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University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) PhD student, Ms Bongeka Mshengu, has earned recognition for her research in human physiology in the Physiology Society of Southern Africa (PSSA) Wyndham competition.
Mshengu was runner-up in the Best PhD presenter category and finished third in the oral presentations section.
Her research investigated how maternal diet-induced pre-gestational prediabetes may influence glucose metabolism in offspring later in life. Her study examined the expression of insulin receptor genes in the liver and skeletal muscle, seeking to understand how exposure to elevated maternal blood glucose levels during pregnancy may programme the development of chronic metabolic diseases in adulthood.
The research highlighted the importance of preconception screening and monitoring for prediabetes, contributing to broader efforts to understand how maternal metabolic health may influence the long-term health of the next generation.
The PSSA Wyndham competition provides researchers with an opportunity to showcase their work, communicate scientific findings and engage with fellow researchers in the field of physiology.
Mshengu said she was honoured and grateful her research was recognised, describing the awards as affirmation of the hard work, dedication and perseverance invested in her academic journey.
The recognition, she added, had strengthened her confidence and motivation to continue developing as a researcher, while reminding her that scientific research is a journey of continuous learning, resilience and discovery.
She acknowledged the guidance and support of her supervisor Dr Sethu Ngubane and the Endocrine Research Family, whose contributions have played an important role in her research journey.
Ngubane said: “As Bongeka’s supervisor, I am immensely proud of her achievements. It is truly rewarding to witness her growing confidence, recognising her abilities and increasingly owning her space as a young scientist. These awards are a testament to her dedication, potential and the value of her research. Bongeka is coming into her own and I hope she continues to believe in herself, embrace opportunities and never underestimates the impact she can make. This is only the beginning and I look forward to seeing her continue to grow, excel and make her mark in science.”
Her achievement highlighted the contribution of emerging UKZN researchers to scientific inquiry aimed at advancing knowledge and informing approaches to long-term health.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Supplied