In a momentous achievement for South African science, Professor Michael Wingfield, the founding director of the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI) at the University of Pretoria (UP), has been awarded an honorary doctorate from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). This prestigious accolade acknowledges his pioneering contributions to global forest science and his relentless quest to uncover the hidden enemies threatening the world’s forests.

Professor Wingfield’s career encompasses a remarkable journey of over 40 years, focused on combating fungal pathogens and pests that pose severe risks to ecosystems, industries, and human survival. His influence extends far beyond the borders of South Africa, reaching institutions across continents—from the prestigious laboratories of FABI to the international networks of the International Union for Forest Research Organizations (IUFRO). Under his stewardship, FABI has emerged as a leading research institute, shaping forestry science and inspiring future generations of plant pathologists.

Receiving the honorary doctorate was a humbling experience for Professor Wingfield, who described it as a celebration not just of his individual efforts but of the collective achievements of his family, students, colleagues, and a global community of scientists. “I felt incredibly privileged to have had a career as a scientist and academic,” he reflected. “This recognition really goes to a worldwide network of collaborators committed to discovery and innovation.”

Central to Wingfield’s philosophy is the importance of collaboration. Throughout his career, he has consistently credited his teams and peers as integral to shaping FABI’s success. Looking back, he recognises key milestones that paved the way for this honour, including his foundational education under specialists at the University of Minnesota and the establishment of the Tree Protection Co-operative Programme (TPCP) in South Africa—a pivotal hub for industry-driven forestry research.

In 1998, Wingfield founded FABI at UP, which has since gained international acclaim for its pioneering research that addresses the diseases threatening trees and forests. “Many former FABI students are now global leaders,” he proudly stated. “Their impact has been immense, and it all reflects positively on the FABI team and the University of Pretoria.”

The professor also recognises the vital role of his family in his scientific journey. “I have been married to a remarkable academic and scientist for 46 years,” he disclosed, appreciating her unwavering support throughout his illustrious career.

Wingfield’s reach transcends South Africa, largely due to his profound involvement with the IUFRO, which encompasses over 15,000 forest scientists worldwide. He emphasises that both FABI and IUFRO have been the “most powerful influences” shaping his career. Through collaborative efforts, his colleagues and students have addressed significant challenges, like battling destructive tree diseases and enhancing the global sustainability of forestry.

For Wingfield, this award serves as a beacon of hope for young researchers. “The sky is the limit,” he encouraged. “There are so many opportunities to excel in research and science. Don’t underestimate them; they are everywhere if you’re willing to look for them.” He believes the next breakthroughs will stem from those who nurture curiosity, collaboration, and perseverance.

Even amidst celebration, Wingfield underscored the urgent global issues relating to plant health. “We totally underestimate the importance of plant health,” he warned. “People forget that trees give us water and clean air. Without trees, we would all be dead,” a poignant reminder of the fragile relationship between forests and human existence.

This honorary doctorate not only signifies a personal triumph for Wingfield but also highlights the significance of South African research on the global stage. “Professor Wingfield’s honorary doctorate is a fitting recognition of a career dedicated to advancing forest science and inspiring generations of researchers,” commented Professor Sunil Maharaj, UP Vice-Principal for Research, Innovation, and Postgraduate Education. “At UP, we are proud to see one of our own making such a profound global impact. His work reminds our students and young scientists that excellence, curiosity, and collaboration can take South African science to the world stage.”

As this award reinforces UP’s position as a beacon of scientific excellence, it signals South Africa’s growing impact in advancing global scientific knowledge, advocating for the critical importance of ecology, and safeguarding the invaluable resources our planet offers.

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