An Honour and a Responsibility – College DVC Scholarship Awardees Agree
Deputy Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship Award winners (from left): Ms Duduzile Sibiya, Ms Farah Winkler and Mr Ilesh Bhagwathipersad.This year’s College of Humanities Deputy Vice-Chancellor’s (DVC) Scholarship Award winners, Ms Farah Winkler, Ms Duduzile Sibiya and Mr Ilesh Bhagwathipersad all share a drive to succeed and a commitment to give back to their alma mater when they finish their studies.
The scholarships are awarded annually to the three top-ranked undergraduates proceeding from second to subsequent years of study, recognising top performance over two or more years of undergraduate study.
Currently in her third year of a Bachelor of Social Science degree, Winkler is majoring in Psychology and Linguistics. ‘My dream is to study further and achieve summa cum laude passes in Psychology,’ she said.
Driven by a desire to use her knowledge, experience and empathy to help others overcome their personal struggles, Winkler aims to be part of the mental health advocacy movement and drive awareness of its critical importance. ‘Once I qualify as a professional psychologist, I want to open my own practice and use my personal understanding of the importance of mental health awareness for healing,’ said Winkler.
She is a firm believer in giving back and aims to do so by becoming a mentor to students. ‘Student life is about making mistakes and learning from them. As someone who has dealt with academic anxiety, I understand how important this message is.’
She is grateful her hard work has been recognised and that the award has alleviated the financial burden from her parents.
Sibiya is pursuing a Bachelor of Education degree specialising in Mathematics and Technology. This final year has been the most challenging as she lost her mother in May. ‘I plan to work hard to make her proud. I am grateful to my mother and my family for being pillars of strength and helping make my path easier. I dedicate this scholarship to my late mother, Mrs Gcwalisile Sithole, for her unwavering support and guidance, Ngiyabonga Dingiswayo!’
Sibiya said: ‘This scholarship serves as validation for my hard work and has motivated me to pursue my postgraduate qualifications in maths to become a mathematics teacher and share my love of the subject.’
A third-year Bachelor of Education student, Bhagwathipersad’s academic journey has been driven by his passion for learning and commitment to making a positive impact in the field of education.
Said Bhagwathipersad: ‘From my early schooling, I was always fascinated by how teachers could inspire and shape young minds. This curiosity led me to pursue my studies in Education.’ He found his passion in the biology and technology stream and has actively participated in research projects, practical work and field-related activities, deepening his understanding of educational theories and practices.
His goal is to study further and delve deeper into teaching and learning within the biology stream, contributing original research and advancing the collective knowledge held about biology education. ‘I aim to become an innovator and leader in the field of science education to inspire and motivate learners to take on science subjects in schools,’ he said.
Sibiya, Winkler and Bhagwathipersad all agree that being selected as a recipient of this Scholarship is an honour and a responsibility. All are deeply appreciative of the University’s investment in their futures and are committed to giving back to the University community in meaningful ways.
Said Sibiya: ‘Mentoring undergraduate students, participating in academic studies and conferences, and collaborating on research initiatives are some of the ways we can give back.’
Bhagwathipersad added: ‘Supporting initiatives that enhance community outreach and student development, is another avenue we can add value through.’
They all thanked their lecturers and University staff for their support and for making their academic journeys interesting and challenging. ‘Our time at UKZN has provided us with many new perspectives, insights and opportunities for growth. Although UKZN is an academic environment, it provides a strong sense of community and support.’
Words: Jennene Naidu
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Scholarship Spurs Student to Greater Heights
Ms Mbalenhle Hlophe, Frene Ginwala Scholarship awardee.Always passionate about mathematics, first-year Bachelor of Education student, Ms Mbalenhle Hlophe decided to put that “fire” into action after receiving the Frene Ginwala Scholarship, awarded to top undergraduate Black African female students.
Frene Ginwala was the first Chancellor of UKZN and a former Speaker of Parliament.
Hlophe is determined to succeed and overcome any challenges she may face to achieve her goals. ‘I aim to become a maths teacher and assist students enjoy and grasp the subject. I hope to work in schools that need good maths teachers and help bring positive change to students’ lives,’ she shared.
Although only in her first year, Hlophe’s experience at UKZN has been inspiring.
‘I have met lecturers who are supportive and who motivate me to do my best. The learning environment is enriching and empowering and I am working hard to develop my skills as a future educator.’
She hopes to do a postgraduate degree in Education or Mathematics and work hard towards becoming an expert in the field. ‘I want to be the teacher that inspires a love of maths in my students,’ Hlophe said.
Staying focused, studying smart and never giving up on her dreams while taking advantage of the resources and support available to her, have together been her secret to success. She is looking forward to sharing this formula with her peers and future students.
Receiving the scholarship has ignited her desire to give back to the UKZN community by participating in tutoring programmes to assist students with their studies. ‘This scholarship means a lot to me. While acknowledging my hard work and achievements it also gives me the financial support I need to focus on my studies without worrying about the costs.’
She acknowledges the immense support and encouragement she received from family, friends, and teachers. ‘I always felt safe and secure to focus on my studies. Their faith in me was immense. I also thank the University for believing in me and giving me this opportunity,’ said Hlophe.
Words: Jennene Naidu
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .UKZN Prestige Sports Scholarship Winner Living Her Dreams!
UKZN’s Prestige Sports Scholarship recipient, Ms Sphumelele Gumede.Sports enthusiast Ms Sphumelele Gumede, studying towards a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy Politics and Law, has been awarded a UKZN Prestige Sports Scholarship.
UKZN’s Prestige Sports Scholarship is awarded for outstanding achievement in sports at international, national or provincial levels.
Currently in her second year, Gumede says her desire to attend UKZN started in high school and she realised her goal - in line with her long history of setting challenges for herself and being successful.
Gumede hopes to become a national rugby player in the near future which she says will demand good time management so she can balance career goals with academic pursuits.
She is inspired by her fellow rugby team members who have successfully achieved exciting careers under similar circumstances as hers.
Having faced many challenges along the way, she advised her peers to pursue their passions, even if they don’t have everything figured out yet.
She thanked her parents and coaches for their unwavering support and encouragement, lauding the ability of the University to see potential in its students.
Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Sage Advice to Postgraduates from Doctoral Research Scholarship Awardee
UKZN Doctoral Research Scholarship award winner, Mr David Elliott.‘The best way to manage the workload of any postgraduate degree is to be consistent’- that’s the advice from Mr David Elliott who was awarded the UKZN Doctoral Research Scholarship for his current PhD study in Religion and Social Transformation.
The UKZN doctoral research scholarship is aimed at creating a vibrant research and postgraduate environment, and promoting excellence in research.
Elliott hopes to contribute to transformative knowledge production on religion and its intersections with various other components of human identity and South African society. The scholarship affords him the opportunity of continuing research on the intersection of race and religion in South Africa. ‘My objective is to work in a field that unites academics and society, supporting initiatives in South Africa aimed at subverting racial categorisation and racial injustice,’ he said.
Elliott says this scholarship acknowledges the potential of his proposed research and its worth, boosting his excitement for his PhD work while confirming the scientific rigor he has employed in designing it. He also notes that it makes his research possible without fear of financial challenges. ‘The award means I can focus more of my energy on my research work rather than worrying about paying my bills and generally making ends meet. I am one of many students who rely on scholarships and bursaries to survive.’
Speaking about his experience at UKZN, he said that UKZN had “provided space” for him to pursue further studies. Critical as well was the transformative focus of lecturers and staff in his field, and he celebrated that they embody a clear desire to transform Higher Education for the better. Elliott is grateful for the opportunities provided to him and supports the University’s commitment to inclusivity that can lead to a more accessible education for the next generation of young South Africans. ‘UKZN opened doors for me to push myself, to explore ideas, to grapple with the ills that face South African society, and to develop both as a thinker and a person. I am humbled and grateful for the opportunities I have had.’
He advised his peers to always take care of themselves and those around them. Offering words of strength to the youth struggling to get employment, he said: ‘I know that finding work is extremely challenging - I have experienced the turmoil of endless applications with no positive results. All we can do is to keep trying. Do not give up, keep asking, keep looking, and be ready to leap at the chance when something suitable turns up.’
Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Meet the “Fabulous Five” Malegapuru W. Makgoba Scholarships Recipients
Malegapuru W. Makgoba Scholarship recipients (from left): Ms Ishka Rajmoney, Ms Shazia Suliman, Mr Sibonelo Luthuli, Ms Thandi Gova and Ms Courtney Louter.The five recipients of the Malegapuru W. Makgoba Scholarships come from diverse disciplines across UKZN’s College of Humanities but share a common strong work ethic and desire to succeed.
Together they highlight the kaleidoscope and dimension within the College of Humanities with their studies including Social Science, Music, Theology, English, and Media and Cultural Studies.
The Malegapuru W. Makgoba Scholarship, named after the first Vice-Chancellor and Principal of UKZN, is awarded to the five top-ranked undergraduates proceeding from first to second year in the four Colleges.
The students are:
Mr Sibonelo Luthuli who is studying for a Bachelor of Arts in Music. Luthuli’s love of the Arts has made it easy to adapt to his chosen degree although it has not been without trials. ‘Learning something new presents challenges but I’m on the right track and look forward to the careers I can explore with this degree,’ he said. Planning to complete his Doctorate in Music, his dream is to learn to play African instruments and teach others professionally.
Said Luthuli: ‘It is an honour to receive this scholarship. I plan to excel academically and motivate others to study at UKZN.’
Outside music he says he loves playing soccer which provides a release for him. Luthuli is grateful for the love and support he has received from his family, friends and UKZN staff. ‘I had doubts but this support and affirmation have inspired me. The entire UKZN staff is brilliant, from the security officers to the lecturers. They always make me feel like I’m in the right place,’ he said.
Ms Shazia Suliman is currently in her second year of a Social Science degree majoring in Psychology and Industrial Psychology. Referring to herself as a mature student, she said: ‘I am grateful to be able to study at the age of 29 and believe that life experience has given me a greater respect for knowledge and having the opportunity to attain it is something I don’t take for granted.’
Planning on completing a Master’s in Clinical Psychology, Suliman wants to hone her skills by initially working with organisations such as Gift of the Givers as a counsellor and then plans to focus on rehabilitation. ‘I believe substance abuse is a deeply stigmatised and unaddressed issue, especially within the Muslim community,’ she said.
Suliman is motivated by empowering others and is grateful for her family’s belief in her especially when she sometimes didn’t believe in herself. ‘UKZN is an experience that shapes your outlook on life and provides you with tools to prosper without forgetting to uplift those in need.’
Ms Ishka Rajmoney is studying towards her Social Science degree with a double major in Psychology. ‘After my postgraduate studies, I will focus on becoming a practising clinical psychologist working in a hospital setting before opening my own practice,’ Rajmoney said.
Ms Thandi Gova was attracted to the study of Theology and is enjoying her academic journey. ‘It has required hard work, but I have wonderful lecturers who support my goal of working within the church to facilitate the interpretation of scripture to practically address people’s holistic needs. This includes assisting people develop their own solutions to address their needs in partnership with the church,’ said Gova.
‘This scholarship has afforded me the relief of not having to worry about tuition allowing me to focus on my studies and to continue my journey towards realising my goal in the ministry.’
Gova advises her peers to enjoy freedom in moderation. ‘Whether on a scholarship or bursary, we have a responsibility to be good stewards of this privilege that many people desire.’
Ms Courtney Louter is studying English and Media and Cultural Studies in the School of Arts. Her passion for travel took her abroad as an exchange student while in high school. ‘After matric I examined alternate avenues, teaching Music at a bible art college in the Free State, followed by volunteering for various non-profit organisations (NPOs) feeding underprivileged communities and working to rescue and counsel sexually abused girls,’ said Louter.
Now at UKZN, Louter’s interests lie in literature and communication. Through the UKZN Student Exchange Programme she will attend the Hankuk University of Foreign Studies in South Korea from September to December this year.
Louter plans to work in publishing and is currently a journalism intern at Caxton Media to gain experience.
‘The scholarship is a testament to God’s provision for me and signifies UKZN’s generous contribution to my education and encouragement and acknowledgement of my academic achievements. My experience has been intellectually stimulating and I am grateful for the guidance of UKZN’s exceptional lecturers,’ added Louter.
Words: Jennene Naidu
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Hard Work Pays Off for Hugh Africa Scholarship Winner
Hugh Africa Scholarship Award winner, Mr Nqubeko Mazibuko.Mr Nqubeko Mazibuko is the proud recipient of the Hugh Africa Scholarship which is named after a former Vice-Chancellor of UKZN who was also a professor, and a member of the Council at the University, an honorary doctorate recipient and a distinguished educationist.
The scholarship is awarded annually to a top new entrant choosing to study Education.
Hailing from Pongola in northern KwaZulu-Natal, Mazibuko is in the first year of a Bachelor of Education degree. Graduating from Dwaleni High School in Ncotshane, Mazibuko was ecstatic about his achievement. ‘I was not expecting to achieve eight distinctions in Matric and cried tears of joy when I got my results. I felt like my matric success exceeded everyone’s expectations!’
Buoyed by his success, Mazibuko received many offers from tertiary institutions however, studying at UKZN had been his childhood dream. ‘I plan to complete my BEd degree and study further to obtain a doctoral degree in Education within the field of Geography and perhaps one day lecture at UKZN,’ he said.
Mazibuko believes his scholarship serves as a testament to the work he has put in. ‘Late nights and early mornings studying were my daily routine. The scholarship lifts the financial burden from my parents’ shoulders freeing me to study without worrying about the fees.’
He thanked his parents, the educators at Dwaleni High School, and his classmates who believed in him. ‘I am going to repay the University’s trust in me by excelling academically. Once I have enough knowledge, I will share my expertise where needed to help those aspiring to achieve further.’
His advice to young learners is: ‘Learn from everything. Remember every moment is an opportunity to learn from everyone around you, no matter their position. Pay attention when things go well; pay extra attention when they don’t and build relationships with people who face problems by being their solution.’
Words: Jennene Naidu
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Late Archbishop Denis Hurley’s Good Deeds Live on through Scholarships
From left: Ms Nokhanyo Chonco and Ms Balisa Nogwaza receive their Archbishop Denis Hurley Scholarship certificates from Dr Kathy Cleland, UKZN Registrar.Humanities’ honours students Ms Balisa Nogwaza and Ms Nokhanyo Chonco received scholarships named after the late Archbishop Denis Hurley, a former UKZN Chancellor, which allow disadvantaged but academically excellent candidates to study for honours degrees.
The young students’ journeys were driven by a passion they have for psychology, education and the empowerment of young people.
‘My journey has been filled with many challenges and success stories. What has been most rewarding is receiving the Denis Hurley Scholarship, widening the opportunities to continue to explore my passion to use education as a tool to empower individuals and transform society,’ said Chonco.
For Nogwaza, the psychology field as well as the Forensic Studies programme have enhanced her understanding of the interconnectedness of psychological and criminological theories, research methodologies, as well as clinical and forensic practices.
Her upcoming research study will explore and evaluate psychosocial intervention measures that can support victims in coping with the emotional, social, and economic repercussions of livestock theft.
Highlighting profound economic deprivation, social dislocation, and emotional distress for the victims. ‘By developing and implementing effective psychosocial strategies, this study seeks to enhance the resilience and recovery of affected individuals and communities,’ she added.
Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela
Photographs: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Recipient of 50th Anniversary Scholarship Honoured by Award
Ms Brianna Christopher, UKZN’s 50th Anniversary Scholarship awardee.Ms Brianna Christopher, currently doing a Bachelor of Arts in Classical Civilisations and History, has received UKZN’s 50th Anniversary Scholarship.
The scholarship is awarded annually on merit to a senior undergraduate student.
Christopher says she is honoured to receive the award which she regards as a testament to the University’s commitment to and investment in its students.
She aims to become a lecturer and researcher. ‘I enjoy meeting different types of people and love learning and sharing knowledge in engaging and entertaining ways,’ she said.
Christopher thanked her parents for allowing her to pursue an unconventional degree, saying it is important to take responsibility for your choices and she feels she has shown and done that.
One of her biggest challenges after COVID-19 was adapting back to in-person learning, confiding that she really enjoyed the late mornings in bed that virtual tuition sometimes allowed her!
‘Other challenges included difficult personal circumstances, the floods, moving home, and deaths in the family as well as study stress and anxiety,’ she said.
Her advice for overcoming issues was for a person to be less hard on themselves. ‘You can’t carry the weight of the world alone. Student Support Services offer counselling - they are there to help you in times of need. Life has its challenges, and reaching out for help can be terrifying but things usually always get better,’ added Christopher.
Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Rick Turner Scholarships Ease Recipients’ Financial Burden
Rick Turner Scholarship holders from left: Ms Nkosingiphile Malote, Ms Bongiwe Lengoba and Ms Thandiwe Mokoena.Scholarships named in honour of Dr Richard Turner, an anti-apartheid activist who was slain in his Durban home in 1978, have made it possible for three UKZN College of Humanities students to continue their studies debt-free!
The general aim of the students - Ms Nkosingiphile Malote, Ms Bongiwe Lengoba, and Ms Thandiwe Mokoena - is to advance psychology in the area of general underdevelopment.
Aiming to address health issues affecting the country in the area of psychology, Lengoba wants to understand and reduce mental health stigma. As an advocate for mental health awareness, she hopes to promote inclusivity and create supportive environments for individuals from diverse backgrounds who are facing a variety of challenges.
Aspiring clinical psychologist, Malote is passionate about making psychology accessible to previously disadvantaged populations in South Africa. She has a particular interest in expanding the reach of psychotherapeutic interventions in a way that makes them effective and beneficial for non-English speakers who have lacked access to therapy due to socio-economic factors. She says she is pursuing her Master’s in Psychology because of the profound impact of South Africa’s history and the ongoing trauma it continues to inflict on disadvantaged communities.
Mokoena’s goals include becoming an academic advisor - a position where she will help students identify their strengths, interests, and learning styles. She is also leaning towards being a school counsellor, a position she says, can provide guidance on personal, social, and academic issues.
Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .