Lize-Mari Loots, a first-year BSc dietetics student at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Potchefstroom Campus, recently earned recognition as one of the top students in the prestigious National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) Brilliants Programme.

The NSTF Brilliants Programme recognises at least 18 first-year students studying science, medicine, and engineering. A young man and woman are chosen from each of the nine provinces. These students must have received top mathematics and physical science marks in the previous year's National Senior Certificate Examinations (Grade 12). They are identified by the National Department of Basic Education and selected by the NSTF.

Students selected for the Brilliants Programme will be acknowledged at the NSTF-South32 Awards gala event that will take place on 13 July 2023. They will also be taken on a three-day educational tour which includes palaeontology, astronomy and nature conservation and biodiversity sites.

The NSTF-South32 Awards honour the country’s top professional scientists for their research and other work over many years and are also known as the “Science Oscars of South Africa”.

“I am very proud for receiving this recognition as I know how much hard work it took to do so well academically. I am also grateful to the NSTF for giving recognition to all the students who deserve it,” says Lize-Mari.

Pursuing her passion for nutrition and healthcare, she has demonstrated exceptional dedication, diligence, and talent in her chosen field. This achievement exemplifies not only her exceptional academic achievements, but also her dedication to positively impacting the lives of others through her studies and future career.

Lize-Mari, who was the overall top academic achiever in the Northern Cape for the matriculants of 2022, says the programme motivated her to stay focused on her studies and to keep on working hard. It will also pay one full year of her tuition fees.  

“My plan is to finish my studies successfully. Studying this course allows me to dive deeper and learn more about science every day. I will save people from developing silent killers like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and many other nutrition-related health problems, as I see myself as a registered dietitian in our country with my own private practice,” she adds.  

 Lize-Mari Loots