Dr. Pam Mahlangu, a registrar at the University of Pretoria’s Department of Dermatology, received top honours at the National Annual Dermatology Congress held from 20 to 24 August 2025 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban. The award was presented to her on 24 August during the congress, themed “Lathitha: Diversity in Dermatology.”

The award recognises Dr. Mahlangu’s research titled “Pre and Post Excision Analysis of Inflammatory Markers and Immune Checkpoint Molecules in Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC).” Her study explores whether these immune checkpoint molecules and inflammatory markers remain elevated before and after surgical excision of BCC, the most common form of skin cancer in South Africa.

Following the announcement of her award, Dr Pam Mahlangu expressed her gratitude: “I’m truly humbled and honoured to receive the award. I’m grateful for and deeply appreciate the support of my HOD, Prof Kgokolo.”

According to Professor Mahlatse Kgokolo, Head of the Department of Dermatology at UP, this award is not only a personal triumph for Dr. Mahlangu but also a proud moment for the university.

“As mentors, the Dermatology team is excited by this achievement and proud to see UP continue to shine on the national stage,” Prof. Kgokolo said.

She explained that BCC poses a major health and financial burden in South Africa due to high rates of UV exposure and the ongoing need for treatment and follow-up care. Dr. Mahlangu’s findings may offer critical insights into the future use of immunotherapies for patients at high risk of recurrence or those with advanced or metastatic BCC.

“Immune checkpoint therapies have revolutionised immuno-oncology, and this work has the potential to inform promising treatment strategies in skin cancer,” Prof. Kgokolo added.

The significance of Dr. Mahlangu’s win extends beyond her own career. It highlights UP’s reputation for excellence in training, mentorship, and innovative research.

“The award affirms the high standards of training and mentorship offered at UP. We’ve consistently produced registrars who not only win national awards but go on to graduate cum laude and become leaders in their field,” Prof. Kgokolo noted.

In fact, five former registrars who won similar awards during training went on to graduate cum laude from both the College of Medicine (Fellowship of the College of Dermatologists) and UP’s Masters in Dermatology programme. Many have since become sought-after specialists, presenters, and leaders in national and international medical forums.

The Department of Dermatology plays an active role in nurturing young researchers through a structured research programme, coordinated by Prof. Kgokolo and UP consultants. Registrars are guided closely with the aim of producing either an MMed Dermatology project submission or an internationally published paper by their third year of training.

“It’s important to be intentional about conducting innovative, scholarly research. Registrars should constantly seek counsel and mentorship as they aim for national impact,” Prof. Kgokolo advised.

Looking ahead, UP Dermatology is pursuing several exciting initiatives, including three PhD projects in collaboration with the Department of Immunology. These projects, Prof. Kgokolo revealed, are expected to further strengthen the department’s footprint in dermatological research.

Prof. Kgokolo also reflected on her own career, highlighting the supportive environment UP offers. Her PhD research, conducted in collaboration with the University of Bordeaux in France, established him as an international expert on the rare genetic disorder Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP). Today, she serves on several prestigious editorial boards internationally and holds three fellowships, including the College of Dermatologists (SA), the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh (Scotland), and the Royal Society of Medicine (London). He is also serving a second term as President of the College of Dermatologists of South Africa.

This legacy of leadership and research excellence provides the foundation for young scholars like Dr. Mahlangu to thrive.

“This achievement is a clear sign that our department is doing something right. Dr. Mahlangu’s work will inspire future registrars and ensure UP remains at the forefront of dermatology research,” Prof. Kgokolo concluded.