?Two exceptional doctoral students from Stellenbosch 肆客足球 (SU), Pamela Ncube and Welile Nwamba, have been named recipients of the 2024 L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Young Talents Sub-Saharan Africa Awards.
This prestigious accolade, which celebrates the achievements of African women scientists, recognises their groundbreaking research in addressing critical health challenges on the continent.
The awards, held annually by the Foundation L'Oréal and UNESCO, highlight the vital contributions of African women to scientific innovation. This year's 30 winners, chosen from nearly 800 applicants, include 25 PhD candidates and five post-doctoral researchers from 15 African countries. These women are advancing solutions to issues such as food security, public health and climate resilience.
This year's ceremony in Cotonou, Benin also marked the programme's 15th anniversary, celebrating its impact in empowering over 240 researchers across the region since inception.
Improving TB detection in wildlife
Ncube, a doctoral student in biological sciences at SU's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, has been recognised for her pioneering research on animal tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium bovis. Her study, the first of its kind, focuses on the effects of this lesser-known pathogen on wildlife, including species such as lions, warthogs and buffalos. By understanding how Mycobacterium bovis reacts in different environmental conditions, Ncube aims to develop novel diagnostic tools to enhance animal welfare, reduce unnecessary culling and support conservation efforts across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Ncube's passion for biomedical sciences was ignited during her undergraduate studies, when she developed an interest in the phenotypic nature of microorganisms. Her work, she explains, is not only about improving diagnostics, but also about minimising the financial and ecological consequences of tuberculosis outbreaks in wildlife. She is motivated to inspire young women and children from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue their scientific dreams.
Ncube described the L'Oréal-UNESCO recognition as a testament to years of hard work, academic dedication, research, leadership and community engagement. She credited her success to the supportive academic environment and mentors who have consistently helped her reach her goals.
“As a woman in science, I have faced challenges such as self-doubt and limited funding," says Ncube. “This award serves as positive inspiration to young girls and women who may often feel discouraged to pursue their dreams due to challenging circumstances."
Innovating diagnostics for extra-pulmonary TB
Nwamba, a doctoral student in medical engineering at SU's Clinical Mycobacteriology and Epidemiology Group, is tackling extra-pulmonary TB, a condition that affects up to 30% of TB patients in Sub-Saharan Africa. This form of TB is often misdiagnosed due to its varied symptoms and limited diagnostic resources in rural areas.
Nwamba's research centres on developing a cost-effective, rapid urine test that simplifies the detection process, providing an accessible alternative to complex molecular diagnostics and imaging technologies.
“My innovative approach aims to accelerate TB diagnosis, particularly in low-resource settings, ultimately improving patients' quality of life," she explains. “Science is about offering diverse perspectives, breaking barriers and motivating future generations."
She is delighted and honoured to be recognised with the 2024 L'Oréal-UNESCO Award. “It is a wonderful accomplishment that marks a milestone in my career. It's a profound confirmation of my hard work and dedication that validates my resilience, perseverance and passion for science."?
Inspired by her lecturers during her first year at university, Nwamba envisions leading a research team dedicated to clinical advancements in tuberculosis. Her work highlights the transformative power of science to address pressing public health challenges while fostering inclusivity and diversity in research.
The broader impact
The achievements of these two researchers reflect the growing recognition of women's critical role in science. According to UNESCO, women represent 31,5% of researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa. The L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science programme not only provides financial support, but also equips award recipients with leadership, communication and negotiation skills to overcome systemic barriers and drive innovation.
“By investing in science and championing innovation, African societies can empower the next generation to tackle pressing environmental and health challenges," said Lidia Brito, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences.
As part of a global initiative that has supported over 4 400 women researchers since 1998, the awards amplify the voices of women like Ncube and Nwamba who are paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
