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Order of Mapungubwe for Indian-Origin Scientists Karim and Dheda

23 May 20261 min read
AWARDS & PERSONSOrder of Mapungubwefor Indian-OriginScientists Karim andDheda23 May 2026safalsetu.com

Why in the news

Two scientists of Indian origin received the top civilian award of South Africa in recognition of their contributions to medical science and public health.

RecipientRecognised for
Professor Salim Abdool KarimLeadership in HIV/AIDS and COVID-19 research
Professor Keertan DhedaPioneering work in tuberculosis and respiratory diseases

Key facts

  • Award: Order of Mapungubwe, South Africa’s highest civilian honour.
  • Recipients: two Indian-origin professors.
  • Field: medical science and public health.

Exam angle

  • Awarding country: South Africa.
  • Award name: Order of Mapungubwe.
  • Disease areas: HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, tuberculosis and respiratory illness.

Test yourself

1. Which honour did South Africa confer on Salim Abdool Karim and Keertan Dheda?

The Order of Mapungubwe is described as South Africa's highest civilian honour.

2. Keertan Dheda was honoured for pioneering work in which area?

Dheda was recognised for tuberculosis and respiratory disease work.

3. Salim Abdool Karim was recognised for leadership in research on which diseases?

Karim was recognised for HIV/AIDS and COVID-19 research.

This topic is part of Daily Current Affairs 23 May 2026 (15 topics).

All topics of the dayDay quizMay 2026

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