UKZN’s First Clinical Trials Unit Launched
An exciting moment for the Clinical Trials Unit (CTU) team.The College of Health Sciences (CHS) is proud to announce the establishment of UKZN’s first Clinical Trials Unit (CTU), based at the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine.
Aspiring to research excellence, the CTU will support researchers in conducting impactful clinical trials on new therapeutic agents targeting infectious and non-communicable diseases relevant to the South African population.
Led by research scientist Professor Daya Moodley, this landmark unit is a game-changer for health research in KwaZulu-Natal. It features two standout innovations that include an A-graded on-site pharmacy and a dedicated Pharmacokinetic Clinical Ward. These state-of-the-art facilities enable scientifically rigorous, ethically sound clinical trials, empowering researchers to test new therapeutic agents that tackle both infectious and non-communicable diseases affecting South Africans.
At the launch of the CTU, Professor Busisiwe Ncama - Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the CHS - said: “The CTU is more than a facility for us. It’s a hub where curiosity, cutting-edge science and collaboration will converge to push the boundaries of medical research in order to address the health challenges of our region and establish UKZN as a global leader in clinical trials and healthcare innovation. Congratulations to the incredible team who made this possible: Professors Daya Moodley, Ncoza Dlova, Anil Chuturgoon, Nhlanhla Msomi, Fanie Botha, and the Abdool-Karims for their expert guidance - with special thanks to the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) for the funding support.”
Chuturgoon, UKZN’s Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research, emphasised that the CTU will play a key role in advancing the University’s research agenda and improving health outcomes locally and globally. He described the CTU as a specialised hub for conducting high-quality clinical trials, fostering innovation in treatment and diagnostics. The unit will enhance research capacity, ensuring studies meet top scientific and ethical standards, while offering expertise in areas like epidemiology, biostatistics, and regulatory compliance. Importantly, it will also serve as a training ground for future medical scientists and clinicians.
Moodley explained the critical role clinical trials play in the drug development process. She outlined the full pathway - from discovering a disease-related molecule to identifying compounds, conducting preclinical studies, and progressing through the clinical trial phases:
• Phase 1: Tests safety and identifies the best dosage
• Phase 2: Evaluates the drug on a small group with the condition
• Phase 3: Compares the treatment to current options for effectiveness.
Successful Phase 3 trials lead to regulatory submissions (eg. to the Food and Drug Administration or European Medicines Agency) for approval. She highlighted that this process can take up to 20 years, citing the development of antiretrovirals (ARVs) as an example.
Moodley stressed the need for better treatments for both infectious and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Referring to a 2018 Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) report, she noted that in KwaZulu-Natal, the leading causes of death included tuberculosis (especially MDR-TB and XDR-TB), heart disease, diabetes, stroke, hypertension, cancers, and respiratory illnesses.
She said: “The UKZN CTU was established not to compete with existing research institutions but to complement them by supporting physicians in finding improved treatments, particularly for NCDs. We are currently hosting five to six clinical trials covering respiratory, dermatological, dental, and obstetric conditions - including one repurposing a diabetes drug to prevent preeclampsia.”
Dr Phumlani Tetyana, Acting Head of Health at TIA, expressed pride in supporting the establishment of the CTU. He emphasised its vital role in developing and evaluating new therapies for NCDs, particularly those impacting marginalised communities. The CTU, he said, is key to building a strong health innovation ecosystem and translating research into real-world solutions. He commended Professor Moodley and her team and reaffirmed TIA’s commitment to ongoing collaboration in advancing healthcare innovation.
Professor Ncoza Dlova, former Dean of the School of Clinical Medicine and a founding member of the CTU, recalled how a visit to the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA) Clinical Trials Unit sparked the idea of establishing a similar unit at UKZN. Calling it a proud and emotional milestone for herself, Professor Daya Moodley, and the entire College, she extended heartfelt thanks to the CHS leadership, sponsors, and everyone who supported the vision. She said, “This visionary unit is the result of five years of planning, dedication, and collaboration - a proud moment for CHS and UKZN as we push the frontiers of health research excellence.”
Professor Refiloe Masekela, Dean of the School of Medicine, warmly congratulated everyone involved in establishing the CTU, acknowledging the many meetings and challenges that at times made the process feel like “climbing a steep mountain”.
She said: “This unit is essential for developing much-needed solutions and innovations to address Africa’s current low capacity in NCD research.” She assured the team of the School’s full support and expressed hope that, over the next five years, they will make further strides toward realising the vision of establishing a Clinical Research Organisation to advance health research even further.
Professor Neil Koorbanally, UKZN’s Dean of Research, congratulated the team, describing this as a significant step forward. “I am confident that visitors to UKZN’s Medical School, upon seeing these clinical trials, will return and say, 'Have you seen this at UKZN?' This development will truly put us on the map. Congratulations once again. I am certain this will elevate both the Medical School and UKZN’s reputation.”
View the CTU here.
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .Ground-Breaking Youth Study Earns UKZN Researchers Prestigious European Grant
Professor Lauren Dyll (left) and Dr Mary Lange.Click here for isiZulu version
The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Professor Lauren Dyll and Dr Mary Lange, from the Centre for Communication, Media and Society (CCMS) in the College of Humanities, are part of an international team that has been awarded €2.4 million in European Research Council (ERC) Advanced Grant funding.
This prestigious award supports a major five-year research initiative called REACT - Reimagining Activism, Communication and Trajectories of Participation in the Global South.
The project, which launches in January 2026, is led by Professor Thomas Tufte, Associate Dean for Research and Innovation at Loughborough University (London).
It forms part of the EU’s Horizon Europe programme, which supports bold, curiosity-driven research that can lead to major scientific and societal breakthroughs.
REACT will explore how young people (aged 18-30) across the Global South navigate uncertainty, respond to systemic inequality and exclusion, and engage in efforts to drive change. It will focus on in-depth case studies in five countries - namely Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, India, and South Africa - and include a comprehensive survey of 12 000 youth in 20 countries.
Drawing from communication for social change, cultural studies, urban research, and critical development theory, the REACT team will develop a new interdisciplinary framework known as COMPAS (Communication, Participation and Social Change). The research will be enhanced by creative workshops, urban manifestos, and scenario-building activities that aim to amplify youth voices and promote inclusive societal futures.
The South African project co-ordinators will collaborate with a non-governmental organisation, South Roots International, which works with youth in the Cape Flats. CCMS has collaborated with them previously and will engage with them on a project that will not only contribute to global knowledge on youth and activism in the Global South but also deliver practical outputs that benefit individuals and communities.
Speaking on the projects impact, Dyll said: “I am honoured to be a team member on the REACT project, that I believe will contribute crucial research for our current global context; fraught with conflict and contradictions, but also…hope. Brazilian educator, Paulo Freire theorised hope as an essential, existential, and ontological need; a concrete imperative for human existence and the struggle against oppression. The REACT project will engage directly with youth, as the ‘ambassadors of hope’, so that we can learn how they communicate and mobilise themselves to hope for futures that champion gender equality, social justice, climate justice and peace.”
As the South African partner, UKZN’s CCMS will play a vital role in the success of this global initiative. The project reinforces UKZN’s commitment to impactful, socially engaged research and international collaboration.
Words: Jennene Naidu
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .Centre for Creative Arts Receives R800 000 Boost for Poetry Africa
Ms Olive Olusegun, 2024 Poetry Africa Slam Champion.Click here for isiZulu version
The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Centre for Creative Arts (CCA) has secured an R800 000 grant from the National Lottery Commission to support the 29th edition of its flagship event, the Poetry Africa festival.
Facilitated by the UKZN Foundation, this funding will enhance the festival’s community engagement, international reach, and contribution to the local creative economy.
Poetry Africa has grown into one of Africa’s leading spoken word platforms, renowned for uniting voices from around the world. With the support of this new funding, the 2025 edition promises to be the festival’s most dynamic to date.
“The support from the National Lottery Commission will allow us to affirm Poetry Africa’s status as a leading cultural event,” said Dr Ismail Mahomed, Director of the CCA. “It enables us to not only host more international poets, but also to reach deeper into local communities and offer more to emerging artists.”
Artists are among the direct beneficiaries of the funding, receiving support for travel, accommodation, and performance fees. Audiences in five local community centres and schools will also benefit through a targeted outreach programme designed to make poetry accessible, inclusive, and representative of South Africa’s diverse voices.
One of the most exciting developments is the launch of two new Slam Poetry competitions: the ‘Chalkboard Slammers’ for high school learners and the ‘Boardroom Slammers’ for young adults in and around Durban. What makes these competitions stand out is that participants write and perform their poetry in isiZulu, fostering pride in indigenous languages and local storytelling traditions.
Another major innovation is the expansion of the Poetry Africa film programme. For the first time, the festival will issue an international call to poetry filmmakers, inviting them to submit their work to be screened during the event. This new dimension blends visual arts and spoken word, broadening the festival’s creative scope and appeal.
The CCA will also host the 5th World Poetry Slam Championships in 2026, welcoming poets from over 40 countries. This global gathering positions Poetry Africa and the CCA as major players in the international poetry community.
Curator of Poetry Africa Ms Siphindile Hlongwa said, “More than just a festival, Poetry Africa is an engine for economic and cultural development, which creates jobs for South African youth and equips them with skills that will assist in sustaining their careers. The festival contributes to the knowledge economy of the University where the festival’s archives are a research resource for scholars.”
The successful funding application was the result of a strong collaboration between the CCA and the UKZN Foundation. While the CCA developed the project concept and programme, the Foundation - through Donor Relations Manager, Ms Bukiwe Biyela, and Director Mr Steve Camp - provided governance support to meet the National Lottery Commission’s compliance requirements.
Poetry Africa continues to expand its footprint with support from key partners including the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sports, Arts and Culture; the French Institute of South Africa; the University of Johannesburg; and international collaborators from Ukraine, Brussels, Nigeria, the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, and other diplomatic missions.
“This funding is not just a financial boost - it’s an endorsement of our vision to make Poetry Africa a beacon for African festivals,” said Hlongwa. “We’re excited to host around 100 poets from 25 countries in 2025 and build towards welcoming the world in 2026.”
Words: Melissa Mungroo
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Bids Farewell to DIFF Festival Manager
Ms Andrea Voges.The 46th edition of the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF), which ended on the weekend of 27 July, also marked the conclusion of Ms Andrea Voges’ tenure as Festival Manager and Head of Programming of DIFF at the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
Voges is an alumna of the Southern Africa-Locarno Industry Academy. Her entry into the film industry was serendipitous: she joined DIFF as a jury minder in 2009. While she had always loved film, this role introduced her to the inner workings of the festival and its jury, and allowed her to watch dozens of films. It was an experience that sparked a lifelong passion.
Voges previous experience includes working for the Joburg Film Festival and the Red Sea International Film Festival. She also co-ordinated festival distribution for STEPS, a documentary production company. From 2014 to 2016, she served as Project Coordinator for the South African - United Kingdom Cultural Seasons programme, an intergovernmental initiative promoting arts and culture between the two nations. Her passion for African cinema deepened during her time as Programmes Manager for the Realness Institute and Sales and Distribution Manager for Urucu Media.
“When Andrea Voges was listed by the prestigious film industry magazine, Screen International, at the Cannes Film Festival last year as one of the 25 film festival curators around the globe it was inevitable that with this glowing accolade, we might lose her to other more competitive career opportunities that engage the world’s leading professionals,” said Dr Ismail Mahomed, the Director of the Centre for Creative Arts.
Voges led DIFF over the past three editions. Following the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, she successfully transitioned the festival from an online format to a fully in-person event in 2023, featuring a rich programme of film screenings, industry networking, and development opportunities for both professionals and newcomers. “With passion and vision, Andrea nursed DIFF out of the pandemic years and returned the festival to the live space with boldness, courage, and clear strategy,” Mahomed added.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Medical School Honours Four of Its Alumni as Living Legends
Four Living Legends were honoured at UKZN.UKZN’s Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine hosted its distinguished annual event, On the Couch with Our Alumni Living Legends, honouring four industry giants. Among them was South Africa’s First Lady, Her Excellency Dr Tshepo Motsepe, spouse of President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The Living Legends shared pearls of wisdom from their inspirational journeys with staff, students and a broad virtual audience during a panel discussion.
Professor Bilkish Cassim is an esteemed rheumatologist, academic, and the inaugural Chair of Geriatrics at UKZN, where she continues to lead clinical services and medical training. Dr Diliza Mji, Founder, Shareholder and Director of the Busamed Group, was also honoured. He is one of the founding members of the National Medical and Dental Association. The Class of 1979 panellists were joined by Dr Warwick Morris, a renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon, whose five decades of service at UKZN were applauded by the University community.
Attendees were welcomed by the College of Health Sciences Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of College, Professor Busisiwe Ncama; the Dean and Head of School of Medicine, Professor Refiloe Masekela; and the event’s founder and host, Professor Ncoza Dlova, who heads Dermatology and is the former Dean and Head of the School of Clinical Medicine at UKZN. Her co-host was media personality and presenter Ms Nongcebo Vukile McKenzie, who interviewed the Living Legends about their life experiences and how they overcame local and global health challenges.
Motsepe, whose father was a headmaster of a high school north of Pretoria, said she remembers leaving her village home to attend a coloured Catholic convent boarding school in Aliwal North, Eastern Cape.
This, she said, was her father’s way of protecting her and her siblings from the inferior Bantu Education system.
Sacrifice and resilience characterised the rest of their schooling, with limited time spent with their parents during school holidays. She fondly recalled her time at the then University of Natal, saying, “Because when you come from the village, salt is the only spice,” describing her exposure to new experiences. She noted that some of her longest-lasting friendships were formed at UKZN’s Medical School.
Motsepe said, “I want to say that honestly, I am really humbled and I never expected that we would be called Living Legends. I wish to thank the University for that honour. This brings back memories of the years which I spent at university, and I wish you luck and perseverance. Enjoy the years and of course one day you will also be sitting where we are sitting.”
Cassim said, “What I’d like to say to the students is this is probably going to be some of the best years of your life. We really had a good time in Medical School. You need to enjoy this time, and I think you must realise how fortunate you are and how fortunate we have been in having the privilege to become doctors and having the privilege to go to university in a country where a large majority of people do not get that privilege. Learn from your patients and respect them. Always remember do the right thing; you’re going to become a doctor for a reason. You’re going to go as far as you can but don’t forget your roots.”
Cassim recounted nearly missing her chance to attend Medical School due to a postal delay. During her time, acceptance letters were sent through the post office, which often led to delays or lost mail. She had to submit an affidavit as proof that she had responded on time.
Encouraging students, she added, “I have spent all my life at UKZN. I don’t think I did too badly.”
Mji’s pursuit of his MBChB was delayed by two years due to political imprisonment, including six months in solitary confinement. Undeterred, he completed his studies and ventured into medical entrepreneurship, founding the Busamed Hospital Group. “It taught me to remain focused, decide what you want in life, and put all your effort into that. You will make it,” he said.
Dr Morris, with more than five decades of service, trained and worked internationally, held academic posts at UKZN, and led several national surgical associations. Reflecting on his journey, he said, “As a teenager, I decided I wanted to be a doctor. I had no concept of what that life would entail - I thought I’d earn a fair living. I didn’t realise how hard I’d have to work. During most of my career, I worked a 60-hour week.
McKenzie asked how ‘happiness surgery’, as Morris termed it, had infiltrated the plastic surgery market. He responded that while cosmetic procedures remain relevant, the deeper purpose is to restore patients’ dignity - particularly those affected by birth defects or adverse events. He described the profession as a calling, one he encouraged recent Medical graduates to consider.
Attendees were impressed by the depth of insight and experience presented by each Living Legend.
In her closing remarks, Dlova said, “Tonight we haven’t just honoured legends - we have rekindled a flame of purpose, pride and possibility. May their legacy not rest in portraits or plaques, but in every future doctor who walks through our doors knowing they, too, can change the world.”
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Meet the Student Who Named Thola, the New Library Robot
From left: Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Innovation, Professor Anil Chuturgoon; PhD student, Ms Colleen Stuart who won the naming competition; Director of Library Services, Dr Nonhlanhla Ngcobo; and right, Thola the Robot.UKZN Library Services recently held a competition to name a newly launched automated Artificial Intelligence (AI) prototype robot at the 5th International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) Symposium, hosted by the University.
The competition, open to staff and students, aimed to give the robot an identity while promoting the symposium. It was won by Public Health PhD student Ms Colleen Stuart, who proposed the name Thola, meaning ‘to find’ in isiZulu.
Stuart said she was thrilled to be named the winner. She explained that the name Thola reflects the robot’s function and aligns with the University’s heritage. “My thought was that even though we are progressing technically and being innovative, we would still keep our heritage as a Zulu university,” she said.
Director of Library Services Dr Nonhlanhla Ngcobo said Thola the robot uses a gantry-style design and is bilingual, supporting the Library Services’ goals of improving access to learning, teaching, research, and information, and to align with the University language policy. Thola will assist staff and students in accessing library services, locating and shelving books, and issuing and returning items.
Ngcobo explained that they sought a short, easy-to-pronounce name that reflected the robot’s purpose. She said Stuart’s thoughtful rationale set her entry apart. With a chuckle, she noted it was particularly interesting that the winning name came from a non-isiZulu speaker.
Ngcobo added that as the Library Services, they are committed to keeping pace with technological advancements locally and globally. She said this commitment was why UKZN hosted the AI conference and used the opportunity to launch Thola, showcasing the strides the University has made in AI and technology development.
Thola will begin operations after the official handover in September and will be based at the Medical School Library, currently the only library using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. Ngcobo said developers have assured the University that other libraries will not need to convert to RFID, as future robots will be configured to work with the existing barcode system.
The robot was developed by Mr Trevor Lorimer of Power Line Robotics. Ngcobo noted that working with a local developer makes ongoing technical support more accessible and efficient.
Words: Sithembile Shabangu
Photographs: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .New Frontiers in Qualitative Research Explored at Health Sciences Workshop
Workshop participants at the Westville campus.The Discipline of Biokinetics, Exercise and Leisure Sciences (BELS), within the School of Health Sciences, proudly hosted an impactful two-day qualitative research workshop on 8 and 9 July 2025 at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Westville campus.
The event featured distinguished scholar Professor Brett Smith from Durham University, UK, an internationally respected expert in disability studies, narrative inquiry, and arts-based research methods.
Titled ‘Exploring New Frontiers in Qualitative Research: Insights from a Leading Expert’, the event drew more than 65 researchers, postgraduate students, and academics from across disciplines. The sessions focused on advanced topics including co-production, post-qualitative inquiry, publishing strategies, and visual methods in qualitative research.
The opening address was delivered by the College of Health Sciences Dean of Research, Professor Bongani Nkambule, who underscored the importance of strengthening research capacity through engagements that cut across disciplines and paradigms. He welcomed Smith and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to advancing methodological innovation and scholarly collaboration.
Throughout the workshop, Smith fostered a vibrant and inclusive learning environment. Reflecting on his experience, he said, “I thoroughly enjoyed facilitating this workshop. The level of engagement, the thought-provoking questions, and the openness to new ideas made for a dynamic and stimulating space. It was a privilege to be part of such rich conversations and to contribute to UKZN’s growing qualitative research community.”
Professor Rowena Naidoo, Academic Leader of BELS and host of the event, expressed gratitude to all collaborators and noted plans to establish the workshop as an annual fixture. She also announced that a series of online workshops is being considered to promote continuous learning and expand access to qualitative research training across disciplines.
Participants offered positive feedback, highlighting the workshop’s practical impact:
“The facilitation style was inclusive and participatory, making everyone feel heard and valued.”
“The most effective and engaging aspects were the interactive activities and hands-on learning.”
“It gave a broad overview of how to use qualitative approaches in my study. I learned how to introduce photographs as tools, use photo elicitation to deepen responses, address ethical considerations, and analyse visual and narrative data.”
“The focus on co-production and research rigour was a game changer.”
Materials were praised as clear, accessible, and applicable to real-world research contexts, and the overall format allowed for meaningful collaboration, reflection, and immediate application of new skills.
Professor Verusia Chetty, a long-time champion of qualitative research and co-host of the event, remarked: “Qualitative research allows us to explore the richness of human experiences. It enables voices that are often marginalised to be heard and understood in context. At UKZN, we are committed to fostering these approaches, especially in health sciences, where complexity and context matter.”
The event was generously supported by the National Research Foundation (NRF) through a Knowledge Interchange and Collaboration (KIC) grant. Gratitude is also extended to Professor Percy Mashige, Dean and Head of the School of Health Sciences, for his strategic support and encouragement of initiatives that elevate the School’s research standing.
“Sincere appreciation goes to Ms Bongiwe Gumede (Academic Development Officer) and Mrs Pam Singh (Teaching and Learning Administrative Officer), whose dedication ensured the seamless co-ordination of the workshop,” said Naidoo.
The workshop concluded with closing reflections, leaving participants inspired and equipped to deepen their qualitative research practice. It reinforced UKZN’s leadership in research excellence and marked an important step toward building a vibrant, inclusive, and methodologically diverse academic community.
Words and photograph: Lunga Memela
author : .author email : .UKZN Library Services Marks Mandela Day with Visit from Primary School Learners
Scenes from the Mandela Day event.The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Library Services celebrated Mandela Day by hosting over 30 Grade 7 learners from The Grange Primary School, located in Pietermaritzburg.
Hosted during the school holidays, the Library Services dedicated their 67 minutes to inspiring learners with an interactive programme that explored the importance of libraries in advancing change through education and lifelong learning, under this year’s theme: ‘It’s Still in Our Hands to Combat Poverty and Inequity - Justice for All’.
In her welcome address, Professor Ruth Hoskins, Dean of Teaching and Learning at the College of Humanities, highlighted the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as transformation policies addressing global injustice. She made special mention of Goal 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education that promotes lifelong learning opportunities for all, and Goal 5, which focuses on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.
Hoskins encouraged learners to recognise their role in transforming the world by focusing on growth and development. She said, “The best tool for this is education, which remains the greatest equaliser.”
Commenting on the theme, Hoskins remarked: “Your hands are the tools of transformation. If you seek change, growth, and development in your life, you need to take the steps to make it a reality, by making decisions today that will benefit you tomorrow.”
Dr Nonhlanhla Ngcobo, Director of Library Services encouraged learners to work hard from primary through to high school to gain access to university; in particular, UKZN as an Institution that ‘Inspires Greatness’.
She explained the University’s College model and discussed available programmes and entry requirements. Ngcobo also urged learners to become scholars of lifelong learning by including recreational books in their reading, not only those aligned to their academic programmes.
The Mandela Day initiative between UKZN’s Library Services and The Grange Primary School is part of a long-term community engagement effort that has spanned several years.
After being approached a few years ago by Mr Musawakhe Ndlovu, Principal of The Grange Primary School, to help establish a school library, the unit ran a successful book drive supported by academics and donated furniture. This led to the library being launched last year on Mandela Day.
The initiative was the result of collaboration between the principal, the media teacher, and UKZN Library Services staff, who worked closely to ensure that the library’s setup and environment were conducive to learning. Ndlovu said that attending this year’s Mandela Day celebrations at UKZN was a direct outcome of the strong relationship built over the years.
“Their assistance in revamping and launching our own library last year on Mandela Day has had a massive impact on the educators and learners. It’s given them an inviting space with more reading material.”
Ndlovu added: “We look forward to a continued relationship with the University and our visit today will ensure that we ultimately prepare learners to enrol in universities by exposing them to library resources and university life at a young age.”
The Disability Support Unit presented a talk that described how they make the University accessible and inclusive for all, by providing people with disabilities with tools and materials required for them to succeed academically and make their student experience an enjoyable one.
Learners were also taught a few terms in Sign Language.
Dr Praversh Sukram, Senior Manager: Circulation at UKZN, thanked the learners and teachers for attending, and the service providers and the librarians for making the event possible.
Hulamin, one of the biggest suppliers of aluminium in Africa, provided a career exhibition stand where learners could engage with them on their available bursary opportunities and careers.
The learners enjoyed a ‘Friendzone Session’ where they wore fun and quirky outfits. They were also taken on a tour of the Cecil Renaud Main Library on the Pietermaritzburg campus and received goodie bags containing items donated by UKZN Colleges.
Words: Hlengiwe Khwela
Photographs: Andile Ndlovu
author : .author email : .UKZN Law Academics Shine at the 2025 Southern African Law Teachers Conference
UKZN academics and students at the 2025 Southern African Law Teachers Conference.A distinguished delegation from the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s School of Law made a significant impact at the 2025 Southern African Law Teachers Conference (SALTC), held at the University of Pretoria from 13 to 18 July.
Under the theme ‘Reflections on Constitutional Supremacy in Southern Africa: Reviewing the Impact on Law Teaching, Learning and Practice’, the conference brought together legal academics, researchers, and postgraduate students from across the region to explore the influence of constitutional principles and their influence on legal education and practice.
UKZN’s scholars played prominent roles throughout the event:
Professor Donrich Thaldar, a health law expert, participated in a panel discussion themed, ‘Building Bridges: Towards Meaningful and Sustainable Collaboration in Legal Education Across Southern African Universities’. He also presented a paper titled: ‘Convergence: Data/Property Law’, examining data governance and property rights in the digital era.
Lecturer Ms Nomfundo Mthembu, chaired a session on Governance and presented a research paper titled: ‘Constitutional Supremacy and Reproductive Rights: Academics’ Perspectives on Fertility Preservation Technologies’.
Ms Nicci Whitear-Nel, a Senior Lecturer in Law, discussed procedural reform in ‘Lessons from Section 158 of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977 for Video Conferencing in Civil Processes’.
Ms Roasia Hazarilall, a Doctoral Candidate, in her presentation challenged traditional parentage laws in: ‘From Donor to Dad? Rethinking Legal Parentage for Known Sperm Donors with Parental Intent’.
Law Lecturer Mr Siphesihle Mbatha, together with his third-year student, Mr Zabazendoda Biyela, explored constitutional issues in, ‘The Legal Implications of the Nazareth Baptist Church Marriages in the Constitutional Democracy’.
As per tradition, the conference took place at the same time as the meeting of the Law Deans of public universities in South Africa, which was attended by the Dean and Head of the School of Law, Professor Freddy Mnyongani. He commended the Law students and academics for representing UKZN on a national platform like the SALTC.
He said: “These contributions highlight UKZN’s commitment to academic excellence and addressing pressing legal and societal challenges in Southern Africa. The University’s active involvement in the SALTC reaffirmed its leadership in innovative and impactful legal scholarship.”
Words: NdabaOnline
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .A Night of Wonder: STEC Celebrates 15 Years with Explosive Science Show
The Big Science Show Off celebrated 15 years of UKZN’s Science and Technology Education Centre.Click here for isiZulu version
The Science and Technology Education Centre (STEC) marked its 15th anniversary with a spectacular science show on the evening of Wednesday, 23 July.
The event, held at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), featured a joint performance by UKZN’s Dr Tanja Reinhardt (Dr T) and the United Kingdom’s Professor Stephen Ashworth (Kitchen Science). Over 100 attendees gathered in eager anticipation. They were not disappointed.
STEC, which grew out of the need to house the former University of Natal’s Geology Museum (founded in the 1950s), first opened its doors as a Science and Technology Education Centre and Geology Education Museum in 2010. Today, it serves as a dynamic hub for science communication, offering exhibitions, science shows, workshops, career guidance and educator training. Its mission is to spark interest in science and engineering, especially among young learners, while showcasing UKZN as a centre of excellence.
Over the years, STEC has reached out to schools across KwaZulu-Natal, especially those in under-resourced communities. Through these outreach programmes, the centre not only hosts workshops but also provides resources to enable hands-on experimentation. Collaborations with various organisations have helped STEC close the science education gap in the region.
This year’s show was particularly emotional, as it marked Dr T’s final Big Science Show Off event before her upcoming retirement in December. She shared heartfelt memories with the audience, many of whom had known her since they were young learners attending STEC programmes. Among the guests were UKZN lecturers who had previously collaborated with the centre. They joined in on the fun, attempting to blow out the famously ‘unblowable’ candles, while Dr T charmed the crowd with her signature humour and passion for science.
The evening ended on a sweet note. Guests enjoyed cake and indulged in liquid nitrogen ice cream made on the spot, with Ashworth providing a live demonstration on how it was made. The night was a beautiful blend of science, nostalgia and celebration.
STEC’s 15-year milestone is a testament to its unwavering dedication to making science accessible, engaging, and enjoyable for all. As Dr T prepares to bid farewell, her legacy will live on in the countless young minds she helped inspire. Looking ahead, STEC remains committed to igniting curiosity and nurturing the next generation of scientists and innovators.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Students Shine at National Geological Awards
Ms Ishta Maharaj (left) and Ms Tamera Heeralal.Two students from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) have been honoured with prestigious national awards from the Geological Society of South Africa (GSSA), recognising their academic excellence and outstanding contributions to geological research.
Ms Tamera Heeralal, a marine geologist and MSc graduate from UKZN, was awarded the 2025 John Handley Award for the best MSc thesis in Geology produced at a South African university. Her thesis, ‘Submerged Gravel Shorelines of the Inner to Mid-Shelf Offshore Hottentot’s Bay, Namibia’, investigates ancient diamond-bearing shoreline deposits submerged beneath the Atlantic Ocean off Namibia’s coast.
Over millions of years, the Orange River transported diamond-rich gravel to the coastline during low sea - level stands. As sea levels rose, these gravel beaches were submerged and preserved beneath marine sediments. Using high-resolution sub-bottom sonar (akin to an ‘X-ray’ of the seafloor), multibeam bathymetry, and data from over 6 400 boreholes, Heeralal reconstructed the ancient land surface and stratigraphy. Her work mapped submerged beach systems and revealed how geological features such as embayments and rock-bound straits played a role in protecting these deposits from erosion.
Her findings provide crucial insights into how coastlines responded to historic sea-level fluctuations - an increasingly relevant topic in the context of modern climate change. Her work also assists offshore diamond mining efforts by identifying likely zones of gravel accumulation. With nearly four years of offshore experience working along the west coast of South Africa and Namibia for a diamond mining company, Heeralal currently operates from a survey vessel where she collects, processes, and interprets geophysical data to guide early-stage marine mineral exploration. She also spends time on sampling vessels, logging and analysing sediment samples recovered from the ocean floor.
Heeralal has published three journal articles from her master’s, all in high-ranking Q1 international publications.
Ms Ishta Maharaj, a current MSc candidate at UKZN, received the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) Award for her exceptional academic performance in 2024. She completed her BSc Honours degree summa cum laude, achieving an overall average of 81% and earning first-class passes in all her subjects. Her honours dissertation, ‘Strain Analysis of Ocelli and Pillows in Komatiites of the Buffalo River Greenstone Belt, KwaZulu-Natal’, involved extensive fieldwork, research, and data analysis.
Her study focused on whether ocelli - rounded, leucocratic primary features found in volcanic rocks that deform over time - could serve as reliable kinematic indicators for strain analysis, similar to the better-known pillow structures. By applying Shape Preferred Orientation (SPO) software, which analyses the alignment of structures, she demonstrated that both ocelli and pillows experienced similar deformation patterns, reflecting east-west compression and north-south extension. The results indicated increasing finite strain from north to south across the study area, likely due to proximity to a shear zone. Maharaj concluded that ocelli may indeed be used effectively as strain markers in structural geology.
Her dissertation received a mark of 83%, complementing her high aggregate and leading to her recognition by the GSSA. Currently, Maharaj is pursuing her master’s research, which uses machine learning techniques to identify the preferential trapping of high-quality alluvial diamonds in offshore structural basins near Hottentot’s Bay, southern Namibia. The project is funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation and the National Research Foundation (NRF) Centre of Excellence for Integrated Mineral and Energy Resource Analysis (CIMERA) in collaboration with the Trans Hex Group. Maharaj is also working on publishing her honours research and continues to grow her academic profile.
The awards were formally presented at a ceremony on 17 July 2025. Both students credit their supervisors, families, and peers for their support and continue to represent UKZN at the forefront of geological research and innovation in South Africa.
Words: Lauren Hoyer
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Hosts its 18th Golf Day
Highlights from UKZN’s annual Golf Day.Golfing enthusiasts took to the Zimbali Golf Course in July for a round of golf in support of academically deserving students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN).
Funds were raised for eight students through the University’s 18th annual Golf Day - a highlight on the University calendar for alumni, staff and students.
In her welcome address, the Executive Director of Corporate Relations, Ms Normah Zondo, thanked all the sponsors, including Standard Bank, which has been the lead sponsor for 12 years.
Zondo emphasised the impact of the scholarships: “These are not just numbers - these are lives being changed. Every sponsor, every player, every contribution counts,” she said.
Zondo acknowledged the players and other sponsors for giving hope to the students. “Thank you for believing in the transformative power of Higher Education. Your generosity has helped to drive real change,” she said.
“May the spirit of giving remain as strong as your backswing,” she quipped.
Speaking on behalf of the bursary recipients, Ms Siphesihle Ndlela said: “South Africa’s past with education is one that we all know, one where education was a privilege only provided for a few. We grew up with dreams of reaching heights that our grandparents and some of our parents could not even begin to imagine. However, this dream always seems a bit further away from reach when you lack the financial capacity to fully manifest it, it is when you struggle with registration because of unpaid fees, when you cannot obtain your academic record after all the hard work you put in because you could not afford to pay those fees,” said Ndlela.
“However, it is individuals like yourselves who restore that hope. When you take time out of your day, and money out of your pockets. The donations you have made are not only an investment to paying off our fees but they are also an investment into our future, an investment into the lives we aim to touch through our chosen careers and an investment into future generations as well who will find themselves in our shoes in years to come - when we will be the ones sitting at these tables as donors paying it forward because we understand the magnitude of someone believing in your potential enough to invest in it,” she said.
“It is because of you that we can sleep a little better at night, focus a little more and channel more energy into our studies. On behalf of all recipients of this bursary, thank you to all the sponsors from the bottom of our hearts. Thank you for seeing us, thank you for believing in us and most importantly thank you for investing in us.”
The Commercial Banking Relationship Manager at Standard Bank and UKZN alumnus, Mr Mdu Zenda, underscored the importance of education. “When the going gets tough, always remind yourself of the endless opportunities and possibilities education can bring forth.”
“Academics require lots of dedication, patience and can often be lonely - but I hope that our sponsorships today signal that we see you, we are clapping for you and we understand your plight,” said Zenda.
Nineteen-year-old Miss Sinokuhle Beje from Maclear in the Eastern Cape is reading for a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting.
“One of the biggest challenges has been the financial pressure on my family. My parents are responsible for supporting not only my studies but also the university education of my three sisters. This scholarship eases that burden and allows me to focus more on my studies without constant financial stress. It brings me one step closer to completing my degree successfully,” said Beje.
She said she was inspired by Ms Nonkululeko Gobodo to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough. “As South Africa’s first Black female Chartered Accountant, she broke barriers during apartheid and went on to co-found one of the country’s largest Black-owned audit firms. Her courage to lead and create opportunities reminds me that with determination and purpose, I too can rise above challenges and succeed.”
“I am truly grateful to Standard Bank and all the other sponsors for investing in students like me from the ‘missing middle’. Your support not only lightens our financial load but also motivates us to keep striving for excellence. Thank you for making a meaningful difference in my life,” said Beje.
Third-year Bachelor of Oral Hygiene student Miss Caitlin Reddy said her academic journey has come with its fair share of challenges. “From long hours of studying and clinical work to the constant pressure of balancing personal responsibilities with academic expectations. Financial strain has often added to that stress, but receiving this bursary has lifted a huge weight off my shoulders. It not only eases the financial burden but also allows me to focus more fully on my studies and future goals. I’m truly grateful to the sponsors for this generous support - it’s made a meaningful difference in my life.”
“My parents have made countless sacrifices to support my education, often putting their own needs aside to ensure I have every opportunity to succeed. Their hard work, resilience, and unwavering belief in me inspire me every single day. Knowing the effort, they’ve put in pushes me to stay focused, work harder, and make the most of every opportunity - not just for myself, but to honour everything they’ve done for me,” said Reddy.
Ms Abigail Stoffels, from Pietermaritzburg, is currently in her third year of studying towards a Bachelor of Medical Science in Physiology. She said this bursary will allow her to focus on her studies: “Studying away from home and being self-funded has been one of the challenges on my academic journey. I have depended solely on my parents to cover all my financial needs, including accommodation, transport, and food, which has placed significant pressure on them and myself. Receiving this bursary will help to ease that burden and give my parents and me relief,” said Stoffels.
“My parents inspire me to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough. Watching them work hard to provide for me - not just financially, but in every aspect of my life - and ensuring I have more opportunities and choices than they had, motivates me every day. Their unwavering support is my greatest encouragement,” she added.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude for this opportunity. I do not take it for granted and will continue to work hard to make the most of it.”
Mr Wandile Gusha, a Bachelor of Science student in Computer Science and Information Technology from Bizana in the Eastern Cape, outlined the challenges he has faced and how the scholarship will help: “Coming from a financially disadvantaged background, it has often been difficult to meet the financial demands of university. There have been times when I was uncertain about how I would afford essential study materials or even continue my studies. This scholarship is a huge relief - it will allow me to fully focus on my academic journey without the constant burden of financial stress,” said Gusha.
“My biggest inspiration is my family and the desire to create a better future for us. I am also deeply motivated by the idea of using technology to solve real-world problems and make a positive impact on society. Knowing that others believe in my potential gives me strength when times get tough,” he said.
“I am incredibly grateful for this scholarship and the support it represents - it means more than words can express,” he added.
Second-year Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences’ student, Miss Erin Chantler, said one of the biggest challenges at university is finding the balance between academic and personal life. “Compared to school - the content at university is immensely more voluminous. You must be continuously engaging with your studies to not fall behind in the lecture content. With the degree that I’m studying, I spend most of my day on campus, with lectures starting at 7h45 and lab-based practicals only ending at 17h00. This makes it difficult to potentially get a part-time job to earn money as a student, as I still have to go home and revise the lecture content from that day,” she said.
“This scholarship not only eases the financial burden of paying for my tertiary education, which I am grateful to my parents for, but it also motivates me to continue to put in the hard work and late nights studying to continue to achieve good results.”
“When things get tough, I am grateful that I have a family that is there for me and continuously supports me throughout my academic journey. My friends also play a large role in continuously motivating me to be the best student I can be.”
“I’d just like to thank the sponsors that have made these scholarships possible. They have helped to change the lives of many students,” said Chantler.
Twenty-four-year-old Ms Siphesihle Ndlela from Ridgeview, Cato Manor is in her third year of reading for a Bachelor of Social Science, majoring in Politics and Philosophy. “My main challenge has been fees. I was financially excluded in 2022, and as a result, a degree I was supposed to complete in 2023/2024 will now take two extra years. The financial difficulties, coupled with academic stress, have been difficult to navigate - especially given the limited bursary and scholarship funding available to ‘missing middle’ humanities students. This scholarship will help to alleviate that financial strain,” said Ndlela.
“My mom is my biggest support system and has always tried her best to ensure that I know how proud she is of the dedication I give to my studies. She’s also set a very good example for myself and my siblings on not giving up and always trying even when there seems to be no immediate solution. Her support inspires and drives me to want more for myself and my future,” said Ndlela.
“My sincerest gratitude to all the sponsors of this scholarship,” she added.
Miss Thando Nzuza a third-year Bachelor of Social Science student majoring in Marketing, Media and Cultural Studies, said: “Aside from making my mom proud, my passion for self-development and education inspires me and has made every challenge worthwhile.”
“Not having funding made studying difficult. I chose not to stay in residence to avoid the extra cost, which meant long daily commutes to and from campus. This scholarship will allow me to settle my fees - lifting a great burden off my shoulders and allowing me to focus entirely on my studies,” said Nzuza.
Mr Thapelo Nyawose, a third-year LLB student at UKZN, said he was truly honoured to receive the bursary. “Receiving this bursary brings me closer towards finishing my degree reduces the weight of financial stress. It reassures me that my hard work and dedication is recognised.”
Professor Ernest Kalema, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Law and Management Studies, thanked the sponsors and everyone who had made the day a success, including Corporate Relations’ Ms Shakila Thakurpersad, the tournament organiser.
Sponsors included Standard Bank, Serendipity Corporate Division, Travel with Flair, Konica Minolta, Southern Sun, Syavaya Corporate Travel, The Capital Group, the Graduate School of Business and Leadership, the College of Humanities, DALRO, Shepstone & Wylie, Magic Pan Caterers, Coastlands Hotels & Resorts, Sun International, the College of Health Sciences, the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, and Panish Caterers.
Words: Raylene Captain-Hasthibeer
Photographs: Sethu Dlamini and supplied
author : .author email : .Landmark Grassland Congress Held in Hilton
Delegates at the 60th Congress of the Grassland Society of Southern Africa at the ANEW Hotel in Hilton.The Grassland Society of Southern Africa (GSSA) held its 60th Congress in Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal and online. This milestone celebrated the Society, which was founded in 1966 by staff of the then University of Natal, and marked a return to the city where its first Congress was held.
The GSSA aims to advance rangeland ecology and pasture management in Africa, achieving this by publishing high-quality research in its African Journal of Range and Forage Science, hosting the annual Congress, translating science into policy and practice, and developing human capacity.
Several UKZN staff and students were part of the local organising committee, which was chaired by Professor Kevin Kirkman.
The Congress opened with a publishing workshop facilitated by Ms Rowena Gordon, Senior Managing Editor at the British Ecological Society, and Mr Errol Douwes from eThekwini Municipality. Some delegates also visited the world-famous grassland fire and nutrient addition experiments at UKZN’s Ukulinga Research Farm, now in their 75th year.
Mayor of the uMngeni Municipality, Councillor Chris Pappas, officially opened the proceedings and thanked the GSSA for choosing to host the event in this region, highlighting its rich and complex biodiversity and governance.
“We are deeply reliant on the ecosystems you are going to discuss today and over the next few days, and we are living in times when science and local governments must work hand in hand, because the problems that we face, whether it is climate shocks, invasive species, water scarcity, or land degradation can’t be solved by government alone. And they also can’t be solved by science alone,” said Pappas.
In his presidential address, UKZN’s Dr Ntuthuko Mkhize said, “We gather not only to share science but also to reflect, to renew, and to recommit ourselves to the vision and values that have held us together for six decades.”
He emphasised the Society’s sense of purpose, its growing vision of sustainable rangeland management for food security, how it had adapted to a changing South Africa, and its strengths that would ensure its sustainability.
Professor Tim O’Connor presented the opening keynote address that covered the sustainability of the GSSA and how to take an ecosystem-level systems approach to rangeland systems for production and biodiversity. He outlined the purpose of the GSSA’s journal in particular as being to showcase good, hard, honest work on local issues.
A keynote address from Professor Ian Scoones of the Institute of Development Studies (IDS) at the University of Sussex described competing narratives for livestock development and policy, drawing attention to the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists in 2026.
Mrs Lynne Trollope delivered a keynote presentation covering 58 years of research on fire in African grasslands and savannas. UKZN’s disciplines of grassland science, geography and environmental science, and hydrology featured in various oral and poster presentations.
The Congress sessions were themed around rangeland ecology and management, communal rangelands, biodiversity and conservation, planted pastures and feeding ecology, climate change and carbon, restoration and rehabilitation, invasive species, water catchments, and fire ecology.
At the Society’s Annual General Meeting during the Congress, UKZN’s Dr Michelle Tedder was confirmed as the incoming President of the Society, taking over from Mkhize, while Dr Sindiso Chamane-Nkuna was announced as the incoming Vice-President.
The gala dinner that closed the Congress featured an awards ceremony where several UKZN staff, students and alumni were recognised for their contributions to the field.
Professor Kevin Kirkman received the Prestige Award, which is only conferred when there is a deserving candidate and was last presented five years ago. This honour recognises a scientist whose work has made a notable impact on range and forage science and/or practice.
Alumni Dr Naledi Zama and Dr Lindokuhle Dlamini received the awards for best platform presentation and young grassland scientist, respectively, PhD candidate Mr Roy Caister was awarded for best research proposal poster.
The award for the best paper published in the African Journal of Range & Forage Science in 2024 was presented to Dr Robyn Nicolay, along with co-authors Kirkman, Tedder and Mkhize.
Following the-Congress, a workshop on nature-based solutions (NbS) in rangeland management was hosted by staff from UKZN and the IDS staff. The session explored the NbS experiences and ideas related to their collaboration on the Resilient and Equitable Nature-based Pathways in Southern African Rangelands project.
Words and photograph: Christine Cuénod
author : .author email : .KZN Urology Patients Benefit from African Synergy Health Mandela Week Surgical Marathon
Participants at ASH’s Mandela Week Surgical Marathon.Dr Cindy Zietsman, Head of Urology at UKZN, announced a significant milestone at the launch of the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) segment of African Synergy Health’s (ASH) Mandela Week Surgical Marathon.
The event took place at the Victoria Mxenge Hospital/St Aidan’s Hospital Complex and marked the first public-private partnership of its kind in KZN, involving the KZN Department of Health (DoH), UKZN and ASH.
Procedures that ordinarily would have been prohibitively expensive for public sector patients were made accessible through powerful partnerships, embodying the spirit of Ubuntu - ‘I am because we are’. The surgical marathon achieved 115 procedures for 38 patients over five days, across nine theatre slates at the St Aidan’s facility. Three other provinces also participated in the initiative, with ASH Founder Dr Viola Morolo present to open the event. The long-term goal is to build an inclusive model involving the private sector and trade, with the ultimate aim of achieving ‘zero patient waiting lists’.
The marathon was the result of collaborative efforts by various stakeholders, including the DoH and UKZN’s Urology discipline, under the leadership of Zietsman. She described the outcomes as “absolutely phenomenal.” Zietsman praised her small, dedicated team for their commitment to realising Morolo’s vision, supported by the KZN Department of Health and UKZN leadership.
Urology involves the surgical treatment of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, prostate, urethra and male reproductive organs. Surgery addresses a wide range of conditions, from birth anomalies to cancer, infections and chronic diseases.
Acting CEO of St Aidan’s Hospital, Mr Brian Shezi, said there were approximately 600 patients on the urological surgery waiting list - “a matter of real concern to us.” A five-year memorandum of understanding has been signed with the KZN DoH and ASH to address this backlog, which is driven by a shortage of urology specialists in the province, particularly in the public sector.
“Access to private care comes at the hefty cost,” said Morolo who emphasised ASH’s commitment to eliminating waiting lists: “Our urological fraternity is determined to bring waiting lists to ashes!'”
At the launch, Morolo said: “The event aims to bring hope and healing to communities across Gauteng, North West, KZN and the Free State, and eventually the entire country, through the involvement of all surgical disciplines. This is made possible through the support of the National DoH and sponsors such as Urology Hospital, Medhold, Boston Scientific and NuAngle Wismed.”
Morolo highlighted that in alignment with the Nelson Mandela Day global call to action for people to recognise their individual power to make a difference and change the world around them, the surgical marathon 2025 would conduct a wide spectrum of surgical procedures for public patients, including robot-assisted radical prostatectomies, with the vision of private hospital groups becoming a part of the team.
Zietsman added: “The most incredible part was the immense support we received from our management, the KZN DoH and UKZN, allowing us to reduce theatre waiting lists. This is the main aim of the outreach service, which we are deeply passionate about. She emphasised that urology training is a key focus of UKZN’s academic mission.”
A study titled: ‘The High Prevalence of Muscle Invasive Disease among Bladder Cancer Patients attending a Regional Hospital in Durban’ earned Dr Siphesihle Mbatha, Consultant Urologist at St Aidan’s Hospital, his Master of Medicine in Urology from UKZN.
“I am honoured to have been part of this extraordinary national humanitarian initiative,” said Mbatha.
“This effort embodies the spirit of service and solidarity, making a tangible difference in reducing the elective surgical waiting list and restoring hope to countless deserving patients.”
Mbatha said witnessing the commitment of every team member, the generosity of private companies, and the expertise of volunteer specialists were deeply inspiring. “I’m really grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this mission. It reminds me why we do what we do, and I’m proud to stand alongside such passionate changemakers,” he said.
The St Aidan’s Victoria Mxenge Hospital Complex offers urological services at the St Aidan’s site. It is envisioned that further surgical marathons will be held throughout the year to maintain the momentum of ASH’s Mandela Week initiative. “Strive constantly for excellence and the best care for all of KZN. Strive for zero waiting lists,” said Zietsman.
Dr Sivi Moodley, Acting Medical Manager at Victoria Mxenge Hospital, announced that the facility has been nominated for the 2025 African Health Excellence Awards under the category ‘Health Institution of the Year’. This award honours healthcare institutions that consistently uphold high standards of patient care, implement innovative practices and contribute meaningfully to healthcare in their communities.
“We are honoured to form part of excellence in service,” said Zietsman.
Words and photographs: Lunga Memela
author : .author email : .UKZN Hosts Creative Problem-Solving Workshop for Student Entrepreneurs
Highlights from the two-day Ignite Your Creativity Workshop.The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Student Entrepreneurship portfolio hosted a two-day creative problem-solving workshop for students currently involved in entrepreneurship or aspiring to start their own businesses.
Themed ‘Ignite Your Creativity’, the workshop was facilitated by US-based Ohio University Professor Nicole Antoinette Smith, a social entrepreneur who grew up in generational poverty and later founded eleV8T, a workforce development programme aimed at empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
Smith said the workshop was curated to explore different approaches to solving problems using a variety of creative problem-solving techniques. An educator by profession, she added that she aims to reimagine education by igniting innovation among future entrepreneurs.
Students were divided into groups based on their business interests, including categories such as agriculture, manufacturing, services and retail. During the interactive session, they received a creative problem-solving toolkit - comprising an eleV8T tool card, sticky notes, a marker, poster board and a sandglass timer - to guide them through each task.
The first task was to define challenges within their business category and explore ways to address them.
Smith introduced the students to the two key thinking stages of problem-solving and highlighted their importance in fuelling creativity and attaining progress. She said divergent thinking was the imaginative phase that called on individuals to generate as many ideas as possible, exploring options and expanding possibilities, while convergent thinking was the selective phase, where individuals sorted, prioritised and refined their ideas, narrowing their focus on a solution.
To inspire divergent thinking, Smith encouraged the students to ask creative questions like ‘How to’, ‘How might’, ‘In what ways’, and ‘What might be’, to stimulate the creative process.
Working in their groups, students selected a key challenge and applied a structured problem-solving approach that follows four pivotal steps: clarifying the problem, generating ideas, developing solutions, and implementing and testing.
Smith defined clarifying the problem “as grasping the reality of the situation, gathering all the information required, identifying gaps, problems and issues, and focusing on the right problem.”
She urged students to overcome their fear in order to create, and to use both divergent and convergent thinking methods, along with generative artificial intelligence, to develop ideas.
Remarking on the benefits of creative problem solving, Smith said it allowed entrepreneurs to make decisions faster, be more innovative, have team engagement and be resilient.
Students remarked that the workshop helped reignite their creativity when addressing entrepreneurial challenges.
Words: Hlengiwe Khwela
Photographs: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .UKZN Participates in 5th ISA Forum of Sociology: ‘Knowing Justice in the Anthropocene’
Dr Desiree Manicom and Dr Nokuthula Ngubane.University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) academics, Dr Desiree Manicom and Dr Nokuthula Ngubane recently attended the Fifth International Sociological Association (ISA) Forum of Sociology, titled ‘Knowing Justice in the Anthropocene’, held from 6-11 July 2025 at Mohammed V University in Rabat, Morocco.
The forum facilitated interdisciplinary dialogue across the ISA’s 67 Research Committees, Working Groups and Thematic Groups, focusing on issues of ontological and epistemic justice, environmental justice, legal justice, transitional justice, land justice, racial justice and social welfare justice.
The forum targeted academics (from early-career to senior scholars), policymakers and NGOs researching current ontological, epistemic, environmental and social challenges. It was attended by 4 842 delegates from over 100 countries across all continents.
At the forum, Ngubane, a postdoctoral fellow in the School of Social Sciences, and Manicom, a senior lecturer in Policy and Development Studies, presented a study titled, ‘Social Protection of Vulnerable Children in South Africa: The Case of the Implementation of the Foster Child Grant Programme’.
The research was undertaken as part of Ngubane’s doctoral study motivated by the high rates of orphaned and vulnerable children living in KwaZulu-Natal.
According to the 2023 South African General Household Survey, KwaZulu-Natal has the second highest number of orphaned children in the country, at 14.6% (Department of Statistics South Africa, 2023). Furthermore, the South African Social Security Agency reported that KwaZulu-Natal had 38 332 Foster Child Grant recipients as of April 2025 (SASSA, 2025).
These issues have impacted the distribution of and access to the grant. Nonetheless, the Foster Child Grant remains an essential source of income for foster families, enabling them to meet children’s nutritional, medical and educational needs, and significantly improving their overall well-being.
However, the study found that foster parents in uMgungundlovu District face significant administrative and systemic hurdles in accessing the Foster Child Grant (FCG). These include unclear application procedures, extensive waiting periods, difficulties in obtaining required documentation, and issues during grant collection and renewal.
Recommendations from the study include: enhancing FCG information dissemination, streamlining administrative processes, bolstering administrative capacity, and strengthening intergovernmental and state agency collaboration and co-ordination.
“The forum provided an opportunity to network with international scholars and researchers in the area of welfare policy. The sessions served as platforms to engage with comparative frameworks and to explore future collaborative research and publications,” said Ngubane.
She added, “Engaging with scholars from across the globe was intellectually enriching, particularly through in-depth discussions on social welfare policies in diverse contexts.”
According to Ngubane and Manicom, these dialogues were especially insightful for shaping future comparative studies on child welfare systems. The forum also offered the opportunity to learn about Moroccan culture.
The next ISA gathering will be the XXI World Congress of Sociology which will take place in Gwangju, South Korea, from 4-10 July 2027.
Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Thuthuka Winter School Cultivates Accountants of the Future at UKZN
Thuthuka Bursary Winter School 2025.The School of Commerce at UKZN hosted the annual Thuthuka Bursary Winter School Programme, a three-day initiative designed to support and empower accounting students who are beneficiaries of the Thuthuka Bursary Fund.
This is generally known as part of the programme’s “wrap-around” support.
The programme was spearheaded by Ms Hlengiwe Ndlela, Thuthuka Deputy Programme Manager and Auditing Senior Lecturer at UKZN, Dr Masibulele Phesa, Taxation Senior Lecturer, and Ms Nokwazi Mkhize a member the PSS (Professional Service Staff) personnel supporting the team. It brought together Accounting students from first-year to postgraduate level (Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA) or Certificate in Theory of Accounting (CTA), aiming to foster academic growth, mental well-being, peer learning, mentorship and professional development.
The first day was dedicated to reflection, giving students a platform to speak openly about their experiences, challenges, and mental wellbeing. Students got to engage in honest conversations about how they have been coping with academic demands, the support received from lecturers and tutors, and the effectiveness of the academic support structures offered by both UKZN and the Thuthuka programme.
Students were also encouraged to suggest improvements, a critical component of the programme, as it allows those directly affected by the learning environment to contribute meaningfully to its enhancement.
The second day shifted focus to student wellness and psychological support. Guest speakers from the College of Law and Management Studies (CLMS) Student Support Services, including psychologist Ms Nonhlonipho Biyela, facilitated sessions on stress management and self-care.
Biyela highlighted how to identify signs of unhealthy stress and shared techniques to manage it. “Stress is not always bad, there’s eustress - the kind that motivates you. But when stress starts affecting your sleep, appetite or relationships, it becomes a problem. That’s when you need to step back and care for your mind and body,” she said.
She also discussed behavioural patterns associated with chronic stress and guided students through practical exercises aimed at relieving anxiety and improving focus.
A powerful peer-to-peer element featured PGDA students who shared their vacation work experiences with leading firms. One student, Ms Ayanda Xaba, an aspiring Chartered Accountant, spoke about her time at two of the big four accounting firms.
“Being able to shadow professionals while still at university gave me perspective. It connected the theory we learn with the reality of what the industry expects - and that clarity pushes you to work harder,” she said.
Her testimony was echoed by Mr Mbusi Ndlovu CA(SA) Manager: Sector Growth and Strategic Affairs at the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) and a Thuthuka alumni, who shared a heartfelt account of his journey to becoming a CA. He recalled falling seriously ill during his studies, a period that tested his resilience and commitment to his dream.
“There were days I could not see the end of the tunnel, but I knew why I started, and I wasn’t going to stop. Your journey will have setbacks - but don’t let them define you,” he shared.
Ms Sister Ntsele from SAICA’s Eastern Region, who also facilitates the broader SAICA Camp (for high school learners), addressed the students with a rousing motivational message. “You are not just studying a degree. You are future leaders who will impact industries, communities, and the world,” she said, reinforcing the long-term vision behind the programme.
Her sentiments were affirmed by Professor Stephen Mutula, Dean and Head of the School of Commerce, who was also in attendance.
“You are the ones that define our brand and the symbol of what we produce. So how ethically you do your work reflects the University. We urge you to be job creators, change the landscape when you step into industry,” he said.
Professor Suren Pillay, Coordinator of the Accounting Programmes, provided practical insight into the life of an Accounting student, underscoring the importance of mental and physical health balance.
Ms Teboho Moephudi provided an overview of SAICA’s leadership and shared academic performance statistics, revealing an impressive average pass rate above 70% among Thuthuka students. “This programme is not just about individuals - it’s about collective success. That’s why we bring together students from all levels: to encourage knowledge-sharing, mentorship, and to elevate each other,” she said.
She encouraged students to maintain this performance and continue striving for excellence.
On the final day, which coincided with Mandela Day, the students visited Ingane Yami Children’s Village, where they donated essential goods and spent time with the children. The outreach activity was followed by team-building exercises. These experiences were not only acts of service but a reminder that leadership includes compassion, and that giving back is a vital part of being a responsible professional.
Words and photographs: Ayanda Radebe
author : .author email : .STEC@UKZN Hosts Physics Research Camp
School learners participate in UKZN’s Physics Research Camp.Click here for isiZulu version
The Science Technology Education Centre (STEC@UKZN), based at the University of KwaZulu-Natal Westville campus, in partnership with Eskom Expo and Dr Angela Fösel and her team from the Friedrich Alexander University, Erlangen, Germany, hosted the second ‘Physics Research Camp’.
This initiative supports high school learners who are undertaking science-related projects by helping them bring their ideas to life. Nine learners were selected to participate in the five-day camp, during which they presented their project ideas and were assigned mentors to guide them through the research process.
The learners brought a diverse range of innovative projects to the camp.
Mr Shriyaan Sewpersad (Grade 11) explored how different materials impact the efficiency of solar panel energy capture, motivated by South Africa’s growing reliance on renewable energy.
Mr Azile Katleho Gambushe (Grade 10) built a functional hydroelectric model to investigate the feasibility of generating electricity from water flow.
Mr Okuhle Mgobhozi (Grade 11), inspired by Star Trek, investigated wave-particle duality through the double-slit experiment, engaging with key concepts in quantum physics.
Mr Khethelo Ntshangase (Grade 11) proposed a system for capturing carbon dioxide from waste incineration to reduce landfill usage and air pollution.
Ms Chinazan Ndiomaluke (Grade 11) combined her love for music and physics by examining how sound waves travel through different media using musical instruments.
Ms Dominique Nagan (Grade 11) studied light polarisation and quantum randomness, testing everyday light with simple filters.
Ms Mihle Sihlahla explored how different surfaces affect frictional force.
Grade 10 twins Ms Lunathi and Ms Luthando Mzindle developed a prototype digital tracking system to assist the South African Police Service (SAPS) in locating missing persons - demonstrating a strong commitment to solving real-world problems through technology.
Many of the participants arrived at the camp with limited or even negative perceptions of science. Mgobhozi admitted he once found science boring and imagined scientists living isolated lives, “cooped up in laboratories”. He was surprised when his tutor chatted about football - an experience that changed his assumptions. Similarly, Gambushe shared that he once believed scientists always worked flawlessly. Through practical activities, he realised that failure is common and valuable.
Ndiomaluke echoed this, saying the camp helped her understand that “science is patience - being able to repeat an experiment and not letting failure stop you from trying to reach your results.”
Lunathi and Luthando noted how often they had to repeat their experiments, a lesson in perseverance. Sewpersad observed that environmental factors, such as rising temperatures, impacted his solar panel experiment and required repetition to ensure accurate results. Encouragingly, all participants expressed interest in continuing their projects, with many intending to refine or expand their work based on mentor feedback.
The Physics Research Camp was more than a platform for projects - it was a transformative journey. Learners gained hands-on experience, built confidence and discovered that science is as much about curiosity and persistence as it is about results.
The Physics Research Camp sincerely thanks its sponsors from the Friedrich Alexander University, Eskom Expo, and the University of KwaZulu-Natal for their support, and organisers Dr Tanja Reinhardt (aka Dr T) and Miss Lexia Naidoo for making the camp possible. They also extended their gratitude to the Physics Department at the University of KwaZulu-Natal for providing access to their laboratories and facilities, and to Professor Mathew Moodley for his continued support and encouragement.
The camp would not have been possible without the help of dedicated mentors: Mr Varlen Moodley, Ms Whitney Mtolo, Mr Stuart Camps, Mr Mohammed Khan, Ms Simphiwe Mkhasibe, Ms Sinothando Mndali, Ms Bolelang Tsolo, and Ms Thembelihle Gumede, whose guidance made a lasting impact.
With renewed passion and purpose, these young scientists returned home inspired to keep exploring, experimenting, and innovating.
We look forward to hosting next year’s Physics Research Camp.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .High School Learners Explore Engineering at UKZN Winter School
Engineering Winter School participants 2025.A group of bright-eyed Grade 11 and Grade 12 learners from across KwaZulu-Natal recently spent an exciting week immersed in the world of engineering during the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) annual Engineering Winter School.
Designed to give aspiring engineers a real-world introduction to the diverse engineering fields, the programme offered a full schedule of practical experiences, interactive experiments, and hands-on learning. Over the course of the week, students explored each of UKZN’s Engineering Disciplines: Mechanical, Civil, Chemical, Mechatronics, Agricultural, and Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering. The immersive structure allowed learners to spend dedicated time in each Discipline while engaging with academics and current university students.
One of the highlights of the Civil Engineering module was the Aqualibrium Water Balancing Experiment, facilitated by the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) UKZN Student Chapter.
This educational activity simulated real-world water distribution challenges, encouraging learners to collaborate, apply engineering principles, and solve problems in real time. Mr Aryan Haricharan, Mr Tyrese Govender, and Mr Shaant Jaglal from the SAICE UKZN Student Chapter guided participants through the session. The chapter is known for organising impactful events for Civil Engineering students, including blood drives, fun days, and educational seminars.
During the Mechatronics Engineering sessions, students explored coding, programming, and the hands-on construction of hoverboards - a thrilling experience that combined innovation, creativity, and critical thinking. Guided by postgraduate students and lecturers, learners were introduced to the exciting world of robotics and automation. The session, held on Thursday, was organised by Ms Erin Zietsman and her team. As the student representative for the Institute for Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Robotics and Automation Society South Africa, Zietsman aligned the event with a broader initiative to promote robotics and inspire the next generation of engineers.
The aim was to expose students to real-world challenges in the field and ignite their creativity in crafting innovative solutions.
The event was hosted by the Scientific Multidisciplinary Advanced Research Technologies (SMART) Lab research group - Ms Whitney Mtolo, Mr Siyabonga Masiza, Mr Nkosingiphile Karl Langa, Mr Asande Mkhonza, Mr Asanda Ngubane, and Zietsman - in collaboration with Winter School mentors and several undergraduate volunteers. As a welcome gift, each participant received a custom-designed, temperature-sensitive, colour-changing 3D-printed keychain created by the SMART Lab team.
The day’s focus was building and flying drones, generously sponsored by RS. Before the hands-on session, students attended presentations on advanced mechatronics concepts and viewed project showcases that demonstrated real-world applications. These talks provided context for the role of mechatronic engineering in the broader field. A quiz with prizes encouraged engagement and friendly competition. Students then worked in teams to assemble and fly drone kits - a highlight of the day met with great enthusiasm. It was an inspiring experience that reflected the learners’ passion and curiosity.
Meanwhile, the Mechanical Engineering module featured an engaging afternoon session in collaboration with the Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI). Learners were introduced to rocket design and aerospace engineering, gaining hands-on experience in propulsion, aerodynamics, and space technology. The session ignited imaginations and highlighted the many opportunities within Engineering.
The Chemical Engineering Department welcomed students with engaging lab-based experiments and demonstrations on chemical reactions, process engineering, and sustainability in industrial applications. These activities helped bridge the gap between theory and practice while emphasising the environmental and societal impact of the discipline.
In Agricultural Engineering sessions, learners explored how technology is revolutionising agriculture. From irrigation systems to mechanised farming solutions, they gained insight into how engineering supports food security and environmental sustainability.
The Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering sessions introduced students to the fast-paced world of electronics and digital systems. Learners experimented with basic circuits, programmed microcontrollers, and explored the logic systems that power modern devices.
Throughout the Winter School, the students were mentored by passionate facilitators who encouraged critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation all essential traits of successful engineers.
UKZN’s Engineering staff and student ambassadors also provided guidance on subject choices, career paths, and university life.
For many participants, the Winter School confirmed their passion for Engineering and helped them identify which discipline they may pursue. “This was an eye-opening experience,” said one Grade 12 learner. “Before this week, I was only vaguely aware of what engineers do, but now I know I want to study Mechatronics and work in robotics. I loved every second of it.”
As UKZN continues to support Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and provide opportunities for learners to explore Engineering first-hand, programmes like the Engineering Winter School are shaping the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers and changemakers.
Words: Swasti Maney
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Future Scientists Inspired at BAS 2025
Be A Scientist programmes on the Westville and Pietermaritzburg campuses exposed aspirant young scientists to a number of disciplines.The College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science (CAES) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), in collaboration with the Science and Technology Education Centre (STEC@UKZN), hosted its annual Be A Scientist (BAS) Programme from 30 June to 4 July 2025.
The initiative welcomed 50 enthusiastic learners to the Pietermaritzburg campus and 40 to the Westville campus, offering a transformative experience to curious and motivated high school students from across KwaZulu-Natal. Held during the Term 2 school holidays, BAS 2025 brought together Grade 10 to 12 learners from various schools, providing them with an engaging glimpse into the world of science, research and university life.
The five-day programme included interactive lectures, hands-on experiments, and an insightful field trip. Learners also participated in soft skills training, career talks and team-building activities facilitated by experienced service providers.
Highlights at the Pietermaritzburg campus included activities in the Schools of Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Life Sciences, as well as a memorable visit to the Darvill Wastewater Treatment Works for bird ringing and a team-building session with Beach and Bush.
At the Westville campus, learners engaged with Microbiology, Chemistry, and the Microscopy and Microanalysis Unit, conducting experiments such as titration demonstrations, and organic and physical chemistry procedures. These activities were designed to deepen their understanding of chemical reactions and laboratory techniques. Afternoons were dedicated to practical, hands-on learning, including water quality testing of two campus ponds, colorimetry sessions on light absorption, and a robotics workshop at the TakeNoMore Warehouse. Learners rotated through these sessions to ensure comprehensive exposure.
The Westville campus programme also featured a dynamic line-up of guest speakers and researchers from fields such as Astronomy, Geology, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Biochemistry, Genetics, and Environmental Science. Learners engaged with experts from the Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI) and the Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), gaining valuable real-world insights. A highlight of the week was a captivating talk on quantum physics by special guest Professor Andreas Buchleitner from the University of Freiburg.
For many participants, BAS 2025 was more than a science programme - it was a journey of self-discovery.
“BAS 2025 was a programme I really enjoyed and wished I had known about sooner,” said Emihle Zakwe from Girls’ High School (Pmb). “From facing my fear of birds to finding a newfound interest in botany to getting out of my comfort zone and making new friends - this was truly one of the best ways to spend a break from school.”
“I enjoyed every part of it - from a short but impactful lecture on microbes to an adventurous field trip to Darvill Water Treatment. This was truly one of the best ways to spend a week in the Term 2 holidays,” she said.
Ms Akshaya Danilala from Epworth was equally enthusiastic. She said:
“The warm and welcoming atmosphere of the Microbiology Department, where I particularly enjoyed viewing specimens under the microscope. The fascinating Chemistry equipment and the expertise shared by the department staff. The serene and beautiful university gardens, which I thoroughly appreciated.
“The thrilling bird ringing activity - I was absolutely delighted to have had the chance to hold a bird. The team-building session with Beach and Bush was both fun and meaningful, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and camaraderie. Cindy’s personal encouragement in fostering interaction among students made a remarkable difference. The laughter, joy, and sense of belonging enriched the entire experience.”
The Zondi twins, Thunyiwe and Khulisile from Raisethorpe Secondary, shared their thoughts: “This year was even better than last year. It was a wonderful experience meeting new people and forming relationships - even if just for a week,” said Thunyiwe. “For us, the Chemistry and Biochemistry activities were the highlight.”
The programme also gave students a chance to connect with postgraduate students and researchers, inspiring many to consider future careers in science. As one participant aptly put it, “BAS doesn’t just teach you science - it makes you feel like you belong in science.”
Learners at STEC also shared their highlights. Mr Riaan Subramoney was drawn to the biochemistry, microbiology, and biotechnology labs, citing his passion for medical biology. Ms Lunathi Luho expressed gratitude for being selected and was especially inspired by Chemistry’s Dr Ajay Bissessur, who encouraged learners with the words: “You can make a difference if you continue to work hard.”
Ms Sinikiwe Gebashe appreciated the opportunity to apply theory in practical biochemistry labs.
As we wrap up another successful year, the College is proud to continue offering platforms like BAS that spark curiosity, build confidence, and open doors to future possibilities. We look forward to welcoming even more bright minds to UKZN in the years to come as we continue to Inspire Greatness.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Law Students Gain Practical Experience with Leading Firm
Mr Yajna Jobraj (centre), Candidate Attorney at Barkers Attorneys with UKZN Law students, from left, Mr Siyabonga Mazibuko, Ms Mbali Gumbi, Ms Luyanda Shozi, and Ms Siphesihle Ndebele.Click here for isiZulu version
The Black Lawyers Association Student Chapter (BLA SC) at UKZN Howard College proudly celebrated the success of its Winter Internship Programme, hosted in collaboration with Barkers Attorneys, a leading Umhlanga-based law firm.
Running from 16 to 19 July 2025, this third annual programme offered academically outstanding BLA SC-affiliated students the opportunity to gain invaluable practical legal experience. It aims to bridge the gap between theoretical legal education and real-world legal practice.
This year’s selected participants included Law students Ms Mbali Gumbi (second-year), Ms Luyanda Shozi (fourth-year), Ms Siphesihle Ndebele (in third-year), and Mr Siyabonga Mazibuko (third-year). These students were chosen based on academic achievements and their dedication to legal studies.
The success of the programme was further strengthened by Mr Yajna Jobraj, Candidate Attorney at Barkers Attorneys, who created a welcoming and supportive environment for the students.
During the internship, students explored various areas of Law, including Corporate Law, Wills and Estates, Contract Law, Labour Law, and Civil Litigation. They were also introduced to practical vocational training processes as prescribed by the Legal Practice Council.
Sharing his experience, Mazibuko said: “During the internship, we were guided through various practice areas and developed key legal skills. We worked on tasks such as contract amendments, letters of demand, and instruction letters to the sheriff. Our legal research and drafting abilities improved significantly. The Partners, Associates, and Candidate Attorneys at Barkers Attorneys were supportive and eager to share their knowledge.”
Commenting on the importance of the initiative, Mr Zenzwezinhle Khumalo, Chairperson of BLA SC at Howard College, said: “Vacation work and internship programmes serve as an important effort to bridge the gap between academic theory and the practical world of legal practice. They empower students with work experience during holidays, which is invaluable for their CVs and future legal careers. This is a core and imperative goal of the BLA SC to help students access opportunities such as vacation work and internships.”
The programme is scheduled to return during the upcoming Summer Vacation, continuing its commitment to empowering future legal professionals.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Quantum Science and Technology Workshop Aims to Build Capacity in Africa
From left: Professor Andrew Forbes, Dr Gcina Mhlophe, and Zibusiso Makhathini.In celebration of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)’s declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, UKZN’s proposed Centre for Quantum Computing and Technology (CQCtec), in collaboration with the South African Quantum Technology Initiative (SAQuTI), hosted the Quantum Science and Technology Across Africa Workshop.
The week-long engagement, which was part of UKZN’s broader commitment to position Africa at the forefront of the Second Quantum Revolution, brought together 50 delegates from across Africa and Germany.
Aimed at establishing an independent and dedicated research network for Quantum Science and Technology (QST) in Africa, the workshop formed part of a broader initiative to level the playing field in the emerging quantum economy and advance internationally competitive technological solutions through sustainable development on the African continent.
A highlight of the week was Seeing the Invisible with Quantum Ghosts, which is part of a series of monthly seminars where ‘science combines with jazz’ to explore scientific concepts and their societal impact.
A collaborative venture between CQCtec and UKZN’s Centre for Jazz and Popular Music, the series sparked interdisciplinary discussions exploring the synergies between science and the arts. Featured participants included inventor and School of Physics at the University of the Witwatersrand Professor Andrew Forbes, renowned storyteller, Dr Gcina Mhlophe, and Durban-based jazz pianist and composer, Zibusiso Makhathini.
Forbes explained that quantum physics allows researchers to weave patterns into the very fabric of light, turning it into a powerful tool for carrying information. By packing millions of distinct patterns into just one square millimetre of light, each pattern can be treated like a unique letter in an alphabet - enabling the encoding of vast amounts of information directly into light itself.
Shifting focus to quantum imaging, Forbes contrasted it with conventional imaging, which relies on position-based correlations - collecting light pixel by pixel to build up an image. In contrast, ghost imaging takes advantage of the strange properties of quantum physics, particularly the correlation between entangled photons. Though it may seem random, these correlations can be used to form clear images.
Forbes described how ghost imaging works by sending a series of known light patterns towards an object and measuring the total amount of light that bounces back - not from each pixel, but as a whole. By summing up the results from many such patterns, it’s possible to mathematically reconstruct the image of the object.
This approach challenges the traditional limits of optical systems, stating that “if you change the theory of assumptions, you can change the outcome,” Forbes said. Rather than capturing light pixel by pixel, ghost imaging uses patterns of light and their correlations, allowing scientists to form images even when the detector never directly sees the object. In essence, the image is built from the sum of all these interactions, making it possible to ‘see’ in entirely new ways.
With quantum imaging having been around for over three decades, Forbes shared how SAQuTI aims to “translate science into real technology that can make a difference”.
He added, “Human capital development is our strength and training people is our future, enabling us to develop skills that are important for society. These skillsets and technology can allow us to do things such as land planes in foggy conditions, develop cameras that can identify harmful gases, detect if truck drivers are likely to fall asleep, and convict criminals by taking photographs in dark environments using photons at strange wavelengths.”
Mhlophe performed the thrilling tale of Khethiwe, Queen of Mbira, a little girl whose magical talent of playing the thumb piano - a skill formerly only reserved for boys - was able to heal her ailing king.
Makhathini captivated the audience with powerful notes infused with electronic sounds that replicated the experience of ghost imaging.
In his vote of thanks, Professor Thomas Konrad from the School of Chemistry and Physics at UKZN said the seminar was part of a holistic experience that combines audio and visual senses.
Konrad said: “You are here at a special place at a special time as we conduct a workshop that has brought together participants from all around the continent to form a network that engages in QST with the aim of everyone benefitting from this new technology, and the African continent being part of it and a major player.”
Words: Hlengiwe Khwela
Photograph: Andile Ndlovu
author : .author email : .UKZN Alumni Tour Shangrila Indigenous Garden on the KZN South Coast
Exploring nature’s legacy - UKZN alumni reconnect at the serene Shangrila Indigenous Garden on the beautiful KZN South Coast.Over 100 UKZN alumni from across KwaZulu-Natal braved inclement weather on Saturday, 19 July 2025, to travel to Bazley on the South Coast for a visit to Shangrila, a magnificent indigenous garden.
The garden surrounds the home of fellow UKZN alumnus Ms Elizabeth Forsdick, who generously hosted the visit for the third time in eight years.
One of the country’s foremost indigenous landscapers, botanical artist, botanist, as well as a prolific author and UKZN Honorary Doctorate recipient, Ms Elsa Pooley, has provided landscaping advice at Shangrila for over a decade. She has slowly shaped the land’s flow, including its gardens, driveway, rock features, and stormwater channels. During the visit, Pooley provided an overview of the project and described the garden’s evolution before leading a walk through the space, identifying plants and their benefits for landscaping and biodiversity.
Shangrila is now teeming with wildlife, including birds, butterflies and insects. Winter provides a particularly vibrant display, with a wide variety of aloes in bloom and marine life such as sardines, whales, and dolphins visible offshore.
Light refreshments, UKZN publications, and memorabilia were available on the home’s scenic wrap-around verandah. Guests also had the opportunity to purchase Pooley’s various publications.
Guests networked and reminisced about their time at the University. It was interesting to note the wide range of professions represented among the alumni, all united by a shared passion for indigenous gardening.
This tour was one of several events organised by the Durban Alumni Association, co-ordinated by UKZN’s Alumni Relations Office.
Words: Finn Christensen
Photographs: Calvin Govender
author : .author email : .UKZN Legal Experts Expand African Jurisprudence Through Erasmus+ Exchange Programme in Italy
Ms Nomfundo Mthembu (seated, right in the first pic) and Professor Freddy Mnyongani (fourth from left in the second pic) with colleagues from the University of Messina.The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is one of 78 African universities across 18 countries that have entered into a mutual co-operation agreement under the UNITAFRICA Alliance.
This agreement promotes collaborative partnerships between African institutions and Italian-based universities. One such partner is the University of Messina.
Professor Freddy Mnyongani, Dean and Head of the School of Law at UKZN, and Law lecturer Ms Nomfundo Mthembu recently visited the University of Messina in Italy under the Erasmus+ Programme. Their participation marked a significant contribution to African legal scholarship on the international stage. For both academics, the engagement extended their scholarly exchange and deepened their impact on global legal discourse.
Mnyongani was hosted by Professor Marcello Di Stefano, while Mthembu was hosted by Professor Alessio Lo Giudice.
Mnyongani presented a seminar titled: ‘Beyond Borders: Decolonisation’s Challenges to International Law’, in which he critically examined the colonial legacies embedded in international law. He challenged the audience to rethink core concepts such as sovereignty, development and international legal legitimacy, advocating for a restructured global order in which African perspectives are central to legal reform.
Mthembu, again serving as a visiting professor, presented a seminar on access to Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs): comparative lessons between Italy and South Africa. Her analysis focused on constitutional protections, patient rights and ethical frameworks within both legal systems. She emphasised the need to decolonise Medical Law by integrating African values, indigenous ethics and community health philosophies in light of evolving global contexts.
Reflecting on the experience, Mthembu said: “This second opportunity to return to Messina allowed for deeper engagement - not just to present African scholarship, but to position it as a catalyst for meaningful global transformation in law and ethics. A true second bite at the cherry.”
Mnyongani added: “Our contributions demonstrate that African legal scholars are not only participants in global debates - we are thought leaders, shaping new frameworks that promote justice on a broader scale.”
The Erasmus+ exchange continues to serve as a vital bridge between institutions, highlighting the importance of diverse legal perspectives in addressing shared global challenges. As the collaboration between UKZN and the University of Messina evolves, it stands as a model of inclusive, transformative academic partnership.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN and Wenzhou Medical University Solidify Historic China-Africa Eye Health Collaboration
UKZN and Wenzhou Medical University strengthen global collaboration.A visionary partnership between the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and Wenzhou Medical University has been formalised through the China-Africa Eye Health Collaboration - an initiative aimed at advancing eye health, education, and research across Africa.
This collaboration follows a series of strategic engagements between the institutions, reflecting a shared commitment to global health equity and sustainable development in vision care. In early 2025, a high-level Wenzhou delegation visited UKZN to explore collaboration. In June, a UKZN delegation travelled to Xi’an and Wenzhou, China, to formalise the partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on China-Africa Eye Health Cooperation.
The UKZN delegation included Professor Khathutshelo Percy Mashige, Dean and Head of the School of Health Sciences and CEO of the African Vision Research Institute (AVRI); Professor Kovin Naidoo, Honorary Professor in Optometry and AVRI Executive Member; Dr Nombuso Mathe, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology; and Dr Naimah Ebrahim Khan, Academic Leader of the Discipline of Optometry.
The MoU was signed as part of the prestigious Vision China 2025 International Conference on Eye Health Innovation and Development in Xi’an, which brought together policy-makers, researchers, clinicians, and industry leaders to advance global eye health innovation.
Spearheaded by the AVRI - a centre of excellence based within UKZN’s Discipline of Optometry - the China-Africa Eye Health Collaboration is designed to address the pressing challenges in eye health systems across Africa. Its objectives include:
• Promoting bilateral academic exchange and collaborative research
• Enhance training and capacity building for eye care professionals
• Support the adoption of innovative technologies in clinical practice and education
• Increase access to affordable, high-quality eye care services in underserved communities
A highlight of the visit to the EyeValley in Wenzhou was that all four UKZN staff members were appointed as Visiting Professors at Wenzhou Medical University.
The MoU comes at a critical time, given the rising burden of preventable visual impairment and uncorrected refractive errors across Africa. The partnership leverages both institutions’ strengths in clinical practice, academia, and technology to co-create solutions tailored to African contexts, while contributing to global vision science.
At the signing ceremony, Mashige said: “This partnership is more than symbolic - it is a strategic alliance grounded in mutual respect and a shared vision for improved eye health. Together, we are building a future where knowledge, resources, and innovation are shared for the benefit of all.”
Naidoo, a global public health optometry leader, noted that the collaboration aligns with broader international goals, including the World Health Organization’s SPECS 2030, which advocates for integrated, people-centred eye care services.
Ebrahim Khan highlighted the potential of such academic collaborations to transform education, improve clinical training, and shape a new generation of African optometrists:
“I’m grateful to be part of such a meaningful exchange. The ideas and partnerships formed here will ripple across borders, strengthening the future of eye health in Africa.”
Mathe echoed these sentiments, noting that interdisciplinary and international cooperation is essential to addressing the complex challenges facing ophthalmic care and eye health workforce development in low-resource settings.
The China-Africa Eye Health Collaboration affirms UKZN’s commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service, while contributing to both regional and global health agendas. It enhances the University’s international footprint and reinforces its role as a catalyst for impactful partnerships.
This milestone marks the start of a transformative journey, one that will elevate African optometry and ophthalmology, enrich academic knowledge, and improve the lives of millions through better vision and accessible eye care.
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .Renowned Epidemiologist Appointed to Ministerial Advisory Committee on Cancer
Internationally renowned epidemiologist, Professor Themba Ginindza.UKZN proudly celebrates the appointment of Professor Themba Ginindza, an internationally acclaimed epidemiologist and Director of the Cancer and Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Research Unit (CIDERU), to the Ministerial Advisory Committee on the Prevention and Control of Cancer. The appointment was officially made by the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, in recognition of Ginindza’s outstanding contributions to cancer research and public health.
With an illustrious academic and research career that spans multiple countries and health systems, Ginindza brings to the committee a wealth of expertise, particularly in cancer prevention, infectious diseases, and health systems strengthening. His educational background includes a PhD in Public Health Medicine (Epidemiology) from UKZN, a Master’s in Epidemiology from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, and a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from the University of Melbourne.
A trailblazer in research capacity development, Ginindza pioneered postgraduate proposal writing workshops within the Discipline of Public Health Medicine at UKZN - a model that has since been adopted across the College of Health Sciences. His commitment to mentorship and training has extended beyond South Africa, recently empowering over 40 health professionals in Kenya and South Sudan through research workshops facilitated with the Catholic Medical Mission Board (CMMB).
Ginindza currently leads several landmark studies across the continent, including:
• Principal Investigator of the Multinational Lung Cancer Control Programme (MLCCP)* spanning six African countries;
• Principal Investigator in the Cervical Cancer Prevention, Access and Control Programme (CCPAC) in KwaZulu-Natal;
• Co-Principal Investigator in the Cervical cancer Screening and Treatment Algorithms (CESTA) study with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC);
• Co-PI in the innovative DUAL-SAVE-FGS project exploring dual screening for Female Genital Schistosomiasis and cervical cancer;
• Co-leader of studies on COVID-19 healthcare worker burnout; and
• Contributor to Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine roll-out efforts in Eswatini.
His extensive portfolio includes prior work on developing South Africa’s Rotavirus Surveillance System, evaluating HIV/AIDS programmes, and analysing hospital data for respiratory diseases such as influenza and pneumonia.
In recognition of his global impact, Ginindza serves as a member of the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) International Development Peer Review College, Reviewer for the BioMed Central Women’s Health Journal, collaborator with the Global Burden of Disease Study and as an Active member of global organisations including the International Papillomavirus Society (IPVS), European Association for Cancer Research, and the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR).
Over the last seven years, he has secured approximately R474.63 million in research funding. With a career defined by collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to improving public health, Ginindza’s appointment is both a recognition of his achievements and a strategic asset in South Africa’s national fight against cancer.
Professor Busisiwe Ncama, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Health Sciences congratulated Ginindza on this amazing accolade.
“On behalf of UKZN and in my personal capacity, I extend my warmest congratulations on your well-deserved appointment to the Ministerial Advisory Committee on the Prevention and Control of Cancer by the Honourable Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi,” Ncama said.
“Your appointment is a fitting recognition of your outstanding contributions to public health and cancer epidemiology, not only in South Africa but across the African continent. Your leadership in pioneering multidisciplinary research, advancing cancer prevention strategies, and building research capacity in resource-limited settings is truly inspirational.”
“You continue to raise the profile of UKZN through your tireless efforts, international collaborations, and unwavering commitment to health equity. This new role is a testament to your expertise, integrity, and the profound impact your work has had on health systems and communities. We are incredibly proud of this achievement and have no doubt that you will bring great value to the Committee’s work. May this new chapter bring you continued success as you contribute towards shaping national policy and strengthening cancer control strategies in South Africa,” she added.
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .