Name: Mpolokeng Mokoena 

Level of study: Honours in Zoology and Entomology

Research title: Assessing potential contamination by Cryptosporidium and Giardia in unmonitored water bodies around Qwaqwa.

The use of unmonitored water sources in rural communities due to unstable water supplies raises concerns about the safety and well-being of local communities. This issue is particularly significant given the potential presence of parasites such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia in these water sources. The study aims to analyse the water quality of unmonitored water sources around Qwaqwa. The outcome of the study will determine the safety of the water and its impact on the well-being of Qwaqwa’s residents. 

Name: Zandile Dlalisa 

Level of study: Master’s in Zoology

Research title: Genetic diversity and social impacts of commensal pest rodents in the Eastern Free State province, South Africa
 
This research aims to develop and implement ecologically based rodent management (EBRM) strategies to sustainably reduce rodent populations while minimising risks to human health and the environment. The approach includes using Sherman traps and multi-capture wire traps to capture rodents. The project seeks to maintain rodent numbers at manageable levels, alleviate issues they cause for people, and decrease the use of chemical rodenticides. Additionally, the project will involve community actions based on an understanding of rodent behaviour and habitats, such as changing the environment, trapping the rodents, and genetic considerations.

Name: Lefa Morake

Level of study: Doctorate (PhD in Geography)

Research title: Combining SWAT (soil and water assessment tool) hydrological modelling with UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) technology for optimal placement of control measures in large gully networks

There are major challenges to rehabilitating large, active gully networks that occur within dispersive soils. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the optimal placement of erosion control measures under both current and future climate conditions. To achieve this, the study will combine SWAT hydrological modelling with UAV technology for sequential aerial surveys of selected large, active gully networks in the Tsitsa River catchment of the Eastern Cape province, and a gully network in the south-eastern Free State.