Bridging Classrooms and Cutting-Edge Science: UFS-NGS Outreach Engages Learners Across the Free State in Genomics Exploration
The University of the Free State’s Next Generation Sequencing (UFS-NGS) Unit hosted a three-day outreach program titled“Frontiers of Discovery: Illuminating the Impact of Genomics in Science”. Targeted at Grade 11 learners and educators, the initiative engaged selected students from nine schools across the Free State. Day one featured learners from Brebner, Ikaelelo, and Vulamasango Secondary Schools, followed by Atlehang, Castle Bridge School, and Kaelang Secondary Schools on day two, and concluded with participants from Eunice, Navalsig, and Lekhulong Secondary Schools on day three. The program provided a unique, hands-on opportunity to explore the field of genomics. Designed to spark curiosity and foster a lasting interest in science, it featured expert-led discussions, interactive sessions, and laboratory activities—bridging the gap between classroom theory and cutting-edge scientific research.
From Theory to Practice: Learners Explore Real-World Genomics Through Hands-On Lab Experiences and Expert Insights
Curious minds at work! Students dive into hands-on genomics activities, learning how DNA is extracted.
The event began with a registration and welcome session at the UFS campus, where participants received materials and met facilitators. Learners attended a series of presentations by specialists from the UFS Faculty of Health Sciences, which highlighted the impact of genomics in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. A guided tour of the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) Virology Laboratory offered learners a close-up look at the routine diagnostic and research work carried out in the lab—providing invaluable insight into real-world applications of virology and molecular science. The program’s highlight was the immersive, hands-on experience at the UFS-NGS Unit, where learners engaged in the full genomic workflow, including DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, library preparation, and next-generation sequencing.
Leadership and Coordination by Prof. Martin Nyaga
The program was hosted and facilitated by Prof. Martin Nyaga, who played a central role in leading the sessions, motivating learners, and setting the tone for each day. As the heart of the outreach, Prof. Martin’s energy and vision shaped the overall experience by blending academic rigor with accessibility and encouragement. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between research institutions and communities.
Beyond his visible role, Prof. Martin also played a critical part behind the scenes by coordinating the efforts of three sub-committees that were instrumental to the smooth execution of the program. The Planning sub-committee, led by Dr. Milton Mogotsi and Dr. Emmanuel Ogunbayo, was responsible for designing the program structure, developing content for the sequencing pathway, and curating a meaningful lineup of guest speakers. The logistics sub-committee, made up of Ms. Hlengiwe Sondlane, Ms. Mamello Maku, Ms. Somila Nazo, Ms. Nkosazana Shange, and Ms. Suprise Baloyi, ensured the seamless flow of each day from organising transport, venues, catering to preparing disposable coats for learners and educators. Lastly, the marketing sub-committee, led by Ms. Sesiyanda Maseko, Ms. Thabisa Mpaxa, Ms. Mbali Ncube, Ms. Eyong Manyi Marcelle, and Ms. Angela Mbele, handled promotional content, visual materials, and communication, helping to highlight the impact of the event on social media and through internal outreach. Together, under Prof. Martin’s coordination, these teams brought the outreach vision to life with excellence.
Guest Speakers Who Made a Lasting Impact
Across the three-day outreach program, learners were inspired and encouraged by a powerful lineup of guest speakers and engaging activities that brought both education and motivation into focus. These sessions enriched the experience by offering a mix of real-life career journeys, institutional guidance, and hands-on interaction, all tailored to help learners envision a future in science.
Each day began with an informative session by Ms. Angelique Carson-Carter, who delivered an institutional programme overview of the Health Sciences Faculty at the University of the Free State. Her talk outlined the variety of career paths available within the faculty, helping learners understand not only what options exist, but also how to access them through the university. On Day 2, Dr. Claudia Ntsapi gave an inspiring talk that traced her journey from modest beginnings to earning a PhD in Neurophysiological Sciences. Her story was a testament to the power of perseverance, reminding learners that setbacks do not define one’s future. She also delivered a compelling and accessible overview of genomics, sparking curiosity by explaining how this field is transforming modern science. Also on Day 2, Prof. Chris Viljoen delivered a profoundly engaging presentation that highlighted how science and education can improve life expectancy and health outcomes globally. His talk helped students connect what they learn in school to real-world improvements in public health and societal well-being.
On Day 3, learners heard from Prof. Zinhle Makatini, who shared her remarkable professional journey which including studying abroad and navigating challenges to succeed in science. Her authenticity and passion resonated especially with learners from underrepresented backgrounds, leaving them empowered to pursue careers in biomedical research and beyond, regardless of their starting point. Joining her was Dr. Mhlekazi Molatoli from DIPLOMICS, who introduced learners to the organization’s mission and highlighted the importance of omics technologies in addressing national healthcare and scientific challenges. Her talk emphasized how platforms like DIPLOMICS are building local capacity and supporting innovation in South African science.
One of the program’s highlights was the opportunity for learners to hear from facilitators, Dr. Milton Mogotsi, Ms. Nkosazana Shange, Ms. Thabisa Mpaxa, Ms. Manyi Eyong, and Dr. Emmanuel Ogunbayo, who shared their personal career journeys. These heartfelt stories touched on the reality of setbacks, the importance of resilience, and the idea that failure is not the end — but rather a stepping stone to greater growth. These messages resonated deeply with learners, many of whom expressed a renewed sense of purpose and possibility.
Fun Meets Learning: The Quiz Challenge
Day 1 quiz winners from Brebner (left) a Ikaelelo (right) Secondary Schools
To wrap up each day of the program, learners participated in a lively and interactive quiz session led by Dr. Emmanuel Ogunbayo and Ms. Angela Mbele.
This activity was more than just a test of knowledge, it was a chance for students to reflect, compete, and celebrate what they had learned in a fun, relaxed environment.
The quiz covered key concepts introduced during the day and reinforced learning in an enjoyable way while building confidence among the learners. To top it all off, the top two students each day were awarded special prizes sponsored by DIPLOMICS, creating moments of excitement and recognition that learners will not soon forget.
Eye-Opening Experiences for Facilitators, Learners and Educators
Throughout the three days of the outreach programme, the facilitators were inspired by the enthusiasm and curiosity displayed by the learners. Many facilitators were impressed by how quickly students adapted to the lab environment and how their questions evolved from basic understanding to thoughtful scientific inquiry.
For the learners, the programme was eye-opening. Beyond learning technical skills, it offered them a glimpse into a world they hadn’t previously considered. Oratile Mguni, a Grade 11 learner from Castle Bridge High School, shared, “I had only read about DNA and viruses in textbooks, but now I’ve seen the tools scientists use. It’s made me think differently about what I want to do after school.”
Educators also found immense value in participating. “I was so impressed by the Outreach, it wasn’t just informative, it was genuinely inspiring. It reignited my own passion for education and I’m now seriously considering going back to school to further my studies,” said Dikeledi Ntseno, an educator at Lekhulong Secondary School.
Bridging Gaps and Inspiring the Future of STEM
By introducing learners to genomics at this stage, the programme not only broadened their academic perspective but also offered them real-world context for how science contributes to solving global health challenges. Most importantly, this outreach highlighted the need for more programmes of this kind, especially in regions where schools are often under-resourced and access to advanced science education is limited. Providing learners from all backgrounds with meaningful, hands-on exposure to science helps to close the gap in opportunity and representation in STEM fields.
A Lasting Impact: The Power of Collaboration
The “Frontiers of Discovery” outreach was more than a three-day event, it was a spark. A spark that ignited curiosity, built confidence, and began bridging the distance between classroom learning and cutting-edge science.
Day three of the Grade 11 Outreach: Prof Nyaga, UFS-NGS facilitators, Diplomics representative (Dr Mhlekazi) and Educators and learners from participating schools (Eunice, Lekhulong S/S and Navalsig CS/S).
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the students and educators who participated, the dedicated UFS-NGS facilitators, and Prof. Martin Nyaga for hosting and facilitating the event. Special thanks go to DIPLOMICS SA, whose generous sponsorship and collaboration made the UFS-NGS Grade 11 Outreach Program possible. Their commitment to advancing genomics education and empowering young minds played a pivotal role in the success of this programme and will have a lasting impact on all who took part.
To see more pictures of the Grade 11 Outreach Program, visit our Photo gallery and relive the inspiring highlights from the event.
Written by: Somila Nazo, Mbali Faith Ncube, and Thabisa Mpaxa
