Awards Promise Prosperous Future for Researcher
Ms Bonakele Langa.Click here for isiZulu version
Ms Bonakele Langa, a Master’s graduate in Physiology, was congratulated by her supervisors, Dr Lindokuhle Mabuza-Mashaba and Professor Andile Khathi, for receiving awards at recent congresses.
Langa investigated the effect of the ginger extract, Zingiber officinale, on inflammation, the innate immune system, haematological factors and cardiovascular disease in diet-induced prediabetic rats. The research won her third place for an oral presentation that she delivered as part of the Wyndham competition at the 51st Physiology Society of Southern Africa (PSSA) Congress held at North West University.
Langa then travelled back to Durban to lift first prize for her poster presentation of the study at the Traditional Medicine Symposium which was hosted by Mangosuthu University of Technology at an event where UKZN’s Professor Nceba Gqaleni delivered a keynote address on the value of indigenous knowledge in advancing inclusive and sustainable health systems.
“These achievements reflect her exceptional ability to communicate complex research clearly and effectively,” said Mabuza-Mashaba. “Throughout her studies, Bonakele has consistently demonstrated strong research skills and a natural talent for presenting her work. She has the rare ability to make sophisticated concepts accessible to any audience while maintaining scientific accuracy.”
Her supervisors agreed that Langa’s awards recognised not only her presentation skills but also her deep understanding of her research project and her passion for sharing knowledge. They were immensely proud of her accomplishments and confident the recognition marks the beginning of what will be a distinguished career filled with meaningful contributions in her field.
Langa described herself as a curious person who loved new discoveries. She said she once worked as part of a PreP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) research group, which ignited her own passion for research.
Langa spent her early years in Nongoma, in northern KwaZulu-Natal, where she excelled from primary school right through to matriculation at King Bhekuzulu High School. Her father passed away while she was in Grade 11 causing her to suffer from depression for some time, but she persevered and is now winning awards at postgraduate level.
Langa, who is currently attached to UKZN’s College of Health Sciences as a First Year Experience Coordinator, is looking forward to pursuing her PhD.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Confirms Leading Role in International Higher Education
Highlights from the IEASA Conference in Stellenbosch.UKZN reaffirmed its leadership position in international Higher Education at the 27th Annual International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA) Conference in Stellenbosch.
Led by Executive Director of UKZN’s Corporate Relations Division and President of IEASA, Ms Normah Zondo, the UKZN delegation played a visible and influential role in shaping dialogue at this year’s gathering.
The conference, themed: ‘Bridging Borders, Inspiring Solutions: Internationalisation for a Resilient and Inclusive Future’, brought together Higher Education leaders, academics, and internationalisation practitioners from across South Africa and abroad to exchange ideas, share best practices and forge new partnerships.
As IEASA President, Zondo guided the programme with opening and closing plenary addresses and offered powerful reflections on the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
“Internationalisation is about people - creating opportunities, expanding horizons and ensuring our institutions are both globally engaged and socially just,” she said.
Zondo presented a paper titled: ‘International Student Mobility as a Catalyst for Resilience: Lessons from South Africa’s Role in Global Higher Education’, in which she explored the transformative role of student mobility in building resilience within Higher Education and underscored South Africa’s strategic position in shaping global Higher Education futures.
A standout moment of the conference was the launch of the 22nd edition of Study South Africa (StudySA), IEASA’s flagship publication. Zondo highlighted its refreshed African identity, featuring a bold colour palette, destination marketing elements and, for the first time, authentic international student voices.
“This edition shares why international students choose South Africa as their study destination of choice,” she explained, while acknowledging the contributions of Editor and Creative Director at Ga-Rankuwa’s Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Dr Carlien Jooste; IEASA Project Manager, Ms Tohiera Bagus, and sponsors CompCare, Momentum, and Simeka Health.
The UKZN delegation also included Global Engagement Coordinator, Ms Nozipho Khumalo; Student Exchange/Study Abroad Coordinator, Ms Preshantha Reddy, and Head: International Student Support, Ms Nombuso Mtshali. Together with colleagues from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), the University of the Western Cape (UWC) and MANCOSA, they co-facilitated a dynamic workshop.
The session offered diverse institutional perspectives, including those of a university of technology, and created space for participants to share challenges and innovations in internationalisation.
The breadth of participation at the conference, with delegates from across South Africa, Africa, Europe and beyond, underscored the growing global importance of South Africa’s internationalisation agenda. Contributions from the European Association for International Education (EAIE) and the African Network for Internationalisation of Education (ANIE) further highlighted the potential for deeper cross-continental collaboration.
Study South Africa will be distributed worldwide through South African diplomatic missions, with the digital edition already available online, further amplifying the reach of South African Higher Education to the global stage.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .Challenge Showcases Social Entrepreneurs on a Mission to Create Economic Impact
Winners of the Inspiring Impact Challenge (from left): Ms Sinethemba Nene, Mr Warren Mkhize and Mr Lungelo Majozi.The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), in partnership with enterprise development agency Kulisha Consulting, hosted the fifth edition of the Inspiring Impact Challenge - a flagship initiative that positions the University as a driver of innovation, entrepreneurship, and societal impact.
The competition is directly aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and UKZN’s Institutional Strategy, which emphasises excellence in research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and meaningful engagement with society. By showcasing the entrepreneurial ventures of students and alumni, the Challenge provides a platform to address critical issues such as poverty, inequality, and youth unemployment - while building sustainable solutions that impact local communities and beyond.
From hundreds of applications, 11 finalists were selected to pitch their ventures before a diverse panel of judges drawn from banking, government, academia, agriculture, industry, and social enterprises. The competition was supported by strategic partners including Standard Bank, VoPak, the AmaZulu FC Foundation, Ikhwezi Bus Services and UKZN’s Student Governance and Leadership Development department. Prizes awarded to winners were worth a total of R 65 000.
The Executive Director of Corporate Relations, Ms Normah Zondo, emphasised that the Inspiring Impact Challenge unfolded against the backdrop of South Africa’s pressing youth unemployment crisis. She commended the contestants for presenting initiatives that directly addressed poverty and inequality, thereby showcasing both the remarkable talent and the transformative possibilities that exist within the nation.
Highlighting the broader significance of the Challenge in today’s socio-economic landscape, Zondo remarked: “The Inspiring Impact Challenge is about harnessing the potential we see in our students and alumni. It provides them with a platform to demonstrate how they can impact their communities, innovate, and drive transformation in society.
Their projects resonate strongly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, reminding us that our challenges are part of a global movement towards building a more just, equitable, and sustainable world. This Challenge also reinforces our institutional commitment to excellence in entrepreneurship, innovation, and societal impact, which remain at the heart of our Institutional Strategy.”
First prize of R20 000 went to Mr Warren Mkhize, who owns MycoPro, a company that turns agricultural waste, such as sawdust and grass, into exotic gourmet oyster mushrooms, as an alternative source of protein. Mkhize said he was redirected into entrepreneurship after struggling to secure employment as an environmental management graduate.
Mkhize, who also won R5 000 in the Sustainability Award Category, said being a part of the Challenge had given him the assurance to know that he was on the right path in terms of business.
With no move yet to diversify in his product offerings, due to the low input and high output rates, Mkhize said he looked forward to using his winnings in addressing cash flow problems and purchasing more lab equipment to make sure his business was producing better products, running efficiently and continuing to be sustainable.
Multi-award-winning media personality, Ms Sinethemba Nene - who was runner-up in the challenge for her initiative @Lokshin Bite, which promotes local township eateries through social media platforms - had judges listening intently to all she had to say, with her high energy levels and charismatic personality.
Originally from Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, Nene moved to Durban recently to reach wider audiences. She said she was proud to have stuck it out in the competition, after initially wanting to quit due to its intensity. “I’m so happy that I didn’t give up. The programme was demanding with submissions almost every week, and balancing that with my personal life, side hustles, and employment was a major feat, but there was no way I could have let an opportunity like that pass me by, especially because it was free.”
She plans to use her prize money of R15 000 to hire more staff and invest in branded equipment and merchandise to elevate the business to new heights.
Third was Mr Lungelo Majozi, owner of MANGEH, an entity focused on serving healthy and nutritious meals in Umlazi. Excited to have competed and done well against so many deserving competitors, Majozi shared a comprehensive budget breakdown of what he planned to do with his winnings of R10 000, showcasing how the skills learnt during the duration of the programme had not gone to waste.
Other winners, who all received R5 000, included Ms Queen Shezi - for her mental health initiative in the Inspiring Impact Award Category, Queen Shezi Foundation; Mr Luyanda Mchunu - for his digital prize comparison grocery platform in the Innovation Award Category, Groceify, and Mr Nzuzo Dlamini - for his educational support aid for Medical students, known as MedBuddy, in the Potential for Growth Award Category.
Mr Kwazini Zulu, implementing partner and Managing Director of Kulisha Consulting, said it was incredible that the programme was already in its fifth year, after being piloted in 2021 in response to the needs of society. Zulu highlighted the various initiatives and enterprises that have come through the Challenge and how being a part of the stories shared had been most rewarding.
He explained how contestants went through a rigorous development programme to capacitate them for the competition, and thanked the partners, sponsors and Institution for the support.
Zulu said the platform provided good exposure for participants embarking on doing great things in the future and shared the total investment put into the programme. “To date, the Inspiring Impact Challenge has invested more than R2 million in its social entrepreneurship programme, which is a significant contribution that the Institution has made, through its belief in its students and alumni, as well as the generous partnership of our sponsors.”
Director at the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), Mr Sicelo Simelane, said he was proud of the contestants’ contributions to employment creation and economic participation in South Africa.
KwaZulu-Natal Relations Manager for Standard Bank, Mr Mduduzi Zenda, said he was honoured to be a part of such an important initiative. Speaking on behalf of all the Inspiring Impact Challenge partners, he said it was inspiring to see contestants showcasing their products and businesses.
Words: Hlengiwe Khwela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Women’s Leadership in Sport Promoted
From left: Ms Sindi Shozi, eThekwini Municipality’s Department of Sport Development and Recreation; Professor Rowena Naidoo; Ms Kerry-Lee Gcaba, UEL; Dr Xoliswa Majola; and Ms Sarah Haffenden and Ms Zama Ndlovu, both of UEL.UKZN’s Extended Learning Unit (UEL) partnered with the eThekwini Municipality’s Department of Sport Development and Recreation for an event dedicated to reimagining and reshaping the future of women’s leadership in sport.
The Women’s Month gathering attracted female coaches, athletes and sport administrators from across eThekwini, creating a vibrant and diverse space for dialogue, learning and inspiration. It was not simply a once-off engagement - it was the beginning of a long-term commitment to building pathways that will see women not only participate in sport but also take their rightful place in positions of leadership, governance and influence.
Head of Executive Education at UKZN’s Graduate School of Business and Leadership (GSB&L), Dr Shalen Mohanlall, emphasised the transformative vision driving the partnership. Mohanlall says the collaboration was dedicated to ensuring that women are fully equipped to lead, govern and inspire, while promoting access, transformation and sustainable change in the sporting landscape.
Central to this partnership is a commitment to knowledge and skills development, research-led solutions to influence policy, and the cultivation of a pipeline of future leaders. One of the standout initiatives is the Women in Leadership for Sport short course, designed to empower and upskill women in sport, while youth-focused programmes such as the Game Changers Leadership Bootcamp are aimed at nurturing leadership potential among high school girls.
The day’s programme was enriched by three thought leaders whose presentations inspired deep reflection and robust conversations. Clinical psychologist Dr Kirsten van Heerden explored resilience and mental strength as the ‘unseen game’ in women’s sport, while Academic Leader in UKZN’s Discipline of Biokinetics, Exercise and Leisure Sciences (BELS), Professor Rowena Naidoo, highlighted the importance of women’s health, clean sport, and leadership under the theme ‘Fit to Lead’. Senior lecturer at the GSB&L Dr Xoliswa Majola addressed the theme of ‘Breaking Barriers’, unpacking policy, power and possibilities for women in sport.
Naidoo affirmed that the event was just the beginning of a longer journey, noting that the BELS team was already working closely with UEL to design specialised sports-related short courses that uplift and upskill coaches and administrators, ensuring women are better prepared to occupy leadership roles in the sporting ecosystem.
Words: Maryann Francis
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Plaudits for School of Law High-Achieving Third-Year Students
High achieving students with academics.UKZN’s School of Law hosted a High Achievers Recognition Ceremony, honouring third-year LLB students who achieved a weighted average of 70% or above in the first semester of 2025.
The event marked the first of its kind within the School, setting a new tradition of celebrating academic excellence and motivating students to pursue further success in their studies and careers.
Opening the ceremony, Dean and Head of the School of Law Professor Freddy Mnyongani applauded the cohort for their diligence and consistency.
“Today is about you - our students - and the hard work and dedication you have shown,” said Mnyongani. “As the first group to be honoured at this event, you have set a benchmark and will forever be a point of reference for excellence within our School. Your achievements speak to your discipline, resilience and intellectual ability,” he said.
For many students, the recognition was both rewarding and inspiring. Said recipient Mr Thapelo Nyawose: “I am truly honoured to have been recognised as a top achiever among the third year cohort. This initiative by the School of Law serves as motivation and encouragement to students like me to work hard and strive for excellence. It shows that the School cares deeply about our growth and development.”
The event not only recognised academic excellence but also served as encouragement for students to consider postgraduate study at UKZN.
In her address, UKZN’s Associate Professor Willene Holness outlined the postgraduate opportunities available within the School of Law.
“We offer a diverse range of postgraduate programmes in areas such as Constitutional Law, Human Rights, Environmental Law, Medical Law, Business Law and Criminal Justice,” said Holness. “These specialisations enable our graduates to position themselves competitively in the legal industry, secure valuable positions and make meaningful contributions to society,” she explained.
Alongside acknowledging the high-achieving third-year students, the School also congratulated two students who recently won the prestigious Kader Asmal Moot Court Competition at the University of the Western Cape, second year student Mr Leal Jensen and third-year student Mr Sandiso Mdletshe.
Closing the event, organisers Mr Matthew Kimble and Ms Salina Govindsamy thanked staff, students and supporters who contributed to the success of the ceremony.
Words: Ayanda Radebe
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Leadership, Activism and Justice - Remembering Professor Fatima Meer
A highlight from the annual Fatima Meer Memorial Lecture.Impassioned, empowered and invigorated are words that best capture the atmosphere in UKZN’s Howard College Theatre during the 2025 Professor Fatima Meer Memorial Lecture.
Meer is remembered as a pioneering South African anti-apartheid activist, educator, author and sociologist who made remarkable contributions to social justice, women’s rights and public scholarship. The first non-White lecturer at the then University of Natal, she remains a towering figure of social justice and academic integrity in South African history.
Now in its fourth year, the memorial lecture has evolved into an event that contributes to the critical field of sociology, fostering debate and dialogue. The theme of the 2025 Lecture - ‘Leadership, Activism and Justice’ - demanded a critical engagement with the realities of our time. Honouring Meer’s legacy requires more than symbolic recognition, it requires ethical reflection, curriculum transformation and institutional change.
The Professor Fatima Meer Memorial Lecture Committee continues to safeguard her legacy. The lecture was opened by Professor Federico Settler, UKZN’s Dean of Social Sciences, who reflected on the audience’s rich diversity of interests, perspectives and voices, all united in commemorating a formidable woman, reminding everyone that the lecture is not just an event, but rather a living testament to ideas.
Meer’s granddaughter, Ms Maia Marie, shared a very personal account: “My grandmother was a fearless activist, but also a wonderful wife and mother. Her clarity of purpose shone like a bright flame within her, confronting injustice and inequality even if it meant disagreeing with those close to her. She has shaped my life in ways I still don’t understand. I will forever be grateful to her.”
Meer’s long-time friend and colleague Mr Ramesh Harcharan drew parallels between Meer and Winnie Madikizela Mandela, focusing on the nuances of women in the liberation struggle and their quiet strength. Harcharan spoke of the bond and friendship between Meer and Mandela in the fight against apartheid, never backing down from injustice even within their own ranks.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Ashwin Desai, who is a sociologist at the University of Johannesburg, a social commentator and author, framed the moments of Meer’s life that made her the force she was.
“In both her academic life and her activism, she went against the grain of the times,” said Desai, “never being drawn into doing what was fashionable - she knew her own mind. Her academic work stands apart and captures history as a human event. Her almost spiritual independence and her belief in justice made her an outlier leaving her vulnerable.”
Peeling back the layers, Desai also paid tribute to the complicated love story that existed between her and her husband, Ismail. “Fatima’s life was full of beauty, artistry and playfulness,” he said.
Dr Janine Hicks, senior lecturer at UKZN’s School of Law and Chairperson of the UKZN Gender-Based Violence Committee, framed her response to Desai’s address in a series of questions around issues of justice, the power of political action, finding counter power in organisation and mobilised action. Hicks encouraged the audience to find interconnectedness in diverse struggles and championed the power of intimate activism. “These are the lessons taught by Fatima Meer and the ways in which I believe she would tackle the issues of our times,” said Hicks.
The lecture included the presentation of the 2025 Clinical Sociology Book Prize conferred on three laureates - Ms Nontle Gumede, Ms Nqobile Mkhize and Mr Thandolwethu Zuma - who had demonstrated exceptional theoretical and applied knowledge in advancing clinical interventions.
The prize was presented by Professor Mariam Seedat-Khan and Dr Tobi Alabi of the School of Social Science’s Clinical Sociology Programme.
Alabi congratulated them saying: “We look forward to witnessing the impact of your scholarship in the years ahead.”
Guests were treated to a musical interlude by Ms Zanele Mndiyata.
Words: Jennene Naidu
Photograph: Albert Hirasen
author : .author email : .Alumni Relations Hosts Lunch in Hilton
UKZN Convocation President, staff and alumni at the Lunch.UKZN’s Alumni Relations hosted a special lunch at the centrally situated Anew Hotel Hilton for graduates based in the Pietermaritzburg/KwaZulu-Natal Midlands area.
The event brought together a diverse group of alumni, providing an opportunity to reconnect with old classmates, strengthen professional networks and engage with the University community. Guests were warmly welcomed by UKZN’s Alumni Relations Manager, Mr Finn Christensen, who introduced the two guest speakers: Dr Qiniso Mlita, President of Convocation, and Professor Naven Chetty, College Dean of Teaching and Learning within the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science.
Mlita provided a very comprehensive overview of the current developments and future plans of the University - highlighting Project Renewal and the importance of all graduates giving back to their alma mater in any way possible. Mlita elaborated on the role of the Convocation Executive and the numerous and important high-level initiatives and duties they have successfully achieved.
A highlight of the afternoon was an address by Professor Naven Chetty, College Dean of Teaching and Learning. who shared thought-provoking insights on the future of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education in South Africa, noting that the country stood at a pivotal juncture in its transformation journey.
In his address, Chetty stressed the urgent need to bridge the gap between academic research, innovation and the dynamic needs of industry - a critical factor for both economic development and social progress. Chetty explored strategies to realign STEM curricula, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, harness emerging technologies, and strengthen industry-academic partnerships to prepare a future-ready workforce.
He also highlighted scalable models, successful policy interventions, and actionable frameworks that would help ensure STEM education in South Africa remains inclusive, innovative, and aligned with 21st-Century industrial demands. His message resonated strongly with guests, many of who are professionals working across diverse sectors.
The Anew Hotel Hilton setting offered an elegant atmosphere, with hearty conversation, shared memories and new connections. Alumni expressed their appreciation for the initiative, noting how such events reaffirmed their lifelong bond with UKZN.
Gatherings such as these assist the Alumni Relations Office to continue fostering meaningful relationships with its graduates, ensuring that the spirit of UKZN extends well beyond the years of study.
Words: Ayabulela Mbhele and Finn Christensen
Photographs: Calvin Govender
author : .author email : .Umlazi Mother-of-Three Embraces Global Learning in Germany
Highlights from Ms Nonjabulo MaZondi-Ndlovu’s study abroad programme in Germany.PhD candidate and mother-of-three Ms Nonjabulo MaZondi-Ndlovu of Umlazi, Durban, is home from a life-changing academic exchange programme in Germany where she broadened her research and personal outlook through international exposure.
MaZondi-Ndlovu, who holds a Master’s in Public Administration qualification, is Deputy Director: Transversal Contract Management at the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Treasury and is currently completing her PhD. Her research focuses on: ‘The Contribution of Government Procurement Policies to the Development of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises in the Construction Industry in KwaZulu-Natal.’
Through UKZN’s partnership with the Technical University of Chemnitz in Germany, she was selected to participate in a month-long PhD exchange programme in April this year, fully funded by Erasmus+. While there, she also attended the 16th AAE (American African European) Summer/Winter School, hosted by ICN (Institut Commercial de Nancy) Business School and Chemnitz University of Technology in Chemnitz and Berlin.
Welcomed by Chemnitz’s Professor Dr Stefan Hüsig, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, she immersed herself in lectures, tutorials and seminars. Engaging with corporate leaders and international students enhanced her analytical skills, expanded her professional networks and deepened her understanding of global economic and entrepreneurship issues. “These discussions enriched my knowledge and contributed positively to the body of my PhD research,” she said.
Adapting to a new country, however, was not without its challenges. The language barrier, unfamiliar food and cold weather made the first weeks difficult. Yet, by seeking out positive experiences, she grew more open-minded and embraced cultural diversity. “Each day had happier moments - flowers blooming, trees turning green and me becoming more confident in my abilities,” she reflected.
Looking ahead, MaZondi-Ndlovu plans to complete her PhD, publish academic journals and continue exploring the world. “This experience has given me the courage to grow, to learn and to embrace every challenge as an opportunity.”
Words: Raylene Captain-Hasthibeer
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .Medical Students Reflect on Human Papillomavirus Awareness and Mass Screening Campaign
A productive cervical cancer screening campaign.UKZN’s Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (O&G) partnered with KwaZulu-Natal’s Department of Health (KZN DoH) to conduct a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) awareness and mass screening campaign in KwaMashu, Durban.
UKZN’s Head of O&G, Professor Motshedisi Sebitloane, said cervical cancer was the second leading cause of women’s death and was associated with significant morbidity. However, it was highly preventable through screening for pre-cancerous lesions.
“Screening is traditionally performed through pap smears for cytology, however, since 2024, the DoH has introduced HPV testing as the primary mode of screening. The latter is recommended by the World Health Organization as more women who carry the high-risk subtypes can be identified and triaged for care.”
Sebitloane said: “KZN is one of the provinces that has rolled out HPV screening throughout all its facilities, with the campaign also hoping to result in an increased uptake for screening.”
The campaign targeted the “PINK” areas (Phoenix, Inanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu) which use services and facilities at Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital.
Campaign preparations included community mobilisation, transport arrangements with planned patient transport (EMRS) and laboratory support using the National Health Laboratory Service facilities. Health workers were mobilised, including UKZN final-year Medical students, with about 30 volunteering to be part of the campaign which screened more than 1 000 patients on the day.
Several Medical students commented on the campaign:
Ms Khanyisani Gumede: “I was keen to participate in the campaign. As part of the team, I helped conduct pap smears, filled out lab forms and gave guidance on healthy sexual practices. The experience was enriching but I was struck by the lack of awareness about cervical cancer among the women we attended to. This experience has motivated me to continue advocating for the health and education of our people, particularly in the area of cervical cancer prevention and detection. I believe that by working together, we can create a healthier and more informed society, where our mothers and women can thrive.”
Ms Mercy Selapa: “The cancer screening campaign reminded me why I chose this profession - to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. During the campaign, I had the privilege of interacting with patients, educating them and doing several pap smears. I hope that initiatives such as this will become more frequent and reach other communities throughout the country.”
Ms Nombuso Masuku: “The campaign meant a lot to me. I saw people suffering from cervical cancer and presenting at late stages and it was comforting to know that the disease could still be treated. I was also happy to see that many people had taken the initiative to visit and be part of the project. The highlights for me were getting to do a lot of pap smears and interacting with patients, getting to understand their fears and misunderstandings regarding cervical screening and providing them with information to help calm their fears.”
Ms Bandile Mhlongo: “The campaign was a very meaningful experience, enabling us to reach women who may not always have access to essential health services. Seeing the appreciation from patients reminded me why community engagement is so important. My highlight was being able to interact closely with patients and assist with health education. I also had the opportunity to do pap smears which also helped me sharpen my skills in that area. I hope it is possible to expand such initiatives to reach more communities in need.”
Ms Andile Mkhungo: “The campaign created awareness and gave women access to important screening services. It was inspiring to see patients being cared for and empowered to take charge of their health. My highlight was engaging with the women and seeing how appreciative they were. I hope we can continue reaching more communities in the future and involve Med students other than those in their final year of study.”
Sebitloane said the DoH conducted mass campaigns to support ongoing cervical cancer screening which was free at all public health care facilities. “A woman attending the event said she and colleagues hadn’t heard about the screening programme, and for the majority of the patients, this was their first experience,” said Sebitloane.
“Every effort must be made to eliminate the disease if we are to align with the WHO targets of 90-70-90-90% of young girls receiving HPV vaccines, 70% of eligible women being screened and 90% of those with abnormal findings being treated.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Partners with SA National Convention Bureau to Strengthen Conference Bidding Capacity
UKZN staff members with presenters at the SA Convention Bureau workshop.UKZN’s Corporate Relations Division and the SA National Convention Bureau (SANCB) hosted a workshop on the Bid Support Programme, aimed at equipping academics and departments with knowledge and tools on how to attract international, regional and national conferences to their institutions.
Attending were academics from across disciplines who are exploring opportunities to host large-scale events. They received insights on how to access financial and non-financial assistance to strengthen their bids.
Opening the session, UKZN’s Executive Director of Corporate Relations, Ms Normah Zondo, highlighted the University’s role as a hub for knowledge-sharing and global collaboration.
“At UKZN, we take pride in being a hub for knowledge-sharing and innovation. Each year, we host a variety of regional and international conferences, symposia and workshops that draw academics, researchers and influential leaders from around the globe,” said Zondo.
She added that while such conferences enhanced UKZN’s academic mission, they also made a significant contribution to the local economy, boosting tourism, hospitality and service industries.
Zondo welcomed representatives from SANCB, the Durban ICC, and the Tourism and Film KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau, noting the importance of partnerships in enabling academics to translate their global networks into prestigious conferences hosted in the province.
Presenters from SANCB - Ms Bongiwe Nzeku, Mr Sakhile Ndhlovu, and Ms Marlene Govender - shared insights into the bureau’s support services, which include bid preparation, bid presentations, site inspections, funding and delegate-boosting initiatives.
“We provide a range of financial and non-financial support services to academics, associations, and institutions seeking to bring international conferences to South Africa,” explained Ndlovu. He emphasised SANCB’s current focus on major metros such as Durban, Johannesburg, and Cape Town, noting the significant economic and social impact of hosting international events.
Nzeku added that conferences played a role in upskilling the country, empowering society, and strengthening partnerships with local stakeholders.
Ms Nombuso Njapha of the Tourism and Film KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau outlined the bureau’s strategic objectives, which include positioning KwaZulu-Natal as a premier business events destination, promoting the province’s tourism offerings and converting business travellers into repeat leisure visitors.
Support services offered by the Durban-KZN Convention Bureau include:
- Congress bidding and presentations
- Stakeholder co-ordination
- Site inspections and familiarisation trips
- Pre- and post-tour support
- Marketing and delegate boosting
- Onsite event support
Njapha stressed that the Convention Bureau was committed to leveraging business events for economic growth and small, medium and micro enterprises (SMME) development, while also aligning infrastructure development with demand.
Representing the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC), Ms Gugu Mchunu announced the centre’s rebranding as the World Trade Centre Durban, positioning it as a premier gateway for global business.
“World Trade Centre Durban is set to become a premier gateway for global business in KwaZulu-Natal, connecting local enterprises to international markets through the trusted World Trade Centre’s Association network,” she said.
The facility will provide world-class infrastructure, trade services, exhibitions and high-level engagements designed to foster international trade, attract investment and stimulate regional economic growth.
The workshop emphasised the importance of strategic partnerships in securing international conferences, with UKZN academics encouraged to leverage SANCB and KZN Convention Bureau support to advance the province’s position as a world-class business events destination.
Zondo concluded by reaffirming UKZN’s readiness to host and partner: “This is not just about hosting events - it’s about equipping our academics and departments with the tools and partnerships needed to bring the world to KwaZulu-Natal. And indeed, we are ready.”
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Volleyball Team Credits Academy for Women’s Division Winning Gold
UKZN’s Volleyball team: Winners at the USSA Games 2025.UKZN’s Women’s Volleyball team has won gold at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) Games - a first for the University in the division at the championships.
Following years of hard work, persistence, determination and grit, the team has become no stranger to breaking records having made waves in 2022 when they became the first KwaZulu-Natal women’s unit to win gold at the National Club Championships.
UKZN’s Senior Sport Officer Ms Roshnee Naicker said winning the national title was incredibly special for them, particularly as they look forward to celebrating the Volleyball Academy’s 10th year anniversary.
Having long been known as the home of volleyball in the province, UKZN established the Volleyball Academy in 2016 with the aim of developing talent from high school and seeing it through to university and club level.
Naicker said almost half of the squad players who had helped the team achieve monumental feats had been developed through the Volleyball Academy.
She said the programme had initially started with 10 young women from Grade 10 upwards, and grown in leaps and bounds over the last nine years, with the incorporation of young men as well.
Currently, the Volleyball Academy has 40 women and 20 men enrolled in the programme which runs annually from February to October.
Head Coach Mr Marcellino Harold thanked the Volleyball Academy for being a feeding scheme for talent retention of first team players. “The Academy team is also coached by first team players, making their transition from development to club level a lot smoother as they know what to expect.”
Harold encouraged the development team to be consistent in their training sessions, draw inspiration from their coaches and to make sure that they perfect the technical aspect of their training in order to graduate to the first team.
Having established the UKZN Volleyball Team as one of the powerhouses at club and university level, Harold said: “We have to continue to strive to ensure that we maintain these standards by consistently working hard and pushing the boundaries because the team has the players, and technical and administrative staff to grow from strength-to-strength and to continue to be successful.”
USSA First Team Captain, Ms Itumeleng Motlokoa, who was awarded her Honours in Supply Chain Management at this year’s UKZN Spring Graduation, said the team had reached the finals at least five times. “At the beginning of this year we knew we had all the missing pieces together - for a winning team and it was now or never. It took a lot of work, but we pushed harder than most seasons and achieved our goal, and I couldn’t have asked for a better send off, as I exit the Institution!”
Head Coach of the Women’s Academy Team Ms Busisiwe Maposa, currently studying towards her Honours in Education, lauded UKZN for being a conduit for high school learners to attain a Sports Scholarship and attend the University through the development process, taking them to the next level and giving them the exposure they need.
Maposa, who earned the Best Attacker at the USSA Games, said it was amazing to be part of the tournament and for her growth to be acknowledged with the award. She says she looks forward to continuing being a part of the UKZN Volleyball team and the academy in the future.
With the success of the Volleyball Academy, the University looks forward to implementing development programmes for other sporting codes.
Said UKZN Sports Manager Mr Zweli Sapula, “The Sports Department is very excited about the success of the academy and the dedication of our Sports Officers, whose hard work is driving these positive results. We are equally pleased that many sporting codes have adopted the academy model, ensuring that athletes benefit both academically and through the development of their talent.”
Words: Hlengiwe Khwela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Lecturer First Nurse to Co-Chair SA HIV Clinicians Society Conference
UKZN colleagues at the SAHCS 2025 (from left): Drs Silingene Ngcobo and Nkosingiphile Bongiwe Nxumalo, and Professor Motshedisi Sebitloane.Click here for isiZulu version
The 7th Southern African HIV Clinicians Society Conference (SAHCS) was held in Cape Town this year, with UKZN’s Nursing lecturer and second-year co-ordinator, Dr Silingene Ngcobo, being the first professional nurse to serve as a co-chair in the conference’s history.
A popular biennial conference recognised for its leadership in HIV activism and management, SAHCS 2025 focused on: ‘Innovation to Impact: People-Centred Advances in HIV’.
The other Co-Chair was Dr Nomathemba Chandiwana of the Desmond Tutu Foundation.
Said Ngcobo: “Since the inaugural conference in 2012, significant strides have been made in the fight against HIV, TB, and associated illnesses. However, our journey doesn’t end here; we strive for further advancements. At SAHCS 2025, our dedication remained unwavering as we aimed to enhance evidence-based HIV management and inspire our participants to excel in HIV prevention, care and treatment. Despite facing challenges, healthcare professionals in South Africa continue to uphold the world’s largest HIV treatment programme with unparalleled commitment.”
Ngcobo said the conference content and programming included a strong emphasis on community-level implementation, nursing perspectives and educational strategies. “Inter-professional and advocacy-focused approaches were integrated into workshops, plenary sessions and discussions.
“I helped shape the conference’s strategic direction, especially around nursing, education and community-based HIV care; ensured representation of practical, implementation-focused research in the programme, and fostered discussions that embraced interprofessional collaboration and health advocacy, reflecting my areas of expertise.”
Ngcobo said her role as a professional nurse was important to note because nurse-led HIV programmes formed the cornerstone of South Africa’s HIV response, particularly in primary healthcare and community settings. “Through the implementation of Nurse-Initiated and Managed Antiretroviral Therapy (NIMART), nurses are empowered to provide comprehensive services, including HIV testing, antiretroviral initiation and monitoring, prevention of mother-to-child transmission, and integration of HIV and tuberculosis care.
“Evidence demonstrates that outcomes of nurse-led ART, such as viral suppression and retention in care, are comparable to those achieved under physician-led models, thereby significantly expanding access to treatment in underserved communities. Despite challenges such as high patient caseloads, limited resources and persistent stigma, these programmes exemplify successful task-shifting and continue to advance equitable, people-centred HIV care.”
Ngcobo said she enjoyed setting the tone and vision for the meeting, the handover sessions and welcoming delegates.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Nuclear Medicine Congress Award for Lung Cancer Research
Dr Lihle Nxasana, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital registrar.Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital’s (IALCH) registrar, Dr Lihle Nxasana, won the Best Poster Presentation Award for her lung cancer research titled: ‘The Prognostic Value of FDG PET/CT Metrics in Lung Cancer’, at the SA Society of Nuclear Medicine (SASNM) Congress in Durban.
The Chair of the biennial congress was UKZN’s Head of Nuclear Medicine, Professor Mariza Vorster.
Said Nxasana: “Lung cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. FDG PET/CT - a medical imaging technique that combines positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT scans) - are now part of the routine staging of lung cancer, however the prognostic value of pre-treatment Fluorine 18- fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET/CT metrics in lung cancer remains controversial. PET metrics such as TLG and MTV are known to predict progression free survival and overall survival.”
Nxasana’s study assessed the role of 18F-FDG PET/CT parametrics in the prediction of survival and treatment response in patients with lung cancer in which Kaplan Meier survival curves - graphical representations used in survival analysis to estimate and visualise the probability of survival over time, considering censored data - demonstrated that TLG of more than 1 000 was significantly correlated with poorer survival.
The MTV (Metabolic Tumour Volume), TLG (Total Lesion Glycolysis), and SUVmax (Maximum Standardized Uptake Value) - all parameters derived from FDG-PET/CT scans that provide information about tumour activity and burden - were higher in patients who died compared to patients who were alive at the time of the analysis.
Nxasana’s previous poster presentation was titled: ‘A Rare Case of Metastatic Mediastinal and Supraclavicular Lymph Node Disease Recurrence On 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT in Prostate Carcinoma’.
Said Nxasana: “Winning the Best Poster Presentation Award was an incredibly fulfilling experience! It was a privilege to contribute to the field of nuclear medicine alongside esteemed professionals and researchers. This recognition not only validates the hard work involved but also inspires me to continue advancing in this dynamic field.”
She was grateful to Vorster for her guidance and mentorship throughout the journey. “Prof Vorster’s expertise and support were instrumental in shaping my research. I also thank my team members for their collaborative efforts and dedication. This achievement is a testament to our collective commitment to excellence in nuclear medicine.”
Vorster said she was very proud of Nxasana. “She is a brilliant and hardworking registrar and I wish her many more similar successes.”
Congress participants took part in a fun run along Durban’s beachfront.
· UKZN’s Nuclear Medicine discipline is based at IALCH which boasts world class equipment and facilities, providing high quality specialised services in KwaZulu-Natal. The hospital offers courses in the various fields of nuclear medicine with a high focus on producing patient-orientated clinicians and allied staff.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Is Longevity Written in Our Genes?
UKZN researcher, Professor Veron Ramsuran.Click here for isiZulu version
Is living to 100 all about luck with your DNA - or is it a question of lifestyle and environment? For decades, scientists have wrestled with this puzzle and the answers are proving to be more complex than simple genetic inheritance.
Professor Veron Ramsuran, a high-impact researcher in the College of Health Sciences at UKZN, is one of the global voices shaping this conversation.
Research shows that while genetics account for about 25% to 30% of the variation in human lifespan, the rest depends largely on environment and lifestyle. Public health improvements such as access to clean water, nutrition, sanitation and medical care dramatically extended average life expectancy in the 20th century.
Now, researchers are studying why some people, particularly nonagenarians and centenarians, live significantly longer and healthier lives than others.
According to Ramsuran, who recently presented at the World Health Expo, there are two types of genetic information that matter. “The first is the DNA we inherit from our parents and grandparents. The second, and perhaps more influential, is epigenetics which are the changes that occur on top of our genes, driven by lifestyle and environment.”
In his presentation, Ramsuran used a simple analogy: “Think of your genes as the foundation of a house. You can’t change the number of rooms, but you can upgrade the lighting, plumbing, or décor. Those upgrades represent epigenetics.”
He emphasised that even individuals predisposed to conditions like diabetes or heart disease can defy the odds by adopting healthy habits such as exercising regularly, eating nutritious foods and managing stress. “It’s not about perfect genes,” he said. “It’s about making the most of the ones you’ve got.”
Indeed, experiments with mice have shown that altering certain epigenetic markers can extend lifespan significantly, offering hope that aging is not just inevitable decline but a process that can potentially be slowed or even reversed.
Ramsuran pointed out that much of the research on longevity has been conducted in Europe and North America, leaving a huge gap in understanding how African genomes contribute to human health and aging.
“Humankind originated from Africa, so studying the African genome is essential for understanding everyone else’s,” he explained. The lack of African representation in genetic studies has troubling consequences: medicines developed primarily on European genetic data often perform poorly or even dangerously in African populations.
South Africa, for example, has an adverse drug reaction rate of 25 percent, compared to just 0.09 percent in countries like Switzerland and Norway. “We’re applying a one-size-fits-all model to a world full of genetic diversity,” Ramsuran warned.
While the future may hold exciting breakthroughs in gene editing and personalised epigenetic therapies, Ramsuran urges people to focus on what they can control now such changing your diet, reducing stress and staying active “as these choices can profoundly shape how your genes are expressed and how long, and how well, you live.”
For him, longevity is not a genetic lottery ticket but a balanced equation between inheritance, choices and environment. His message is clear: Our DNA may load the gun, but our lifestyle pulls the trigger.
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN-SRC Elections 2025 Message
.The ‘season of SRC elections’ at universities in South Africa refers to the period when the elections for Student Representative Councils (SRCs) take place. During this time, students actively campaign for leadership positions within SRCs, seeking to represent the interests and concerns of their fellow students. This season is characterised by increased political activity on most campuses, including campaign rallies, manifesto presentations, debates and various engagement initiatives. At some institutions, candidates align themselves with national political parties, adding a broader political aspect to the process. This period is essential for fostering efficient student governance and leadership, providing students with a platform to influence university matters and contribute to policies that impact their academic and social experiences.
This SRC season also underscores the vital role universities play as institutions that are constitutionally empowered to benefit from decentralised, student-driven governance. It recognises students as important stakeholders within the academic setting who deserve an organised channel to express their views. Through the SRC, students take part in decision-making processes that affect their learning environment, welfare and campus life. The constitutional backing of student governance ensures that leadership is participatory rather than solely imposed from above, encouraging accountability, representation and democratic involvement within the university framework.
As we enter this critical season of SRC elections, it is essential to uphold the integrity of the electoral process by respecting the decisions and operations of the internal Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). The IEC plays a pivotal role in ensuring free, fair and transparent elections that reflect the true voice of the student body. Whether the outcomes align with your expectations or not, embracing the results with dignity and maturity is a hallmark of true leadership and democratic commitment. Disputes and dissatisfaction should be addressed through proper channels, not through disruption or disunity. By respecting the process and accepting the outcome, we reinforce the credibility of student governance and set an example of democratic resilience for others to follow. Remember, leadership is not only about winning it is also about how we respond when we are called on to support others for the sake of unity, progress and the greater good of the university communities.
In recent years, student-led bodies such as an SRC have encountered various challenges that have weakened their impact and credibility. The increasing influence of external political parties in student elections has, at times, reflected broader national political agendas, diverting attention away from genuine student issues. Additionally, a lack of transparency, internal disagreements and insufficient engagement with the wider student population have eroded trust in these institutions. Financial difficulties and interference by university administrations have further limited the independence of student representatives, making it harder for them to effectively advocate for student interests. Moreover, episodes of violent protests and the burning of campus buildings during some student activities have harmed the reputation of student leadership, fostering divisions and undermining efforts to encourage peaceful and constructive dialogue. These problems have sometimes led to student disengagement and diminished the SRC’s role as the authentic voice of students.
Another significant issue that has affected student leadership structures is the misuse of power by elected representatives. There have been instances where SRC leaders have been accused of exploiting their positions for personal advantage, favouritism or suppressing opposing viewpoints within the student community. Such abuse undermines the democratic values that student governance is meant to uphold and damages the trust between leaders and their peers. When leaders prioritise their own interests over the well-being of the student body, it reduces an SRC’s legitimacy and discourages active involvement from students. This kind of conduct fuels disillusionment and weakens student governance further.
Furthermore, these challenges are compounded by a lack of fundamental qualities such as good governance, Ubuntu and adequate preparation among some student leaders. Good governance, marked by transparency, responsibility and inclusiveness, has often been missing, leading to poor decision-making and exclusion of diverse student perspectives. The philosophy of Ubuntu, which promotes community, empathy and mutual respect, has sometimes been neglected, resulting in conflict and division instead of unity and shared progress. Also, many student leaders have lacked sufficient training and readiness to manage the complexities of leadership, negotiation and conflict resolution. Without these key attributes, student leaders struggle to build trust, encourage collaboration and effectively advocate for their university communities.
As you gear up for the SRC 2025 elections, remember that should you achieve a leadership position it comes with great responsibility and a unique chance to serve your fellow students and influence the future of your campus. Take on the role with honesty, humility and a sincere dedication to representing the diverse voices within your university. True leadership is not about personal gain or popularity but about actively listening, leading with Ubuntu and making decisions that bring students together. Prepare yourself by understanding the issues facing the student body, engaging openly in dialogue and bridging divides. Embrace transparency, accountability and teamwork as your guiding principles, and aim to leave a positive, lasting mark on your institution. Your passion and commitment can transform student governance into a powerful catalyst for progress and inclusion.
Alongside effective leadership, it is vital for student leaders to balance their activism with their academic pursuits. While advocating for student rights and driving change is important, it should never come at the cost of one’s own education. Excelling academically helps leaders maintain credibility and equips them with the skills necessary to serve their peers well. Time management, discipline and prioritising responsibilities are essential to sustaining this balance. By succeeding in both their studies and leadership roles, student leaders show that it is possible to be passionate advocates while also committing to personal growth and academic excellence. This balance ultimately strengthens their ability to serve the student community with wisdom and integrity.
If you lead and serve students with commitment, honesty, and effective governance, it will demonstrate that South Africa still possesses a rising generation of capable and trustworthy leaders. Despite widespread scepticism about leadership in various government sectors, your example can rekindle hope and belief in the power of young leaders to make a meaningful difference. By showing that student leadership can be transparent, accountable and genuinely responsive to people’s needs, you set a benchmark not only for your peers but for the nation at large. Your success will prove that real change is achievable and that the future of South Africa is bright with competent leadership.
I wish office holders all the very best in their leadership roles.
At UKZN actions, decisions and the way you represent your fellow students will shape the University’s reputation both locally and globally, epitomising that indeed: ‘UKZN is a University of Choice’ and that ‘UKZN Inspires Greatness’.
Through dedication, integrity, and wise leadership, office holders have the power to showcase their institutions as beacons of excellence, progress and unity. Conversely, poor leadership or neglect of responsibilities can unfortunately bring unwelcome scrutiny and damage to the institution’s standing.
May the time of all office holders be marked by courage, thoughtful decision-making, and a genuine commitment to uplifting every student and your efforts inspire meaningful and lasting transformation on campus and far beyond its borders.
Dr Balungile Zondi is a senior lecturer in Anthropology at UKZN and currently serves as a Chapter Guardian for South African BRICS Youth Association (SABYA), a Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS)-aligned student movement.
*The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
author : .author email : .College of Health Sciences Hosts Thesis Bootcamp for Doctoral and Master’s Candidates
The College of Health Sciences’ Dissertation Bootcamp was a resounding success!The College of Health Sciences (CHS) hosted a week-long Dissertation/Thesis Bootcamp for doctoral and master’s candidates intending to submit their research for the May 2026 Graduation.
The workshop, co-ordinated and presented by the Dean of Research, Professor Bongani Nkambule, offered an intensive programme designed to equip students with the skills and confidence to finalise their dissertations and theses.
Running over five days, the bootcamp combined lectures, structured activities, and focused writing sessions to help participants refine their research work into examinable documents. Expert researchers from the CHS presented on key topics pertinent to academic writing.
Day One introduced students to thesis structure and format, followed by practical activities such as ‘Getting the Thesis into Shape’ as well as insights into the examination process and expectations of the bootcamp. On Day Two, the focus shifted to Chapter One - the introduction. Participants explored the elements of an effective introduction, crafted problem statements, and refined their aims and objectives, while also learning from common examiner feedback.
Day Three concentrated on manuscript-based chapters, where candidates learned to develop strong manuscript introductions, shape their materials and methods, and refine their results sections. A self-evaluation session encouraged critical reflection on progress.
Day Four addressed the literature review chapter, with guided tasks on synthesising existing research and aligning it with study objectives. The final day, Day Five, focused on the often-challenging synthesis chapter. Students worked on integrating findings into a cohesive conclusion before moving into ‘super sets’ which were dedicated writing sessions that allowed them to apply the skills gained throughout the week.
Nkambule said the bootcamp was designed to provide both structure and motivation: “Doctoral and master’s research require discipline, clarity, perseverance and a supportive environment. This bootcamp ensures that our candidates are supported not only in their writing but also in understanding the standards required for successful submission and examination,” he explained. The College of Health Sciences is committed to providing high-quality training and tailored support for postgraduate students, guiding them from registration to graduation.
Nkambule extended special thanks to the senior academics - Professor Michelle Gordon, Professor Phiwayinkosi Dludla and Professor Alvin Munsamy - who facilitated bootcamp sessions and kept the participants engaged throughout the week.
Participants described the bootcamp as an invaluable experience, providing them with clarity, momentum and practical tools to advance their work.
Said PhD candidate Ms Asipha Ludidi: “Thank you so much once again to the College of Health Sciences for this innovative support initiative for postgraduate students in their final stages of dissertation submission. The bootcamp gave me the opportunity to critically reflect on how and why I started the PhD journey. The interactive teaching style, the writing tasks and the chance to engage with students outside my field gave me fresh insight into how to write for examiners who may not be experts in my area. The guidance also helped me identify blind spots I had missed. I am now more confident about how I can contribute to the body of knowledge.”
While Ludidi praised the overall experience, she suggested holding the bootcamp earlier in the year and possibly offering residential sessions to allow for evening consultations and peer learning.
Occupational Therapy candidate Ms Mandisa Nzuza said the experience was confidence-building: “Entering the bootcamp I had so many fears as the submission date neared but after the event, I gained confidence in how to approach writing and refine my work. It has significantly shaped how I approach thesis writing.”
Ms Feziwe Kokela was also grateful: “The valuable lesson I took away is that getting to grips with thesis writing is possible in two months. The inputs about what examiners expect were such an eye-opener while it was heart-warming to see colleagues from different disciplines with the same challenges. I would recommend that if possible these bootcamps be held twice a year, for students submitting in the same year. And thank you to CHS for the food we got - that was unexpected and so appreciated!”
The strong feedback from participants highlights the bootcamp’s success in addressing the challenges postgraduate students face in their final stretch to submission. For many, it has not only shaped their dissertations but also renewed their determination to complete the journey.
Words and photograph: MaryAnn Francis
author : .author email : .Global Exposure Enriches Tanzanian PhD Candidate’s Research Journey
Some highlights from UKZN PhD candidate Ms Hilder Charles’s time in Italy.PhD candidate in Finance at UKZN Ms Hilder Charles, who recently returned from a sojourn at the University of Messina in Italy, says the experience was transformative and rewarding.
Charles, originally from Tanzania, took part in the Erasmus+ funded student mobility programme from 26 February to 30 June this year - an adventure made possible through UKZN’s International Relations Office and the University of Messina.
Her research focuses on sustainability and financial performance. “Studying abroad was driven by academic, professional and personal goals,” she explained. “I wanted to broaden my understanding of finance, gain insight into the European education system, and explore different regulatory and economic models. This has enriched the depth and relevance of my research.”
For Charles, one of the greatest benefits of the programme was building an international network. Engaging with peers and professors from diverse backgrounds allowed her to form lasting connections and lay the groundwork for future collaborative projects. “This was a strategic investment in my academic career. It gave me cross-cultural communication skills and exposed me to different research methodologies,” she said.
While adapting to a new academic environment involved challenges, Charles credits the support of both her UKZN and Messina supervisors for helping her settle in quickly. Access to library resources, seminars and academic facilities ensured she could fully immerse herself in her studies. Beyond academics, she said her independence, adaptability and global outlook were significantly strengthened.
The biggest hurdle was the language barrier, particularly in daily life outside the university. “Simple things like shopping or asking for directions were sometimes difficult. But with translation apps and tools like Google Maps, I was able to adapt,” she said, adding that the experience sharpened her problem-solving skills.
Her time in Italy was also filled with memorable moments - from collaborating on research projects and attending guest lectures to exploring historic sites such as the Colosseum and Vatican City. She fondly recalls attending Seventh-day Adventist church services where she was warmly welcomed into the community. She embraced Italy’s world-renowned cuisine, sampling delicious, traditional favourites including pasta carbonara, risotto, tiramisu, and cannoli.
Charles encourages other students to embrace opportunities abroad. “Step outside your comfort zone. It’s about academic growth, but also about personal development and building lifelong connections,” she said.
Looking ahead, Charles plans to complete her PhD and continue fostering international collaborations. “The Erasmus+ programme broadened my opportunities for global research engagement. I’m excited to contribute to advancing knowledge in finance on a worldwide scale,” she said.
Words: Raylene Captain-Hasthibeer
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .Sisters in Elevation Symposium Equips Women with Skills to Thrive in Business
SWEEP UKZN Chapter Student Leaders with panellists (from left): Ms Sinothando Nojaja, Ms Mala Nair, Advocate Thembelihle Mapipa, Ms Honey Mamabolo, Dr Lusanda Zwane, Ms Sinqobile Mavuso and Mr Tsepo ‘Majuba’ Tsotetsi.UKZN’s Student Entrepreneurship portfolio held a Sisters Elevation Symposium with the focus on honouring Women’s Month.
The event was hosted by the Student Women Economic Empowerment Programme’s (SWEEP) UKZN Chapter and aimed at providing female students with the tools needed to be successful in business.
In his welcome address, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Innovation, Professor Anil Chuturgoon, said August was a time to honour women who endured discrimination, exclusion and oppression simply because of their gender.
Questioning whether enough was being done to ensure that the current generation of women was not experiencing the same challenges, Churturgoon said the symposium offered a safe space to have honest conversations about women empowerment.
He said: “UKZN has identified excellent research, innovation and entrepreneurship as one of its key priorities. At the core is problem solving and creating opportunities where none seems possible. It’s also about responding to societal needs - because as an African university we have a responsibility to lead in addressing those challenges.”
Churturgoon said it was inspiring to see so many students, particularly women, getting involved in entrepreneurship and he shared examples of female students who had excelled in business.“These women are living examples of what happens when opportunity and support, meet talent and determination.”
Trailblazer Ms Honey Mamabolo, former Managing Director of the South African Mint which is a subsidiary of the South African Reserve Bank, shared how she made history as the first woman and first Black female to lead the 100-year-old institution.
With a background in chemical engineering and extensive experience in mining, retail banking and manufacturing, Mamabolo highlighted three mantras that have shaped the trajectory of her life:
1. Memento mori (Remember that you will die), which inspired her to live her life and chase her dreams now, as tomorrow is not promised.
2. Memento vivere (Remember to live), which reminded her that life isn’t about chasing milestones but rather living an intentional, purposeful and fulfilling driven life.
3. Carpe diem (Seize the moment), which speaks to claiming your greatness, creating your impact and living your legacy now.
Said Mamabolo: “The world doesn’t change when greatness is admired, but it changes when greatness is ignited. Greatness is conceived in the mind, then perceived through one’s imagination and eyes, and finally received through consistent action and relentless pursuit,” she added.
Business executive, entrepreneur, author and cancer survivor Ms Mala Nair shared details of her corporate journey and how landing a leadership position at a large multinational corporation allowed her to find her purpose of achieving transformational diversity, in terms of race and gender, in such forums.
Nair reflected on the steps she used to achieve this including networking, building trust and getting to know the people employed by the company, empowering others to grow, learning from others and acknowledging the responsibility she has to the individuals she leads.
Noting the difficulties in breaking the ‘old boys’clubs’ that exist in some large industries, Nair - now Managing Director of CentriPlus Africa - shared the following with students:
· “A degree will get you through the door, use your time afterwards to learn other soft skills and to build your brand and your network, even if it means getting a coach or a mentor.
· “Be responsible, own your work and act with integrity; be resilient, adapt and bounce back stronger. Stay relevant, current and valued, and be respectful and reinvent yourself every day.
· “You are the future, straighten each other’s crowns as women, uplift those around you and remember that every day presents an opportunity to make a difference.”
Executive Manager, Corporate Services, of the Moses Kotane Institute, Advocate Thembelihle Mapipa, asked women to be aware of how they present themselves in all spheres. Sharing her journey as an entrepreneur, which started at university, Mapipa noted how she was able to balance her interest in fashion with her career in Law and build networks that have served her well.
A robust question and answer session was conducted where topics like access to business funding and the imposter syndrome were discussed.
Prizes were awarded during a quiz session by sponsors Vodacom - who gave details about bursaries for women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields - and PepsiCo.
Eita radio, an online station from the Moses Kotane Institute, was also present at the event.
Alumnus, Dr Lusanda Zwane was the master of ceremonies, while audiences enjoyed the sweet melodies of Buyi Gold as entertainment.
Words: Hlengiwe Khwela
Photograph: Moses Kotane Institute
author : .author email : .School of Law Hosts 2025 Moot Court Finals
Moot Court finalists, the Judges and Dean at the Pietermaritzburg campus.UKZN’s School of Law recently hosted the Moot Court competition on the Pietermaritzburg campus where the event was adjudicated by two distinguished members of the Bench: the Judge President of the KwaZulu-Natal Division, Honourable Madam Justice Thoba Poyo-Dlwati, and the Honourable Madam Justice Siphokazi Jikela.
The Moot Court Competition is a flagship initiative of the School of Law, created to provide Bachelor of Laws (LLB) students with hands-on courtroom experience while sharpening their litigation and advocacy skills.
Dean and Head of the School of Law Professor Freddy Mnyongani welcomed everyone, describing the programme as a vital bridge between theory and practice.
“Through the Moot Court Competition, our students gain exposure to the discipline and rigour of courtroom procedures,” said Mnyongani. “It is also a privilege for our students to argue before esteemed judges, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Judge President Poyo-Dlwati and Madam Justice Jikela for their presence, which enriches the experience and adds prestige to the competition,” he said.
The competition featured two compelling cases that tested the finalists’ ability to interpret law, argue persuasively and think critically under pressure.
In the first matter, The State v. Nancy Khumalo, contestants grappled with the question of whether public breastfeeding could constitute public indecency. The Appellant, represented by Mr Lindokuhle Ngubane, argued that Khumalo’s conduct did not meet the threshold of being ‘public’ within the meaning of the offence, while the Respondent, represented by Ms Luyanda Dlamini, defended the conviction.
The second case, Roy Ramtharan v. Willing Wishes Logistics, examined whether an employer’s refusal to hire a rehabilitated former offender on the basis of a prior criminal record amounted to unfair discrimination. The Appellant, represented by Ms Amanda Tshabalala, argued that Mr Ramtharan’s exclusion was arbitrary and unjust, while the Respondent, represented by Ms Coleen Naik, contended that the company’s policy was justified in light of its operational needs and prior financial losses due to fraud.
Following the presentations, Poyo-Dlwati and Jikela commended the participants for their diligence, preparation and passion for the Law. The judges remarked on the quality of advocacy displayed, noting that the arguments presented reflected the calibre and potential of the next generation of legal practitioners.
Winners, Dlamini and Tshabalala, were congratulated for their clarity of thought, persuasive reasoning and poise under questioning.
Said Tshabalala: “From being selected as one of the top 14 students in professional training to becoming one of the final four, the journey has required great research, preparation and commitment, not only from us as the finalists but also from our lecturers. It was a challenging but rewarding moment.”
Said Dlamini: “Being part of the competition will definitely be one of the most significant moments of my years at university, it wasn’t a walk in the park as it required a lot of determination, hard work and preparation but I am happy to say it was all worth it. I still reminisce about that moment standing before the judges and I smile knowing I gave it my all.”
Professor Darren Subramanien, Academic Leader of Socio-Legal Studies, who formally closed the proceedings, extended his congratulations to all participants.
“Competitions like this showcase the talent and determination of our students. The skills honed here will not only benefit their professional journeys but will also contribute to the broader justice system in South Africa,” he said.
Words: Ayanda Radebe
Photograph: Hesper Cele
author : .author email : .Audiology Students’ Community Outreach at VN Naik School for the Deaf
Highlights from the event.September is Deaf Awareness Month and to mark it several UKZN final-year Audiology students completed what they described as a “rewarding and deeply insightful” community outreach day at the VN Naik School for the Deaf in Newlands, Durban.
The students were Ms Tiara Naidoo, Ms Naasihah Ismail, Ms Marili Breytenbach, Ms Viwe Zikhali, Ms Gcwalisile Ntombela and Ms Aphelele Nyawo.
“This day, along with our event on at Westville Campus’ Quad on 18 September, was part of our Deaf awareness initiative for the year, during which we aim to educate the public about deafness and Deaf culture,” said Naidoo.
It was a fun-filled experience for the school’s learners, educators and UKZN students with entertainment provided, including a magic show and face painting by Bobo the Clown. The South African-based non-profit relief organisation,Ashraful Aid, donated exercise books and stationery, while the international humanitarian organisation, Al Imdaad Foundation, served up breyani for everyone with soft drinks provided by Asmals Hypersave, school shoes and party packs from a variety of sponsors.
“Our students have conducted aural rehabilitation at the school for over 20 years,” said UKZN Audiology lecturer, Dr Nasim Banu Khan. Also, in attendance was Audiology lecturer, Mr Mukovhe Phanguphangu, who visits the facility weekly with students to conduct aural rehabilitation for the learners.
“It’s exciting for me because I planned the event along with a colleague, Naasihah,” said Naidoo. “Seeing the smiles on the faces of the children and knowing that we are having an impact on their lives are among the main reasons why I am not only excited but also grateful to be part of the event,”
Naidoo said they had received a warm reception at the school from both staff and learners. “It was a clinic site where you could feel the love. As part of our event we wanted to give back to the school in a small way to show our appreciation for everything they do here,” she said.
The head of the school’s Foundation Phase, Ms Anitha Naidoo, and Principal Ms Sindi Memela, said they had an excellent working relationship with UKZN and this cohort of students.
Naidoo said she enjoyed learning about the ear and hearing in Grade 12, and that had influenced her decision to study Audiology. “I think the scope of the discipline is really wide and we have been exposed to a lot of different contexts that other disciplines may not have. Working in the schools and with the children in different aspects have been highlights for me, especially when signing, as I have learned a lot from the children.”
The day was a precursor to the Audiology discipline’s main Deaf Awareness Campaign event on the Westville campus quad on 18 September, where there was free screening for staff and students as part of the Aural Rehabilitation Clinic.
Words and photographs: Lunga Memela
author : .author email : .Health Sciences’ Research Symposium Rewards Brilliant Young Minds
Highlights from the College of Health Sciences Research Symposium.The College of Health Sciences’ (CHS) flagship Continuing Professional Development (CPD) two-day symposium featured presentations on 103 of the reviewed abstracts.
The CHS received a total of 109 abstracts which all went through a rigorous review process by an expert team of scientists led by the CHS scientific writer, Dr Kgothatso Machaba.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the CHS, Professor Busi Ncama, and the College Dean of Research, Professor Bongani Nkambule, announced and congratulated winners in the various categories.
During the two full days of presentations, adjudicators - comprising senior professors in the CHS -judged the studies for their scientific impact, novelty, relevance to the community and also assessed presentation skills and expertise in the field.
On offer were prizes to attend either international or national conferences and these were awarded to the following presenters who scored highly in the categories of Postdoctoral Fellow, PhD candidate, Master’s candidate or Emerging Researcher (staff):
· Ms Karishma Naidoo of Human Physiology won first prize of R30 000 in the PhD Oral category, with Mr Minenhle Buthelezi of Occupational and Environmental Health and Ms Nicole Reddy of the Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) each winning runners-up prizes of R10 000.
· The best PhD poster presentation was delivered by Optometry student Ms Lungile Buthelezi who won R20 000. Virology lecturer and pathologist at the National Health Laboratory Service, Dr Lilishia Gounder, won second prize of R10 000.
· Africa Health Research Institute’s (AHRI) Ms Sanyuktha Harisingh was first in the Master’s Oral Presentation category winning R30 000, with runners-up prizes of R10 000 going to Ms Relebohile Mautsoe of Pharmaceutical Sciences and AHRI’s Mr Syethemba Nkosi.
· Pharmaceutical Sciences student Ms Jasoda Govender won R20 000 for presenting the Best Poster in the Master’s category, while runners-up prizes of R10 000 each went to Ms Joyce Adidja of Medical Sciences and Ms Rinae Gadisi of Human Physiology who was also recently awarded UKZN’s Rick Turner Scholarship, which is awarded to excellent postgraduate students who exhibit a depth of community engagement.
· Dr Muhammed Ali Gafar Muhammed of Pharmaceutical Sciences won first prize of R30 000 for his postdoctoral oral presentation, and Dr Prem Sharma Medical Sciences R10 000 second prize.
· Adjudged to have delivered the best Staff Oral presentation was Audiology lecturer Ms Sphilile Mbhele who won R30 000, while Dr Sumayyah Ebrahim, who lectures in the MBChB programme, won the R10 000 second prize.
The keynote address: ‘From Gene Therapy to Vaccine Development: The Road to Clinical Translation of Basic Research’, was presented by Professor Abdullah El of the University of the Witwatersrand/South African Medical Research Council’s (SAMRC) Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit (AGTRU) who completed his doctoral degree at the AGTRU in 2009, where he focused on exploiting the RNA interface pathway to science hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication. Since then he has worked on the development of novel gene therapy-based approaches to combat HBV and mRNA technologies for gene therapy and vaccines.
Interactive Q & A sessions were held featuring each of the symposium presenters.
Both Ncama and Nkambule praised the increasingly high standard of the symposium and the overall quality of the presentations which underpinned CHS’ mission to be a socially responsive College, providing a holistic experience of excellence in health professions education, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, community and stakeholder engagement and health services.
Words and photographs: Lunga Memela
author : .author email : .Importance of Personal Finance Skills Emphasised at Student Information Gathering
From left: Mr Owami Khuzwayo, Mr Inganathi Mhlungulwana, Mr Sphesihle Jwilisi and Dr Andrisha Beharry-Ramraj.Click here for isiZulu version
Financial literacy and entrepreneurship were the focus of an initiative at UKZN aimed at equipping students with the skills necessary to navigate the complex world of personal finance and entrepreneurship.
The event was organised under the leadership of Howard College campus’ Mabel Palmer Residence assistant, Mr Sphesihle Jwilisi, who recognised the urgent need for students, especially first-years, to be empowered with practical financial knowledge early in their academic journeys.
The programme emphasised the importance of financial literacy, including personal financial management, budgeting, debt avoidance and smart investment practices. By addressing these core skills, students are better prepared to make informed financial decisions both during their university years and beyond.
In addition to financial education, entrepreneurship and innovation were discussed. Guest speaker Dr Andrisha Beharry-Ramraj of the School of Commerce engaged students on opportunities to start and grow businesses, exploring funding avenues and connecting with institutional support systems. “This is particularly significant in the South African context, where unemployment remains a pressing challenge and entrepreneurship continues to emerge as a key driver of economic empowerment,” said Beharry-Ramraj.
For first-year students, the programme was a timely intervention. Transitioning from high school to university was often challenging with new financial responsibilities involved, including managing allowances, accommodation expenses and social commitments. Without guidance, many students get into debt or make poor financial choices.
The programme offered practical strategies to build financial discipline, fostering independence and confidence.
The event also created a valuable platform for students to network, exchange ideas and ignite their entrepreneurial spirit.
Student entrepreneurs Mr Owami Khuzwayo and Mr Inganathi Mhlungulwana of Enactus UKZN showcased their enterprises, MaliYethu Fintech Solutions and Saferise. These businesses are made possible through the support of Enactus UKZN. During the session, Khuzwayo and Mhlungulwana shared their journeys as young business leaders and highlighted how their enterprises contribute to solving pressing community issues.
The opportunities and competitions offered at UKZN continue to empower students to achieve their goals. Many of the participants in the programme committed to joining Enactus UKZN and embarking on their own entrepreneurial journeys.
Many participants expressed how the insights gained would inspire them to not only better manage their personal finances but also to pursue innovative ways of generating income while studying.
Said Jwilisi: “The vision of the programme is to cultivate student potential, promote financial independence and prepare students for life beyond university.”
Words: NdabaOnline
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Foundation and Alumni Relations Host Women’s Day Gathering
Guests at the Women’s Day alumni event at the Killie Campbell Museum in Durban.Click here for isiZulu version
The UKZN Foundation, in collaboration with Alumni Relations, hosted a special Women’s Day event for elderly female alumni at one of Durban’s most treasured heritage sites - the Killie Campbell Museum.
The event served as a celebration of resilience, legacy and the powerful role women have played in shaping the University and broader society. Alumni who once walked the halls of the University were treated to a morning of reflection, connection and rich storytelling.
“This event is a tribute to the trailblazing women who helped shape the legacy of UKZN,” said Ms Tankiso Mabotha, Legacy and Endowment Officer at the Foundation.
“Many of these women pursued Higher Education at a time when opportunities were far more limited, and their courage, strength and determination deserve our deepest respect.”
The programme included a guided tour of the Campbell Collections, an internationally acclaimed collection of rare archival material concerning regional collection and history. The collection comprises the Killie Campbell Africana Library, Mashu Museum of Ethnology, William Campbell Furniture and Art Collection and the Jo Thorpe Collection of African Art.
The collections are housed in Muckleneuk, a neo-Cape Dutch style house that was formerly the home of Natal sugar farmer and politician Sir Marshall Campbell. The collections were established by Sir Campbell’s son and daughter (William and Killie Campbell). On the death of his daughter in 1965, the collection was left to the University.
With laughter, shared memories and heartfelt moments, the Women’s Day gathering provided an opportunity for intergenerational learning and the strengthening of alumni networks. It also highlighted the importance of ongoing engagement between the University and its alumni community.
Speaking at the event, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Natal (now UKZN), Professor Brenda Gourley, said: “Your courage opens doors others didn’t even know existed. I’ve found that to be so true - when I acted, I simply did what needed to be done. Yet young women would come to me and say: ‘Because you achieved this, I now know I can too’.”
Said Mabotha: “Today we gather to connect, to network, and to create a community of women whose impact and influence will shape generations to come. The University, through events like these, reaffirms its role not just as an academic institution, but as a custodian of memory, heritage and community.”
Alumni who would like to be part of building a legacy at UKZN through bursaries, bequests, wills and other forms of support are encouraged to contact Mabotha via Mabotha@ukzn.ac.za or 031 260 2395.
Words: Melissa Mungroo
Photograph: Nkosikhona Gcabashe
author : .author email : .Accountancy Experts Visit UKZN
ACCA and BDO delegates with UKZN staff.Representatives of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)) and the firm BDO visited Accounting students in UKZN’s School of Commerce with the aim being to equip them with a clearer understanding of the diverse pathways available in accountancy and prepare the candidates for decisions that will shape their future.
Conducted as a hybrid event, it brought together third-year and honours students for an invaluable opportunity to explore the professional pathway looming ahead.
ACCA, the leading global professional accountancy body offering the Chartered Certified Accountant qualification, is widely recognised by key regulatory and professional organisations, including the Pan African Federation of Accountants; the International Federation of Accountants; the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors; the South African Qualifications Authority; the South African Revenue Service, and the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority.
This ensures that its qualifications meet global standards which empowers graduates with credentials that hold global relevance.
The session was facilitated by Ms Hlengiwe Ndlela, a senior lecturer in Auditing at UKZN, who emphasised the importance of this academic stage.
“This stage of your qualification is crucial as it shapes the decisions you make about your professional futures, laying a foundation for both competence and confidence,” she said, addressing the students.
Mr Mareka Chabedi then guided students through the ACCA qualification route, detailing the structure.
“While becoming a Chartered Accountant through ACCA ordinarily entails sitting for 13 rigorous examinations and completing an ethics module, UKZN’s BCom degree, fully accredited by ACCA, allows students to begin at the Strategic Professional level - thus a candidate needs to complete only four additional examinations,” said Chabedi.
He further outlined the modules included in these exams which stretch beyond technical knowledge to develop applied skills such as strategic thinking, leadership, complex financial analysis and robust ethical judgment.
ACCA’s suite of student resources further supports this journey through webinars, global mock exams, and examiners’ reports which shed light on marking expectations, while their YouTube channel offers preparation advice that is both accessible and practical.
Complementing these are ACCA’s repository of past examinations papers and the Study Hub - a platform offering syllabi, quizzes and structured learning tools, thus ensuring that students are not only exam ready but equipped for the challenges of professional practice.
BDO Wave, a part of BDO UK, works with ACCA as a training and support ground for individuals pursuing the ACCA qualification which offers opportunities for trainees to gain practical audit and tax experience while working towards their ACCA certification.
Audit Manager Ms Sinazo Vumazonke, spoke on BDO’s role in professional growth.
“Choosing BDO means choosing an environment where mentorship, career growth and holistic well-being are integral to your professional journey,” said Vumazonke.
The presence of ACCA trainees and Talent Acquisition specialists from BDO further enriched the event, with candid discussions on wellness, work-life balance, and support structures - reinforcing how setting clear objectives and receiving guided mentorship can drive both career fulfilment and personal resilience.
The testimonial from ACCA trainee Mr Munashe Kasirori resonated deeply: “My move from theory to practice changed my perspective in Auditing. I’ve learned to take ownership of my work, and you learn to lead. It’s a culture of mentorship where you are constantly learning. For me it was more than a job -it was a golden token,” he shared
Through this visit, ACCA and BDO provided more than professional guidance - they offered a vision of what lies ahead for aspiring accountants.
Words: Ayanda Radebe
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Dermatology Congress of South Africa a ‘Resounding Success’
Congress highlights.The 9th Combined and 76th Dermatology Congress of South Africa was described as “world-class, highly insightful and a resounding success” by leading dermatologists who attended the event held under the theme ‘Reflections and Unity in Dermatology’.
UKZN’s Head of Dermatology and former Dean of Clinical Medicine, Professor Ncoza Dlova, was Chairperson of the 2025 organising committee.
The congress was hosted by the Dermatology Society of South Africa (DSSA), the South African Society for Dermatologic Surgery (SASDS), the Vitiligo Society of South Africa (VSSA), the Melanoma Society of South Africa, and the African Women’s Dermatologic Society.
The opening ceremony and gala dinner were sponsored by skincare science-backed organisations, Eucerin and L’Oréal.
The Scientific Committee was led by Chairperson Associate Professor and Principal Specialist, Professor Anisa Mosam of UKZN, the President of DSSA and VSSA, Dr Noufal Raboobee, and the Cape Town-based President of SASDS, Dr Nomphelo Gantsho.
Dlova said: “We were thrilled about this gathering of a diverse community of experts, researchers, and clinicians dedicated to advancing dermatology. The congress offered a unique platform to share cutting-edge knowledge, explore the latest treatments, and network with colleagues from around the continent and the world. We are positive that the bespoke, inclusive, rich scientific programme with engaging, practical hands-on workshops with live patients and the vibrant African atmosphere provided a valuable learning experience for all participants. We also ensured that the topics and therapeutic interventions were relevant and aligned with conditions that we encounter daily in South Africa. There was a diversity of renowned speakers from the African continent and beyond.”
The local and international speakers were from diverse countries and specialities to ensure relevance and sharing of common diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in line with the theme.
The programme focused on allergies in dermatology, vitiligo and inflammatory dermatological conditions, while there was also a dedicated dermoscopy session and dermoscopy challenge featuring the internationally renowned Dr Konstantinos Liopyris.
A bespoke whole day workshop focusing on skin of colour and hair was popular with the founders of the African Skin of Colour Society, Professor Ncoza Dlova and Dr Nomphelo Gantsho, who were very pleased by the attendance and grateful to L’Oréal for supporting and sponsoring the workshop.
A moving testimonial about the highs and lows resulting from being born with the rare skin condition dermatologically known as dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) was shared in the motivational segment at the opening of the congress by Shirvani Naran of Beauty and the Bandaged Babe on Facebook, who received a standing ovation for her presentation. DEB is a rare inherited condition that causes fragile, blistering skin and blisters of which may appear in response to minor injury, even from heat, rubbing or scratching. In severe cases, the blisters occur inside the body.
After the congress, Naran said: “Too often, the perspective from the patient’s side is over once a consultation ends. Many were touched by hearing how my faith sustains me, and I believe it is an essential part of anyone’s journey when faced with a medical crisis. At this congress, you gave me the chance to share not just challenges but a story of hope and resilience. For me, it is the combination of strict wound care routines, resilience, and creativity that allows me to tell ‘the other side of the story’. I wish I’d had more time to meet everyone afterwards, but in true EB style, a piece of food got stuck in my throat and I had to rush back to my hotel as I could not swallow! A reminder that EB never takes a break.
“I am not just living with EB. I am also working, running a home, surviving and thriving,” Naran said.
Translating medicine into poetry for global health awareness, UKZN final-year Medical student and member of the University’s Voice Arts Club (VAC), Mr Ndumiso Majola, recited his latest poem, Genetics Genius - We Are Not Different, focusing on albinism. The piece was inspired by his peer, Dr Nokubonga Sabela, a recently graduated Medical doctor living with oculocutaneous albinism, a rare inherited condition affecting melanin production.
The congress sponsors and exhibitors reminded guests that the skin was the largest organ in the body, needing as much care and protection as all other organs that society tends to pay more attention to.
Dlova said: “The bespoke, inclusive, rich scientific programme with engaging, practical hands-on workshops with live patients and the vibrant African atmosphere provided valuable learning opportunities.”
The L’Oréal-sponsored gala dinner was a highlight, with a kaleidoscope of South African traditional attire on display - from elegant saris to striking local designs.
On the academic stage, the calibre of presentations and competitions was exceptional. UKZN shone, securing places among the top three registrar presentations, poster and MMed research awards.
The congress drew 11 international speakers and the largest delegate and exhibitor turnout in the past five years - a clear reflection of the growing strength and appeal of our dermatology community.
A big thank you to our sponsors, delegates and the organising committee, whose dedication and support made the congress a memorable success.
Words and photographs: Lunga Memela
author : .author email : .UKZN Expands Global Reach Through Strategic Research Partnerships
Professor Fhatuwani Mudau.UKZN’s College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science (CAES) is proud of a significant milestone in its internationalisation journey, having been officially accepted as a founding member of the China-Africa Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Alliance (CAASTIA).
This achievement follows strategic engagements led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the College, Professor Fhatuwani Mudau, and the Dean of Agriculture and Science, Professor Ade Olaniran, building on UKZN’s existing collaborations with global research institutions, particularly the Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences (JAAS) in China.
CAASTIA, a pioneering initiative launched under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), is jointly driven by the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) and the African Academy of Sciences (AAS). It seeks to promote innovation and collaboration in agricultural science and technology between African and Chinese research institutions.
The alliance focuses on key areas such as agricultural technology transfer, food security, sustainable development and capacity building, with the overall aim of addressing pressing agricultural challenges across the two regions.
Becoming a founding member of CAASTIA represents a strategic move by CAES to cement and expand its partnership with JAAS, which is itself a member of the alliance.
The relationship between UKZN and JAAS has developed over several years, starting with research collaborations and extending into formalised agreements involving student and staff exchanges, joint supervision of postgraduate research and shared scientific projects in agricultural sciences and biotechnology.
JAAS, based in China’s Jiangsu Province, is a renowned institution known for its contributions to crop breeding, sustainable farming practices and rural development technologies. Its role in CAASTIA underscores the calibre of institutions involved and signals the depth of opportunity available to UKZN through this alliance.
UKZN’s membership in CAASTIA opens new avenues for collaborative research, access to shared infrastructure, co-funding opportunities and increased visibility within a dynamic international network. It aligns closely with South Africa’s national research priorities and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, particularly in the areas of food security, innovation and climate-resilient agriculture.
Mudau expressed his enthusiasm about the development, highlighting the long-term value of such partnerships for both institutional advancement and regional impact.
Further extending the College’s international footprint, Mudau recently held a breakfast meeting with key representatives from the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), including a Swedish-based delegate currently participating in a mathematics workshop in northern KwaZulu-Natal. During this engagement, discussions centred on UKZN’s potential involvement in the South Africa-Sweden University Forum (SASUF), a growing collaboration between Swedish and South African universities that supports joint research, academic mobility and innovation aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
SASUF represents a powerful platform for UKZN to diversify its international engagements, particularly in areas of shared research interest such as sustainability, renewable energy, water resources, health and agriculture.
With over 40 partner universities involved across both countries, the forum has become a beacon of multidisciplinary co-operation, supporting academic exchanges and collaborative research funding, as well as the possibility of joint PhD programmes.
The opportunity of joining SASUF complements the University’s broader strategy to position itself as a global leader in research and innovation, while expanding opportunities for staff and students to participate in international projects and training programmes.
Both the CAASTIA and SASUF engagements represent a commitment to knowledge exchange, sustainable development and the advancement of science in the global south.
Said Mudau: “As UKZN moves forward with its involvement in CAASTIA and advances discussions around SASUF, the University is poised to become an even more active player in global research networks, leveraging these alliances to drive innovation, enhance academic excellence and contribute meaningfully to solving real-world challenges.
These developments signal a promising future for UKZN’s College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, affirming its place at the forefront of international research collaboration.
Words: Sally Frost
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Busamed Cafeteria Opened at UKZN’s Medical School
Highlights from the launch.Staff and students at UKZN’s Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine in Durban can now enjoy tasty and nutritious meals offered at an affordable rate to while relaxing and networking at a Busamed cafeteria launched on the ground floor of the School.
UKZN and Busamed private hospital leadership said some Medical students were from impoverished backgrounds, presenting a food insecurity challenge that needed to be addressed as the demanding MBChB curriculum requires optimal physical and mental functioning of staff and students alike.
UKZN’s Head of Dermatology and former Dean of Clinical Medicine, Professor Ncoza Dlova, whose vision and initiative in forging a partnership with a private catering company, were key to the successful establishment of the facility known as Busamed Flame Café said, “Public-private partnerships such this one between the University and Busamed are not about shifting responsibility but sharing it.” She thanked Mrs Mary David for working closely with her and operationalising the partnership with the University as well as the School Operations Manager Ms Nomakhwezi Khanyile for her support.
Medical School Occupational Nurse Sister Nozipho Jali said: “We’re very excited and happy about the calibre of food and professionalism displayed here today. We trust that the cafeteria will maintain the high standard. Thank you to Busamed and Reece, the Executive Chef at the launch!”
The guests agreed that food was not only delicious but also of high quality.
Monate Hospital Catering’s Group Operations Manager, Ms Dima Ramodike, said they were “committed to serving premium meals, with a personal touch,” noting that food provides comfort for doctors and patients alike. She stressed that doctors need to take care of themselves as much as they do for their patients - maintaining healthy diets was essential.
The cafeteria will also be available to patrons of the adjacent Victoria Mxenge Hospital - formerly King Edward VIII Hospital - that provides tertiary services to the whole of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and part of Eastern Cape, training a host of UKZN’s Medical students as well as Department of Health personnel.
Further plans for Busamed opening a pharmacy next to the cafeteria, are in progress, with services available to the public and private sector through medical aid or cash payments.
Said Busamed CEO Dr Dumani Kula: “The Busamed World of Care is all about bringing you exceptional healthcare by setting new standards of excellence. Our vision is to provide high-quality care and service that supports you through any medical challenge, ensuring your journey is as comfortable and reassuring as possible. Busamed’s modern hospitals are staffed with experts who deliver outstanding healthcare, continually raising the bar for clinical success and patient satisfaction worldwide.”
Dr Diliza Mji, founder, shareholder and a Director of the Busamed Group, is an alumnus of the Medical School and was recently honoured as one of UKZN’s Living Legends, for being among the first African surgeons and medical doctors venturing into the business of establishing private hospitals.
The group celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, with an increasing footprint of hospitals spreading across various provinces, and boasting “top-notch” cafeterias.
Words and photographs: Lunga Memela
author : .author email : .Turning Challenges into Triumphs!
Ms Nonkazimulo Lembede.At just 26 years old, Ms Nonkazimulo Lembede has already proven that perseverance, resilience and determination to succeed can turn even the most difficult circumstances into stepping stones to great things.
In a double achievement, Lembede graduated with a Bachelor of Social Science degree in Criminology and History and became the first Deaf student to graduate from UKZN’s Pietermaritzburg campus.
Meningitis caused Lembede to lose her hearing at the age of eight. “It was a confusing time,” she said, “but my mother was very supportive and placed me in a special school where I could learn alongside other Deaf children. My family’s love and support have carried and guided me.”
Now she reflects on her academic journey with both pride and gratitude. Studying at UKZN was more than just an academic decision - it was a deeply personal one. “I choose to study there because the Institution is accommodating to disabled individuals. That inspired me to want to study there,” said Lembede.
From the outset, she found UKZN to be a supportive and inclusive environment. Thanks to a dedicated interpreter and the unwavering assistance of the Disability Unit, she was able to handle her lectures and academic responsibilities with confidence. “The Disability Unit was dependable, reliable and supportive - not only in academics but also in housing and financial aid,” she says.
Still, her journey was not without its challenges. Entering university in her first year, she recalls feeling lonely and isolated as a Deaf person. Later, academic difficulties tested her self-belief, making her question whether she was suited for academic life.
She refused to let these obstacles define her. Instead, they became the fuel that kept her going. “My journey was not an easy one but it became easier when I embraced shortcomings and worked on them over and over again,” she reflects. “At the end, the outcome was rewarding.”
Apart from her degree, she says education has given her discipline, purpose and a clearer sense of self. Now, with her degree in hand, Lembede is determined to continue her academic journey, no matter how difficult the road ahead may be.
Her story stands as a powerful reminder that resilience and self-belief can transform challenges into triumphs. “Despite how demanding it is to obtain a degree,” she says, “I plan to further my academic ventures because education has shaped me into a better version of myself.”
Words: Jennene Naidu
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .