Honorary Research Fellow Contributes to International Cybersecurity Working Group
Dr Trishana Ramluckan.Honorary Research Fellow in the School of Law Dr Trishana Ramluckan was recently one of only two researchers from the Global South who participated in an International Working Group event titled: Unpacking the Cyber Mercenaries.
Ramluckan was also recognised in a report published by the Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace titled Taming the Cyber Mercenary Market: A Multistakeholder Blueprint Towards Increased Transparency and Cyber Stability.
She is involved in several national and international projects as well as international governance forums including the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the UN Internet Government Governance Forum (IGF) to which she contributes to high-impact societal and stakeholders community engagement and internationalisation.
Ramluckan was a mentor for the 2023 International Telecommunication’s Women in Cyber Programme designed to empower Women in the field of Cybersecurity and Governance globally.
Cybersecurity is a growing field containing multi-disciplinary and inter-disciplinary facets with the Global South often under-represented, receiving low prioritisation in the area of international cybersecurity compared to other nations. It is therefore important for researchers from Africa to engage in these forums to build the resilience of African countries and to foster collaboration for the mutual benefit of all nations.
Previously she collaborated with two colleagues to contribute to the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights report on cyber mercenaries. The cyber mercenary phenomenon is different to that of physical mercenaries as the operations and services provided often fall short of armed conflict and can be conducted remotely. The primary example of cyber mercenary activity is the Pegasus surveillance malware, which was reported to have targeted President Cyril Ramaphosa in July 2021.
In addition, Ramluckan has participated in a scoping consultative meeting hosted by the South African National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI), in partnership with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), with the top cybersecurity researchers and industry experts in South Africa looking towards developing a national cybersecurity research strategy for South Africa.
Currently South Africa has a National Cybersecurity Policy Framework but does not have a national cybersecurity strategy. Establishing a research strategy is thus crucial in the development capacity and knowledge needed to foster a sustainable national posture towards cybersecurity.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Academic Addresses World Music Distinguished Scholar Series in the US
Dr Patricia Opondo (centre) with the School of Arts students.Dr Patricia Opondo, a senior lecturer in African Music and Dance and Director of the African Music Project (AMP) at the School of Arts, delivered a presentation at the World Music Distinguished Scholar Series held at the University of Southern California in the United States.
Opondo’s presentation was themed: Transformative Pedagogy in the South African Tertiary Education Contexts.
She shared an interesting background associated with her presentation, including her experience living in Pittsburgh for 11 years as a student, artist, performer, curator, and fundraiser for cultural programming, providing practical experience in presenting inclusive multi-ethnic events.
Opondo began by outlining the objectives of the AMP, stating that its primary focus was music education, research, performance, and community development, advocating for African music to occupy a central space in institutions and fostering strong relations with communities.
She focused on transformative pedagogy, indigenous epistemologies, and the importance of cultural identity and inclusivity in the learning environment, advocating for a critical examination of contexts, beliefs, values, and attitudes.
Her talk also focused on the teaching and learning strategies employed in the African Music and Dance Programme (AMD) at UKZN which is one of a kind in southern Africa. ‘The aim is to promote African music study, practice, and appreciation as a tool for social change and empowerment, bridging traditions and highlighting local talent in KwaZulu-Natal,’ said Opondo, whose presentation was drawn from the AMD programme.
Opondo thanked the UCLA Ethnomusicology Archive for inviting her to contribute to the series, and said she had enjoyed the engagement with both UCLA students and staff, as well as global scholars who attended the talk and participated during the lively Q and A session.
Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Thuthuka Bursaries for UKZN BCom Accounting Students
Thuthuka Bursary Fund recipients during Orientation Week.Click here for isiZulu version
UKZN’s School of Accounting, Economics and Finance (SAEF) has welcomed 17 Thuthuka Bursary Fund (TBF) recipients into its Accounting programme following a rigorous review process by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA).
The Thuthuka Bursary programme is a transformation initiative of accountants aimed at encouraging previously disadvantaged African pupils to pursue a career in Chartered Accountancy (CA). The programme is in line with UKZN’s Strategic Goal 2 which is to produce graduates with knowledge, skills and networks to build meaningful and agile careers that can be sustained and adapted over the course of their lifetime.
The Accounting profession is under immense pressure to produce African chartered accountants which seems to be a challenge judging by the throughput in the past few years.
UKZN has additional support systems in place to help accounting students academically, socially and professionally with the aim of bridging the throughput gap while inspiring student excellence.
The recipients spent the last week of January involved in an orientation programme where they received practical tips on “how to survive” and achieve success during their academic careers, participated in team building activities and heard success stories from African CAs who faced early challenges in their studies and careers.
Former Accounting lecturer and UKZN Bursary Fund Programme Manager Ms Hlengiwe Ndlela was at Orientation Week, sharing details on her academic and career journey and passing on tips and tricks to help recipients survive and excel during their years at UKZN and beyond.
‘It’s been an exciting yet busy week with the “Thuthuka Babies”, Class of 2024,’ said Ndlela. ‘It was encouraging to see them move from being worried and overwhelmed to connecting, teaming up and working together as a team. We ended the week with a fun filled team building day, preparing them for the semester ahead!’ said Ndlela.
Bursary recipients and first-year students, Ms Andile Khumalo and Mr Ziphozethu Mtambo shared their appreciation for this opportunity and how excited they are for the journey ahead.
‘Thuthuka is so welcoming and supportive. They prepared us for the journey ahead by inviting professionals who have walked the same path to share different study tips that worked for them,’ said Khumalo.
‘I was happy when I found out that I got a Thuthuka bursary because since high school it has been my dream to be a CA. I have seen and read articles about CA’s who were once TBF beneficiaries succeeding in life, and getting the chance to live out my dream is humbling.’
‘One thing I enjoyed about orientation week is that Thuthuka encourages us to speak up whenever we are faced with challenges. This is great as it shows that they are also invested in our mental wellbeing,’ said Mtambo. For more on the bursary, visit: https://www.thuthukabursaryfund.co.za/
Words: Lungile Ngubelanga
Photograph: Samkelisiwe Cele
author : .author email : .Top 100 Shining Stars Award for UKZN Doctoral Candidate
Award winner, Mr Luthando Molefe.Click here for isiZulu version
UKZN PhD student Mr Luthando Molefe has been named one of the Top 100 South African Shining Stars for 2023 by Inside Education in partnership with the National Youth Development Agency.
The award recognises Molefe’s continued outstanding and extraordinary work in the areas of academic excellence, community outreach and leadership, which he says are the strands he is mostly passionate about.
Inside Education recognises game changers, high professionals and young people who are making a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
The young achievers must be South African citizens aged between 18 and 35, who are doing exceptional things in their various fields of expertise.
‘Growing up in a setting that reflected the African proverb: “It takes a village to raise a child”, I have been driven by one of the seven roles (as gazetted in the Norms and Standards for Educators 2000) of a teacher, that is a professional who plays a community, citizenship, and pastoral role,’ said Molefe.
‘I have devoted myself to creating a critical space that allows me to work alongside others in not only helping those in need, but also to help them realise their potential in the process and where applicable - it is here where sustainable practices are developed with significant others.’
Molefe said he was grateful to all those who over the years supported his work and all those who made his journey, since its inception, possible, especially the Community Engagement Office in the School of Education.
Molefe is no stranger to excellence, being named as a 2023 recipient of the South African Heroes Awards in the category: Youth Empowerment, for his excellent work in areas of interest.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Blind First-Time UKZN Midmar Medallist at Home in the Water
Ms Kristy Greener (left) and her swimming partner, Ms Nicola Murray.Click here for isiZulu version
‘It was awesome to complete but a very tough swim,’ said first-time Midmar Mile medallist Ms Kristy Greener, a blind UKZN staffer who has idiopathic motor polyneuropathy - an illness affecting her hands and feet.
The condition causes the motor nerves of the peripheral nervous system to malfunction, with usually no obvious underlying cause found by medical doctors.
Greener said she was delighted to complete the 51st edition of the world’s largest open-water swimming event in an impressive hour and 14 minutes at Midmar Dam near Howick.
She was able to swim by the age of four, falling in love with the sport because ‘not only did it exercise my whole body, it was also safe in that as a person with a disability, I didn’t have to fear tripping or falling.’ There was also no heavy lifting involved which improved her lung capacity, preventing complications from other conditions she is susceptible to, such as asthma.
Greener, who started training in 2019, is grateful to her swimming partner, a teacher and sports co-ordinator at Impact Christian Academy in Yellowwood Park, Ms Nicola Murray. Together with her coach, Mrs Marion Barnard, they train three times a week at Make Waves KZN, a swimming club at Queensburgh’s Escombe Primary School. ‘In a pool, I swim along the lane rope. In a dam, I swim next to Nicola. We’re attached with a harness and Nicola uses this to guide me.
‘You need dedication and discipline if you want to participate in these races,’ said Greener. ‘You simply must put in the time - you need to build up stamina. Swimming the Midmar Mile means you’re on the go for 1.6km non-stop in the water! There’s no time to pause for a tea break,’ she chuckled.
Greener said she typically swims 6km a week, split over three days. ‘I love swimming, I love the water, I love the fact that it exercises all your muscles at once.’
She completed the Capital-K open water swim in 2022 and 2023 before doing the Midmar Mile this year. Next year, she plans to improve her time in the race and raise money for a mental health charity by taking on the race’s Charity Challenge.
Greener thanked the College of Health Sciences Student Support Services Manager, Dr Saloschini Pillay, and her team who she says are always motivating and supportive of her work as a Student Counsellor within the School of Health Sciences on the Westville campus.
Greener is passionate about offering free and confidential counselling to students from first-year to postgraduate level on a one-on-one basis where they address an array of personal issues, relationships, career-related matters as well as mental health and wellness.
The team is also involved in group work where they conduct psycho-educational workshops, academic skills development workshops, career exploration and guidance workshops. ‘We also refer students - including psychiatrists, medical doctors, social workers, and occupational therapists - to members of the multidisciplinary team where necessary,’ she said.
She loves spending time with her cat, Valentine, and enjoys the company of friends, family and colleagues.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Study Findings have Serious Implications for Management of Immunocompromised Individuals with Persistent SARS-CoV-2
Severe HIV with persistent SARS-CoV-2.Investigations into the case of a 70-year-old woman who presented with a cough and shortness of breath eventually led to a collaborative study which brought together scientists from South Africa and the United States with their findings published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
The findings have major implications for the management of immunocompromised individuals with persistent SARS-CoV-2 and demand further investigation into the situation.
This was heard by delegates at the 14th Annual Workshop on Advanced Clinical Care - AIDS in Durban, organised by Dr Henry Sunpath, and HOD: Infectious Diseases Unit at UKZN, Professor Mahomed-Yunus S Moosa.
KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has the highest co-infection rates of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Tuberculosis (TB) in South Africa.
According to Dr Allison Castle of Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), the 70-year-old patient was evaluated in a clinic in KZN because of a cough, shortness of breath, and malaise. The initial CD4 cell count obtained at the time of diagnosis was 29 cells per microliter, blood pressure 104/64 mm Hg, and her pulse was 87 beats per minute. The body mass index (the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters) was 16.9. On clinical examination, diffuse crackles were present in both lungs. Nucleic acid testing of a nasopharyngeal swab was positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Sputum Xpert MTB/Rif Ultra was also positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
The patient also suffered headaches, mouth ulcers, chest pain, fatigue, night sweats and odynophagia. She did not smoke, drink alcohol, or use illicit drugs and she did not take any remedies from traditional healers. She had also not been vaccinated against COVID-19.
Dr Rajesh T Gandhi of MGH said: ‘Studies suggest that those with HIV infection have worse COVID outcomes, particularly if they have a low CD4 cell count or a high HIV Ribonucleic acid (RNA) level. Further, the possibility of persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection in persons with advanced HIV infection may lead to the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 viral mutations.’
Professor Tulio De Oliveira, who is the Director of the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI- Stellenbosch) and the KZN Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP- UKZN) found that genomic data pointed to persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection with intrahost evolution in the case study, shedding light on intrahost viral dynamics and the potential for viral adaptation within immunocompromised individuals.
According to the infectious diseases specialist at UKZN, Dr Richard Lessells, since late 2020 multiple reports of persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection with intrahost evolution have been reported in immunocompromised individuals.
Said Lessells: ‘In South Africa, we have documented persistent infections with advanced HIV. Unfortunately, there is no evidence-based management guideline for persistent SARS-CoV-2 infections. We feel that the effective treatment of the underlying disease is an essential component of the management of persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection in immunocompromised individuals. This would include the introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and HIV suppression.’
Dr Nithendra Manickchand of UKZN’s Department of Internal Medicine said: ‘There were no specific antiviral therapies for SARS-CoV-2 infections in South Africa at the time this patient presented. The goal was to suppress HIV replication and reconstitute her immune system to enable effective clearance of SARS-CoV-2.
‘Her ART regimen was changed to a dolutegravir-based regimen but the patient began to have severe headaches on the right side, ptosis of the right eye, and an inability to move her right eye laterally,’ said Manickchand. The woman presented to the clinic with these acute neurologic changes and was transferred to a hospital out of concern. Computed tomography (CT) of the head, performed after the administration of intravenous contrast material, revealed a mass in the cavernous sinus with occlusion of the right internal carotid artery. The mass was thought to be suggestive of aspergillosis. Whilst waiting for a biopsy of the intracranial mass, the patient died suddenly in hospital. The final diagnosis was advanced human immunodeficiency virus infection, persistent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, and rhinocerebral aspergillus superinfection.’
Lessells said the presented case epitomised the multifaceted nature of advanced HIV disease and its attendant clinical complexities. ‘This case study indicates that the management of patients with advanced HIV and persistent SARS-CoV-2 requires further investigation. It is particularly concerning in the South African population where the uptake of the coronavirus vaccine has not been high, especially in the age groups with the highest HIV prevalence. We need to advocate for a more solid adult vaccination platform for people with comorbidities.’
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Image: Shutterstock
author : .author email : .UKZN’s Award Ceremony Acknowledges Most Inspiring Students
Recipients of the 2023 Most Inspiring Student Awards.UKZN hosted its Spotlight on Greatness: Most Inspiring Student Awards, an event dedicated to honouring the exceptional achievements of students who have inspired greatness.
The ceremony, last held in 2019 due to the pandemic, saw 11 out of the 116 entrants being presented with the 2023 Most Inspiring Student Award.
Finalists in the four categories - academics, sport, clubs and societies - were selected based on nominations received from their peers, a testament to the inspiration they have provided to those around them.
Executive Director: Corporate Relations Ms Normah Zondo said: ‘We are here to celebrate your determination, resilience, commitment to excellence in academia, sports and in other areas - in line with UKZN’s Strategic Plan which emphasises excellent teaching and learning, excellent student experience, and excellent high impact research, innovation and entrepreneurship.’
Guest speaker, alumnus and founder and CEO of Wa Azania Aroma Mr Sethu Sidzamba said his time at UKZN had been a pivotal turning point in his life.
Referring to the award winners specifically, Sidzamba said ‘many are called, but few are chosen’, as he motivated them to continue inspiring greatness, and living up to their titles as UKZN ambassadors.
Enactus President Mr Lehumo Makgalo felt the award he received was an acknowledgement of his years of involvement in civil society movements; while founder of Tech Society UKZN and winner of the 2022 Women in Tech Global Award, Ms Nitasha Pillay, who is passionate about empowering and serving students in the tech space said ‘to whom much is given, much is due…there’s plenty of room at the top for individuals to collaborate and make a difference.’
Recently qualified Medical doctor Dr Athingahangwi Ramabulana, who owns Athinga’s Corner - a kitchen offering healthy home-cooked meals - commented on the importance of being a faithful steward with every talent one has been given which in her case involves student leadership, the arts, business and her career. Mr Morris Khumalo, a fourth-year Law student and founder of AloeGo, a business that farms and harvests aloe to be used in the production of soap, lotions and juices, said he lived in the footsteps of his grandmother’s goal of assisting people without any boundaries.
Masters of Education in Curriculum Studies student Mr Andile Gumede said the award was the result of his involvement in community engagement, academic excellence and student leadership; while Mr Ndumiso Gwala, a Masters in Social Justice Education student, credited his award to his work in the development of educational programmes for the vulnerable, as the founder of Vuka Uzithathe Africa, a project funded by the AIDS Foundation, and the United States President’s Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
Gwala, who was also part of the United States-South Africa Racial Justice Fellowship exchange programme which involved visiting Columbia University last year, said he was inspired by leaders like Professor Thabo Msibi to do more for his community.
Other recipients included, Ms Naledi Nguse, 2022 Central President of UKZN’s Golden Key International Honour Society; Master of Commerce in Leadership student, Mr Lungelo Gwala; BCom student, Ms Asande Sikhosana; Law student, Ms Lerisha Rooplall; and master’s candidate in Applied Sciences, Ms Aaliyah Shah.
Dr Sachin Suknunan of the Student Services Division encouraged the award winners to ‘plough back into the University’, while Programme Director Ms Thembalethu Shange implored the students to wear the UKZN badge with pride and fly the flag high.
In closing, Director of University Relations Ms Xoliswa Zulu said: ‘As UKZN Ambassadors continue impacting your fellow students and communities ... and inspiring greatness in all you do.’
Words: Hlengiwe Khwela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Groundwater: A Strategic Resource Beyond Contributing to our Water Supply Mix
Professor Molla Demlie.The profound significance of groundwater beyond its conventional role in water supply was the focus of an inaugural lecture to the professoriate presented by Professor Molla Bekele Demlie of the School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences at UKZN.
Demlie’s extensive research in hydrogeology provided insights into the intricate dynamics of groundwater systems, especially in the face of climate change and escalating human activities.
Groundwater, often overshadowed by surface water sources, is a crucial component of the Water-Energy-Food nexus, underpinning the sustainability of ecosystems and human livelihoods. Historically, research has primarily focused on characterising groundwater systems and quantifying their stocks. However, the mounting pressures of population growth, economic development and climate variability have amplified the importance of understanding and managing groundwater resources.
Demlie’s lecture emphasised the multifaceted role of groundwater in addressing contemporary challenges, such as achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and building resilience to climate change. His research highlights the interconnectivity between groundwater and surface water bodies, particularly in regions reliant on groundwater-driven ecosystems such as lakes and wetlands. Such understanding is pivotal for sustainable groundwater development, especially amid competing demands for domestic, agricultural and industrial uses.
With a distinguished career spanning academia and research, Demlie’s contributions to hydrogeology are commendable. Having earned his degrees from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia, and Ruhr University of Bochum, Germany, he brings a wealth of expertise to UKZN. His tenure at Mekelle University and UKZN has been marked by leadership roles, prolific research output and mentorship of numerous students.
Demlie’s research portfolio encompasses a broad spectrum of hydrogeological topics, ranging from hydrological and hydrogeological system analysis, flow and contaminant transport modelling to urban hydrogeology. Through his mentorship, he has nurtured a generation of scholars, supervising numerous doctoral, master’s, and honours students. His scholarly contributions, evidenced by over 60 research articles and peer-reviewed conference proceedings, have been published in reputable journals.
Demlie is a member of the Editorial Board of the South Africa Journal of Geology and has served as Guest Editor for the Journal of Hydrology. He is a reviewer for more than 15 high-impact factor journals, and has been serving as a member of the Professional Steering Committee (PSC) for several projects of the Department of Water Affairs and Sanitation (DWS). He is currently leading three major research projects funded by the Water Research Commission (WRC) and the South African Medical Research Council (SMRC).
As a recognised authority in hydrogeology, Demlie’s influence extends globally, with invitations to speak at international conferences and workshops. His National Research Foundation (NRF) C3 rating since 2019 reflects his standing as a leading researcher in his field. Additionally, his involvement in professional bodies, such as the Geological Society of South Africa and the International Association of Hydrogeologists underscores his dedication to advancing the discipline.
Words: Sally Frost
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Uncertainty in Education Highlighted in Professor’s Inaugural Address
Professor Nyna Amin.Click here for isiZulu version
If school focuses on transferable facts, it risks becoming irrelevant. Science and maps change, language is unclear while its interpretation is uncertain, and curricula compete with the curricula of life. Great cultural stories lose their explanatory power over time.
This is according to Professor Nyna Amin of UKZN’s School of Education who shared some of the findings of her ground-breaking research during her inaugural lecture which drew on her area of expertise: Curriculum Studies.
In her characteristically expansive manner, she proceeded philosophically while anchoring her concepts in moving South African stories. Citing philosophers such as Foucault and Derrida, she argued that facts and knowledge were temporal, that language was unstable and that curricula were an intervention reflecting a particular power dynamic rather than a neutral body of content. An anecdote from a class meeting illustrated her concept of uncertainty - no-one could answer their teacher’s outdated questions!
‘Technological advances such as artificial intelligence (AI) and social media are also competing with formal curricula today,’ said Amin. ‘Students are drawn to the Three Es: excitement, enjoyment and entertainment. The trend is towards education as entertainment. While multi-sensory content is engaging, it has limitations.’
Amin warned that education as entertainment could result in superficial learning and neglect critical skills such as reading and writing. On an optimistic note, she foresaw the continued importance of teachers to mediate learning from technology and artificial intelligence.
After outlining the reasons for uncertainty, Amin discussed three pieces of research that further develop the notion of curriculum uncertainty as a function of language. In the first paper, she described an incident in her class where the students accused her of being uncaring because she appeared to have no regard for their feelings, whereas she believed they were uncaring about developing their intellect. The demands of the students and Amin masked their intentions. Both sides wanted care, but the use of words like “uncaring” and “critique” masked their equivalence.
Another presentation highlighted the traumatic lives of those taught in institutions of learning. Amin read a poignant story of a young participant in a study. ‘It is an account of the tragic life of a girl who was born to parents who were teenagers at the time of her birth,’ said Amin. ‘Aged 13, she looks after her younger siblings and runs the household. Her sick mother prepares for the birth of her fifth child while her unemployed father shirks all responsibility. The labels “parent” and “child” disguise the realities that make it impossible for teachers to know the home circumstances. Additionally, the curriculum does not consider the realities of students’ lives and the curriculum is implemented as if all students are the same. The high poverty rate in South Africa emphasises the discrepancy between lived experiences and the assumptions and goals of the curriculum,’ she said.
Amin paid tribute to her husband and family who support her, describing herself as an intellectually adventurous spirit shaped by her parents’ life of hardship and modelled on her mother’s resourcefulness.
Her diverse interests complicated her academic path until she found a home in Curriculum Studies.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Study Sheds Light on Tonic Immobility Experience Among Rape Victims in Nigeria
Ms Dooshima Gbahabo (left) and Professor Sinegugu Duma.The often-overlooked condition of tonic immobility (TI) experienced by women who have been raped was the subject of research by UKZN PhD Nursing student Ms Dooshima Dorothy Gbahabo, supervised by Professor Sinegugu Duma.
Gbahabo did her research among victims at post-rape care facilities in Lagos, Nigeria, delving into TI, which is described as an involuntary autonomic response to extreme fear.
Gbahabo says TI remains poorly understood and carries significant implications for the care and support of rape victims. Despite ongoing debate among researchers regarding its definition, its impact on the well-being of victims cannot be overstated.
She did face-to-face interviews with 13 Nigerian women rape victims, exploring their experiences of the onset of TI and the “meanings” attributed to these experiences.
The findings of the study revealed compelling insights into the onset of TI, including the onset of the condition prior to rape as a perceived response to an imminent danger and the onset of TI as a self-protection mechanism during the actual rape assault.
Additionally, participants reported various feelings such as self-blame, self-loathing, suicidal tendencies, and perceptions of TI as a divine intervention to protect them from further harm during rape.
The findings suggest that the onset of TI during rape may be a more common occurrence than previously acknowledged, thus emphasising the urgent need for specialised research and appropriate management and care for rape victims which is tailored to address its physical and psychological consequences.
Researchers emphasise the importance of understanding TI as experienced by victims, recognising it as a crucial first step toward effective management and support strategies. Without proper acknowledgement and intervention, the lasting psychological effects of TI could significantly impact the overall quality of life and legal outcomes for countless victims of sexual violence.
The study was titled: I Did Not Scream. I Could Not; I was Terrified. I Just Followed Them. I Blocked my Mind - then they all Raped me: A Narrative Inquiry into the Onset of Tonic Immobility Among Women Rape Victims in Nigeria.
Gbahabo says the work helps shed further light on the experiences of rape victims and advocates for more comprehensive care and support measures at post-rape care facilities and beyond.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Final-Year Medical Student Pleased to be Home
Ms Onazo Daniso.Click here for isiZulu version
UKZN final-year Medical student Ms Onazo Daniso is happy to be home after winning an Erasmus Clinical Rotation Mobility Scholarship which saw her spend nine weeks at the Medical University of Graz (Med Unigraz), a public research institution in Austria.
A University of the Free State qualified nurse, Daniso completed her Nursing community service at Universitas Academic Hospital in 2018, going on to register at UKZN as a Medical student the following year. During her time at the University she served as a Library Assistant and a member of the Medical School’s Student Representative Council.
She won the Best 4th-Year Student award in 2022 for embodying the University’s REACHt (Respect, Excellence, Accountability, Client Orientation, Honesty and Trust) values, and is today the final-year female class representative and chairperson of the MBChB final-year committee.
Daniso said she was a proud campaign manager for the Medical School’s #IMadeaDoctor campaign and a Golden Key Honour Society Member.
‘Going abroad on an electives programme was something I’ve always wanted to do but I just could not find a programme that aligned well with my academic schedule. The minute I saw the Erasmus Clinical Rotation Mobility Scholarship advert, I knew there and then that it would provide me with an opportunity to fulfil my dream.’
Daniso spent two weeks of her rotation at Med Unigraz gaining vast clinical skills and clinical procedure insight in the Department of Ophthalmology, an additional two weeks in the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, and the final five weeks at the Department of General Surgery and Visceral Transplant. ‘I spent most of my time rotating in theatre and acquired skills which I think will contribute immensely to my medical career,’ she said.
Said Daniso: ‘The people were welcoming and accommodating. What I found really challenging was the language barrier as most people communicate in German meaning that Med Unigraz medium of tuition is German, patients and hospital staff communicate mainly in German, and patients’ files are in German. Nonetheless, doctors that I worked with were kind enough to translate and attend to my needs.’
She said before going to Graz she used to get questions from the general public and doctors as to what she wanted to specialise in. ‘I’ve always been confused between the two totally different fields of cardiology - the branch of medicine that concerns diseases and disorders of the heart, and orthopaedics - the branch of surgery concerned with conditions involving the musculoskeletal system. ‘After two weeks of orthopaedics clinical exposure in Graz and a week’s exposure immediately after my return to South Africa, it hit me that my love for orthopaedics has grown and I am more interested in advancing my skills in that field, in addition to becoming a businesswoman.’
Daniso said being alone in Austria, especially over the Christmas and New Year period, made her reflect on her life and how far she had come. ‘I got to understand who I really am outside of my comfort zone and learn more about my strengths and weaknesses. And as lonely as it was sometimes, going to Austria contributed a lot to my personal growth.’
She encouraged other Medical students to keep striving for excellence. ‘Medicine is one of those degrees which requires a certain level of discipline… I’ve learnt to dig deep within, and constantly remind myself of my “why” whenever I feel demotivated or encounter difficulty.’
Daniso enjoys listening to music, reading, gardening and working out.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Centre for Creative Arts Director to Receive Prestigious Award
Dr Ismail Mahomed.Dr Ismail Mahomed, Director of the Centre of Creative Arts, will be honoured at this year’s 14th kykNET Fiësta Awards ceremony for his outstanding contributions to the arts in South Africa.
Mahomed will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award together with actor Tobie Cronjé.
The Fiëstas honour exceptional work presented at the country’s six biggest Afrikaans arts festivals - Innibos, KKNK, Momentum Investments Aardklop, Suidoosterfees, Toyota SU Woordfees and Vrystaat Kunstefees.
A theatre icon and playwright, his work has been performed and applauded by global audiences and he has developed a great reputation as one of the country’s best administrators in arts and culture.
Mahomed has served as the director of the Creative Arts Workshop - which he founded in Lenasia in 1987 - artistic director of the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown (now Makhanda), and CEO of the Market Theatre Foundation. He also serves on several boards including the KKNK and Aardklop.
‘During the past 40 years in the arts, I have had the wonderful opportunity to work with artists across the broad spectrum of South Africa’s cultural diversity,’ he said. ‘I see every day how the arts play a crucial role in nation-building. We are blessed as a country with so many stories and artists who have the incredible power to tell these stories through creativity and excellence. They are my inspiration.’
He found his life’s passion in arts festivals and currently oversees six of them at UKZN’s Centre for Creative Arts. ‘Working with festivals puts me in the midst of innovation, creativity, experimentation and leadership.’
Mahomed has received several honours for his contributions to the arts including a Paul Harris Award (Rotary International’s highest honour), a Standard Bank Ovation Award and a Chevalier le Ordre Nationale du Mérite [National Order of Merit] from the French government.
He said it was very special for him to now also receive this Fiësta award. ‘I accept it with humility and feel honoured to join the list of South African artists who have inspired me, given me hope and helped shape my passion for the arts. I accept it with deep gratitude for the artists, partners and funders who played such a crucial role in my career.
‘It recognises the work I have done for the promotion of artists working in Afrikaans and my contribution to the boards of the KKNK and Aardklop. This Fiësta Award on my shelf will constantly remind me that my professional career in the arts began when I wrote plays in Afrikaans,’ he said.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Humanities, Professor Nhlanhla Mkhize, extended his congratulations, emphasising: ‘Dr Mahomed’s unwavering commitment to promoting diversity and nurturing excellence in the arts continues to shape our nation’s cultural landscape. This honour serves as a testament to his humility and underscores the enduring impact he continues to have on the arts community.’
The Fiësta Awards ceremony takes place on Thursday, 7 March, at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photograph: Supplied
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