Ricardo Smart from Blackheath graduated as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from the South African Grape and Wine Research Institute (SAGWRI) at Stellenbosch University on Monday.
TygerBurger’s Brenden Ruiter spoke to the newly minted doctor.
TB:Congratulations on all your qualifications this far. You recently received your doctor’s degree, which has been a dream since you were a child. How does it feel to finally achieve your ultimate goal?
RS: The most wonderful part of my journey was when my life came full circle. When I was in matric at Blackheath Secondary School in 2009, learners could write their names on their matric jackets, but I chose to write “Dr. Smart”. Back then, it referred to a medical doctor. But now, it refers to a promise I made to myself to excel in academics. I am honoured to have graduated as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from the South African Grape and Wine Research Institute (SAGWRI) at Stellenbosch University.
Being able to complete a PhD is groundbreaking for my family, as I am the first member to earn a university degree, let alone a doctorate. As a first-generation student in my family, I was aware of the limitations my parents faced. Their limitations inspired me to strive for academic excellence and not to take this or any opportunity for granted.
TB: How are you planning on using your qualifications in your field of study and to uplift your community?
RS:My research was about the impact of vineyard cover cropping on the soil, leaf, and wine fermentation microbiome. Currently, I am working on manuscripts related to my research with the aim of publishing peer-reviewed articles in scientific journals. I hope to continue inspiring first-generation students to pursue their degrees. A good education does not only ensure you a great career, but it also makes you a living example for others to follow in your footsteps. In under-resourced communities, such an example spreads optimism and positive change. A message proclaiming, “I am possible.”
TB: What does the future hold for you?
RS:From now on, I will mainly be focusing on myself. Personally and professionally, I have some really exciting goals for 2022. Regarding community service, I still want to concentrate on two projects, namely a mini-veggie garden and mental health. In 2021, I started a mini-veggie garden and donated the vegetable plants to local primary and high schools in my community to assist with their feeding programmes for learners. On the Golden Key Southern Africa platform, I co-hosted three national mental health webinars with representatives from the University of the Western Cape (Mokone Mmola) and the University of Cape Town (Parusha Chetty). Here we focused on stress management and students’ well-being under academic pressure and during the Covid-19 pandemic. I would advise students to speak up if something is bothering them, rather than engage in negative self-talk and keeping everything to themselves. This type of behaviour is not only detrimental to the individual, but also to the larger student community and family. With that said, students must become acquainted with the emergency helplines made available by their university and use them when necessary.
