Joshua Sampson Elected as President of the SAGS Student Council

We’re proud to announce that Joshua Sampson, a PhD candidate in Genetics, has been elected as President of the South African Genetics Society (SAGS) Student Council. This marks the first time the Society has formalised a full student leadership structure, ushering in a more inclusive era for student representation in South Africa’s genetics community.

Joshua leads a dynamic national team including Marvin Khoza (Treasurer), Nozipho Magagula (Secretary), and Maggie Manyatsa (Communications), with a shared vision of expanding the Society’s reach. “Our goal is to actively include students from smaller universities, technical institutions, and agricultural colleges, places that often feel left out of the mainstream conversation,” Joshua explains.

Although he describes himself as someone who naturally prefers working behind the scenes, stepping into this national leadership role has been transformative. “I’ve learned the value of stepping forward, not just to do the work, but to represent others who are doing it,” he says. His leadership approach is deeply rooted in listening and inclusion. “So much can be fixed if we just have clear channels of communication,” he adds, aiming to create a student network that is more connected, responsive, and representative.

As part of his broader vision, Joshua hopes to position the student council as a true platform for advocacy, one that builds lasting relationships between students, supervisors, and national bodies. He emphasizes the need to challenge traditional academic hierarchies by creating a space where postgraduate students are not just seen but heard. “Our role is not to stand on a podium and speak for students, but to make sure their voices reach the right ears.”

Joshua’s PhD research focuses on the genomic assessment of dusky kob (supervised by Prof Clint Rhode), a native fish species with high potential for sustainable aquaculture. His work ties into pressing national issues like food security, conservation, and the responsible use of local biodiversity. “We want to feed people using what we already have, while protecting it at the same time,” he explains.

As your departmental scribe, it is always inspiring to witness one of our own step into leadership not by chasing recognition, but by standing up for community, for inclusion, and for change that echoes beyond institutional walls. We will be watching this journey with pride, curiosity, and support.

Composed by The Department Scribe – M. le Roux