Youngest PhD Graduate at UFH, Lindelwa Mpaka from NU 1 Mdantsane, breaks new ground in Microbiology

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In a remarkable achievement, 28-year-old Ms Lindelwa Mpaka, now Dr Mpaka, from NU 1 Mdantsane has been recognised as the youngest PhD graduate at the University of Fort Hare (UFH)2024 Spring Graduation.

Her groundbreaking research in microbiology has set new standards in environmental sustainability and waste management.

Dr Mpaka embarked on her academic journey at UFH in 2013, beginning her studies at just 16 years old. Completing her bachelor’s degree in chemistry and microbiology in record time, she continued to excel academically, earning cum laude in both her Honours and Master’s degrees.

She began her PhD journey in 2019. Her research, titled "Genome mining and secretome delineation in keratinolytic bacteria that valorised chicken feathers into valuable compounds,” addresses the challenge of keratinous waste, such as chicken feathers, which are typically difficult to degrade.

By enhancing the production of keratinolytic enzymes, her work sought to transform this waste into valuable peptides with applications in biotechnology, green technology, and the bio-economy.

"Chicken is the most affordable protein source, but we rarely consider what happens to the feathers of the millions of chickens slaughtered daily," she explains. Her research aimed to convert these feathers, which are primarily composed of keratin—a protein with significant industrial potential—into valuable products.

Through innovative genetic engineering techniques, Lindelwa successfully cloned and expressed four key keratinolytic enzyme determinants, significantly enhancing the degradation process of chicken feathers.

Her research showed that while wild strains take 72-96 hours to biodegrade feathers, her engineered bacteria can achieve complete biodegradation in just 24 hours. This breakthrough has implications for various industries, including biotechnology, cosmetics, and bio-fertilizers, offering eco-friendly alternatives to current waste management practices.

"The current methods of managing chicken feather waste often involve chemicals and energy-intensive processes, which contribute to environmental pollution," she stated. "My research provides an insightful, eco-friendly approach that not only addresses waste management but also promotes a zero-waste environment."

Four manuscripts from her research are under review in a DHET-accredited journal, solidifying her status as a promising researcher in microbiology and environmental sustainability.

Reflecting on her academic journey, Dr Mpaka noted the challenges and rewards of pursuing a PhD. "It was one of the toughest yet most exciting journeys. I learned so much beyond microbiology, including networking and interdisciplinary skills that will serve me well in my career," she shared.

Dr Mpaka says her success demonstrates the supportive environment at UFH where she felt at home since her first day. "Fort Hare has always been my safe space. The community and staff have been incredibly supportive throughout my journey, I can never go without a day without acknowledging UFH for stretching its hand and allowing me to fly and shine bright. I am grateful to the Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology staff members, she said, expressing her “deep” gratitude to her supervisor, Prof U Nwodo, and co-supervisor, Dr NE Nnolim.

As she looks forward, Dr Mpaka is eager to publish her findings and mentor the next generation of scientists. "I want to share my experience with UFH post-graduates and continue contributing to research here," she emphasized.

Growing up in a modest home with a single mother, her journey is one of resilience and determination. "I recall when I depended on my social grant to survive on campus, and my supportive mother always encouraged me to pursue my passion for education. This journey has been about dedication, perseverance, and excellence, and I am grateful to everyone who supported me along the way."

As she stands proudly as a pioneering researcher, Dr Mpaka’s work paves the way for future studies in environmental sustainability and also inspires many young scholars to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles.

UFH celebrates Dr Mpaka’s exceptional contributions and looks forward to the bright future that lies ahead for this remarkable graduate.