcher Student Programme.
Her placement runs from 24 August 2026 to 24 May 2027.
Her research examines how artificial intelligence can help small and medium enterprises improve their competitiveness, particularly businesses operating in rural areas and developing economies.
By comparing the adoption of AI in South Africa and the United States, Dikana aims to develop sustainable innovation frameworks that will help smaller businesses integrate digital technologies into their operations and strengthen their long term market position.
“The Fulbright experience will allow me to build on the strong academic foundation I have already received at my home institution by exposing me to new perspectives, research approaches, and international collaborations,” says Dikana.
“Working alongside scholars in my field will broaden my thinking and enrich my research on AI and SME growth. I believe the experience will strengthen my research capacity, enhance my professional development, and enable me to contribute more effectively to research initiatives and innovation at my institution.”
Beyond her research, Dikana intends to learn how American universities work with industry and entrepreneurs to develop practical responses to real world challenges.
Her work is expected to contribute to discussions about how emerging technologies can support business innovation, particularly among smaller enterprises that face resource and infrastructure constraints.
University seeks stronger global partnerships
The selection of the two researchers reflects the University of the Free State’s efforts to expand its international academic relationships while producing research that addresses local needs and contributes to global knowledge.
Their projects are expected to create further opportunities for collaboration between South African and American researchers, academic exchanges and partnerships involving staff and students at both institutions.
Professor Lynette Jacobs, Interim Director of the Directorate for International Partnerships and Relations, said the achievement carried significance beyond the individual researchers.
“The selection of two UFS researchers in a single Fulbright cycle is about far more than individual achievement. It demonstrates how strategic international programmes such as Fulbright create lasting institutional partnerships, advance knowledge diplomacy, and foster the exchange of ideas across borders” says Prof Lynette Jacobs, Interim Director: Directorate for International Partnerships and Relations.
These partnerships, she said, can strengthen long term research relationships while creating opportunities for African scholarship to contribute to solutions for global challenges.
The university has previously celebrated international success when two staff members were selected for the United States International Visitor Leadership Programme. However, the current selection marks the first time two UFS researchers have secured Fulbright awards in the same cycle.
Reddy said the achievement reflected the institution’s commitment to research that connects academic excellence with societal needs.
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