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28 August 2025 | Story Godfrey Mabasa | Photo Kaleidoscope Studios
Dr Nthatisi Nyembe
Dr Nthatisi Nyembe, a faculty member in the Department of Zoology and Entomology at the University of the Free State Qwaqwa Campus, shines in Parasitology Research.

Dr Nthatisi Nyembe, a faculty member in the Department of Zoology and Entomology at the University of the Free State (UFS) Qwaqwa Campus, is making notable advancements in the field of parasitology. A native of Qwaqwa, Dr Nyembe embodies the potential for academic achievement within the community she serves, representing a commendable instance of homegrown talent.

A respected graduate of the UFS, Dr Nyembe completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Botany expeditiously before pursuing a Bachelor of Science Honours and Master of Science in Zoology, specialising in Parasitology, all on the UFS Qwaqwa Campus. Her postgraduate studies centred on evaluating medicinal plants for compounds with the potential to treat parasitic gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep – an area of significant importance for the sustained well-being of livestock.

Dr Nyembe broadened her academic horizons by earning a Doctor of Philosophy in Animal and Food Hygiene from the Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine in Hokkaido, Japan. Her doctoral studies widened her scientific understanding and enhanced her expertise in the treatment of parasitic ailments.

Currently, her research focuses on the evaluation of naturally derived substances, synthesised compounds, and nanoscale particles for their potential efficacy in combating parasitic illnesses. Her broader research interests include pharmacological evaluation, the diagnosis and epidemiology of diseases transmissible from animals to humans, cell biology, and animal management, making her contributions essential to both human and veterinary medicine.

Her academic and research background is extensive. She has held research assistant positions at both the Obihiro University and the UFS, and she also concluded a postdoctoral fellowship at the North-West University in the North West province of South Africa.

Beyond her scholarly pursuits, Dr Nyembe engages in activities such as skiing, travelling, reading, and community involvement, reflecting a well-developed character and a commitment to creating a positive impact beyond the academic sphere.

With her international academic experience and firm local connections, Dr Nyembe continues to be a symbol of distinction, inspiring students and contributing to pioneering research that addresses practical challenges.

News Archive

Sarah Shannon is ready to take on the world
2011-08-10

 

Sarah Shannon
Photo: Lize-Marie Smit

An intimate send-off party was recently held in Sarah Shannon’s honour by her support group. She is a student from our university and she is heading to present South Africa at the 2011 Pan Pacific Para-swimming Championships in Alberta, Canada from 10-14 August. Here she will be competing in the 50 m and 100 m free-style, and the 50 m and 100 m backstroke, respectively.

Sarah, a silver-medal winner at the Para-Olympic World Championships in Brazil 2009, has set high goals for herself. She has a Bachelors degree in Psychology, has completed her Postgraduate Certificate in Education modules, and she is a motivational speaker to boot. She is also scheduled to start her PGCE practical teaching at the Tswellang Special School in Bloemfontein at the beginning of September 2011. “I love helping people and making a difference, and I would like to work with children with special needs,” Sarah says.

Ms Arina Otto, Manager at our Sports Medicine Clinic says: “We believe in you, Sarah, but mostly we support you all the way.” Sarah is also supported by the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) and is currently on their OPEX (Operation Excellence) Programme. OPEX sponsored her by ensuring she gets all the medical and scientific support as an athlete.

Sarah swims two hours a day and exercises for an hour on a daily basis.

“We are hoping she does well in Canada so she can be selected for the 2012 Para-Olympic Games,” says Ms Tanya Martin, Assistant Coach: SuperSport Seals Swimming Club. 
 

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