A legacy of discovery: Rhodes University Department of Zoology and Entomology celebrates 120 years

By Siqhamo Jama

One hundred and twenty years is a truly monumental milestone for any academic institution. For the Department of Zoology and Entomology at Rhodes University, this anniversary represents over a century of scientific discovery, rigorous research, and profound transformation.

A recent programme honoured this legacy, bringing together academics, alumni, and current students. The University community gathered to celebrate the department's origins and acknowledge its impact on scientific research. It was a moment to reflect on the strides made in understanding the natural world and the role the university plays in shaping leaders in conservation.

From humble beginnings to global impact

The Department has changed beyond recognition since its inception. What started with just one academic staff member now operates on a great scale. Hundreds of students pass through its doors annually to explore the complexities of animal life. Head of Department, Professor Ben Smit captured the pride of the Department by highlighting the outcome of this training.

"Every year, approximately 40 of you cross the stage with a degree in either zoology or entomology through our department," he said to the gathered crowd. "We are very proud of that."

The recent commemorations allowed staff and alumni to reflect on this history. Emeritus Professor Adrian Craig presented an overview of the faculty, reminding the audience of the centenary celebrations two decades prior, where he and Emeritus Professor Alan Hodgson presented a book chronicling the department. The gathering also provided an opportunity to formally recognise the people who keep the department running behind the scenes. A trophy honoured a retiring staff member, Mr Pendrick Bonile Kotelo, underscoring the University's appreciation for its support personnel, whose hard work underpins the academic environment that Rhodes University is known for today.

A springboard for scientific leadership

Studying zoology and entomology offers much more than just field knowledge. The discipline acts as a springboard for professional development. Deputy Vice Chancellor: Research, Innovation & Strategic Partnerships, Dr Nomakwezi Mzilikazi delivered a seminar on a career in zoology as a “springboard” for leaders during the celebrations, with reference to her own academic journey. She shared her 30-year journey in academia. Her path began as a student encountering a microscope for the first time. Through dedication and the generosity of her mentors, she eventually became the National Women in Science award winner for a PhD candidate.

Dr Mzilikazi stressed the importance of publishing research early in an academic career to establish a scientific voice.

"I cannot explain the feeling of seeing your paper and your name in print for the first time," she recalled enthusiastically. "I would like to encourage every master's student in the room today to write that first paper. There is nothing like it."

She further explained how her foundational training helps her leverage relationships and use an ecosystem approach to support the university today. The faculty pairs scientific training with mentorship. This combination naturally equips graduates to step into influential roles across the nation.

Turning curiosity into societal impact

The anniversary was clearly not just about looking backwards. The Department of Zoology and Entomology remains a vibrant, forward-looking department. Dr Megan Riddin, an alumnus and lecturer, shared her path into medical entomology. Her connection with Rhodes University began when she was a 16-year-old participating in a science expo. From there, she progressed through undergraduate studies and focused her research on fish and mammals. However, a pivot led her to investigate African horse sickness and mosquito-borne viruses instead.

Dr Riddin outlined a philosophy for the students in attendance. She encouraged them to take their curiosity and change it into capability. As they progress, she advised, they must take that training and turn it into a trajectory. Finally, upon reaching an established career phase, they should take that knowledge and turn it into societal impact. Returning to her academic home to build a medical and veterinary entomology laboratory, her vision for the future is clear.

"We are hoping that there is very much more to come," she told the audience, outlining her ambition to position the university at the forefront of medical entomology research.

By fostering excellence and nurturing talent, Rhodes University ensures its legacy of discovery will thrive for generations to come.