UKZN Graduations Set to Honour Close to 8 000 Graduands
The Autumn Graduation season kicked off on a high note on 6 May 2024.The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is set to honour and celebrate a total of 7 795 graduands at its 2024 Autumn Graduation which will be spread across 16 ceremonies scheduled from 6-14 May 2024 at the Westville campus Sports Centre.
Of the qualifications to be conferred, 5 164 are undergraduate and 2 631 are postgraduate. Notably, this ceremony will celebrate the achievements of 526 masters and 231 doctoral graduates.
Among the graduands, 132 individuals will graduate with great distinction, having achieved summa cum laude, while 414 will graduate with cum laude.
Notably, women make up 69.57% of the cum laude and 72.73% of the summa cum laude graduands.
Overall, women constitute 65.76% of all graduates at the Autumn Graduation. This underscores our commitment to advancing gender equality and reinforces our reputation as one of the most transformed universities in the country.
The breakdown of degrees conferred by each College is as follows: the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science will award 1 096 degrees, the College of Health Sciences 1 060, the College of Humanities 4 029, and the College of Law and Management Studies 1 610.
The University is particularly proud of the 100 graduands with disability for persevering against all odds to achieve academic excellence.
UKZN Executive Director of Corporate Relations, Ms Normah Zondo says the University is looking forward to hosting the Graduation ceremonies, ‘Preparations are well underway and there is much excitement as Graduation season is upon us. Graduation holds special prominence in our academic calendar as it serves as a platform to acknowledge and applaud the tireless dedication, commitment, and hard work of our students, who have met and exceeded the rigorous demands of their respective academic programmes. Graduation is a milestone not just for our students, but also for the families and communities that have nurtured them.’
Zondo also urged graduands to utilise the Grad Look Up platform to view their information, including seat numbers, the date and time of their Graduation and qualification details. This online resource helps graduands prepare effectively for their Graduation experience.
‘We strongly encourage graduands and their guests to arrive promptly and be seated at least 45 minutes before the commencement of each ceremony. Being punctual ensures a smooth and orderly start to the proceedings and allows everyone to fully enjoy and participate in this momentous occasion. We are looking forward to seeing everybody at Graduation,’ Zondo concluded.
Livestream: Please be advised that the 2024 Autumn Graduation ceremonies are being live-streamed. Watch the ceremonies live on YouTube and Facebook.
Follow the University’s social media pages on: https://www.facebook.com/ukzn1, https://twitter.com/ukzn/, https://www.tiktok.com/@ukzn_official and https://www.instagram.com/ukzn for Graduation highlights and updates. The hashtag to use is: #UKZNGrad2024
Words: Sejal Desai
Photograph: Nkosi Gcabashe
author : .author email : .PhD for Pre-diabetes Researcher
Dr Angezwa Siboto who graduated with a PhD in Human Physiology.Dr Angezwa Siboto, a Laboratory Technician at Nelson Mandela University (NMU), said she was elated to graduate with her PhD in Human Physiology from her alma mater, UKZN.
As a child, Siboto – who grew up in KwaNgquba, a small village in Sterkspriut, Eastern Cape – aspired to be a lawyer, however, exposure to scientific concepts and experiments in high school ignited a passion for science research.
Siboto obtained a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Genetics at UKZN before graduating with an Honours in Human Physiology as well as a master’s that led her to join a cutting-edge pre-diabetes research group in the discipline, the focus of her doctoral degree.
Led by one of Siboto’s PhD supervisors, Associate Professor Andile Khathi who created a novel animal model for diet-induced prediabetes (a condition where the blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a type 2 diabetes diagnosis), this model was the first in the world to achieve this without any chemical or genetic manipulation.
Because patients with pre-diabetes face an elevated risk of developing various conditions, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, cardiovascular disease, and diabetic nephropathy, upon diagnosis, the recommended approach involves a combination of pharmacotherapy and lifestyle adjustments. ‘However, there is a documented issue of poor patient adherence to dietary changes, with a heavy reliance on pharmacological treatments, leading to reduced drug efficacy. Consequently, there is a demand for innovative drugs that can maintain therapeutic effects even without dietary modifications,’ Siboto explained.
Siboto’s study assessed the impact of a rhenium (V) compound with uracil-derived ligands on selected pre-diabetic complications in diet-induced pre-diabetes, considering both the presence and absence of dietary intervention. The findings implied that rhenium (V) compound demonstrated protective effects on the liver and kidneys, while also improving cardiovascular function in diet-induced pre-diabetic rats.
While additional investigations are necessary to elucidate the precise mechanism responsible for the potential effects of this metal-based compound, Siboto’s study was significant as it lent itself to increasing awareness about prediabetes and encouraging community members to seek treatment for prediabetes before it progresses to type 2 diabetes.
The study provided additional insights into already published literature regarding the use of metal complexes as pharmacological agents for treating prediabetes and pre-diabetic associated complications.
‘My fascination with diabetes-related research stems from personal experiences; several family members struggle with the disease. Engaging in this research is my way of contributing to efforts aimed at assisting my family in managing diabetes,’ Siboto said.
‘I am really happy and proud of this achievement,’ said Siboto about her PhD. ‘My forthcoming project focuses on conducting science research, particularly in women’s health, and actively supporting young Black women, especially those from rural regions to pursue their educational journeys in the field of science.’
Siboto thanked her family for being an unwavering pillar of support throughout her educational career. ‘Their presence has not only been comforting but also empowering, providing me with the strength and determination to overcome obstacles and achieve my academic goals.’
Siboto said she loved cooking and exercising. Her motto in life is: ‘Always be humble and gentle with everyone around you’.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Cheers All Around as Twins Graduate as Medical Doctors
Drs Ziphozonke and Velenkosini Lamula.Pietermaritzburg twins, Drs Ziphozonke and Velenkosini Lamula made their families and the Westgate community proud as they graduated as Medical doctors from UKZN on 6 May.
The 25-year-olds said their achievement felt surreal. ‘It was a long six years of hard work and sleepless nights… but this journey has been really rewarding. All the hard work is finally paying off.’
They are currently serving their Medical internships at the Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in the Eastern Cape, Mthatha.
While not yet certain which areas of specialisation they will get into, they are exploring their interests and enjoying the journey as Medical interns.
To unwind, they love watching television series and going out with friends.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Itumeleng Masa
author : .author email : .Clear Skies for UKZN’s Top Medical Student, Dr Maseeha Ismael Bhorat
Dr Maseeha Ismael Bhorat, UKZN’s top Medical graduate. ‘I am fully certain that the only reason I am where I am today, is because of the thousand-thread-count support system I have in my family and friends,’ said ecstatic Crawford College La Lucia’s 2017 top matriculant and UKZN’s class of 2023 top Medical student, Dr Maseeha Ismael Bhorat.
‘They have, and continue to cheer me on in all aspects of my life, and I certainly hope that I have done them proud,’ said the above 87% aggregate achiever, and Medical intern at Groote Schuur Hospital.
Bhorat said she had the privilege of being taught by some ‘incredible’ senior doctors throughout her six years at Medical School, who pushed her to give her best -‘and that’s all I ever wanted to do,’ she said.
Bhorat said, ‘One thing that you learn very quickly about the MBChB degree is that it is not for the faint-hearted. The six-week cycle of long days, high volumes of material to study and expectations placed on a student in their early 20’s can become very overwhelming very quickly.’
The greatest tool in her arsenal in terms of study strategies, she said, was to read a little bit every day so that she would have a greater foundation to build on once working at a hospital. ‘What truly kept me afloat was the support of my family. I am in a fortunate (and unique) position where all of my siblings and parents are already in the Medical field. Not only did this help me when I couldn’t understand pathology, but moreover, it provided me with proof that this degree is surmountable - if you take it one step at a time, day by day.’
Bhorat said her fondest memory of Medical School was, ‘beyond a shadow of a doubt,’ the friends that she made along the way. ‘It’s hard to single out highlights, but any end of every block where we could all be together to let go of the weight of exams and just have a great time in each other’s company will always hold a special place in my heart.’
Bhorat said she always wanted to be a doctor, which might have been, in part, due to the subliminal messaging of watching her father and four older siblings go into and excel in the Medical field. ‘In my heart, I knew that this was what I wanted for myself. Knowledge is power, and I think there’s no greater privilege than being able to understand the intricacies of what our bodies go through to keep us alive - it’s incredibly humbling and truly fascinating.’
Beyond the Dean’s Commendations and additional accolades, Bhorat said she believes that she is still in the infancy of her career. ‘While I know that I would love to specialise in a field, I want to keep an open mind about what that field will be. There is something to be loved and learned about every speciality, hence, I don’t want to put too much pressure on myself to choose one now, before I have a chance to truly experience them as a practising doctor.’
‘Something else that helped keep me sane throughout Medical School was making time for interests unrelated to Medicine. I fell in love with yoga very early on and this kept me grounded in the difficult times and taught me how to regulate my emotions and handle them better. I tried new things like ice skating and also found a passion for general fitness at the gym. I am grateful that I have been able to take these practices with me through to internship, and I will continue to strive to maintain my mental, physical and emotional wellbeing,’ she said.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Kenyan Researcher Obtains PhD Investigating Psychosis Among Victims of Childhood Trauma
Dr Grace Nduku Wambua (left) and Professor Bonga Chiliza.According to Dr Grace Nduku Wambua, a Kenyan Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Africa Health Research Institute who graduated with a PhD in Psychiatry from UKZN on 6 May, levels of resilience might explain why although there is a high incidence of psychosis among victims of childhood trauma, not all individuals exposed to it develop mental health problems when they become adults.
Psychosis refers to a collection of symptoms that affect the mind, where there has been some loss of contact with reality. A clinical psychologist by training, Wambua felt it was important to understand how the processes involved in child development interacts with individuals to develop resilience. Her doctoral research thus aimed to add knowledge to the field of mental health research by exploring the role played by resilience in individuals exposed to childhood trauma by comparing patients with first-episode psychosis with healthy controls.
Co-supervised by UKZN’s Psychiatry Chief Specialist and Head of Department, Associate Professor Bonga Chiliza and clinical psychologist, Dr Sanja Kilian, 14 participants who had experienced adversity in their childhood were recruited to Wambua’s study using a multiple-case study design. They were interviewed to understand how they conceptualised trauma and how they coped during and after the traumatic experience. The data was analysed using Braun and Clark’s reflexive thematic approach, the findings providing a local portrait of childhood adverse events and coping strategies, providing a qualitative understanding of the role of early experiences and their subsequent impact on perception and adaptation.
‘This study concurred with previous literature, suggesting that resilience processes are complex and contextual. In addition, consistent with the literature, the study supported the notion that the negative sequelae of childhood trauma may be prevented or moderated if appropriate support through necessary prevention and interventions was put in place at all ecological levels and provided at the right time for those confronted with adversity, especially those in vulnerable environments,’ Wambua said.
‘With most knowledge on the topic having been generated in the Global North, this study in sub-Saharan Africa (specifically Kenya) adds a unique addition to the field of resilience in psychosis. Our findings emphasised the multidimensional nature of mental illness, adversity, and subsequent positive adaptation that need to be considered for the successful management of mental disorders and the promotion of mental health in our communities,’ Wambua added. ‘Future research on resilience should take a more contextual approach to enable a wholesome understanding of the dynamic process of adaptation in the presence of any form of adversity and across a lifespan.’
Wambua said her passion for child and adolescent mental health, with a particular interest in developing or adapting psychological interventions that are contextually and culturally appropriate, was undoubted. ‘For this to be possible, it was important for me to understand how mental health develops, especially after exposure to adversities in childhood and what happens to those who experience such adversities, not becoming mentally unwell.’
‘I’m very excited about this accomplishment; it’s quite humbling. I’m looking forward to developing into an independent researcher in the Global South.’ She thanked her parents and siblings for their unyielding support, also thanking her supervisors whom she said were patient with her.
Wambua’s motto in life is: ‘One day at a time. One foot in front of the other.’
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Meet our Human Anatomy Honours Top Student
Ms Simone Varatharajalu.Ms Simone Varatharajalu, 22, graduated summa cum laude, topping her Bachelor of Medical Science Honours class in Human Anatomy through hard work, passion, and commitment to understanding the anatomy and overall functioning of the human body.
Today, Varatharajalu, who hails from Chatsworth, is pleased to share that she is loving and enjoying her first-year of Medicine at the University of the Free State. ‘Medicine has always been the goal from the beginning. Going into the Medical Sciences opened our eyes to how this medical field lends itself at the core to becoming a medical doctor,’ she said.
Varatharajalu said what fascinated her about being a student in the Medical Sciences was doing dissections and understanding how the different organs aligned and worked together to constitute the human body.
No stranger to receiving a string of Dean’s Commendations for her outstanding academic excellence at UKZN, Varatharajalu also graduated with her Bachelor of Medical Sciences undergraduate degree in Human Anatomy summa cum laude.
Accompanied by her proud parents, Mr Neville and Mrs Lillian Varatharajalu to Graduation, the young high-flyer said science had always been exciting to her, especially life sciences where human body functions were taught.
‘Congratulations on your well-deserved academic achievement. This achievement is a testament to your diligence and passion for learning. I am confident that you will continue to excel in your future endeavours,’ said Dr Pamela Soobramoney, Academic Leader for Teaching and Learning at UKZN’s School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, Anatomical Society of Southern Africa, member of Council, and UKZN Biomedical Research Ethics Committee member.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Defying Dire Straits to Graduate as a Medical Doctor Summa Cum Laude
Dr Thembelihle Angel Maziya graduates summa cum laude.The 6th of May 2024 was not a normal day for Dr Thembelihle Angel Maziya who graduated as the only Black female out of 14 students who completed UKZN’s difficult Medical programme summa cum laude.
The 24-year-old Highveld Secondary School matriculant from Tjakastad, a small village in Mpumalanga, said she was happy to be home and servicing her community as a Medical intern at Rob Ferreira Hospital in Nelspruit.
‘It feels good and it gives me a sense of accomplishment. I feel that nothing is impossible if you give it your all and put God by your side. I honestly feel very honoured, and I’m grateful to God for making this dream come true,’ Maziya said.
Her friends and family are extremely proud of her.
Maziya said what saw her through her degree was knowing what she wanted and why she came to Medical School. ‘I was able to get my priorities straight, which involved me organising my study material early, finding a suitable learning style for myself, and seeking help when I needed it. I would often go the extra mile when trying to gather data to understand some chapters and sometimes join study groups and watch YouTube videos.
‘I am a lifelong learner who appreciates science; knowing that Medicine is rooted in science and is a dynamic profession made me want to take the role of improving the health of people based on science and continue learning new things every day.’
Maziya said her fondest memory of Medical School was when she had to do group and bedside discussions in the hospital because it was where she had the opportunity to learn quite a bit and to manage real-life patients. ‘Although it was difficult, it made me feel like a doctor and brought insight into what I should expect during my internship. I also had the privilege of making friends which improved my social life.
‘I am the first born in my family, the first one to go to varsity and both my parents are unemployed.’
Maziya said her greatest support was her family and the friends she made in Medical School. ‘My greatest motivation to complete the degree was the fact that I had to study to get my family out of poverty and to be able to afford my own basic needs and of course to go back and serve my community in Mpumalanga which is what I am doing.’
Her future aspirations are to further her studies and specialise in either obstetrics and gynaecology or surgery, and to have a stable family of her own. ‘I also want to invest in property and get into the logistics business,’ said the visionary.
When not dedicating her time to patients, Maziya loves to travel, do gardening, as well as swimming and bowling.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Trailblazing TB Research Earns Medical Scientist a PhD
Dr Santhuri Rambaran.‘All my degrees were obtained at UKZN,’ said the ever-beaming Dr Santhuri Rambaran, a Medical Scientist at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases’ (NICD) Centre for Tuberculosis (TB), whose PhD in Medical Microbiology, supervised by world-class TB Scientists, Dr Aida Sivro and Professor Kogie Naidoo, was conferred on 6 May.
Her doctoral research: Immune Biomarkers of Pulmonary Tuberculosis Treatment Response and Disease Severity Among HIV-infected and Uninfected Individuals from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, was the first study in the country to characterise soluble and cellular phenotypes during active, recurrent TB and TB/HIV co-infection.
‘South Africa has the highest burden of TB and HIV and pursuing research as a young scientist, I feel compelled to play an active role in understanding the immunology and pathogenesis of TB and HIV. My passion for microbiology, science and the constant challenges presented within TB and HIV research kept me curious within this research field,’ Rambaran said.
Performed using stored plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells from the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa’s (CAPRISA) Improving Retreatment Success (IMPRESS) trial, Rambaran’s PhD assessed their associations with time to negative culture conversion and disease severity.
Rambaran published two papers from the study. In 2023, she was successfully registered as a Medical Biological Scientist by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). The scientific community lauded the study because host-directed therapies and the identification of blood-based biomarkers of treatment response and disease severity are a promising strategy to improve TB control.
Rambaran said there was an urgent need for accurate and easily detectable non-sputum-based biomarkers that can correlate with the activity or burden of TB. ‘Identification of host immune biomarkers of TB risk, treatment outcome and disease severity are key to the development of more efficient diagnostics and treatment modalities,’ she advised.
Rambaran said: ‘Like many, I too have encountered challenges during my study. The COVID-19 pandemic had a huge impact and this led to some major delays in meeting deadlines with regards to my laboratory experiments. The support of my supervisors was phenomenal. They played a big role in guiding and assisting me to overcome these challenges.’
‘I feel extremely grateful and blessed since this has been a rollercoaster journey. My future aspirations are centred on constant growth and skills development. I am committed to keeping abreast of advancements in science and specifically research surrounding tuberculosis. I see myself as an integral player, proactively contributing towards the fight to end TB.’
Rambaran thanked her mother and her late father for being the greatest support during her academic journey. She said: ‘No journey or accomplishment is complete without hurdles, so embrace them as they will help you navigate life.’
When not in the lab, Rambaran loves building Lego sets and watching TV series.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Award-Winning TB/HIV Virologist Obtains PhD
Dr Thando Maseko bags a PhD in Virology.A PhD is in the bag for TB/HIV virologist, Dr Thando Maseko (30), who is now a Mucosal Immunology Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA).
Concerned that people living with HIV (PLWHIV) are often coinfected with TB, thereby suggesting the need for joint solutions to improve the health of this population, her doctoral research focused on inflammation and cellular immune phenotypes in TB/HIV co-infection.
Maseko’s multi-faceted study analysed inflammatory markers of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB) in participants from the CAPRISA 020 Individualised M(X) drug-resistant TB Treatment Strategy Study since MDR/XDR-TB, being a more aggressive form of TB, is likely to produce a stronger inflammatory response, exaggerating tissue damage and TB associated pathogenesis.
Her study identified distinct changes in systemic inflammatory and NK cell and memory CD4+ T cell populations concerning active disease, treatment completion, bacterial clearance, and disease severity in TB and TB-HIV co-infected individuals. The results of the study highlighted biologically plausible and novel mechanisms by which concurrent HIV infection impairs the host immune control of TB infection.
Maseko said both TB and HIV profoundly affect immune responses, impacting morbidity and mortality. She said a lack of understanding of the protective and pathogenic host immune responses during TB and TB/HIV co-infection is hampering the development of novel diagnostic, preventative, and therapeutic modalities.
‘I am incredibly proud and exhilarated to reach this significant milestone. The journey has been challenging yet incredibly rewarding, leading to fruitful outcomes. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to further evolve as a young researcher during my postdoctoral research fellowship, with the ultimate goal of establishing my own research group dedicated to understanding the immune mechanisms of infectious diseases,’ said Maseko.
Maseko said she aspires to engage in pioneering research aimed at deepening our understanding of host immune responses to infectious diseases, thereby promoting the development of novel vaccines, host-directed therapies, and treatments to enhance the wellbeing of individuals.
Her research project resulted in first-author publications while collaborative research led to co-authored publications. She said: ‘I am grateful to have presented my work at national and international conferences. Notably, I received the Best Oral Presentation Award at the 7th South African TB Conference in 2022 for Track 1 in Durban. Additionally, I have a passion for mentoring junior students.’
Maseko completed both her undergraduate and postgraduate studies at UKZN, receiving invaluable support from the dedicated faculty and staff, she said. ‘Thanks to the University’s assistance, I secured funding throughout my academic journey. I relied on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) during my undergraduate years, and from my honours degree to the completion of my PhD, I was fortunate to receive funding from the National Research Foundation. I am sincerely grateful for these opportunities.’
Born in Soweto and raised by a single parent who worked tirelessly to ensure she was well-taken care of and had a decent education, Maseko describes herself as ‘a vibrant, driven, and talented individual with a strong commitment to family. I cherish experiences that enrich my understanding of the world, whether through travel or the universal language of music as a drummer and bassist. I am dedicated to living life to the fullest and making a difference wherever I go.’
Maseko was not deterred from her lab work due to COVID-19 restrictions. ‘All things are possible to them that believe,’ she said. Her hobbies include exercising, travelling, watching music performances, reading, sewing, playing the drums and bass guitar.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Novel PhD on Surgical Management of Blount’s Disease in Children
Orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Piet Mare graduated with a PhD.Blount’s disease is a complex, progressive condition found in children that affects the growth plates around the knee - considered a “proximal tibial deformity” by orthopaedic surgeons.
Despite it being a relatively rare condition according to international literature, it is frequently encountered in orthopaedic practice in South Africa.
South African orthopaedic surgeons are, therefore, frequently faced with the challenging surgical decision-making process in Blount’s disease. This challenge stems from the broad spectrum of disease severity and morphology (physical structure) at presentation and the lack of evidence-based guidelines that guide treatment strategy selection.
Supervised by UKZN’s Head of Orthopaedic Surgery and Interim Dean of the School of Clinical Medicine, Professor Len Marais, Dr Piet Mare graduated with a PhD in Orthopaedic Surgery on 6 May for his doctoral research that aimed to structure the surgical treatment selection process for Blount’s disease.
The study entailed a narrative review of the literature to identify areas where evidence was lacking, or where controversy existed to focus further research. Once the diagnosis of Blount’s disease was made, the recommended treatment was surgical deformity correction.
Mare said, ‘The most frequent complication after acute correction through a metaphyseal proximal tibial osteotomy was found to be recurrent deformity. It appeared that worse clinical outcomes are associated with recurrent deformity, with insufficient evidence to guide recurrence risk assessment effectively. Additionally, few surgical procedures to decrease recurrence risk had been described, and evidence to support their use was lacking. The most serious complications following tibial osteotomy and deformity correction were vascular injury, compartment syndrome and deep infection.’
In its many findings, the study confirmed that both advanced skeletal maturity and increased deforming forces had been demonstrated in obese children with Blount’s disease. The study’s surgical treatment selection strategy was summarised in a comprehensive assessment and treatment algorithm that requires further evaluation in terms of recurrence rate, complications, and outcome at skeletal maturity.
‘Future research should focus on strategies to predict and decrease recurrence risk and to determine the optimal indications for guided growth in Blount’s disease,’ said Mare who was thrilled to be conferred with a PhD.
He was congratulated by Marais on his outstanding achievement.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Virology PhD for HIV Scientific Innovation
Virology graduate, Dr Ntombikhona Maphumulo.‘It is important to understand the pathways leading to drug resistance and ultimately therapy failure in African patients, especially in people living with HIV - the prevalence of which is still at its most rife in South Africa and in KwaZulu-Natal where we live.’
This cautionary advice was from Dr Ntombikhona Maphumulo, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences postdoctoral researcher, who graduated with a PhD for her study: Coevolution of Mutations in HIV-1 Env and Gag-PR genes: Implications for the Development of Protease Inhibitor Resistance, supervised by Professor Michelle Gordon.
A UKZN first, Maphumulo’s study investigated whether a coevolution of Envelope and Gag-Protease amino acid changes (mutations) were associated with drug resistance of Protease Inhibitor, a drug that helps slow the progression of HIV by blocking the enzyme “protease” needed by the virus to develop and mature.
The study found that Env mutations were not directly associated with PI drug resistance alone but in combination with Gag mutations that are known to compensate for the loss of viral fitness during the development of drug resistance. ‘These findings suggest that PI resistance can be conferred by amino acid changes outsize the protease region,’ Maphumulo said.
‘Growing up in the province with the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world pushed me to join the best researchers to help identify which HIV drugs patients are resistant to and how we can overcome that scientifically,’ said Maphumulo.
‘I give all thanks to God who strengthened me. I am proud of myself and mostly, confident in my ability. I wish to continue with research that will have a positive impact in our community.
Maphumulo said what made her particularly proud of her doctoral research was having to clone two fragments in one plasmid - ‘a real challenge but with more reading and resilience, I managed to pull it through. Further to that, lockdown became a huge challenge as I was unable to go to the lab for a long time, but I persevered.’
‘My family was my greatest support system, I couldn’t have asked for anything better. My sisters were my pillar of strength. I feel like I wouldn’t have seen this through if it wasn’t for them pushing and routing for me. My mom and kids were my motivation, even in my toughest times, I used to tell myself that you are tired but do this for them.’
Maphumulo grew up in eBhamshela, upper Tongaat. ‘Growing up, my passion was to do radiography or anything related to the Medical field. Little did I know that I would end up as a full-time research scientist.’
Maphumulo said she loves adventure and being in nature.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .HIV Pathogenesis Programme Salutes its Graduates
HPP graduates with their supervisors, Dr Paradise Madlala (second from left), and Dr Nompumelelo P Mkhwanazi (far right).One of the major goals of the HIV Pathogenesis Programme (HPP) is to be a training programme that will invest in South Africans, enabling them to develop the expertise to be world leaders in the fields of basic and translational research.
This approach has resulted in three graduates (one PhD and three master’s) who will be graduated on the 6 May 2024.
Graduating with a PhD, Dr Zakithi Mkhize grew up with a love and passion for science. As a result, obtaining this PhD seemed the only natural course. She completed her master’s and PhD at HPP under the supervision of Dr Paradise Madlala (HPP Faculty Member and UKZN senior lecturer).
According to Mkhize, ‘Doing a PhD is like eating an elephant one bite at a time.’ Her research began by investigating the genetic variation of the transactivator of transcription (tat) during acute HIV-1 infection. The Tat plays an important role in HIV replication, where it binds to the transactivation response (TAR) element found in the HIV-1 promoter. Changes in Tats amino acid sequence affect its functionality. It has been shown that Tat also interacts with host transcription factors, most importantly the positive elongation factor b (P-TEFb). Further research focused on whether the presence of an Alanine at position 21 (TatA21), which has been shown to decrease functionality, affects its ability to bind to the TAR element and recruit the P-TEFb during replication. Results revealed that although TatA21 is able to efficiently recruit to the P-TEFb, its ability to bind the TAR element is lower than Tat with a Proline at position 21. This may explain the decreased functionality of TatA21. During her studies, Mkhize also had the opportunity to travel to two labs abroad: Gladstone Institute at the University of California, San Francisco; and Erasmus Medical Centre in the Netherlands where she learnt specialised techniques which assisted in the project and made lifelong collaborations.
She said, ‘Grabbing opportunities which came my way during my PhD played a huge role in my success. My passion for science communication also made me the regional winner of the FameLab competition in 2021 and this propelled me to heights I could have never imagined. I will continue to be a Black Girl Scientist and advocate for all the Black women scientists out there.’
Ms Thandeka Khubeka born and raised at Manzana farm, Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, will be graduating with a master’s degree. Her science journey began in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Microbiology and Biochemistry at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. In 2021, Thandeka completed her Honours in Medical Microbiology at UKZN. That research looked at HIV-1 Nef-mediated SERINC5 downregulation for therapeutic vaccines. That’s when she discovered her interest in HIV research that will contribute to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of HIV, which affects millions of people. She was then given an opportunity at the HIV Pathogenesis Programme (HPP) to pursue her master’s degree under the supervision of Dr Nompumelelo P Mkhwanazi (HPP Faculty Member and UKZN lecturer). Thandeka was encouraged by the saying: “It’s now or never, so make up your mind” whenever in doubt or discouraged during the master’s journey. Her study investigated the evolution of HIV-1 anti-Tat antibodies from HIV-1 early treated individuals using ELISA and associate them with the size of the reservoirs, immune activation and also investigated how the HIV-1 Tat protein impacts the anti-Env antibody neutralisation ability. These findings suggested that Tat-specific IgM and IgG antibodies in combination with cART could be a better strategy to improve HIV-1 vaccine. This work is currently under review for publication.
She said: ‘I want to recognise and express my sincere gratitude to my supervisor, Dr Nompumelelo P Mkhwanazi, whose support made this work achievable. Her guidance and advice carried me through all the stages of writing my project. I also want to extend heartfelt appreciation to Professor Thumbi Ndung’u for his support, help, and brilliant comments and suggestions. The journey was not easy but by God’s grace and all the support I got from my family and the HPP team made everything possible.’
Also supervised by Dr Nompumelelo P Mkhwanazi, Ms Mbali Kubheka will be graduating with a master’s degree. After completing her BSc Honours in Medical Biochemistry, Mbali joined HPP in January 2022. Her work focused on anti-HIV and Immunomodulatory Properties of the Fractionated Crude Extracts Isolated from Alternaria alternata. This novel research was presented at the South African AIDS Conference in June last year by Mbali. In addition, her research findings are submitted for publication in the Microorganism journal.
Another master’s graduate, a Durban native Ms Suhina Sirkisson has always been interested in human genetics and physiology. After high school, she earned a scholarship to Stellenbosch University, achieving a BSc in Physiology and Psychology, with a minor in Genetics, and continued to complete a BSc Honours in Physiology.
‘Serendipity led me to the HPP. HPP’s work aligned with the forefront of HIV research and offered an opportunity to deepen my understanding of and burgeoning interest in human pathology while learning new and relevant techniques prevalent in this field.’
Initially under the guidance and supervision of Dr Katlego Sojane and, later, Dr Bongiwe Ndlovu (HPP Faculty Member and UKZN senior lecturer), the focus of Sirkisson’s research was aimed at determining and comparing the coreceptor usage of HIV-1 subtype C in Cryptococcal Meningitis (CM) chronically co-infected participants, between the central nervous system (represented by cerebrospinal fluid) and the peripheral blood (represented by plasma). Another objective was to identify genotypic characteristics (motifs or sequences) associated with the observed coreceptor usage profiles and to evaluate the accuracy of Coreceptor Prediction Algorithms (CPAs) in predicting this usage.
These findings improved the understanding of coreceptor prevalence, particularly CCR3 and CXCR4, in South African CM co-infected patients. These findings have implications for the eligibility of these patients for coreceptor-targeted therapies like Maraviroc and the reliability of Coreceptor Prediction Algorithms (CPAs) in this context. This clarifies the eligibility of South African CM co-infected patients for coreceptor-targeted therapies like Maraviroc by revealing the accuracy of Coreceptor Prediction Algorithms (CPAs) in this context.
According to Sirkisson, ‘In addition to the technical skills I developed, I experienced significant personal growth. The COVID-19 pandemic challenged my resilience, adaptability, confidence, and flexibility. I learned to truly “expect the unexpected” and developed a newfound strength and perseverance. My master’s journey cultivated remarkable resilience and a knack for navigating seemingly impossible situations, which has become a cornerstone of my skillset. R Collier’s quote, “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated” perfectly reflects my master’s journey.’
HPP is incredibly proud of these outstanding students and wish them every success in their future endeavours.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Novel Study Raises Hope for the Eradication of Gonorrhoea
PhD in Medicine graduate, Dr Deshanta Naicker.Dr Deshanta Naicker (29) said she was thrilled to obtain her PhD in Medicine, resulting from new South African research that she undertook at UKZN towards combating the bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI), gonorrhoea.
Her study investigated a “reverse vaccinology” approach and alternative therapeutics to combat gonorrhoea, also evaluating cost-effective assays that target proteins or other molecules such as opa gene that are created by enzymes in the bacteria, leading to the growth and spread of diseases such as gonorrhoea.
The data generated in Naicker’s novel pilot study forms the foundation for future research direction on expanding on a larger scale to further validate the results and hopefully, one day make an impact in the STI world for gonorrhoea.
‘I was drawn to the field of STIs due to the pressing need for advancements in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment within this area of healthcare. STIs represent a significant public health challenge worldwide, with profound implications for individual wellbeing and community health. By focusing my research efforts on this domain, I saw an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development of innovative interventions that could alleviate the burden of STIs and improve overall sexual health outcomes,’ Naicker explained.
She said there was stigma and misconceptions surrounding STIs, and her call was to advocate for greater awareness, education, and de-stigmatisation. ‘This field allows me to combine my passion for medical research with a commitment to promoting sexual health equity and reducing the disparities that exist in access to care and resources.’
‘I am particularly drawn to the prospect of working for a clinical trials/pharmaceutical company, where I believe, I can contribute to the development of innovative vaccines, treatment regimens, and diagnostic tools. My passion lies in leveraging scientific research to improve patient outcomes and advance medical knowledge. I am eager to embark on this next chapter of my career, fuelled by a deep sense of purpose and determination to make a meaningful difference in the health world.’
Naicker persevered amidst the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, adapting her research strategies, seeking alternative solutions, and learnt through trial and error. She was fortunate to be able to use virtual platforms to collaborate with colleagues and attend conferences lightening the impact of physical restrictions on her academic pursuits.
Naicker was born and raised in Redhill, Durban. During her PhD journey, she participated in various local and international conferences such as the SciTech Immuno-Microbiology, Women and Nursing 2023 in Mauritius, where she won the Best Poster Presentation and served as a conference moderator. She also presented virtually at the 45th Global Congress on Infectious Diseases in November 2023 and at UKZN’s College of Health Sciences Research Symposium in Durban in August 2023. She was also featured in the Durban North News for International Women in Science Day in March 2023.
‘From a young age, I harboured a profound desire to make a positive impact in the Medical field. This aspiration was largely inspired by a deeply personal experience: witnessing my mother’s health struggles and the unwavering dedication of the doctors and medical staff who tirelessly worked to save her life. Their commitment to providing compassionate care and their relentless pursuit of excellence left an indelible mark on me, igniting a passion to follow in their footsteps and contribute to the advancement of healthcare,’ she said.
Naicker’s motto is: ‘Everything in life happens for a reason. Trust the journey.’ She finds solace and rejuvenation in practising yoga, connecting mind, body, and spirit in moments of peaceful reflection.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .PhD Study Delves Deeper into Efficacy of PrEP in African Women
Dr Nomusa Zondo graduated with a PhD in Virology.Dr Nomusa Zondo, a postdoctoral researcher at the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa’s (CAPRISA) Mucosal Immunology Department, was conferred a PhD in Virology for her novel research investigating three biological factors impacting the efficacy of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in African women from an HIV endemic area in KwaZulu-Natal over a prolonged time.
According to Zondo, the efficacy of PrEP, whether taken orally or applied vaginally (topically), is dependent on adequate drug delivery and availability to cells and tissues targeted by HIV. ‘Our study, therefore, focused on how different biological factors (drug transporter expression, single nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs] in drug transporter genes and genital inflammation modulate PrEP disposition) in African women.’
Zondo said PrEP in the form of oral Truvada® remains the standard of care for HIV prevention in South Africa, but despite its availability, HIV infections continue to rise in young women significantly more than in men. Clinical trials testing antiretrovirals containing tenofovir as topical or oral PrEP formulations in African women, produced inconsistent patterns of efficacies against HIV. This is what motivated her to pursue her ground-breaking study.
Results from the study suggested that PrEP disposition can be modified through a convergence of host genetics and different biological factors: drug transporter expression, SNPs in drug transporter genes and inflammation. Findings from such studies may be used to better understand PrEP pharmacokinetics and aid in the implementation of optimal PrEP dosages. ‘This will ultimately inform effective and safe PrEP for HIV prevention, especially in vulnerable and at-risk African women,’ explained Zondo.
‘I am extremely thrilled about this accomplishment. This is a significant milestone in my scientific career. It has been a long time coming and feels unreal at times that I officially have my PhD.’
Zondo persevered despite the odds presented by COVID-19 during her study. She said she was grateful for the support she received from her family; friends; her supervisor, Professor Derseree Archary; co-supervisor, Dr Parveen Sobia; and the CAPRISA community as a whole for playing a fundamental role in her PhD journey.
The prospect of understanding and treating various medical conditions has always interested Zondo. Biology was always of interest since her high school days, but little did she know that one day she would call herself a Doctor of Philosophy in the Medical research field, finding research so exciting and fascinating. Research has now become more than just a job but a passion.
Zondo said her PhD work afforded her the opportunity to publish scientific papers and attend various conferences. ‘My first review paper was published in 2022 and my second research article was published in 2023. Throughout my PhD journey, I have attended and presented my work through oral and poster presentations at different conferences in Cape Town, Stellenbosch, and Durban. My first international trip was through my PhD, whereby I attended and presented at an international conference in Paris. My journey has also improved my scientific writing and I have gained different lab and networking skills.’
Zondo obtained a Master of Science from UKZN prior to her PhD. ‘I am a born-free millennial who’s an introvert and passionate about science. I am an adventurous person who is open to trying new things. I was born and raised in Estcourt (uMtshezi). I grew up in a peri-urban area with different ethnicities and cultures.’
Zondo aspires to continue to conduct novel and ground-breaking research that can make a direct difference in people’s lives. ‘I would like to remain within academia, become a professor one day, but most importantly I would love to pay it forward by mentoring and sharing my skills with the next generation of young scientists.’
Zondo relaxes through cooking and she also enjoys watching YouTube vlogs.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Investigation of Mental Health Challenges Faced by Medical Doctors During COVID-19 Culminates in PhD
Dr Munira Wadiwalla (left) and Professor Bonga Chiliza.Dr Munira Wadiwalla graduated with a PhD in Medicine on 6 May from UKZN after exploring the psychological wellbeing of Medical graduates who were serving their internships at five state hospitals in eThekwini during the devastating outbreak of COVID-19.
Coinciding with 2021 being designated by the World Health Organization as the International Year of Health and Care Workers, and supervised by UKZN’s Psychiatry Chief Specialist and Head of Department, Associate Professor Bonga Chiliza, Wadiwalla’s three-phased study encapsulated the psychological wellbeing of Medical interns into three components: burnout, resilience and mindfulness.
Wadiwalla said Medical interns are susceptible to psychological harm, and there is significant research evidence that affirms that resilience is fundamental to mitigating psychological distress experienced regularly. ‘Now imagine what the experience was like for them at the height of COVID-19?’ she asked.
Known for their high intake of Medical interns, the study participants were spread across Addington, King Edward VIII, R.K. Khan, Prince Mshiyeni and Wentworth hospitals. The participants had to complete an online eight-week Mindfulness Course, the results feeding into the study’s pre- and post-test data.
Information gathered from Wadiwalla’s study was used to inform decision-making changes to better the internship experience. ‘The Medical fraternity could look into developing a sustainable support structure for interns to have throughout their internship journey, which is an important teaching and learning environment. The data for the study was collected online due to the circumstances of the global pandemic,’ Wadiwalla said.
Wadiwalla said she was humbled, grateful, appreciative, and thankful for the accomplishment of attaining her PhD in Psychiatry. ‘It was once a dream and so at times I find that I have to pinch myself to see if it is actually real.
‘I have always had a passion for understanding the mental health and wellbeing of people in society from a very young age, hence I pursued a Bachelor of Social Science degree in Psychology back in 2013. I have always strived to make a positive difference in the lives of people, be it with the use of my education or with my community outreach initiatives with my family who are my support structure.’
Wadiwalla said she has found her passion and would like to invest more of her career in academia. She looks forward to supervising master’s and PhD students in the coming months, publishing articles, and working towards becoming a professor. She is currently a Research Supervisor and Scientific Review Committee member for a private Institution of Higher Learning.
She said she was thankful to Chiliza who encouraged, championed and dedicated many hours of his time toward her doctoral research done by full dissertation.
Wadiwalla’s hobbies are Scottish dancing, cooking and baking, needlework, and gardening in her vegetable and fruit patch. She thanked her parents for their continuous support throughout her academic endeavours.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .14 Class of 2023 Medical Students Graduate Summa Cum Laude
Meet the class of 2023’s top Medical students.The class of 2023’s top Medical student is Dr Maseeha Ismael Bhorat, who was born in Polokwane but moved to Durban at the age of six.
She went to Crawford College La Lucia and is elated about her achievement.
Bhorat was amongst 14 other Medical students who made their families, friends and lecturers proud by graduating summa cum laude. They were: Drs Bevan Owen Abraham, Muhammad Irfaan Bhamjee, Jaydene Gallant, Parishka Govender, Kerusha Indurjeeth, Sejal Mahadeo, Kimera Maniram, Thembelihle Angel Maziya, Jade Karan Naidoo, Fatima-Zahra Osman Joosab, Tyrell Jordan Pillay, Diyajal Ramraj, and Ethan Cole Shunmugam.
‘It feels like coming to the end of a marathon, only to realise that it was merely a brief qualifying race for a much longer, tougher, endless run,’ said Yellowwood Park’s now “Dr Pillay” who was popular for his passion for art, music and sport at the Medical School.
Fifty-four of their peers completed the MBChB programme cum laude.
‘This is a remarkable achievement and we wish our graduates well in their internships and as they go into various areas of specialisation or private practice,’ said School of Clinical Medicine Interim Dean, Professor Leonard Marais.
The students were capped at UKZN’s prestigious Graduation ceremony which was held on 6 May on the Westville campus. It was all cheers when the new cohort of Medical doctors graduated.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .