A Journey of Dedication and Passion Earns Graduate a PhD in Public Health
Dr Takalani Girly Nemungadi’s journey to earning a PhD in Public Health from UKZN is a journey of resilience, self-motivation, and a deep commitment to making a difference in the field of infectious diseases.
Born and raised in Limpopo Province, Nemungadi’s early years were spent in Ngovhela Village, where she attended primary school. She later moved to Ha-Mashau Village to pursue her secondary education, attending Kwara Secondary School for Grades 8 and 9, before completing her high school studies at Ramauba Secondary School. From a young age, she was inspired by those who had pursued similar career paths ahead of her, igniting a passion that she nurtured through sheer determination and dedication.
Nemungadi’s doctoral research focused on Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS), a neglected complication of Schistosomahaematobium infection. Her study investigated the association between FGS lesions and the presence of live worms and dead ova, as well as the impact of praziquantel treatment on these lesions. Conducted among female school learners in KwaZulu-Natal, her research also provided critical insights into the burden of schistosomiasis in South Africa and identified key public health policy options for its control, including identification of sentinel sites to enhance surveillance.
Her study revealed that grainy sandy patches and abnormal blood vessels were more common in learners infected with live Schistosoma haematobium worms. Additionally, homogenous yellow patches were found to possibly indicate chronic tissue damage caused by dead ova. Despite administering mass treatment with praziquantel, the research found that a single round of treatment had minimal effects on FGS lesions, except for abnormal blood vessels.
The research further highlighted that factors such as HIV status, past and present water contact, and the presence of a father figure in the household influenced participation in treatment and follow-up gynaecological investigations. Moreover, her findings reflected the urgent need for South Africa to implement targeted public health strategies, including the establishment of a formal schistosomiasis control programme, improved healthcare worker training, and enhanced water sanitation efforts.
Currently serving as an Infectious Hazards Management Officer at the World Health Organization (WHO), Nemungadi is at the forefront of global efforts to mitigate infectious disease threats. Her work aligns with her passion for improving health outcomes and implementing effective public health interventions.
Her academic journey does not end here – Nemungadi plans to do a postdoctoral degree, further expanding her expertise and contributions to public health research. As she continues to grow professionally, she remains dedicated to the vision of eradicating neglected tropical diseases and improving health policies in Africa and beyond.
Outside of her professional commitments, Nemungadi finds solace and purpose in her faith. Her life revolves around work and church where she participates in church services with great passion.
Her PhD journey was guided by her supervisor Professor Eyrun F Kjetland; and co-supervisors Professor Saloshni Naidoo and Professor Myra Taylor.
Words: Maryann Francis
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
