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Homegrown excellence: Dr Nthatisi Nyembe shines in Parasitology Research

28 August 2025 | Story Godfrey Mabasa | Photo Kaleidoscope Studios

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

TEDxUFS conference - the highlight of the university’s innovative calendar

2015-08-11

Mmusi Maimane, leader of the Democratic Alliance with co-organisers of TEDxUFS Bonginkosi Leeuw and Lerothodi Molete after his inspirational talk at the event.
Photo: Curtis Nhlamulo Mashimbye

This year’s TEDxUFS speaker lineup persuaded the audience unanimously to question the nature of reality. The Albert Wessels Auditorium on the Bloemfontein Campus was packed with about 200 attendees on Saturday 1 August 2015.

Speakers shared a multiplicity of profound theories and inquisitions, challenging society in general to think out of the box. Melody Mentz, Gil Oved, Ricardo Peach, Pamela Nomvete, Pepe Marais, Mmusi Maimane, Brian Kally, Pieter Geldenhuys, Philippa Tumubweinee, Gareth Cliff, and Angelo Mockie took on to the stage to tackle multidisciplinary concepts as part of the broad ‘Ask Why’ theme.

Innovation mouthpieces share their worldview

Pieter Geldenhuys, the internationally-renowned futurist and Director of the Institute for Technology Strategy, and Innovation proposed that we change our mindsets by neglecting predictability. “We need to look at different models to understand the world around us,” he said. He challenged the linear and familiar ways humans make sense of the universe.

Speaking to the dire need for transformation, Philippa Tumubweinee suggested that university spaces merge with the communities they serve in terms of policies, social atmosphere, and physical structure. Tumubweinee is a senior Lecturer at the Department of Architecture at our university, and co-Founder and Director of Izuba In Africa architects.

“Only we can give permission to be intimidated; so don’t give in,” said Brian Kally, the CEO of Arrow Logistics (Pty) Ltd. Kally underscored the power of believing in our individual ideas.

Guidelines from TEDxUFS organisers

Bonginkosi Leeuw: “If you take your brainchild and implement it, and make it a reality, that’s when you can achieve great things, not before that.”

Lerothodi Molete: “You should ask questions; the moment you ask the question you will understand more.”

Real-time social media feedback

These are some of the comments audience members published on Twitter at the event:

IG: mispertanzy ?@MiesperTanzy Aug 1

A huge shout-out to @TEDxUFS for hosting such a great conference!The team has really made the event an unmissable one on the UFS calendar.

Celebrabitur? ?@HatsuMphatsoe Aug 1

Proximity that allows us to experience our broader society. Truly engaged by Philippa Tumbweinee's talk! @TEDxUFS

TEDxJohannesburg ?@TEDxJoburg Aug 1

A big shoutout to @TEDxUFS from for a fantastic event. Wish we were there.

RicardoPeach ?@ricardopeach Aug 1

Africa is rich with potential #TEDXUFS @MmusiMaimane Yes!

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