According to a statement released by the University of Mpumalanga (UMP), the institution is collaborating with Prof Zhang Zhaodong, a global authority on hybrid rice from a leading Chinese organisation. UMP spokesperson Tlangelani Ubisi said Zhaodong heads Hainan Quanyin Wuxing Seed Co Ltd, a cutting-edge agricultural enterprise driving innovation in rice production. He is a protégé of the late academic Yuan Longping, renowned as the ‘father of hybrid rice’.

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Longping, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic and a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, had two lifelong dreams – to relax in the shade of tall rice plants and to see hybrid rice spread across the world.

“Carrying forward this legacy, Zhaodong has dedicated 25 years to promoting tropical hybrid rice in the Philippines. His efforts have made the Philippines a success story, with hybrid rice planting expected to exceed two million hectares next year, yielding seven to eight tons per hectare,” Ubisi said.

“In 2021, the Philippines’ Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries honoured him as a pioneer in hybrid rice technology.”

Ubisi said the partnership aims to revolutionise rice farming in South Africa by boosting food security, creating jobs and positioning the country as a net exporter of rice.

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UMP’s Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, led by Prof Ndiko Ludidi, is collaborating with the School of Agricultural Sciences under Prof Funso Kutu, as well as the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Rapid Incubator, led by Prof Ogujiuba. The project also involves Evolut Consulting, headed by Lehotlo Ramokgopa, and Liuheqiao Venture Capital. Together, they will work with Zhaodong’s team to introduce high-yield hybrid rice varieties aimed at reducing imports and accessing global markets.

UMP vice-chancellor Prof Thenjiwe Meyiwa said the university is honoured to lead the pilot project to address South Africa’s food security challenges while fostering economic growth.