By Henry Neondo
The Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) has honoured two leading scientists — Professor Rachel Jewkes (left) and Professor Crick Lund — with the prestigious 2025 ASSAf Science-for-Society Gold Medals, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to scientific research with far-reaching societal impact.
The awards, presented at ASSAf’s Annual Awards Ceremony held on 30 October 2025, celebrate scientific excellence that benefits humanity and contributes to solving pressing social challenges.
Professor Rachel Jewkes: Trailblazer in Gender and Health Research
Professor Rachel Jewkes was recognised for her groundbreaking work on gender-based violence (GBV) and its intersection with public health. An A1-rated scientist with more than 336 peer-reviewed publications and an h-index of 105, Prof Jewkes has spent over three decades advancing evidence-based strategies to prevent violence against women and girls.
Her leadership in founding the Sexual Violence Research Initiative and guiding the What Works Global Programme has reshaped global understanding of GBV prevention, proving that violence is not inevitable but preventable through research-driven interventions.
“Her research has empowered women, shaped global policy, and addressed one of the most urgent social and public health challenges of our time,” ASSAf noted during the awards ceremony.
Professor Crick Lund: Champion of Public Mental Health
Professor Crick Lund was honoured for his nearly three decades of pioneering work in public mental health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. His research has illuminated the complex links between mental health, poverty, and social development, directly influencing policies and practices at national and international levels.
With more than 345 peer-reviewed publications and 34,000 citations, Prof Lund ranks among the top 1% of cited researchers worldwide (Clarivate 2023–2024). He has played a central role in shaping mental health policy frameworks for the World Health Organization, the African CDC, and South Africa’s Department of Health, including the National Mental Health Policy Framework and Strategic Plan (2013–2030).
Prof Lund also co-founded the Alan J. Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Africa’s first postgraduate centre dedicated to mental health research and training. A dedicated mentor, he has supervised 15 PhD and 22 Master’s students, nurturing the next generation of African researchers.
Celebrating Science that Serves Society
ASSAf said the two laureates embody the essence of its Science-for-Society mandate — using scientific knowledge to drive human development, equity, and sustainability.
“Both Professors Jewkes and Lund exemplify the transformative power of science in addressing real-world challenges — from gender-based violence to mental health inequities,” said ASSAf President Professor Jonathan Jansen.
Through their lifelong commitment to research and social justice, the 2025 ASSAf Gold Medalists continue to inspire a vision of science that not only advances knowledge but also uplifts lives across Africa and the world.