Prof. Priscilla Baker, who received The National Order of Mapungubwe in Bronze form pres. Cyril Ramaphosa for her scientific work.
Image: Jarius Mmutle/GCIS
From the streets of Bellville South to becoming one of South Africa’s most celebrated scientists, Priscilla Baker says receiving the prestigious Order of Mapungubwe earlier this week was not only a personal milestone, but a reflection of every person and community that helped shape her journey.
Baker was among 38 distinguished South Africans honoured with National Orders by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria one of the country’s highest honours bestowed on citizens who have made exceptional contributions to society and the world.
The renowned scientist and researcher from the University of the Western Cape received the Order of Mapungubwe in Bronze for her contribution to scientific research and leadership in science and technology, particularly in the field of electro-analytical chemistry.
For Baker, however, the moment represented far more than accolades and recognition.
“It’s a great honour for me to be the recipient [of this award], but I’m fully aware that I do not stand alone,” she said.
“Everyone who has crossed my path in one way or another has been part of the making of this moment. I accept this award on behalf of all of us.”
Prof. Priscilla Baker, a leading scientist at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), receiving her Order of Mapungubwe Bronze certificate from pres. Cyril Ramaphosa.
Image: Jarius Mmutle/GCIS
Growing up in Bellville South during the turbulent years of apartheid-era boycotts and disruptions in the 1980s and 1990s, Baker’s path to success was far from easy.
Despite the obstacles placed before her, she persevered and went on to become the first woman of colour to graduate with a BSc in Physical Oceanography from the University of Cape Town.
Her journey, however, was not without further barriers. Systemic discrimination prevented her from pursuing an honours degree in the same field, but rather than allowing that setback to define her future, Baker carved out a new path that would eventually place her at the forefront of groundbreaking scientific research.
Today, Baker is internationally recognised for her pioneering work in electrochemistry and analytical science.
As director of the Electrochemical Sensors Node of the Nanomicro Manufacturing Facility under the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, she leads projects focused on solving real-world healthcare challenges.
Prof. Priscilla Baker receiving her National Order of Mapungubwe Bronze medal from pres. Cyril Ramaphosa.
Image: Jarius Mmutle/GCIS
Among her most notable work is the development of biosensors capable of detecting biomarkers linked to illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease and gout, technology that could significantly improve healthcare access, particularly in underserved and rural communities across Africa.
Baker also serves as the SARChI Chair for Analytical Systems and Processes for Priority and Emerging Contaminants, a role she has held since 2018.
The Order of Mapungubwe adds to an already impressive list of accolades.
Earlier this year, Baker was named the 2025 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Laureate for Africa and the Arab States, while she was also recognised as a Fellow of the Royal Society of South Africa one of the country’s highest scientific honours.
An NRF B-rated scientist, Baker said the honour served as a reminder of the importance of unity, collaboration and uplifting others along the way.
“I am reminded of the old wisdom which teaches us that individually we can go fast but together we can go far, and we leave a legacy that counts,” she said.
She also credited the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation for creating opportunities for women scientists to excel, adding that programmes such as South African Women in Science have played a significant role in showcasing brilliant female researchers over the past three decades.
UWC rector and vice-chancellor Prof. Robert Balfour congratulated Baker on the prestigious recognition, describing it as a proud moment for the university and the country.
“This is a proud testimony to Prof Baker's contribution to our University, our country and global scholarship: we are UWC. Well done, Prof Priscilla!” he said.
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za