The adjudicators of this year’s College of Health Sciences (CHS) Annual Research Symposium had a hard time deciding which 16 studies out of the 94 presented, were most deserving of the prestigious awards in each of the postgraduate and emerging researcher categories.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the CHS, Professor Busi Ncama said the gathering is a flagship event in the academic calendar, ‘offering a platform for our staff and students to showcase their current research projects in a competitive environment. It aligns with our Strategic Plan, Goal 3: Excellent Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship. At the core of our objectives is acceleration of interdisciplinary research.’
Ncama added: ‘We are committed to developing research leadership and capacity, ensuring that UKZN’s researchers produce high-quality studies that lead to significant new findings, enhancing both the field of study and the stature of our Institution. Our mandate extends beyond academic excellence; we strive to drive research agendas that positively impact the communities we serve, ensuring better care and outcomes for our people. This symposium is an opportunity to fulfil the University’s research mission, to showcase the exceptional talents within our research community, and to highlight the pre-eminence of the College’s research endeavours.’
‘Science is changing rapidly with technological advancements, and it is becoming more complex with the rampant burden of diseases. Globally, scientists recognise the importance of working together in diverse teams of excellence and expertise to find solutions to the ever-changing healthcare landscape,’ commented CHS Dean of Research, Professor Anil Chuturgoon.
‘Revolutionary advances in the study of genetics, epigenetics and other markers of health and disease are now making it possible to identify, study and create more personalised approaches to health care which will lead to improvements in both the effectiveness and safety of therapies. It is important to recognise and embrace these changes in our research endeavours in order to make healthcare accessible to all,’ he added.
The keynote address on new vaccines to prevent TB was delivered by world-renowned clinical scientist and Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) Executive Director, Professor Willem Hanekom, who said that while South Africa is at the forefront of TB research, funding for the development of a vaccine is woefully inadequate. Many stakeholders are involved in ensuring that a novel vaccine is delivered where is needed, with sustainable supply a crucial issue.
In partnership with the non-profit organisation, Deutsche Knochenmarkspenderdatei (DKMS), the two-day symposium also presented an opportunity for the UKZN community to support patients such the Institution’s beloved Professor Andrew Ross, diagnosed with a blood cancer or blood disorder, by taking an oral swab test towards potentially becoming a stem cell donor. Ross speaks about his condition in this clip.
Chuturgoon thanked the event organisers and Rodon Global, Obsidian Health, the CHS and the University’s Research Office for sponsoring the event. The winners were as follows:
Ms Kareshma Asharam scooped first prize (R30 000) in the Staff Emerging Researcher Category for her oral presentation and Dr Devani Mohanlal received R10 000. Dr Neil Moran won R20 000 for his poster presentation while Mr Aubrey Sosibo won R10 000 for his.
The winner of the first prize (R30 000) in the Postdoctoral Category for her oral presentation was Dr Xylia Peters; Dr Mohanad Mohamed won the second prize (R10 000) for his; Dr Tashlen Abel won first prize (R20 000) for his poster presentation and Dr Rayishnee Pillay received second prize (R10 000) for hers.
The first prize in the PhD Category (R30 000) went to Ms Chanel Heeralall for her oral presentation and the second prize to Mr Khanyiso Shangase (R10 000). Dr Vincent Nyandoro received the first prize (R20 000) for his poster presentation and Ms Nqobile Ndimande won second prize (R10 000) for hers.
The winners in the Master’s category were Ms Serena Maistry (R30 000: first prize oral presentation); Mr Sandiswa Malinga (R10 000: second prize oral presentation); Ms Kiara Singh (R20 000 first prize poster presentation) and Ms Kholeka Vezi (R10 000: second prize poster presentation).
Words: Lunga Memela