Introduction Dr Nthabi Taole-Mjimba, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Partnerships and Innovation The University of Fort Hare’s (UFH) 2021-2022 Research Report provides a succinct but comprehensive overview of some of the excellent research activities conducted by our researchers, postdoctoral fellows and postgraduate students. It is not possible to cover all the activities of researchers at the University in a single annual report. What is presented here is therefore but a sample of our research strengths and achievements. The report showcases research conducted in a number of knowledge areas including the Science and Agriculture, the Health Sciences, Law and Management and Commerce. It also highlights work done on renewable energy, a focus area with the potential to benefit all humankind regardless of their location in the world. At UFH recognition of excellence in research is achieved by means of the Vice Chancellor’s awards for emerging researchers and established researchers. Awards are made to an overall winner in each category as well as to winners at faculty level. In order to foster innovation, two additional awards have been introduced: an award for the development of the most innovative prototype and another for the most novel pre-commercialization product, service or process developed by institutional researchers. Partnerships with other universities are important in enhancing the standing of the University at regional, national and international levels. Partnerships exist with institutions in Africa, Europe, Asia, South America and North America and are evidence of the extent to which collaboration with us is valued. This report provides but a glimpse of some of the research activities that strengthened our research and innovation profile and our ranking. I hope you will enjoy reading about the work of our researchers and what they have achieved. Research Report 2021/2022 | 4