On 26 June 2025, Iimbovane had the pleasure of hosting the Grade 11 Life Science learners from Curro Durbanville High School at Stellenbosch University for a campus visit filled with discovery, inspiration, and a glimpse into the world of tertiary education. The day was co-presented by the School for Climate Studies and the Department of Physiological Sciences.

The day started at the Mike de Vries building where Dr Joseph and colleagues, including the Head of Undergraduate Affairs Dr Theo Nelly, gave an overview of the BSc Human Biology programme offered by the Department of Physiological Sciences, and explaining how various systems in the human body function.

The Physiological Sciences team provided examples of real-world applications of human biology studies and the exciting career paths available in health sciences. Learners were also guided on a physiology laboratory tour as well as a computer-based undergraduate facility equipped with specialised equipment that is used to measure students’ and athletes’ heart rates under both normal and stressed conditions.

Later that day,  Stellenbosch University’s Student Recruitment Advisor, Cecile Sono, hosted a detailed session on: SU’s selection criteria, the range of courses offered, student and campus life, and the importance of attending the Open Days. The session equipped them with knowledge and motivation to start preparing early for their tertiary education journey.

Lastly, and certainly the highlight of their visit, the group ended with an introduction to the field of ecology and taxonomy. In this session, the learners used microscopes and identification keys to examine various ant specimens up close. This activity showed the learners how important biodiversity research is, even of the smallest ant, in helping ecologists understand how the environment is changing over time and what causes these changes.