Wits Health Sciences

Faces Behind The Impact.

Dr. Kubendran Naidoo’s research bridges malaria science, hereditary blood disorders, and molecular biology to advance global health. As tech transfer lead for the C1 recombinant protein platform, he is driving the development of safe, affordable vaccines for COVID‑19 and beyond, ensuring accessibility for low‑ and middle‑income countries.

Faces Behind The Impact

Associate Professor Abdullah Ely is advancing antiviral gene therapy and hepatitis B research across sub‑Saharan Africa. His work spans RNA interference, gene editing technologies like TALE and CRISPR/Cas9, and mRNA vaccine innovations. As a leader at AGTRU and contributor to the WHO’s mRNA Technology Transfer Hub, he is translating cutting‑edge science into clinical solutions that strengthen global health.

Faces Behind The Impact

Dr. Ane Orchard is a Pharmacist and Manager of eFundanathi, focusing on health professions education and digital learning innovation. Her work aims to enhance inclusive, technology-driven learning and improve the preparation of future healthcare professionals. Through research in cardiovascular health, invisible disabilities, and educational scholarship, she seeks to advance health outcomes and equity. Her studies on invisible disabilities, such as fibromyalgia, promote awareness and inclusion, while she also engages in initiatives for health screening, wellness, and student development.

Wits Parents Day at the Faculty of Health provided prospective students and their parents with an opportunity to participate in an engaging Q&A session with the Dean of Health Sciences and the Heads of the various schools. This session allowed attendees to ask questions, gain valuable insights into the different programmes and career opportunities, and learn more about what to expect as part of the Wits Faculty of Health community.

Wits Parents Day at the Faculty of Health provided prospective students and their parents with an opportunity to experience what the faculty has to offer. Guests had the chance to engage with Wits staff, explore our facilities, take part in a guided tour, and gain a firsthand understanding of the learning, teaching, and student opportunities available within the Faculty of Health. It was a valuable opportunity for prospective students and their families to connect with the Wits community and get a feel for the experience that awaits them.

Congratulations to Professor Yahya Choonara on becoming the first pharmacist in South Africa to receive an NRF A-rating. An A-rating is the National Research Foundation's highest category of recognition, awarded to researchers recognised by the overwhelming majority of international reviewers as leading scholars in their fields. 💙🏛️

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Faces Behind The Impact.

Mphidiseng Zwane exemplifies operational excellence in higher education, driving HR, finance, and administration with precision and purpose. Her leadership ensures that strategic goals are achieved while fostering efficiency across the Faculty of Health Sciences. Beyond the office, her passion for health and wellness shines through endurance events like the Comrades Marathon.

Faces Behind The Impact.

Professor Charles Feldman’s pioneering research in pulmonary infections has advanced global understanding of community‑acquired pneumonia, particularly pneumococcal pneumonia. His current work explores how these infections contribute to cardiovascular complications, aiming to reduce both immediate and long‑term risks for patients.