A Great Mathematician in the Making

A Great Mathematician in the Making
Ms Jadene Raghunan received the 50th Anniversary award and was congratulated by former Vice-Chair of Council, Dr Mark Hay.

Ms Jadene Janel Raghunan received the 50th Anniversary award for achieving the top senior undergraduate position in the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science. 

This scholarship is based on merit and is awarded to the top student in each College. 

Raghunan’s passion for mathematics began while she was a pupil at Solvista Secondary School. She accredits her interest in mathematics to her teachers who provided a supportive environment.

After matriculating Raghunan chose to study for a Bachelor of Science at UKZN, attracted by the University’s stellar reputation in mathematics and strong emphasis on research and innovation. 

Currently, Raghunan is undertaking the final year of her BSc (M stream) degree, majoring in Pure and Applied Mathematics. 

For the past two years, Raghunan’s excellent performance has resulted in her receiving the Dean’s Commendation and certificate of merits. She also received a scholarship in her second year of study, which relieved a significant financial burden and allowed her to focus on her studies. 

‘The 50th Anniversary award has been a game-changer for me,’ said Raghunan. ‘It has motivated me to excel academically and take full advantage of the opportunities at UKZN.’ 

The receipt of the scholarship for 2024 has solidified Raghunan’s ambition to pursue an Honours degree in Mathematics. ‘I am passionate about contributing to the academic community and tackling complex mathematical problems that can have real-world applications,’ she said. 

‘To the generous donors and funders of this scholarship, I cannot thank you enough. Your support has made a profound difference in my academic journey. I am deeply committed to making the most of this opportunity and am excited about the future contributions I can make to the field of mathematics, thanks to your investment,’ said Raghunan. 

Raghunan is grateful to the Discipline of Mathematics, which she has found inspiring and incredibly supportive, making the challenging curriculum a rewarding experience. 

Her lecturer, Dr Sisize Simo Mthethwa said: ‘Jadene is an exceptional and committed mathematics student; this duly reflects in her marks. I am often impressed by the analogies that she uses to explain abstract mathematical concepts. She is going to be great mathematician.’ 

Raghunan’s former mathematics school teacher, Mr Morgan Yellapin commented: ‘Jadene is an exceptional student whose growth and potential remind me of an exponential graph. Just like an exponential graph, Jadene has shown continuous improvement in her academic performance. Her passion for mathematics and dedication to her studies have been remarkable. The scholarship has undoubtedly fuelled this growth, allowing Jadene to reach new heights and unlock her full potential.’ 

Her parents, Mr and Mrs Raghunan said they were extremely proud of their daughter and thanked the University for easing their financial burden through the scholarship. 

Words: Leena Rajpal

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini


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Fulfilling a Passion for Mathematics and Computer Science

Fulfilling a Passion for Mathematics and Computer Science
Vincent Maphai Scholarship recipient, Mr Shimal Harichurn with UKZN Registrar, Dr Kathy Cleland.

Mr Shimal Harichurn from the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science received the Vincent Maphai Scholarship which is awarded to the top-ranked master’s student in the entire University. 

Harichurn went to Northwood Boys’ High School where he played cricket and excelled in Mathematics, Physics and Information Systems in matric. It was during this time that he decided to pursue a Computer Science degree at UKZN. 

The structure of the Bachelor of Science degree allowed him to take other modules including Mathematics, which led him to switch from Computer Science to Mathematics. 

Harichurn graduated with his Bachelor of Science degree majoring in Mathematics and Applied Mathematics. He is currently undertaking his Master’s in Computer Science and felt honoured to receive the Vincent Maphai Scholarship. 

‘UKZN has a number of talented students and to be selected for the Vincent Scholarship award fills me with a sense of pride. The scholarship also relieves a lot of financial burden and gives me the opportunity to focus on my research,’ he said. 

Harichuran’s master’s research allows him to work in an exciting new area which is an interface of Mathematics and Computer Science. 

Harichurn accredits his current research to an honour’s Algebraic Topology course, lectured by Professor Dharmanand Baboolal during his third-year studies. 

He plans to register for a PhD in Mathematics in the future, in the sub-field of topological quantum field theory which uses techniques and ideas from physics to build new tools for mathematicians to study objects called “manifolds”, which are higher-dimensional shapes and surfaces.

Additionally, as a side-line initiative, Harichurn hopes to grow his start-up, “Quantakom”, an app that focuses on providing high-quality and free school communication software to underprivileged schools. 

‘My advice to fellow and future UKZN students would be to be curious and make the most of the numerous opportunities that UKZN provides,’ he said. 

He thanked his co-supervisors, Mr Anban Pillay and Professor Sergei Gukov, from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech); former UKZN lecturers, in particular Professors Dharmanand Baboolal, Bernardo Rodrigues, Paranjothi Pillay, and Rituparno Goswami as well as Drs Sergey Shindin and Shalin Singh; his parents; and friends for helping him succeed and making his University experience memorable. 

Said Mr Anban Pillay: ‘Mr Harichurn has all the characteristics to be an outstanding academic. He has the required humility and ability to learn new concepts, ideas and techniques from new and disparate fields quickly. He’s also able to operate outside his comfort zone, analyse and synthesise literature and, most importantly, has the gift for clear exposition. He has amply demonstrated this in submitting an MSc dissertation within 12 months of commencement. His work is unique in spanning a complex mathematical field (advanced topology) and machine learning. His work demonstrated that machine learning techniques can be useful to mathematicians for understanding complex abstract mathematical objects that could lead to new mathematical insights. His work is not only insightful, but also practical in that he has produced methods and tools that mathematicians will use in their research.’ 

Baboolal said: ‘I had the pleasure of teaching Shimal pure mathematics at honours level. I remember him as an exceptional student, who as a third-year student in 2018 asked permission from me to attend an algebraic topology honours class I was offering. He topped this class with a mark of 98%! In the subsequent year, when he was a bona fide honours student, I taught him two further modules for which he scored in the 90s. He also produced an outstanding honours project on an important aspect within topology. I am heartened to learn that Shimal’s master’s studies are on using machine learning techniques to study a certain kind of manifold in topology, illustrating the potential of how computer science can play a role in understanding and addressing topological questions.’ 

His parents said: ‘We as parents are ecstatic that Shimal is receiving this award and are tremendously proud of him and his achievements. Shimal has excelled at problem solving and maths. He has a passion for reading books. His perseverance in his studies has been rewarded. We would like to thank UKZN for recognising Shimal’s abilities. We are tremendously honoured for him to receive this award.’ 

Words: Leena Rajpal

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini


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Sports Scholarship Recognises Engineering Student’s Talent

Sports Scholarship Recognises Engineering Student’s Talent
Volleyball champion, Mr Damien Naidoo in action on the court and, right, with Professor Ntombifikile Mazibuko.

Engineering student, Mr Damien Naidoo, received a UKZN Prestige Sports Scholarship for his achievements in volleyball, having represented his country in the Under 17 and Under 19 teams in 2022 and played for the KwaZulu-Natal Under 19 team in 2023. 

Naidoo also made it into the 2024/25 University Sports South Africa (USSA) team shadow squad. 

First playing volleyball at the age of eight, Naidoo became keen on the sport when he was 15, finding inspiration in the sense of leadership it provides and the testing of his talents and strengths. He also found a sense of belonging among his teammates, playing alongside them as a “family”. 

With UKZN providing a convenient location for his studies, close to home, Naidoo enrolled for engineering as he found its technicality and focus on problem-solving appealing. He hopes to become a mechanical engineer and improve designs that will enhance life for society. 

Planning to pursue postgraduate studies, Naidoo also hopes to have the opportunity to work overseas one day. The scholarship has been a boon as it alleviated financial pressure on his parents and presented an excellent opportunity for him to continue his studies. 

Naidoo thanked God for making his achievements possible and thanked his coaches, friends, and family for their support. 

Words: Christine Cuenod

Photographs: Supplied and Sethu Dlamini


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Deputy Vice-Chancellors’ Scholarships for Top Data Science and Computer Science Students

Deputy Vice-Chancellors’ Scholarships for Top Data Science and Computer Science Students
From left: Ms Jahnavi Inderjeet, Mr Rakeen Ramdeen and Mr Avesh Ramavather with Professor Fhatu Mudau, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science.

Ms Jahnavi Inderjeet, Mr Avesh Ramavather and Mr Rakeen Ramdeen received the College Deputy Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships in the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, awarded to the top-ranked undergraduates proceeding from second to subsequent years of study. 

In her third-year Bachelor of Science studies, Inderjeetis is majoring in Statistics and Computer Science due to her interest in data science and its transformative potential across various industries. Drawn to UKZN because of its outstanding data science programme and reputation for research and innovation, she has enjoyed combining her majors’ theoretical and practical aspects, learning to understand data patterns and draw meaningful insights, and acquiring technical skills. 

Opportunities for collaboration and learning have made her time at UKZN enjoyable and equipped her with knowledge. 

She balances her studies with spiritual practices such as Bhakti yoga and mantra meditation to promote mental clarity, emotional stability and self-discipline.

Witnessing the rapidly growing demand for data scientists in various sectors, Inderjeet plans to advance to honours studies before going into industry, and will consider master’s studies after starting her career; hoping to find time to travel while she works and studies. 

Inderjeet called receiving the scholarship an honour and is grateful for the recognition, as well as financial and academic support that validates her hard work and commitment. She thanked her family for their support, sacrifices, and encouragement, saying their belief in her potential guided her and inspired her to overcome challenges and strive for excellence. She thanked her lecturers for their guidance and teaching that have enabled her academic growth. 

Ramavather is in the third and final year of his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Information Technology (IT) degree. He chose to study at UKZN because of its success in shaping futures and helping students reach their dreams. He enrolled in Computer Science and IT thanks to his fascination with how technology is evolving and what this means for the future. 

He plans to progress to honours studies to deepen his understanding of his field. He hopes to craft a career as a back-end developer at a top technology company, finding the architecture of computer systems and applications of great interest. 

Last year, Ramavather received the Malegapuru W. Makgoba Scholarship, enabling his second year of study, making it surreal for him to attend again in 2024 based on his second-year results. Receiving this scholarship has enabled Ramavather to progress in his studies and has sparked renewed motivation and enthusiasm for his field of study. 

Ramavather enjoys listening to and creating music in his spare time as well as playing video games. 

He thanked his friends and family for their support and encouragement, as well as UKZN for its support in his studies. Ramavather described UKZN as “inspiring”, adding that its dynamic campus environment and diverse student population enriched his understanding of global perspectives. 

Words: Christine Cuenod

Photographs: Sethu Dlamini


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Pius Langa Scholarship for College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science Student

Pius Langa Scholarship for College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science Student
The UKZN Howard College campus where Pius Langa Scholarship recipient, Mr Aboobakr Joosab is currently undertaking his studies.

First-year Bachelor of Engineering student, Mr Aboobakr Joosab, was the only recipient of the Pius Langa Scholarship from the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science (CAES). 

The scholarship is named after renowned former Chief Justice of South Africa, Pius Langa, the last Chancellor of the former University of Natal (now UKZN) and the first Ombud of the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

The Pius Langa Scholarships are awarded to top performing new undergraduate entrants. These scholarships are awarded to students ranked in the top 10 by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Education Department National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations or top nationally in the Independent Examinations Board matriculation examinations. 

Joosab, who achieved outstanding matric results at the Al Falaah College last year, has always had an inquiring mind and enjoys the intricacies and challenges of mathematics and science. He said, ‘The Pius Langa Scholarship has given me the opportunity to explore and excel in fields I’m passionate about. The intricate information and in-depth nature of maths and science really intrigued me, hence my choice of degree. My love for chemistry and engineering led me to pursue my degree in Chemical Engineering.’

Joosab’s excellent academic performance at school continued into first semester at University where he attained five distinctions. He attributes his continued achievements to the unconditional support from his friends and family.

Joosab is grateful to the Pius Langa Scholarship Foundation for reducing his parents’ financial strain with regards to his tuition, adding that the scholarship will serve as an inspiration for him to excel in his studies.

‘Remember that hard work pays off, keep your head up and know that even if you don’t do well in matric, it’s never the end of the road,’ he advised pupils and fellow students.

Words: Swastika Maney

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini


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Annual UKZN Scholarship Awards Celebrate Student Excellence

Annual UKZN Scholarship Awards Celebrate Student Excellence
Some of the proud scholarships awardees and guests at this year’s annual Scholarships Awards ceremony.

This year, the University of KwaZulu-Natal awarded more than R50 million worth of scholarships to 1 289 top-performing undergraduate and postgraduate students in honour of their achievements. 

The top 82 students received their awards at the University’s annual Scholarships Awards ceremony held on Wednesday, 21 August - among them were 72 who had excelled academically and 10 who had demonstrated exceptional sporting abilities. 

In his welcome address, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Teaching and Learning and Chair of the Scholarships Committee, Professor Thabo Msibi, said the ceremony was a tribute to the exceptional young men and women who had distinguished themselves through excellent academic and sporting achievements. 

Msibi said the University prioritised providing financial support to deserving students as a commitment to the Institution’s broader mission of fostering academic excellence, promoting innovation and making a meaningful social impact. ‘As a leading Institution, UKZN is investing in our talented students by contributing to the bright future envisioned in our University Strategic Plan 2023-2032 which is dedicated to excellence in teaching and learning, enhancing the student experience, conducting meaningful research, driving innovation, engaging with communities and advancing internationalisation.’ 

Applauding the excellent calibre of applications received, Msibi said the task of selecting the award winners was a challenging but fulfilling endeavour. He acknowledged the unwavering commitment of the Scholarships Committee members and Scholarships Office who meticulously reviewed hundreds of applications to identify the most deserving candidates. 

UKZN Chair of Council and guest speaker Mrs Khomotso Mthimunye outlined South Africa’s daunting realities which included the staggering rates of unemployment, saying the country’s hope lay in the youth. ‘It is the young people, including the students we celebrate today, who we entrust to drive the change we so desperately need.’ 

Addressing the recipients, she said: ‘We recognise your potential as powerful agents of change dependent upon your empowerment through education therefore these scholarships aren’t just financial aid but a strategic investment in your potential as individuals.’ 

Ms Humaaira Moosa, a past scholarship recipient currently completing her MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment at the University of Oxford in England, shared her journey of acquiring multiple scholarships including the Abe Bailey Travel Bursary for her honours studies which have propelled her to where she is today. She encouraged all recipients to embrace their failures because that was what shaped them for future success. 

In his vote of thanks, Dean of Research Professor Neil Koorbanally acknowledged all stakeholders, including parents and guardians, award recipients, educators and school principals, donors and benefactors, members of Council and Convocation, executives and student leaders. 

‘Your attendance speaks volumes to the value placed on education and your supportive efforts in creating conditions to ensure every student reaches their full potential,’ said Koorbanally. 

Highlights of the evening included the attendance of retired Constitutional Court Judge and the last Chancellor of the former University of Durban-Westville Justice Zac Yacoob who presented the Zac Yacoob Scholarship to the top Honours student Ms Saarisha Govender.

Words: Hlengiwe Khwela

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini


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Prestigious Doctoral Scholarships for Mathematical Topology Enthusiasts

Prestigious Doctoral Scholarships for Mathematical Topology Enthusiasts
Mathematicians, Mr Lindani Cele and Mr Shimon Corcos, celebrate being awarded the UKZN Doctoral Research Scholarships.

The two College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science recipients of the University’s most prestigious postgraduate scholarship award - the UKZN Doctoral Research Scholarship - are making waves in the field of mathematics with research into aspects of topology, a branch of mathematics concerning the intrinsic properties of space that are preserved under continuous deformations. 

School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science students, Mr Lindani Cele and Mr Shimon Corcos, have completed all their studies at UKZN. 

Cele, whose research focuses on cohesive frames with a slant to almost zero dimensionality, chose to study at UKZN because of its strong reputation for academic excellence and commitment to research in mathematics and the discipline’s collaborative environment. 

Despite not having a maths teacher in high school, he achieved an A in matric; and received four Dean’s Commendations and five merit certificates during his studies at UKZN. He completed his master’s with a cum laude result, receiving praise for its mathematical content and novel results. 

A supportive environment, with staff members committed to helping students succeed, as well as diverse offerings such as extracurricular activities that enriched his learning, contributed to a positive learning experience at the University. 

Cele is fascinated by and hopes to contribute to the beauty and complexity of abstract mathematics. His PhD enables him to delve deeper into specific topics, challenge himself intellectually, and engage with the mathematical community. He also hopes to inspire future generations of mathematicians through teaching and research. 

His PhD topic has potential applications in various areas of mathematics and has yet to be extensively explored, presenting an opportunity for original research. 

‘This topic lays the groundwork for further theoretical developments in pure mathematics and enhances our ability to solve complex problems. I hope to contribute valuable insights that can influence theoretical frameworks and practical applications in mathematics and related disciplines,’ he said. 

Originally from Msinga, Cele has a daughter, Olwemihla, and prioritises celebrating each moment of progress with his family at home, motivating him to strive for more. Playing soccer also provides stress relief. 

Cele is keen to pursue a career in mathematical research and enjoys teaching, which he hopes to apply to an academic career. 

This scholarship has alleviated the financial burden of postgraduate studies and validated his hard work and dedication, enabling him to focus on his research and academic goals. 

Cele thanked God for His guidance and presence and his master’s supervisor, Dr Simo Mthethwa, for his belief, mentorship and friendship. He thanked his family, especially his grandmother, uncles, and brothers Siphokuhle and Thuthukani, for their support. He also thanked Mr Siphiwe Maphalala for his friendship and accommodation support when he had no funding in his honours’ year. He thanked fellow postgraduate students for their contribution of motivation, ideas, and support. 

Corcos chose to study at UKZN because of its high national and international rankings. The convenience of staying close to home, an entrant scholarship awarded for academic excellence, and the flexibility of UKZN’s BSc programme also influenced his decision. 

Throughout his studies, Corcos appreciated the esteemed, international, diverse academic staff in UKZN’s mathematics department and formed strong relationships with lecturers and researchers, who provided sound academic advice and networking. They deepened his passion for mathematics, particularly in research and problem-solving, leading him to pursue a PhD once his summa cum laude master’s research was upgraded upon examiners’ recommendation. 

His research focuses on topology, specifically hypertopologies such as the Vietoris topology and the lower Vietoris topology. He was drawn to this field through the guidance of his supervisor, Professor Dharmanand Baboolal, and a seminal paper by Professor Ernest Michael. His PhD research investigates various properties in the lower Vietoris topology, contributing to theoretical understanding and practical applications in category theory and non-deterministic algorithms in computer science. 

Corcos has presented his research at key conferences, including the Emerging Perspectives in Mathematics II and the 66th Annual Congress of the South African Mathematical Society. His presentation at UKZN’s Postgraduate Research and Innovation Symposium 2023 earned him first place in the oral presentation category. He was among 200 young researchers worldwide invited to the 10th Heidelberg Laureate Forum in Germany, where he engaged with some of the most esteemed figures in mathematics and computer science. 

Corcos has received numerous awards, including the prestigious Zac Yacoob Scholarship, Lawrence and Constance Robinson Scholarship, and Townley Williams Scholarship. He is also the recipient of the Spotlight on Greatness award, highlighting him as one of UKZN’s most inspiring students. 

Beyond research, Corcos is committed to teaching and community service and is passionate about mathematics communication. He has lectured, tutored, and participated in various educational initiatives, including the MathTales YouTube series and mathematics revision classes for high school students. He also enjoys creative outlets like playing the piano and guitar, which balance his academic pursuits, and his time spent with his family is invaluable. 

Corcos plans to continue his research, possibly through postdoctoral studies and aims to teach at university level. He remains dedicated to community service and hopes to explore new places and collaborations through travel. Receiving a scholarship for his PhD research has been a significant honour, affirming his work, providing financial relief, and encouraging him to continue in academia. 

Corcos expressed his gratitude to UKZN for the Doctoral Research Scholarship for 2024 and for financial support throughout his academic journey. He also thanks the National Research Foundation (NRF) for its Doctoral Scholarship, which helped fund his studies and living expenses. He thanked his parents for their unwavering support. He acknowledged the crucial roles of his supervisor, Baboolal; mentor, Professor Paranjothi Pillay; and co-supervisor, Dr Cerene Rathilal, for their guidance, mentorship, and recommendations, significantly enhancing his academic success. 

Words: Christine Cuenod

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini


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Zac Yacoob Scholarship Recipient Shoots for the Stars!

Zac Yacoob Scholarship Recipient Shoots for the Stars!
Judge Zac Yacoob congratulates scholarship winner, Ms Saarisha Govender.

Ms Saarisha Govender, a young academic powerhouse, has recently been awarded the prestigious Zac Yacoob Scholarship to complete her Bachelor of Science final-year studies. 

The scholarship is named after Judge Zakeria (Zac) Yacoob, a former Constitutional Court judge of distinction and the last Chancellor of the former University of Durban-Westville, and goes to the single best honours’ student in the University. 

From an early age, Govender has consistently excelled in her academics. Her remarkable track record, which includes over 50 academic awards and two Dux awards during her primary and high school years, is a testament to her intellectual capability and determination. This foundation of excellence propelled her to enrol for a Bachelor of Science degree at UKZN, specialising in the Mathematics stream with majors in Physics and Astronomy. 

Govender’s academic journey at UKZN has been nothing short of extraordinary. She graduated with her undergraduate degree in 2023, earning the prestigious summa cum laude honour. 

Eager to push the boundaries of knowledge, Govender chose to pursue an honours degree with her research delving into the cutting-edge field of quantum kernel methods, aiming to classify astronomical data. This innovative approach places her at the forefront of a rapidly evolving discipline that has the potential to revolutionise how we understand the universe. 

The Zac Yacoob Scholarship has been instrumental in Govender’s academic journey, providing her with the financial support necessary to focus entirely on her education. The young scholar, who is held in high regard by her lecturers and peers, said: ‘I am immensely grateful for this scholarship. It has given me the freedom to concentrate on my studies without the burden of financial stress.’ 

Her proud parents, Mr Selvan and Mrs Verni Govender said: ‘She has always been consistent and hardworking, and is dedicated and resilient when it comes to her goals. She has always been a high achiever and never fails to fill us with pride with her accomplishments. We wish to congratulate her on her exemplary achievements. We believe that she is destined to achieve all her goals for the future and will leave a lasting impact in her career field. We would like to thank UKZN for their positive impact and her lecturers for their support throughout her degree.’ 

Govender’s supervisor, Professor Ilya Sinayskiy, described her as a dedicated student with an innate passion for science. ‘It is very important to reward high-flying students and support them in all ways possible during their academic journey.’ 

Govender has set her sights on furthering her studies, with plans to eventually obtain a PhD in Physics. With her commitment and exceptional talent, she is poised to make significant contributions to the field of science. Her journey serves as an inspiration to young scholars everywhere, demonstrating that with hard work, passion, and the right support, success is attainable. 

Words: Siphesihle Shezi

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini


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Scholarships Pave the Way to Three Majors for Top Undergraduate

Scholarships Pave the Way to Three Majors for Top Undergraduate
Mr Jaedon Naidu with proud mum and dad, Dr Anoshini Moodley and Dr Sean Naidu.

Mr Jaedon Naidu has earned two scholarships: the Lawrence and Constance Robinson Scholarship, named after Lawrence Robinson who was the Chair of Council of the former University of Natal, and the Townley Williams Scholarship, awarded to the best student entering the final year of study in a first degree.

The Lawrence and Constance Robinson Scholarship is awarded to the best undergraduate student overall in the University. 

Naidu, Durban’s top matric achiever in 2021, joined UKZN in 2022 thanks to the strength of the Institution’s Data Science programme that combined Statistics and Computer Science, fields that Naidu hoped to study. He took advantage of the offerings of the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science and added Mathematics modules to his studies to pursue three majors. 

The high achiever has utilised several techniques to maximise his productivity, saying hard work and consistency are two solutions to the challenge of effective time management, as well as a strategic and self-aware assessment of how much has been learnt and how much there is to plan for. 

Naidu uses study and productivity approaches, including the Pomodoro method, spaced repetition, active recall, and more to use his time efficiently and allow him time to pursue his hobbies of calisthenics and piano, and grow his YouTube channel which covers topics related to personal development and productivity. 

The actuarial science board exams he is studying for have added to Naidu’s workload and have required committed discipline to accommodate amongst his many obligations. Receiving these scholarships has been a boon, as they have helped him meet the costs of the additional modules he has added to his degree.

Being able to stay at home while focusing on his studies has been a bonus for Naidu, who has relied on the support of his parents and older brother, Aaron, who achieved numerous accolades of his own at UKZN. 

Naidu’s achievements include being the top student in 13 of the 14 modules he has taken over the past three semesters, coming second in the fourteenth module. He received awards for being the top student in first-year Mathematics, second-year Mathematics, and second-year Statistics, and one of the awards for first-year Computer Science. 

In addition to the two scholarships he now holds, Naidu previously received the Pius Langa and Prestige Scholarships as a top-performing entrant and undergraduate student. The computer science and statistics group projects he participated in during the past semester have resulted in the best project awards for his groups. 

Naidu’s plans include proceeding to his honours, master’s, and possibly doctoral studies in one of the fields in which he majored. He hopes to be able to pursue some postgraduate studies at a top 20 university abroad and is considering career opportunities in the competitive fields of quantitative trading or quantitative development. 

Naidu credits God for the talents he possesses and thanked his parents for all they do for him. He thanked the staff of Eden College Durban, where he undertook high school studies, and those at UKZN, particularly Professor Delia North who started the data science programme and personally recruited Naidu and his brother, Dr Cerene Rathilal, who encouraged Naidu to pursue a triple major, and Emeritus Professor Poobhalan Pillay, who ignited his career in Olympiad Mathematics from primary school that kickstarted his academic journey. 

Words: Christine Cuenod

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini


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Malegapuru W. Makgoba Scholarships Recognise STEM Excellence

Malegapuru W. Makgoba Scholarships Recognise STEM Excellence
From left: Ms Amahle Shozi, Mr Mthobisi Dladla, Ms Emma Hodgson, and Mr Aveer Alamchand.

The Malegapuru W. Makgoba Scholarships are named after the former first Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Professor Malegapuru W. Makgoba, and are awarded to the five top-ranked undergraduates proceeding from first to second year in each of the four Colleges. 

In the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science the proud recipients were Mr Aveer Alamchand, Mr Narado Chetty, Mr Mthobisi Dladla, Ms Emma Hodgson and Ms Amahle Shozi. 

Alamchand, a student in Computer Science and Information Technology (IT), learnt to love IT and coding while at school and found UKZN the ideal destination for exploring these fields, conveniently close to home. The University has provided a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere equipped with professional and dedicated academic staff that inspired a passion for his studies and made learning easier. 

Alamchand, who enjoys spending time with his family and friends to relax and maintain a connected and balanced life, is passionate about fitness and spends time in the campus gym and playing indoor soccer every week, finding stress relief and enhanced focus through physical activity. 

Fascinated with solving complex problems, Alamchand chose UKZN for its reputation and academic environment; planning to continue to honours level and a career in IT. Receiving this scholarship has alleviated financial pressure, allowed him to focus on his studies, and incentivised him to continue doing well in his studies. 

He thanked his family and friends for their support and encouragement, thanked God for divine provision, and thanked UKZN academic staff for their guidance and assistance. 

Dladla, a Bachelor of Science student, was attracted to UKZN owing to its strong reputation in scientific research and education, modern facilities, and its experienced academics. Dladla has enjoyed his Bachelor of Science studies due to the Discipline’s structured approach to exploring scientific theories and principles that will enable him to contribute to advancements in technology and innovation. Planning to major in Statistics and Applied Mathematics, Dladla said his studies align with his passion for understanding the natural world and solving real-world problems through analytical thinking. 

He plans to pursue honours in Statistics and build a career as a data analyst to solve complex problems and drive informed decision-making. Receiving a scholarship for his studies has encouraged Dladla to perform at his best and aim for academic excellence and integrity. 

He thanked his mother for her encouragement and instruction, and his family and friends for their support in helping him to qualify for the scholarship. 

Hodgson transferred to UKZN from distance learning to enjoy a hands-on approach to her studies. A “Durbanite”, studying at UKZN enabled her to meet many like-minded students and enhance her university experience. 

In addition to her studies, Hodgson teaches a weekly Further Studies Mathematics class to Grade 10 students at Westville Boys’ High. She sews in her spare time - producing clothing garments - amongst other hobbies. 

Aiming to be a teacher, Hodgson initially majored in Physics and Chemistry before switching to Physics and Applied Mathematics. She aspires to read for a PhD in the future. 

Hodgson expressed gratitude for receiving the scholarship, saying it validated her hard work, particularly the effort required to transition from distance learning to “physical” studies, calling her transfer to UKZN the best decision she made. 

She thanked her family and friends for their invaluable support and encouragement. 

Shozi is studying for her Bachelor of Science in the four-year augmented programme and was drawn to studying at UKZN because of its reputation as one of the best universities in the country. 

Balancing her studies with attending church to strengthen her relationship with God, Shozi dedicates all her effort to her studies and plans to major in Physics and Applied Mathematics. 

She plans to continue studying to PhD level and is particularly excited about making contributions to the field of physics. 

Shozi was grateful for the contribution of the scholarship to her 2024 tuition, and she thanked her mother for her support in her academic journey and her Physics lecturer, Mr Siyabonga Ntombela, for imparting a love of physics, as well as other lecturers and friends who supported her.

Words: Christine Cuenod

Photographs: Supplied and Sethu Dlamini  


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A Journey of Resilience and Ambition

A Journey of Resilience and Ambition
UKZN Registrar, Dr Kathy Cleland congratulates Maryam Babangida Scholarship winner, Ms Nombulelo Mntambo.

Ms Nombulelo Mntambo, a driven and determined young scholar, has been awarded the prestigious Maryam Babangida Scholarship to pursue her Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Forensic Genetics. 

This achievement marks a significant milestone in her journey, one characterised by resilience, ambition, and a passion for the sciences. 

The scholarship award, gifted by anonymous Nigerian donor, honours Dr Maryam Babangida, who contributed to the improvement of living conditions of Nigerian women. It is awarded each year to the best female student, in the entire University, proceeding from undergraduate to honours study. 

Mntambo’s educational journey began in a household that valued knowledge and critical thinking. Encouraged by her parents to watch and listen to educational programmes, she developed a keen interest in understanding the world around her. This early exposure to knowledge broadened her contextual and analytical thinking, laying the foundation for her future academic pursuits. 

Her academic journey started at Isipingo Hills Primary School, where she quickly distinguished herself as a top student. Mntambo earned the Dux award for academic excellence and the Good Fellowship award for exemplary behaviour. Her elder sisters, who were also academically gifted, inspired her to aim high, further fuelling her determination to succeed. 

After some unpleasant challenges experienced during her enrolment at the University of Witwatersrand, she transferred to the University of KwaZulu-Natal to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences. While the transition to UKZN was not without its challenges, she remained grateful for the opportunity to continue her education. She dedicated herself to her studies, earning several certificates of merit, a Dean’s Commendation, and an induction into the Golden Key International Honour Society. In 2023, she graduated with distinction, a testament to her hard work and determination. The Maryam Babangida Scholarship has been instrumental in allowing her to focus on her postgraduate studies without the burden of financial stress. 

Mntambo’s academic journey has now led her to cancer forensics, a research project she embarked on after receiving the scholarship. Her work focuses on uncovering the genetic and immunological risk factors linking lung cancer with membranous nephropathy, aiming to understand how these associations affect disease progression. This research is a stepping stone toward her goal of pursuing a master’s degree, where she plans to investigate the carcinogenic effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and antineoplastic drugs on the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene in HIV-positive patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). 

Mntambo’s parents are proud of her achievements, recognising her as a member of a family of ambitious girls who have always taken their education seriously. From a young age, she aspired to be the first in her family to become a medical practitioner and study overseas like her father. Despite the health challenges she faced, the young achiever remained steadfast in her pursuit of a career in health-related disciplines. 

Her family believes that the Maryam Babangida Scholarship will inspire her to achieve her childhood dream and become a world-renowned researcher and academic. Professor Moses Okpeku, Mntambo’s honours supervisor, has observed her remarkable growth and commitment to her studies. He describes Mntambo as an exceptionally brilliant and diligent student with a remarkable personality. 

Mntambo’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, ambition, and unwavering commitment to one’s goals. The Maryam Babangida Scholarship has not only provided her with the financial support needed to pursue her honours degree, but has also empowered her to continue her academic journey. As she continues to excel in her studies and research, she is poised to make significant contributions to the field of forensic genetics and beyond. 

Words: Siphesihle Shezi

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini


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Karate Champions’ Scholarships Recognise Years of Dedication

Karate Champions’ Scholarships Recognise Years of Dedication
Karate champions and UKZN Prestige Sports Scholarship recipients, Ms Mikaylla Totaram (left) and Ms Sanjana Maharaj being congratulated by Student Services’ Interim Senior Director, Professor Ntombifikile Mazibuko.

Two karate stars in the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, Ms Mikaylla Totaram and Ms Sanjana Maharaj, have received UKZN Prestige Sports Scholarships in recognition of their outstanding achievements in martial arts for over 12 and 14 years, respectively. 

Totaram is pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Information Technology (IT) alongside developing her karate and table tennis skills. She has practised karate since she was six, falling in love with the sport almost instantly, with a particular affinity for the kata aspect that involves choreographed, simulated combat movements. She took up table tennis in Grade 6, finding it a source of cheer and calm - and her passion for the sport has grown. 

Developing as a sportswoman has accelerated Totaram’s personal growth. Preparing for karate gradings gave her drive and determination, and she has already earned Protea colours for karate after years of training, camps and tournaments; aiming to reach the same level in table tennis. She has achieved her Shodan black belt after eight years of practice in the Shotokan style and represented South Africa several times. 

Totaram is developing a business venture in the form of a fast-growing table tennis club. She has captained the uMgungundlovu team, representing the district nationally, and her school team at Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School. Having participated in many national tournaments, Totaram is ranked in the top 20 in the country. 

Totaram’s interest in computer programming began at a young age when her cousins introduced her to computer game programming. This led her to choose IT as a high school subject, where she enjoyed its tasks and experimenting with technology. 

Choosing UKZN because of its proximity to home enabled her to continue living with her parents and focus on her studies, Totaram has enjoyed her time at the University and plans to specialise in data science to honours level. 

She plans to find work in the field and is considering furthering her studies while working. 

Receiving the scholarship has supported Totaram’s education and demonstrated that hard work pays off, motivating her to do well in her studies, knowing that the University supports her goals. 

Totaram thanked her Sensei, Mr Theo Pillay, for encouraging her to excel and push past more challenging moments. She thanked her table tennis coach, Mr Kurt Lingeveldt, for his constant support and encouragement. She acknowledged her teammates for their constancy and her sisters, Nitara and Kritika, for pushing her to improve and being excellent training partners. She expressed gratitude to her parents for enabling her development and supporting her. 

Maharaj is studying for a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, focusing on computer engineering owing to a long fascination with computers and technology. UKZN was a natural choice due to its strength in engineering and research and its proximity to Maharaj’s home and support system. She appreciated the care from the staff at the Institution and their investment in her progress. 

Maharaj started karate at age five, introduced to the sport by her father for its self-defence benefits and was encouraged to participate in the sport as it became an integral part of her development. 

The mental aspect of karate, says Maharaj, is equally as important as the physical and fitness aspects, developing self-confidence, relational skills, discipline, and providing a sense of community and belonging. 

Maharaj received her elite KwaZulu-Natal colours in 2018 and, in the same year, qualified for the South African team to participate in the Commonwealth Games. In 2021, she was selected to represent her country in the Continental Karate Championships in Egypt, which was eventually cancelled due to COVID-19 travel bans. In 2022, she earned her full Protea colours for competing in Botswana. Then she competed in the Southern African Championship and was selected for the African Continental Championship. 

Last year, Maharaj was the youngest karateka selected for the inaugural South African team invited to participate in the Association of National Olympic Committees Africa Beach Games.

Maharaj called receiving the scholarship an honour, providing financial relief for her family and acknowledging her hard work and dedication, which has involved late nights, challenging assignments, and sacrifices to excel in sports and studies. Her sense of accomplishment provides impetus to strive for academic and personal excellence, knowing she has the support and investment of a prestigious University behind her. She has taken it as a reminder to stay focused and maximise her opportunities. 

Maharaj attributes her success to her parents and sisters, and is grateful for their belief, support and sacrifices. She also credited her instructors and coaches for their guidance, belief and support. 

Words: Christine Cuenod

Photographs: Sethu Dlamini


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