"The value of an idea lies in the using of it," said scientist and researcher, Thomas Edison, inventor of the incandescent light bulb and one of the world's most creative thinkers. At this time of the year the UCT community is called on the nominate its own finest thinkers for UCT Fellowships, one of the institution's highest honours, conferred in recognition of original and distinguished academic work.

Fellowships recognise the stature of a body of work, either reflected in publications (or the equivalent) or academic output, recognised at local and international levels. Publications usually include a major work.

Last year, nine new UCT Fellows were nominated, including three women, who remain among the under-represented groups within this distinguished enclave. For the many incumbent Fellows, the value of the award lies in the integrity it affords their research - and their research groups. Nominations should be accompanied by a three-quarter-page citation, details of the nominee's publications, or cited references, and other representations of academic distinction.

All nominations are considered by the Fellowships Committee, acting on behalf of the Senate and Council.

These should be submitted to The Registrar (for attention Gita Valodia), Room 108, Bremner Building by Friday, April 15. For more information contact Gita Valodia, e-mail gvalodia@bremner.uct.ac.za, or ext 2193.