Celebrating Excellence in Cybersecurity: Prof. Basie von Solms Receives the Isaac L. Auerbach Award
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is celebrating a remarkable achievement as Professor Basie von Solms, a distinguished figure in cybersecurity and information technology, has been awarded the prestigious Isaac L. Auerbach Award by the International Federation for Information Processing (IFIP). This accolade, presented at IFIP’s General Assembly earlier this month, is a rare honor, having been awarded only seven times in the federation’s 64-year history, underscoring its exclusivity and significance.
A Legacy of Contribution
The Isaac L. Auerbach Award is named after the founding president of IFIP and an early pioneer in computing, recognizing individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the federation’s mission. Prof. von Solms, who has dedicated over 45 years to IFIP, joins an elite group of individuals who have profoundly influenced the global information processing community. His recognition is not just a personal milestone but a testament to his unwavering commitment to advancing the field of information technology.
Reflecting on this honor, Prof. von Solms expressed his gratitude, stating, “This award is the pinnacle of my long-standing relationship with IFIP. I am honored to have represented South Africa for so many years and to contribute to the advancement of information processing on a global scale.” He also dedicated the award to key institutions that have supported him throughout his journey, including the Institute for IT Professionals of South Africa and UJ, acknowledging the freedom and time UJ has afforded him to engage with IFIP.
A Trailblazer in Cybersecurity
Prof. von Solms has had a prolific career with IFIP, beginning his involvement in the early 1980s. His leadership roles culminated in serving as IFIP’s President from 2007 to 2010, making him the first African to hold this prestigious position. His accolades include the Kristian Beckman Award in 2010 for his contributions to information security and being named an Honorary Member of IFIP in 2014.
In addition to his significant contributions to IFIP, Prof. von Solms has been at the forefront of global cybersecurity research for over 50 years. Earlier this year, he was ranked 5th in the world for lifetime contributions to cybersecurity research by ScholarGPS, highlighting his immense impact in a field that is increasingly critical in today’s digital landscape. “Cybersecurity is more critical than ever in today’s world of evolving digital threats,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for ongoing research and collaboration to stay ahead of these challenges.
Mentorship and Leadership
Prof. von Solms has not only contributed to research but has also played a pivotal role in mentoring the next generation of cybersecurity experts. He has guided over 30 doctoral students and countless master’s students, many of whom have focused their studies on information and cybersecurity. His influence extends beyond UJ, as he currently serves as an Associate Director at the University of Oxford’s Global Cybersecurity Capacity Centre and is a board member of the Centre for Cybersecurity Capacity Centre of Southern Africa.
As he approaches the conclusion of a remarkable 54-year career at UJ, Prof. von Solms continues to leave a lasting legacy. His work has laid the foundation for future generations of cybersecurity professionals, and his leadership at international institutions further solidifies his reputation as a global thought leader in the field.
A Proud Moment for UJ
Commenting on this significant achievement, Professor Annah Moteetee, Dean of the Faculty of Science at UJ, stated, “We are immensely proud of Prof. von Solms’ contributions to both UJ and the global community. His work has been nothing short of groundbreaking, and we celebrate him for this extraordinary recognition.”
Prof. von Solms’ receipt of the Isaac L. Auerbach Award not only highlights his personal accomplishments but also reflects UJ’s commitment to excellence in research and innovation on the global stage. As he concludes, “This award is a recognition not just of my work, but of the support from my colleagues, students, and UJ. It has been an honor to contribute to the advancement of this field, and I look forward to seeing how the next generation builds on this legacy.”
Conclusion
Prof. Basie von Solms’ recognition with the Isaac L. Auerbach Award is a significant milestone in his illustrious career and a proud moment for the University of Johannesburg. His contributions to cybersecurity and information technology have not only shaped the field but have also inspired countless individuals to pursue excellence in this critical area. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the impact of his work will undoubtedly resonate for years to come, paving the way for future innovations and advancements in cybersecurity.