Kamogelo Mmereke to showcase cancer research at UN International Project Programme

In an inspiring achievement for South African academia, Kamogelo Mmereke, a PhD student at the Unisa College of Science, Engineering and Technology (CSET), has been selected to participate in the prestigious United Nations International Project Programme in Geneva, Switzerland, from April 11 to 17. The programme offers a transformative opportunity for young leaders and students to blend theoretical knowledge with practical experience in the realm of international diplomacy and innovation.

Dr Nozipho N Madzivha, Communication and Marketing Specialist (acting), College of Science, Engineering and Technology, said Mmereke’s selection comes as no surprise, given her groundbreaking research into the cancer-healing properties of herbal compounds. Her work, which employs advanced spectrometry techniques available at Unisa’s state-of-the-art Science Campus laboratories, focuses on discovering active herbal compounds that could play a crucial role in cancer therapy. By determining the biological activities of these compounds, Mmereke seeks to unveil their mechanisms of action, further enhanced through her integration of bioinformatics and machine learning in her research.

During her time in Geneva, Mmereke will collaborate on a live project aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Participants in the programme will engage with leading international organisations, including the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), gaining insights into the intricacies of global policy and trade. The experience aims to broaden their understanding of international systems and equip them with skills that are critical for future leaders, said Madzivha.

The Ureka Education Group, a partner of the UN Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), highlighted the significance of Mmereke's impending participation. “This programme will not only allow her to work on a UN-affiliated project but will also enable her to network with senior experts and fellow young leaders,” said Sarfraz Hasan, President and CEO of Ureka Education Group. “We warmly congratulate you on this achievement and look forward to welcoming you to Geneva for this transformational programme.”

In reflecting on her selection, Mmereke expressed her vision: “As a researcher and aspiring innovator, this opportunity offers me the training that I need to translate my scientific expertise for global impact. My research will not end in research journal publications; with the skills I will acquire through this programme, I can showcase its relevance so that policymakers can understand its potential to drive implementation on a global scale.”

The selection of Mmereke and her fellow students for such high-profile international initiatives is a testament to Unisa's capability to produce graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also prepared to impact the world stage meaningfully.

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