Originating from the University of Queensland in 2008, the 3MT challenges participants to explain their complex research in just three minutes, using one static slide, to a non-specialist audience.
From left, Sibusiso Notwala, Masivuye Mahleba, Thapelo Matlala, Bridget Ferreira and Perpetua Nyahuye
PhD category
Education student Makhosi Madimabe-Mofokeng won the PhD category for her research on indigenising secondary school mathematics through a culturally grounded, technology-enabled ethno-STEM approach. “I’m deeply grateful to share my work on such a prestigious platform,” she said.
Sendibitiyosi Gandidzanwa, a Chemistry student, was the runner-up, while Masivuye Mahleba, also in Chemistry, won the People’s Choice Award for developing plastic-like materials that extract palladium from acidic solutions.
Master’s category
Joint winners Perpetua Nyahuye and Bridget Ferreira, both Microbiology students, were recognised for their research on mould-gene interactions. “The competition highlighted the innovative work driving positive change in our society,” Perpetua remarked.
Sibusiso Notwala, a Nanoscience student, focusing on neuroinflammation, was the runner-up. The People’s Choice Award went to Thapelo Matlala, a Master’s student in Applied Strategic Communication, for her work on regulating indigenous skincare products in Limpopo.
Both the PhD winner and runner-up will represent Nelson Mandela University at the national 3MT finals at the University of the Free State later this year.
The Mandela 3MT Team, Drs Priscilla Mensah and Nehemiah Latolla, and Shawn Tini and Lisakhanya Mhletywa, emphasised the event’s role in promoting research excellence and public engagement. By training students to effectively communicate their work, the University reinforces its commitment to socially relevant and impactful research.
The 2025 competition not only celebrated individual achievements but also highlighted the innovation and global relevance of the University’s research community.