Page 125 - SAMRC Annual Report 2024-2025

PERFORMANCE INFORMATION

does not receive direct funding from the National
Institutes of Health (NIH) or other US sources.
However, the impact on the SAMRC, which has
several US-funded initiatives, led to the pausing
of major research projects, which could potentially
affect other units and future collaborative
opportunities. BRIP continues to monitor the
impact of the US funding cuts on research in South
Africa and to assess any indirect effects on its
research environment.

Research Translation
Through Arts and Science
BRIP actively engaged with the broader community
to communicate its research and raise awareness
of biomedical science through interactive and
innovative methods. One notable event was the
participation of Drs Nonhlakanipho Sangweni and
Elliasu Salifu in National Science Week (NSW) at the
Central University of Technology in Bloemfontein
on 28 September 2024. The objective was to foster
science engagement among school learners and
visitors through interactive demonstrations. To
illustrate the airborne transmission of viruses, the
team used a colour-based experiment where ethanol
(representing contaminated droplets) and water
(representing uninfected droplets) were sprayed
onto filter paper. When exposed to Bradford reagent,
a visible colour change revealed the presence of
protein, effectively illustrating virus transmission
in real-time. This hands-on approach not only
simplified a complex concept but also provided a
visually engaging experience for attendees.

In addition, BRIP participated in the Job Shadow,
Gen S and STEM programme, providing a three-day
hands-on science experience for school learners.
The sessions included a practical DNA extraction
activity using household items, allowing participants
to see genetic material, thereby making abstract
molecular biology concepts more tangible.
On 28 September 2024, Dr Sylvia Riedel led a health
promotion initiative at Rondebosch Common, a
popular area for runners. This initiative focused
on raising awareness about gut health through an
interactive and conversational approach. About
15-20 people engaged in discussions about gut
microbiome health, diet, and well-being. This
informal setting allowed for direct knowledge
exchange and making scientific concepts more StemMentHer Outreach Programme.
relatable to the public.

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