Lifetime Award for UKZN’s Dermatology HOD
Trailblazing dermatologist and UKZN scholar, Professor Ncoza Dlova.Click here for isiZulu version
Head of Dermatology and former Dean of Clinical Medicine, Professor Ncoza Dlova, received a Momentum Health Lifetime Award at the KwaZulu-Natal Doctors Healthcare Coalition (KZNDHC) annual gala dinner and awards ceremony.
Momentum Health and KZNDHC said the award was a testament to Dlova’s leadership in academia, as well as the quality and impact of her work.
Dlova’s research interests include ethnic skin and hair, global health and medical education, areas where she has consistently advanced representation and access.
President of the KZNDHC Professor Morgan Chetty congratulated Dlova for her inspiring leadership and the positive impact she has had on the Medical School and the general community.
Dlova sits on multiple international dermatology boards, including the American Dermatology Association, and the International Society of Dermatology. She is the first fully-elected African representative to the International League of Dermatology Societies since its founding, 89 years ago.
Dlova - who prides herself on being the most published dermatologist in South Africa and on the continent - is the first Black woman Dean in the 75-year history of UKZN’s Medical School. She now heads the Dermatology Discipline as a National Research Foundation (NRF) B-rated researcher.
In 2022, Dlova received the Excellence Award for University Society Bridging and in 2023, was honoured with a Living Legends Award for her exceptional leadership and contribution to humanity. In 2024, Dlova received the Gold Award from the South African Medical Research Council for her contribution to research, a Fellowship in Art and Science Award from the South African Medical Association for her lasting impact on health and research, and the title of School of Clinical Medicine Innovator and Leader.
Momentum Health said Dlova’s legacy was one of visionary leadership, mentorship, relentless advocacy and a deep commitment to transformation in the health sciences.
“This mission reflects not only my own journey but the collective spirit of those who walk beside me,” said Dlova. “And who are those people? It is you, my colleagues; my patients; my family; my students and of course, my mentors,” Dlova said.
“As they say, a good teacher teaches, a superior teacher demonstrates, and a great teacher inspires. So, I’ve been inspired by a whole lot of you here, young and old. I want to stress that success is linked to failure. I have what I call a CV of failures,” she said.
“To the young people out there, this is how I interpret failure: ‘Failure is the first attempt in learning’. Always ask, what is failure there to teach you, so that the next time you encounter it, you are a better person.”
Dlova acknowledged her leaders and mentors in the room, including South African Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, and applauded KZNDHC and its mission to promote and enhance quality, cost-effective, accessible healthcare to all citizens on the basis of sound economic principles.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Prestigious Awards for UKZN Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeons
Dr Khangelani Sondovana and Dr Mario Rankin receive their awards from 2024/2025 SAOA President, Dr Odette Koch.Click here for isiZulu version
Grey’s Hospital orthopaedics registrar Dr Khangelani Sondovana has been awarded the esteemed Professor S Govender Free Paper Award for the Best Spine-related Research presented at the South African Orthopaedic Association (SAOA) Congress 2025.
Professor Shunmugam Govender was a revered spinal surgeon whose legacy continues to inspire the orthopaedic community. A passionate advocate for research, teaching, and training, he left an indelible mark on the field. In honour of his memory, his family and the SAOA annually present this award to the most outstanding spine or educational free paper submitted at the congress. The award carries a prize of R20 000.
“The awarded research sheds light on the mortality rate among surgically treated patients with cervical spine injuries in low-and middle-income countries (LMIC), South Africa. Given the limited availability of such data, this study might play a vital role in guiding the allocation of healthcare resources,” noted SAOA.
Sondovana said: “This recognition would not have been possible without the invaluable guidance of my supervisors, Dr Alberto Puddu and Dr Herman Pieter Mare. I remain deeply grateful to the Pietermaritzburg Orthopaedic Complex for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout this journey.”
“The findings highlight the significance of a multidisciplinary treatment approach and underscore the resilience of institutions like ours, which, despite resource constraints, remain committed to excellence in training, research, and patient care. This work stands as a testament to the potential of impactful research, dedicated teaching, and the cultivation of future specialists - all of which are essential to advancing evidence-based medicine within the communities we serve. Inkunzi isematholeni,” he added.
Sondovana’s peer, Dr Mario Rankin - a Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon and senior lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) - was honoured with the 2025 SAOA Research Grant in support of advancing his work on various research projects. Rankin is currently pursuing a PhD which focuses on exploring the cellular immune function of human chondrocytes. The award is presented in recognition of SAOA members who are pursuing interesting and innovative research in the field of Orthopaedics.
“It is very encouraging to receive such recognition. Not only does it motivate me on the daunting path of a PhD, but it also contributes to securing international recognition for my research,” said Rankin.
“This achievement would not have been possible without the support of my supervisors Professors Alex Sigal, Len Marais and Soma Pillay, as well as my colleagues and friends at the African Health Research Institute laboratory. I would also like to thank UKZN’s School of Medicine for their support.”
Words: Lunga Memela
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .Medical Student’s Grocery Platform Wins Big!
Mr Luyanda Mchunu (centre) receives his award from Mr Qhawe Sosibo, former JCI South Africa President, and Gauteng MEC for Agriculture, Ms Vuyiswa Ramokgopa.Fourth-year University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Medical student Mr Luyanda Mchunu has once again distinguished himself by winning the 2025 JCI Creative Young Entrepreneur (CYE) competition.
Having recently won the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Intervarsity Provincial contest, Mchunu continues to receive recognition as he prepares for the national finals scheduled for the end of November.
Driven by a passion for solving societal challenges through innovation, the 22-year-old said he was honoured to be selected as the overall winner of the CYE - an award that celebrates innovation, impact and creativity in entrepreneurship.
“As a young South African entrepreneur and Medical student, I believe that entrepreneurship can play a major role in improving lives, and this competition aligns perfectly with my mission to create sustainable change through technology and community-driven solutions,” Mchunu said.
Mchunu is the founder of GrocieFy-SA, an online platform that creates a digital ecosystem connecting consumers to affordable groceries while supporting local retailers and delivery services. He said the JCI CYE competition was the ideal platform to showcase his innovation, which he learnt about through UKZN’s Student Entrepreneurship portfolio that regularly shares opportunities for student entrepreneurs.
“I entered the competition because I wanted to gain exposure, mentorship, and validation for GrocieFy-SA. I saw this as an opportunity to learn from other young entrepreneurs, connect with stakeholders, and amplify the impact of our work.”
Mchunu acknowledged UKZN’s Student Entrepreneurship portfolio for its valuable role in providing mentorship, guidance, and encouragement throughout his entrepreneurial journey. “They have been instrumental in helping me sharpen my business model and connect with relevant networks,” he said.
The competition included a rigorous national online pitching programme in which entrepreneurs received feedback from business mentors and judges, requiring them to refine their business models for better scalability.
GrocieFy-SA, initially aimed at university students in Durban, is currently in its minimum viable product (MVP) development stage, with plans to expand across KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa. The platform’s functional prototype has been finalised, with the official launch anticipated in mid-2026.
“Our goal is to promote food accessibility, reduce waste, and create employment opportunities,” Mchunu said. “With the winnings we hope to invest in advancing the technical development of the platform, improving its user interface, and establishing partnerships with local retailers. A portion will also go towards marketing and pilot testing within university campuses,” he added.
Mchunu thanked the College of Health Sciences (CHS) for sponsoring his travel and accommodation to attend the event. He also expressed his gratitude to Professor Fanie Botha, Director: CHS Professional Services and Professor Thea van der Westhuizen, Academic Leader: High Impact Community Engagement and Internationalisation in the School of Commerce for their unwavering support in ensuring that he proudly represents UKZN on a national stage.
Commenting on how he was able to balance his Medical studies with his entrepreneurial ventures, Mchunu said: “It’s been challenging and rewarding, but the key has always been passion; I truly enjoy both Medicine and innovation!”
Words: Hlengiwe Khwela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Former Chief Justice Shares Valuable Insights in Guest Lecture
From left: Professor Halima Khunoethe, Justice Sandile Ngcobo, Professor Pearl Sithole, Mr Themba Mzimela.The Maurice Webb Race Relations Unit (MWRRU) at Howard College recently hosted former Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo as part of its ‘Administration of Justice’ module.
The lecture formed a key component of the Leadership and Governance Programme, launched in early 2025 as a capacity-building initiative for traditional leaders. The programme is a partnership between the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) and the MWRRU.
MWRRU Director, Professor Paulus Zulu, expressed deep appreciation for Ngcobo’s participation, describing him as an exceptional jurist whose insights are enriched by a profound understanding of local cultures and communities.
Over an interactive two-day session, Ngcobo provided a comprehensive and holistic perspective on the administration of justice in South Africa. His approach positioned communities at the centre of the justice system, emphasising a balance between individual rights, cultural traditions, and democratic values.
The lecture invigorated amakhosi who engage daily with community-based challenges. Ngcobo highlighted the Constitution as a powerful enabler of administrative justice and demonstrated how policy frameworks aligned with it support ethical leadership and effective governance. He further illustrated how ethics, inhlonipho, and ubuntu operate as foundational principles for sound policy implementation and administrative decision-making.
Across the two days, Ngcobo guided the class through key themes, including:
• The social life, ethos, and evolving governance systems of indigenous communities;
• The relationship between community governance, land, agriculture, and socio-economic survival;
• The impact of colonialism on community structures;
• The transformation of policy tools from instruments of colonial control into shared frameworks reflecting South African values;
• The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and the legislation governing the relationship between local government and traditional leadership.
As a key partner in the programme, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs attended the lecture and recognised the intellectual value and inspiration it provided to the Class of 2025.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .The National Question: UKZN Professor Leads Charge as SARChI Chair
Professor Rozena Maart, newly appointed SARChI Chair on ‘The National Question’, was honoured at UKZN by her peers and guests.Professor Rozena Maart from the School of Social Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has taken the helm of the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) on the study of ‘The National Question’, establishing her as one of the nation’s foremost thought leaders.
The SARChI is a programme of the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST) designed to attract and retain research excellence in South African universities.
The achievement is even more significant considering there are only four SARChI Chairs within the Humanities at UKZN, and 12 across the entire University. “I am deeply honoured to have been selected as Chair, given the high-level credentials required for selection and the fact that there are only 241 of us among 15 000 academics at South African universities,” said Maart.
Leading critical enquiry, ‘The National Question’ refers to South Africa’s complex history of racial inequality, land seizures, forced removals, gender inequality and issues within the broader social justice arena. She reveals that her interest in ‘The National Question’ stems from a deeply personal journey. “I was born in District Six, the slave quarter of the Cape. At the age of 11, we were forcibly removed from District Six to Lavender Hill. At 16, I discovered that my grandfather was Xhosa (even though it was always all around me and evident when we visited his family in Mossel Bay), a revelation that significantly shaped my understanding of identity, belonging and the complexities of South African heritage. This personal awakening sparked a deep passion for social justice, driving me to actively engage in causes that mattered.”
This role offers Maart a unique platform to drive impactful change, and she intends to use her time as Chair effectively. “During my tenure, I will address the critical issue of land, one of the defining foundations started by our predecessors at the beginning of the 1900s, positioning it as central to tackling the structural inequalities and historical injustices embedded in the South African socio-political landscape,” she said.
Her research will explore the legacy of apartheid, identity, social justice, and the role of the State and institutions in addressing inequality. It will also examine the experiences of marginalised communities and identify creative and dynamic approaches to advance nation-building beyond critique.
Maart has delivered numerous talks and papers at several local and international conferences, where she has shared her insights on decolonial thought, race and identity.
Among her engagements, she attended the FANON AT 100 Conference in Martinique, where she spoke on Frantz Fanon’s conceptualisation of national consciousness and ‘The National Question’ both in Algeria and South Africa.
Celebrating her appointment, the College of Humanities recently hosted the launch of the SARChI Chair. Supported by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Humanities Professor Nhlanhla Mkhize and hosted by the Dean of Social Science Professor Federico Settler, with input from the UKZN Dean of Research Professor Neil Koorbanally, the event brought together academics from across the country and abroad, working within the space of gender, identity, race, land, religion and culture.
Speakers and panellists included critical thinkers, researchers, directors and experts in identity and cultural studies. Also in attendance were members from The National Question Network (TNQN) from universities across the country.
This is a South African-based network of key stakeholders created by Maart, bringing together key scholars, researchers, community members, grassroots organisers, indigenous people(s), and civil society groups, some of whom included Professor Tshepo Madlingozi, South African Human Rights Commissioner on Anti-racism; Professor Lewis Gordon, University of Connecticut; Professor Sarojini Nadar, Desmond Tutu SARChI Research Chair in Religion and Social Justice; Dr Zethu Mkhize, Director, Centre for Transformation, Stellenbosch University; Dr Sianne Alves, Director, Office of Inclusivity and Change, UCT; and Ms Rose Mzisa, Deputy Director, Department of Science and Technology.
Maart said, “TNQN aims to develop and maintain knowledge-centred relationships with key agencies and structures in South Africa where ‘The National Question’ is unfolding, ensuring transparent communication among all stakeholders.”
Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Humanities Professor Nhlanhla Mkhize congratulated Maart on her appointment, saying, “I am pleased that the Chair has been awarded to you and UKZN. You are more than equal to this task, and we look forward to the Chair flourishing here under your guidance.” He also stressed the continued relevance of ‘The National Question’, noting that it was more important than ever in this historical juncture in South Africa.
Maart also received several messages of congratulations and support from her international peers and colleagues, working in the fields of philosophy, politics, African studies and African American studies.
Professor Tommy J. Curry, the Personal Chair of Africana Philosophy and Black Male Studies from the University of Edinburgh, said, “This is a fitting recognition for Professor Maart, as a world-leading theorist who offers powerful diagnoses of colonialism, anti-Black racism, and the violence imposed upon African peoples. Noting her contributions to Philosophy Born of Struggle, Philosophies Born of Massacres, Black Male Studies, and Academic Philosophy does not adequately capture the significance of her career and research.
“Professor Maart has paved the way for generations of African scholars and has stood against the co-optation of Black thought and philosophy by White liberals and the neo-colonial forces that would have Black thinkers merely accept their marginalised status within predominantly White institutions that show little regard for Black philosophy or the Black experience. She is a sterling example of the best of our people, and this is a wonderful recognition of this fact.”
Renowned philosopher Professor Riccardo Pozzo, Chair of the 24th World Congress of Philosophy Programme Committee, also congratulated Maart and called for increased investment in education and viable pathways to peace and equality.
Maart is taking the appointment in her stride, energised by the possibilities of the role. “It’s been a good start, and I look forward to working with researchers and stakeholders across the country to ensure we achieve our aims and objectives. It is a great responsibility to shoulder, and I am delighted to say that the support has been overwhelmingly positive,” she said.
Words: Jennene Naidu
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .A Single Shell, Fired by the IDF at a Fertility Clinic: Peace Prize Recipient Explains What Lies Behind Her Genocide Finding
UKZN alumna and Chair of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel, South African Judge Navi Pillay.Of the thousands of bombs that have fallen - and fall still - on Gaza, there is one to which Navi Pillay returns: a lone shell, fired by the Israel Defense Forces at the Al-Basma fertility clinic in December 2023.
A single strike that wiped out 4 000 embryos in a moment. The strike was “intended to prevent births” among Palestinians in Gaza, says Pillay, the former chair of the United Nation's (UN) Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Territory of Palestine and Israel. “That clinic stands alone in the grounds, separate from the rest of the hospital buildings. They didn’t fire on the hospital - if the excuse is that Hamas is hiding in the hospitals, they didn’t touch the hospital. They came straight to this building and targeted and hit the nitrogen tanks that kept the embryos alive.”
Pillay cites the attack not as a totality, but signal example, one among “a great number” of incidents, that led to Pillay’s commission finding Israel has committed genocide in Gaza. “Children who were meant to be born from these … reproductive specimens will never exist,” an expert medical witness told the commission’s investigation. “Families will be forever changed and bloodlines may end.”
Pillay recently received the Sydney peace prize, in part, for her ‘tireless advocacy for accountability’.
‘The prohibition on genocide is absolute’
Over her long career - as the first non-White woman to open a Law practice in Natal, the first non-White woman to sit as a judge on the high court of South Africa, and the longest-serving high commissioner for human rights in UN history - Pillay recognises the life of a pioneer is often lonely, often isolated. But she says she has been surprised at the opprobrium - the unvarnished ad hominem attacks - the four years she has spent on the commission (predating the 7 October attacks) has generated.
The reports issued by the commission have forensically recounted - in unflinchingly precise detail - the prosecution of the conflict in Gaza. They have detailed war crimes committed by Hamas, the effects of bombardment on Palestinian children, and the targeting of Gaza’s fragile healthcare and education systems.
The most recent report - Pillay’s last as she resigned from the commission in July - found Israel had committed genocide against the Palestinian people of Gaza. “The international community cannot stay silent on the genocidal campaign launched by Israel against the Palestinian people in Gaza,” she said, launching the report in Geneva. “When clear signs and evidence of genocide emerge, the absence of action to stop it amounts to complicity.”
But the report has not brought the response she expected, nor hoped for. Inaction, she says, still rules. “It is the responsibility of all states, they have a legal obligation to stop the commission of genocide, to prevent the commission of genocide, and to protect against genocide happening. “Why have states not responded to this legal obligation? They should be telling us the steps they’ve taken or the laws they passed to address this. It’s such a serious, huge crime.”
International law is unyielding, Pillay says. There is no justification of self-defence, or necessity, to genocide. It is always unlawful. “The prohibition on genocide is absolute.”
Witnessing a genocide in real time
Contrast, Pillay tells the Guardian, the response of states to those of the people she meets in her country and around the world. “They say ‘Why are you reporting this genocide now? We know this, we are all witnesses. We saw what’s happening on our TV screens.’ That’s what’s so unusual about this genocide,” Pillay says, who also served as a judge on the international criminal court, and sat on the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. “We are all witnesses to it. It’s happening in real time. We see it on our screens every day.”
Pillay sees echoes of the Rwandan genocide against the Tutsi in 1994 in the current conflict in Gaza. Leaders in Rwanda told Hutu mobs to “exterminate this scum … these cockroaches.”
In 2023, then Israel defence minister, Yoav Gallant, announced a complete siege on Gaza, claiming Israel was fighting “human animals”. “The idea comes from the politicians to destroy this group in all or in part,” Pillay says. “I see comparisons between the genocide in Rwanda and here [in Israel-Palestine] when I look at the statements made by the political leaders.”
Pillay says she and her fellow commissioners, cognisant of the gravity of the crime, did not reach their conclusion of genocide lightly. “We did our own investigations for over two years. There’s nothing we put in our report that we didn’t personally verify. “I see us as working like a court of law. We’re not a court of law. But until the international court of justice (a case is now before that court) determines the issue, we are the most authoritative voice on that.”
Israel has dismissed the commission’s finding: the foreign ministry issued a statement saying it “categorically rejects this distorted and false report and calls for the immediate abolition of this Commission of Inquiry”, while attacking Pillay and her fellow commissioners as “Hamas proxies, notorious for their openly antisemitic positions”.
In relation to the Al-Basma fertility clinic strike: Israeli security forces stated they take extensive measures to mitigate civilian harm and did not deliberately target civilian infrastructure, including IVF clinics.
‘I never thought apartheid would end in my lifetime’
As a young lawyer in deeply segregated apartheid South Africa, Pillay was a key part of the protest movement against the laws that benighted the country. It was, she concedes, a fight she never expected to see the end of. “We suffered huge humiliation under apartheid. I was a lawyer. I had four degrees, but I was treated like dirt just because of my skin colour. But we learned not to succumb to that. I never thought apartheid would end in my lifetime, but did we stop fighting our liberation struggle? We didn’t.”
Pillay says she and her fellow activists found succour in the support of people around the globe. “We had the collective support of civil society the world over. We loved the Australians when the news filtered down to us - because all news was censored, newspapers couldn’t publish it - but I remember we somehow saw pictures of Australian students protesting against rugby tours. Now, at that time it must have seemed such a small thing. Would it really help end this huge monstrosity of apartheid if we stopped playing this all-White team or stopped attending their matches? Yes, it does: the smallest act, that’s what gave us strength in our struggle, those others who assisted from all over the world.”
In 1971, one of those protesters was a student, then the president of the University of Sydney Students Representative Council (SRC), who demonstrated against the all-White South African Springboks rugby team tour of Australia. Half a century later, that student, Australian international lawyer Chris Sidoti, would sit alongside Pillay as a co-commissioner on the UN panel.
Pillay says she still meets today people who tell her they, as children, stopped eating South African oranges in protest at the apartheid regime. “You might think, well, how is it going to help the struggle if I stop eating an orange? Well, it did. Collective action helped achieve the impossible.”
Apartheid was ended, in part, Pillay says, because the world outside said “no more”.
‘Justice has to be universal to succeed’
Pillay welcomes the Trump-negotiated ceasefire in Gaza, even in its fragility and inconsistency. But she says the current truce falls far short of a peace agreement. It fails, she says, to address the occupation that is the root cause of the conflict, or to grant a seat at the table for the Palestinian leadership. “Palestinians have a right to self-determination. They know how to govern themselves. I wouldn’t even say they should be consulted: no, they should have the leading role here. The people for whom this matters most must be at the table.”
Pillay takes solace from her own country’s history and from other conflicts once regarded as intractable by the international community, but which found a path, however imperfect or inconsistent, towards resolution. In Israel-Palestine too, she believes a just and lasting peace can be found. “I do believe that. And most importantly, the civilians living under those conditions believe they will get peace. That’s why they refuse to leave their land: their love for their land and for the future of Palestinians. They’re not any different from you and me. They have the same dreams and hopes for their children.”
But there must, Pillay cautions, be a reckoning for the violence that has occurred, and all of the alleged crimes that have been committed. For more than two years, the international multilateral system failed to prevent a genocide, she says, and that same system cannot grant its perpetrators impunity.
“People want justice and accountability, and justice has to be universal to succeed.”
Words: Ben Doherty, courtesy of Guardian News & Media Ltd
Photograph: Fabrice Coffrini/AFP/Getty Images
author : .author email : .Meet Our New Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship
UKZN welcomes Dr Nqobile Gumede as its Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship.The University of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) recently welcomed Dr Nqobile Gumede as the Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the Division of Research and Innovation.
Gumede has a background in technology transfer and driving innovation within the Higher Education sector. As former director of innovation at Nelson Mandela University, she led efforts to transform intellectual property into commercial success. She also served as the Director at the National Research Foundation (NRF), where she managed national funding programmes for emerging researchers across South Africa's 26 public universities.
Gumede holds a PhD in Medical Microbiology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management, both from UKZN. She is currently in her final year of a Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme at Nelson Mandela University. She has received several prestigious awards, including the Thabo Mbeki Leadership in Africa Scholarship (2006-2007), the CSIR PhD Fellowship (2008-2013), the Columbia University-Southern Africa Fogarty AIDS Training and Research Programme (2009), and the Visiting Researcher Fellow at Harvard University (2010).
In her new role, Gumede will focus on innovation and commercialisation. “I am genuinely excited to join UKZN. The opportunity to lead the innovation and entrepreneurship portfolio is deeply aligned with my personal mission to unlock the economic and social potential of African research for the benefit of communities,” said Gumede.
She began her research journey in the life sciences, with a strong foundation in molecular and cell biology and microbiology. Early in her career, she was driven by an interest in how scientific discoveries could improve human and environmental health. Over time, this interest evolved into a passion for translating research into practical solutions, prompting her shift from laboratory-based research to innovation management and entrepreneurship.
Gumede remains academically engaged through a current research study on individual entrepreneurial orientation among science and engineering academics, and its influence on research commercialisation. “In essence, my career has evolved from conducting science to enabling science to reach society,” she said.
Outlining her plans for the role, she said her priorities include strengthening innovation and entrepreneurship support at the University. This involves ensuring that every researcher and student receives appropriate guidance from invention to impact. She also aims to establish stronger partnerships with industry, government, and investors, while aligning UKZN’s innovation outputs with national and global market opportunities. Lastly, she will focus on building sustainable commercialisation frameworks to ensure that intellectual property generated at the University results in start-ups, licences, and products that contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s development priorities.
Speaking on how she plans to elevate the Institution’s research profile, Gumede said this requires positioning innovation as a core outcome of research excellence.
“I intend to contribute to the efforts that aims to cultivate a culture of translational research, where the impact of our discoveries is measured not only by publications but by societal relevance and economic contribution. This includes introducing innovation readiness training, research-to-market pipelines, and collaborative platforms that connect our scholars with industry and investors. We will also prioritise strategic visibility, showcasing UKZN innovations on both national and international stages,” she said.
Reclecting on the national and University research landscape, Gumede said she believes all research areas are important, each contributing uniquely to knowledge and societal progress. Rather than identifying untapped fields, she emphasised the importance of enabling technology development and leveraging emerging tools such as artificial intelligence to accelerate research translation across disciplines.
“By embedding technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) within existing research programmes, whether in health sciences, agriculture, social innovation, or engineering, we can strengthen the pathways from discovery to impact. This approach allows us to extract greater economic and societal value from the excellent research already underway, ensuring that innovation becomes a shared outcome across the entire university ecosystem,” she added.
Gumede said innovation thrives in a collaborative environment and believes UKZN’s greatest strength lies in its people, the researchers, students, and administrators who bring ideas to life.
She emphasised that support will come through shared ownership of the innovation agenda, open dialogue across disciplines, and collective commitment to translating research into real-world solutions. She said she looks forward to working alongside staff and students to turn creativity into impact and knowledge into prosperity.
Words: Sithembile Shabangu
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .UKZN Backs Durban City FC in Nail-Biter Against Kaizer Chiefs
UKZN’s activation held at the Varsity Drive gate on the Westville campus.Click here for isiZulu version
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), a proud partner of Durban City FC, brought Premier Soccer League excitement to campus life with a vibrant team activation held at the Varsity Drive gate on the Westville campus on Thursday, 30 October 2025.
The event celebrated community spirit and campus pride, as staff and students joined the Corporate Relations Division and the ever-energetic University mascot, ‘Impi’, to rally behind the home team ahead of their much-anticipated clash with Kaizer Chiefs the following day. Music, energy, and cheers filled the air, setting the perfect tone of excitement that carried through to match day.
The campus buzz extended to another spirited activation at Moses Mabhida Stadium just hours before kick-off - a fitting show of support from the UKZN community for Durban City FC, affectionately known as the Citizens.
When match time finally arrived, the atmosphere inside Moses Mabhida was electric. A delayed kick-off only heightened anticipation as Amakhosi - Kaizer Chiefs - took to the field, determined to claim maximum points. Once the whistle blew, the visitors dominated possession, but City defended resolutely and countered with purpose through Joslin Kamatuka and Trevor Mokwena, whose pace and creativity troubled the Chiefs’ defence.
The first half ended goalless - a testament to City’s defensive discipline and teamwork. In the second half, Chiefs’ co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef made tactical changes that eventually paid off.
In the 88th minute, Gaston Sirino delivered a precise cross that found Flavio da Silva, who headed home the winner to seal a 1-0 victory for the visitors - a heartbreaking result for the Citizens. The win lifted Chiefs to third place on the PSL table, while Durban City slipped to fourth after suffering their first home defeat of the season.
Despite the loss, the evening was anything but disappointing for Durban City supporters. The team displayed grit, heart, and unity, qualities that have made them one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most promising sides. The sea of blue in the stands - bolstered by UKZN staff, students, and alumni - reflected a partnership rooted in pride and shared identity.
As one UKZN student remarked after the match: “We may not have won, but we showed who we are - passionate, proud, and full of fight.”
For Durban City FC and their UKZN supporters, the journey continues - driven by pride, passion, and the unshakable belief that the next victory is just around the corner.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photographs: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Balancing Maths and Theatre with Ease: A Star on the Rise!
UKZN’s Keryn Lynne Scott as Janet in The Rocky Horror Show, and as a national winner at the Girl Code Hackathon.Ms Keryn Lynne Scott, a third-year student at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, is a dynamic example of how identity can extend beyond academic pursuits.
While studying for a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Pure Mathematics and Computer Science, she also performs in professional theatre productions.
Born and raised in Westville, Scott has always loved the stage. “When I was nine, my parents took me to audition for Kickstart’s Annie, which they were producing at the Elizabeth Snedden Theatre, and I made it in. It was my first taste of professional theatre and the bug bit!” she said.
Since then, Scott continued to develop her craft through various productions, portraying diverse characters and bringing stories to life.
Scott recently landed her first professional lead role as Janet in Kickstart’s production of The Rocky Horror Show. She auditioned for the role after being approached by the director, Mr Steven Stead.
While this journey has been fulfilling, Scott admits that balancing university and performing has been challenging, as both demand her full attention.
“Luckily, this is not the first show I have done while studying, so I have some experience juggling my workload,” she said.
When asked how she balances the classroom and stage, Scott explained: “The key is making use of every minute of the day. You will often find me sitting in a rehearsal room with my laptop out coding a prac in-between scenes, and similarly between lectures I will walk around with a script in hand learning my lines.”
She credited her success to the support of her ‘amazing’ friends, who kept her updated on missed lectures and rehearsals, helping her manage both commitments effectively.
Scott plans to pursue an Honours Degree in Pure Mathematics next year and hopes to take on more theatre roles.
Reflecting on the future, Scott intends to take each year as it comes, determined to keep both of her passions alive. “Ideally, I would love to be an actress, but I know I would miss mathematics. So maybe also a maths teacher or lecturer in the future …,” she said.
Scott acknowledged her director, Mr Steven Stead, as her greatest mentor in theatre, and expressed gratitude to her boyfriend and parents for their unwavering support. “I would not be in the place that I am today without their unending support, help, and guidance in getting me here,” she said.
Scott’s story mirrors UKZN’s commitment to inspiring and nurturing excellence, proving that students can thrive across diverse fields.
“We are all unique in the skills we have, and we should be allowed to explore every single one and not be confined to the boxes society tends to put us in. I hope in my small way I have shown that,” said Scott.
Words: Nqobile Mthuli
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .Business Fair and Exhibition Encourages Entrepreneurship Among Students
Scenes from this year’s UKZN Business Fair and Exhibition.The University of KwaZulu-Natal's (UKZN) Student Entrepreneurship Unit hosted the second annual Business Fair and Exhibition on the Pietermaritzburg campus.
Held under the inspiring banner of the Student Women Economic Empowerment Programme (SWEEP), the event highlighted the University’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship among students.
The exhibition focused on two key objectives: firstly, to encourage student entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services while inspiring their peers to explore entrepreneurship during their studies; and secondly, to provide a platform for organisations involved in small business development to share insights, opportunities, and guidance on accessing resources to grow ventures.
“The Business Fair and Exhibition is an event that showcases practical entrepreneurship. It is also about bringing organisations that support youth and women entrepreneurs closer to our student entrepreneurs,” said Student Entrepreneurship Manager, Mr Khutšo Ramontja. He added that the portfolio equips student entrepreneurs with the tools and exposure needed to engage with organisations offering entrepreneurial support.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs's (EDTEA) Youth Economic Empowerment Directorate helped showcase a wide range of support services to assist young individuals in business.
Mandated to support profit-making businesses, the portfolio hosts various programmes which include: information dissemination in the form of expos; enterprise development providing start-up finance; skills development and training in the form of a one-year real estate learnership programme; and job creation and placement for those looking to get work experience in the form of internships.
Students were encouraged to visit the EDTEA website and social media pages for more information on available opportunities.
Standard Bank representatives interacted with students providing information on various banking services available to them and other entrepreneurs.
Student entrepreneurs who exhibited at the event included: Ms Nonjabulo Magwaza, owner of perfume suppliers Risellinaires, who said she had been inspired to open her shop after being an exhibitor at last year’s fair in order to attract a wider client base; and Mr Lonwabo Xolo, co-founder of eMed Connect, a digital platform which links users with medical professionals. Xolo said by attending the fair he had learned what intellectual property was all about and also how important it was to register his business.
Other exhibitors included: Ms Busisiwe Ncube, owner of The Baked Blessing With Betty, which offers baked treats; Mr Muhle Ndlovu, who launched Creations by Mfan’Omuhle offering specialised tailored garments; Ms Nqobile Nkomo of Afro Q Organics, a natural hair care solution; Ms S’nethemba Sithole of Art Buddies Connect, an inclusive art education platform; Ms Sandiswa Gwala of MustBeLee Aesthetics, creators of specialised wigs and providers of wig care; Ms Gugulethu Mdluli, owner of Lady G’s Closet & Candy Bar selling fashionable clothing items and sweet treats; and Ms Amanda Mhlongo, who sells Polar Ice-cream.
The event not only showcased talent and innovation but also reinforced UKZN’s commitment to equipping students with the tools, confidence, and connections to thrive beyond the classroom.
Words: Hlengiwe Khwela
Photographs: Yola Ndzabe
author : .author email : .Physiotherapy Students Showcase Impressive Research at Research Day
Winning teams at the Physiotherapy Research Day held at the UKZN Westville campus.The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Discipline of Physiotherapy recently hosted its Undergraduate Research Day at the Senate Chamber on the Westville campus. Final-year students proudly presented findings of their research projects, showcasing their ability to identify gaps in literature and contribute innovative solutions to pressing health challenges.
Working in teams, students competed for prizes in two categories: Scoping Reviews and Full Research.
Dr Nomzamo Chemane, Head of Physiotherapy, delivered the opening remarks and commended the students for their dedication and for venturing into under-researched areas. “Your research is impactful and meaningful. You have shown great initiative in exploring new topics and identifying gaps in the available literature,” she said.
Professor Bongani Nkambule, Dean of Research, urged students to remain ethical and purposeful in their research journeys during his keynote address.
“Always deliver innovative healthcare solutions to ongoing problems but steer clear of scientific misconduct. Avoid fabrication, falsification, and unethical research practices,” he emphasised. “UKZN has a moral and legal mandate to produce educated citizens who actively engage in public service activities. Students must, therefore, produce impactful research.”
Scooping first prize in the Scoping Review category was a study titled ‘Health Seeking Behaviours of Patients with Osteoarthritis in Sub-Saharan Africa’, by Mr Bongumusa Ndwandwe, Mr Laken Govender, Mr Simakahle Ntshembeni, and Mr Siyethemba Mabaso.
This study explored how patients with osteoarthritis in sub-Saharan Africa seek healthcare, highlighting the challenges of access, affordability, and cultural perceptions that influence treatment decisions.
Second prize went to the study titled ‘Self-Management in Patients with Stroke’, by Mr Mathopela Moloi, Ms Rumaisa Kara, Ms Qaqamba Nocuze and Ms Bayanda Khanyile. The team reviewed evidence on strategies that help stroke survivors manage their recovery independently, underscoring the importance of education, rehabilitation support, and patient empowerment.
In the Full Research category, first prize was awarded to the study titled ‘Stress Levels Among the Caregivers of Children with Cerebral Palsy in a Regional Mother and Child Facility’. The research was conducted by Ms Kelebogile Dlamini, Mr Faizaan Mohamed, Ms Zanethemba Manyanga, Ms Kayla van der Merwe and Ms Pretty Zulu. The study measured the emotional and psychological stress experienced by caregivers and called for stronger support systems.
Two studies tied for second place in the Full Research category. The first, titled ‘Approaches to Teaching Community-Based Rehabilitation in Health Science at UKZN’, was conducted by Ms Husnaa Ally, Ms Zamanguni Cele, Ms Khayakazi Mafu, Ms Lusanda Zamisa and Ms Hayley Reddiar. This project investigated how community-based rehabilitation is taught across the health sciences and recommended improvements to better prepare students for real-world practice.
The second study, ‘Experiences of Students with Physical Disabilities at the UKZN Westville campus’, by Mr Sinochumo Manona, Ms Bibi Rabia Sindhi, Ms Nondumiso Zulu, Mr Wandile Cele and Ms Fathima Ismail, explored the accessibility barriers, support structures and inclusion challenges faced by students living with physical disabilities.
Commenting on the overall standard of the research, adjudicator Professor Andile Khathi praised the students for their critical thinking and scientific rigor.
“As young researchers, you showed gaps in the literature of your research and addressed those gaps. This is science and how we continue to improve the body of knowledge. Make sure you present your research to policymakers to make a change. Be curious, be vigilant, and continue to advance science.”
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .Expanding Global Horizons Through the Erasmus+ Programme
Mr Siyabonga Kave and fellow student traveller, Ms Denisha Govender, a third-year Master of Public Health student, explore Bulgaria.PhD candidate in Public Health, Mr Siyabonga Kave, recently returned from a two-month academic exchange at the Medical University of Sofia in Bulgaria, where he participated in the Erasmus+ Mobility Programme.
With more than 15 years of experience in TB/HIV programming, quality improvement, and health promotion, Kave’s research focuses on gender-transformative tuberculosis (TB) care interventions.
Reflecting on his motivation to study abroad, Kave said he wanted to broaden his understanding of global public health and learn from different health systems. “I wanted to explore how social determinants of health influence TB outcomes across regions and strengthen my capacity for collaborative international research. The Erasmus+ programme offered a unique opportunity to combine academic learning, cultural immersion, and global collaboration in public health.”
One of the highlights of his stay was taking part in a collaborative research project titled: ‘Social Determinants of Health and TB Outcomes: A Cross-Regional Literature Comparison’. He presented the study at the 30th Anniversary Jubilee Scientific Conference hosted by the Medical University of Sofia, where his presentation earned third place in its category. “This recognition reaffirmed the global relevance of our work on health inequities and the power of international collaboration in public health research,” he said.
Kave participated in the Blended Intensive Programme on Tackling Misinformation and Disinformation to Regain Trust in Public Health, which provided practical insights into managing public trust and communication during health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Adjusting to a new environment came with challenges, particularly adapting to a different language and culture. “Simple daily activities such as using public transport or shopping sometimes required extra effort and patience due to language barriers,” he recalled. “However, these experiences strengthened my adaptability and communication skills, helping me become more confident and resilient.”
Among his most memorable experiences was hiking to Boyana Mountain with a colleague. “We walked about 7km from our dormitory to reach the mountain, guided by Google Maps. Despite the physical challenge, it was a rewarding experience that combined endurance, cultural exchange, and connection with nature.”
Beyond his academic and research achievements, Kave embraced Bulgaria’s cultural offerings - from tasting local dishes such as banitsa, shopska salad, and tarator, to joining a traditional Bulgarian dance session and attending the vibrant LUNAR Festival of Lights.
For students considering studying abroad, Kave’s advice is simple yet profound: “Embrace the experience wholeheartedly. Be open to learning, exploring, and engaging with people from diverse backgrounds. Studying abroad is more than an academic journey - it’s an opportunity for personal growth, cross-cultural learning, and global networking.”
Looking ahead, Kave plans to continue advancing his PhD research and contribute to developing inclusive, gender-transformative health promotion strategies for men in sub-Saharan Africa. He also hopes to expand his international collaborations and influence evidence-based policymaking that addresses social and gender determinants of health.
Reflecting on his Erasmus+ experience, Kave described it as “transformative and empowering.”
“Participating in academic research, presenting at an international scientific conference, and being recognised for my work have strengthened my confidence and professional growth. This journey deepened my appreciation for global collaboration, cultural diversity, and the shared pursuit of health equity.”
To find out more about studying abroad, email Ms Preshantha Reddy, Student Exchange/Study Abroad Co-ordinator at UKZN’s International Relations Office.
Detailed caption (clockwise from left): A proud moment interacting with Bulgarian Army members during a parliamentary event addressed by the President of Bulgaria; exploring the iconic National Palace of Culture in Sofia, Bulgaria; together with postgraduate students from Argentina, we visited the Bulgarian Military Hospital in Sofia for an insightful learning experience; and learning a traditional Bulgarian dance during a cultural exchange session.
Words: Raylene Captain-Hasthibeer
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Scholars Present Decolonial Perspectives at Global Religion Congress
Dr Beverly Vencatsamy (left) and Dr Cherry Muslim, from the School of Arts, at IAHR World Congress in Krakow, Poland.Click here for isiZulu version
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Religion scholars Dr Beverly Vencatsamy and Dr Cherry Muslim, from the School of Arts, attended the XXIII International Association for the History of Religion (IAHR) World Congress in Krakow, Poland.
Held at Jagellonian University in Krakow, the second oldest university in Europe, the week-long congress featured scientific discussions, intellectual exchanges, and collegial interactions among scholars from around the world. Organisers aimed to foster a vibrant atmosphere and advance the global study of religion(s). Centred on the theme ‘Out of Europe: Studying Religion(s) in Interconnected Worlds’ the congress explored the creative tensions between the discipline’s European roots and its global evolution, while offering reflections on both its past and future trajectories.
Vencatsamy and Muslim presented papers engaging with the congress theme of religions in interconnected worlds, hoping to retrace the discipline’s development and explore new directions. Vencatsamy also represented the Association for the Study of Religion in Southern Africa (ASRSA), where she currently serves as General Secretary.
Muslim’s presentation titled: ‘From Apparent Imposter to Affirmed Expert: Navigating Positionality in Islamic Studies Scholarship’ was an autoethnographic exploration of the complex, fluid positionalities of an atypical Muslim academic within the South African Higher Education context. She unpacked the dynamic negotiations of identity, expertise and scholarly legitimacy that characterise her academic experience in Islamic Studies and the teaching of religion.
“Ultimately, my research offers a nuanced examination of scholarly positioning in religious studies, arguing that identity is not a fixed category but a dynamic, contextual negotiation. By revealing the complex interplay between personal experience, community expectations, and academic practice, my study contributes to broader conversations about reflexivity, expertise, and the performative nature of academic identity,” said Muslim.
Vencatsamy’s paper, titled: ‘Decolonising Religious Studies: Challenging the World Religions Paradigm in the South African Educational Context’, critically examined the World Religions Paradigm (WRP) which perpetuates a restrictive, Eurocentric approach that systematically marginalises non-Christian, non-Western, and non-White religious perspectives. Using South Africa’s complex religious landscape as a lens, she illustrated the urgent need for epistemological transformation in religious studies.
Building on the critical momentum of the #MustFall movements (2015-2016), Vencatsamy’s research interrogates how colonial intellectual frameworks continue to shape knowledge production and pedagogy in religious studies. Her paper demonstrates how the WRP fails to capture the diverse religious practices and epistemologies of marginalised communities.
Reflecting on the congress, Vencatsamy said, “While it was encouraging to see the breadth of research being shared, it also highlighted how much work remains in advancing critical and decolonial perspectives within the study of religion.”
Vencatsamy added, “Participating in the congress was an invaluable opportunity for me, not only to share ideas, but also to engage directly with scholars whose work has significantly shaped my own research journey.”
Words: Jennene Naidu
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Strengthening Collaboration and Future-Focused Strategies
UKZN hosted the Human Resource Directors’ Forum at the Beverly Hills Hotel, Durban.Senior human resources leaders from South Africa’s universities gathered at the Beverly Hills Hotel in Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal, on 23-24 October 2025 for the latest meeting of the Human Resource Directors’ Forum (HRDF), convened under the auspices of Universities South Africa (USAf).
The two-day engagement provided a strategic platform for HR directors to share best practices, reflect on current challenges, and advance collaborative initiatives that shape the human capital landscape of the Higher Education sector.
Ms Susan Robertson, Chairperson of the forum and Director: People and Culture at Rhodes University, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of collaboration and HR leadership in universities.
Advocate Paul Finden, Executive Director: HR at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), opened the session with a warm welcome and introduced the University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Health Sciences, Professor Busi Ncama, who delivered an address on behalf of Vice-Chancellor Professor Nana Poku. Ncama highlighted the pivotal role of HR leadership in enabling universities to deliver on their teaching, research, and transformation mandates.
Ncama, an alumna of UKZN, underscored the role HR practitioners play in building systems that protect and empower academic and professional staff by investing in development and well-being and championing integrity. “Your duty extends beyond compliance and policy - it is a moral and strategic responsibility to uphold the dignity of scholarship to protect spaces for reason and debate, and to ensure that our institutions remain engines of research, societal transformation, economic prosperity and human dignity,” said Ncama.
Robertson facilitated a reflective session on the forum’s structure, leadership rotation, and programme of work. The discussion reaffirmed the HRDF’s commitment to remain an agile and collaborative platform that supports people management excellence across the sector.
Stakeholder engagement formed a significant part of the programme. The forum received briefings from the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and the Department of Home Affairs on critical developments impacting Higher Education.
Ms Ntombizodwa Matjila, Registrar of the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO), outlined the unit’s mandate and looked at the national register for sexual offences. She reflected on compliance and safety in the sector and underscored the importance of vetting employees annually.
Ms Phatheka Vikwa from the Department of Home Affairs presented plans to develop and implement a bespoke online framework to streamline visa processing for international staff and students - a development delegates see as a crucial step toward improving administrative efficiency.
The forum focused on advancing ongoing sector projects, including:
• The completion of the Integrated Talent Management Framework, developed by Professor Nicolene Barkhuizen and presented by Mr Meko Magida, Executive Director for HR at the University of the Western Cape, which aims to align recruitment, development, and retention practices across the sector.
• Mr Milton Nyamadzawo presented on the Digital Academy initiative at North-West University, which equips staff and students with artificial intelligence (AI) skills to prepare for the future of work. Nyamadzawo said that people fear being replaced by AI, but emphasised that “you can only fear it if you don’t use it.”
• Updates on the establishment of a sector-wide information sharing portal, led by USAf, to enhance collaboration and knowledge management among HR practitioners.
• A briefing from Mr Leon Roets, Chairperson of the Employee Health and Wellness Forum, on recent wellness initiatives supporting staff wellbeing.
• Ms Heriet Matlakala, Chair of the Skills Development Facilitators Forum, presented a proposal on a Competency Framework Training and Coaching Programme submitted to the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA) for funding.
• Dr Manoshni Perumal, Director of HRD at UKZN, recommended that Higher Education Institutions adopt a standardised set of descriptors linked to Occupational Categories that will provide direction to the scarce and critical skills needed in the sector.
• Feedback from the Employment Equity Managers’ Forum, presented by Ms Lucina Reddy and Ms Neo Bila, highlighting sectoral progress in equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• A report from the Employee Relations Forum, delivered by Mr Thabo Lebakeng, outlining ongoing efforts to strengthen labour relations and dispute resolution mechanisms across universities.
The Chairperson thanked all participants for their contributions and reaffirmed the forum’s collective commitment to nurturing responsive, ethical, and future-ready HR leadership within South Africa’s Higher Education sector.
The 2026 HR Directors’ Forum meetings will be hosted by the University of the Free State (UFS).
About the HR Directors’ Forum
The HR Directors’ Forum is one of several professional communities co-ordinated by Universities South Africa (USAf) to promote collaboration, policy alignment, and sector-wide capacity building among university executives and practitioners. Through regular meetings and shared initiatives, the forum serves as a key platform for strengthening the human resources function across South Africa’s public universities.
Words: Raylene Captain-Hasthibeer
Photograph: Albert Hirasen
author : .author email : .Empowered to Make a Difference in Dietetics and Human Nutrition
Dietetics and Human Nutrition student, Ms Anele Mnculwane.Click here for isiZulu version
Final-year Bachelor of Science student in Dietetics and Human Nutrition at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Ms Anele Mnculwane, was on the brink of stepping away from her studies despite excelling academically. Her situation changed when she received a bursary from the Hillensberg Trust, facilitated through the UKZN Foundation.
The bursary was crucial in helping her complete her degree. “I received two certificates of merit last year, but without financial support, I was close to giving up,” she said, recalling how she faced deregistration due to a lack of funds.
“The bursary changed all that. It came at just the right time. It lifted the stress and gave me the freedom to focus on my studies.”
Growing up in Greytown, KwaZulu-Natal, Mnculwane was raised in a home where her mother was the sole provider for five children. Her father, who was emotionally absent and unsupportive, often dismissed their ambitions. “He always told us we’d amount to nothing,” she said. “That only motivated me to prove him wrong.” With her mother carrying the weight of the household, Mnculwane was determined to build a future not defined by limitation, but by possibility.
Originally aspiring to be a pilot, Mnculwane’s career dreams had to shift due to financial constraints. After considering Engineering, she chose to study Dietetics and Human Nutrition - her third choice at the time. Initially uncertain, she eventually embraced the course and discovered a passion for nutrition and public health. Today, she sees it as her true calling.
Mnculwane also took on a part-time job at the UKZN Library, learning to manage both academic and work responsibilities. Despite the demands, she continued to perform well and remained focused on her goals. Outside of the classroom, Mnculwane enjoys playing soccer, listening to music and has a growing interest in modelling - dreaming one day of working with international brands like Gucci.
Looking to the future, Mnculwane plans to open her own nutrition practice in KwaZulu-Natal, offering services to underserved communities. She also hopes to eventually work abroad in regions where undernutrition is a major concern, using her skills to make a broader impact.
“To every student going through difficult times, keep going,” she said. “Do not underestimate yourself or the power of perseverance. You will survive. God is backing you all the way.”
The Hillensberg Trust focuses on supporting students in fields such as Medicine, Technology, Visual Art and Music - particularly those considered ‘missing middle’ students or those pursuing a second qualification.
Words: Melissa Mungroo
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Young Scholar Makes his Mark at International Conferences
Mr Ndabezinhle Masinga at the Colloquium on Corruption and Human Rights.Mr Ndabezinhle Masinga, a final-year LLB student represented the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) School of Law at two international conferences.
He first represented the University at the ‘Colloquium on Corruption and Human Rights’ hosted by the University of the Free State’s Centre for Human Rights on 18 and 19 September 2025. There, he presented a paper co-authored with Mr Siphesihle Mhlonishwa Mbatha, a lecturer at the UKZN School of Law. Masinga was the youngest delegate and presenter, delivering a paper titled: ‘The Impact of the Killing of Whistleblowers in South Africa’.
A few weeks later, Masinga had another opportunity to present at an international conference - ‘Albinism Beyond 2030: Legal and Healthcare Pathways to Inclusion’ - hosted by the University of the Free State’s Disability Unit from 23 to 24 October 2025. Once again, he was the youngest delegate and presenter. This time, he delivered his first solo paper, titled: ‘The Proper Approach to Advancing the Rights of Persons Living with Albinism: The Role and Interplay of Education, Employment, and Legal Instruments in Recognising Human Rights of Persons with Albinism’.
Masinga reflected: “I’m grateful for the opportunities I received, they mark the beginning of building my name as an emerging scholar. More importantly I’m grateful to have lecturers such as Mr Mbatha in our School, who encouraged, mentored me and co-authored with me. His support, motivated me, and I’m looking forward to furthering my academic career by continuing with my master’s degree next year. Lastly, I’m committed to further engaging and contributing to the research initiatives in our School of Law.”
Masinga has demonstrated his passion and commitment to research through his involvement in the School of Law’s student research initiatives. He participated in the revival of the UKZN Student Law Review Journal and is currently working on establishing the UKZN Law Student Research Interest Group.
Dr Janine Hicks - senior lecturer and Academic Leader: Community Engagement in the School of Law - remarked: “I have been impressed by Masinga’s legal research and analysis, his work ethic, and his commitment to the School of Law’s various community engagement initiatives. In addition, he has championed the revival of the School of Law’s Student Law Review Journal, is committed to establishing a student research interest group, and has recently presented research papers at two academic conferences, alongside established legal researchers. We encourage and appreciate such activism and engagement by our students.”
Words: NdabaOnline
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Celebrating Student Mentors in the College of Health Sciences
Celebrating Academic Monitoring and Support mentors in the College of Health Sciences.The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s College of Health Sciences (CHS) recently hosted its Annual Academic Monitoring and Support (AMS) Appreciation and Certification Ceremony - an event dedicated to celebrating the student mentors whose commitment has transformed the academic and personal journeys of many CHS students.
Organised by the Student Support Services (SSS) in collaboration with the Office of the Dean of Teaching and Learning, the ceremony honoured Peer Wellness Mentors (PWMs), Academic Mentors (AMs), Teaching Assistants (TAs) and First-Year Experience Mentors (FYEMs) - students who, despite their own demanding schedules, devote their time to uplifting and guiding first-year students.
Programme co-ordinator and Student Counsellor Mrs Wulganithi Thaver, opened the event by highlighting that it was about “celebrating the spirit of service and excellence in CHS.”
Delivering the welcome address, Dr Saloschini Pillay, Manager of Student Support Services, reflected on the evolution of the CHS mentorship programme, which has grown from a College initiative to one inspiring University-wide adoption. “Today we honour our dedicated Peer Wellness Mentors, First-Year Experience Mentors, Academic Mentors, and Teaching Assistants,” said Pillay, commending the combined efforts of student counsellors and academic staff in “promoting holistic student wellness and academic success.”
Pillay highlighted how the AMS and SSS programmes align with UKZN’s strategic commitment to transformative, student-centred education. She praised the mentors’ tireless work - from academic tutoring to mental health support - as central to fostering a culture of resilience, inclusivity, and empowerment.
Professor Sinegugu Duma, Dean of Teaching and Learning, delivered an inspiring message of gratitude and reflection, speaking on the deeper meaning of appreciation. She commended mentors, staff and leadership for their “unwavering commitment to student success,” noting that each person’s effort contributes to creating a nurturing environment where students can thrive.
One of the highlights of the event was a powerful spoken word performance by Mr Sinakhokonke Ximba, winner of the UKZN Poetry Competition. His poem I Matter reflected his journey from a disadvantaged background to achieving personal and academic growth at UKZN, expressing gratitude for the University’s transformative impact.
Pillay also presented on the Student Wellness and Academic Transformation (SWAT) strategy - an internationally recognised, award-winning model unique to CHS. SWAT ensures proactive, holistic student support through continuous tracking and mentoring from first year until graduation. Staff members from various mentoring pillars shared positive outcomes from the year, with evaluations showing that students felt “supported, valued, and inspired to succeed.”
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of Certificates of Appreciation to all mentors, accompanied by resounding applause. The event served as both a celebration and a reminder of the power of mentorship - of how compassion, leadership, and service can change lives.
In closing, Duma extended her gratitude to the College leadership and staff for their steadfast dedication to student development and for upholding UKZN’s vision of excellence. The celebration was a testament to the fact that in the College of Health Sciences, mentorship truly matters.
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Seeing Music: The Art, Vision, and Philosophy of a Composer
Scenes at the UKZN lecture by Mr Warren Bessey.At a recent University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) gathering Mr Warren Bessey, a seasoned composer, producer, and creative visionary shared his profound reflections on music, culture, and creativity.
With over 35 years of professional experience, he has immersed himself deeply in the world of composition, producing works that bridge history, storytelling, and emotion.
He began by expressing heartfelt gratitude for his time in South Africa, explaining that Zulu culture had helped shape him into a better person.
“I am sincerely grateful that my experiences with Zulu culture have made me a significantly better individual,” he reflected.
“Had I continued to live in Canada or elsewhere, I might not possess the same values or understanding. It is crucial to cherish ideals, people, and respect for others, regardless of who they are.”
Describing his journey, he introduced himself as a composer, producer, desktop publisher, writer, humourist, activist, translator, and communication specialist. Despite his many roles, he identifies most deeply as a composer, one capable of playing every instrument in an orchestra, even if imperfectly.
He explained that his decades-long commitment to daily composition had given him an extraordinary depth of knowledge. Over the years, he has composed for diverse purposes - from advertising campaigns and national brands to pieces inspired by social causes, such as music for spinal injury awareness. Each composition, he explained, follows the structure of life itself: a beginning, middle, and end.
Drawing inspiration from a book titled The Japanese Conspiracy, he described a creative process he calls “reverse engineering” - beginning with the end in mind. “When composing, I start with the ending. I know the destination before I begin. That way, everything that comes before aligns with the truth of the story.”
He shared how this method guided his symphonic work King Shaka, emphasising the importance of cultural and historical accuracy.
“When writing about King Shaka, I must ensure the ending resonates with truth because if I misrepresent him, I’ll have many people who don’t like me. That’s why the ending must be real, powerful, and authentic.”
One of his most striking insights came from an unlikely source - a Siberian punk band, which he says, “made me realise that creativity doesn’t need to be confined by expectations like rhyme or complexity. What matters is truth and feeling.”
This revelation influenced how he writes lyrics for his symphonies - focusing on meaning rather than rhyme and content over convention. Unlike many composers, he says he doesn’t just hear music, he sees it.
“I see music multidimensionally - from left to right, top to bottom, and even far away. When you experience one of my symphonic works, you don’t just hear it; you visualise it. The music moves toward you, surrounds you - it’s alive.”
Reflecting on his early career in South Africa, he recalled arriving in 1987, working at the Playhouse Theatre as a sound engineer before establishing his own company. His experience in radio taught him one of the most vital lessons in composition - retention.
“One of the worst things about music is when it goes on and on beyond its ‘sell-by date’. Retention is critical. Like a billboard on a highway - if it’s cluttered, no one remembers it. Music must be concise and memorable.”
Turning to Shaka iLembe, he spoke passionately about the visual storytelling behind the music. He described scenes surrounding the birth of the twins: the music, he said, mirrored the tension of that moment - the birth of a child surrounded by love, yet threatened by tradition.
He also spoke about Nandi, who was deeply mourned, as well as Mkabayi, a powerful “survivor in a cutthroat environment” where her decisions were often questioned because she was a woman. “Yet, when she spoke, monarchs, emperors, and commoners alike listened in silence. Her presence was quiet but commanding - like a marsh, inviting yet dangerous to those who underestimated her.”
Through his reflections, the composer revealed that music is not just an art form, it’s a philosophy of life. It’s about structure, truth, and vision; about seeing beyond sound to capture history, culture, and spirit.
Watch the full clip here.
Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN’s African Music Project Celebrates the Life and Legacy of Poet Laureate Mazisi Kunene
AMP students celebrating the life of Mazisi Kunene.The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) African Music Project (AMP) recently hosted a vibrant end-of-semester Lunch Hour Concert in honour of South Africa’s first Poet Laureate, Professor Mazisi Kunene.
The event was a powerful fusion of storytelling, music, and dance, celebrating Kunene’s enduring legacy and his contribution to Zulu culture, language, and identity.
Dr Miranda Young, Discipline Leader for Music and Drama Performance, welcomed guests with enthusiasm, expressing pride in celebrating one of UKZN’s distinguished alumni.
“It is a great pleasure to celebrate an alumnus of this institution. We are very proud to be honouring Professor Mazisi Kunene and celebrating his legacy,” said Young.
The event was inspired by a request from Mrs Mathabo Kunene to Dr Patricia Opondo to make use of materials from the Mazisi Kunene collections. Opondo tasked the African Music and Dance (AMD) Performance Skills lecturers - Mr Mfundiseni Ndwalane, Ms Nozuko Nguni, Mr Thabiso Zondo and Mr Ernest Zondo - with creating a special production. Members of the Kunene family and the Mazisi Kunene Foundation attended and expressed gratitude to the AMD staff and students for the moving tribute.
The show was opened by African Music and Dance (AMD1) class led by Ndwalane, who explained that the performance was rooted in the class’s unique “class theatre methodology.”
“Our module aims to develop students’ existing knowledge in singing, dancing, and storytelling. We use performance to tell stories - in this case, the story of Professor Mazisi Kunene,” Ndwalane said.
Born in Durban to Eva Kunene (née Ngcobo), a teacher, and Mdabuli Albert Kunene, a labourer, Kunene began his literary journey early. He started writing poetry and short stories in isiZulu during childhood, and by age 11, his work was already appearing in local newspapers. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts in isiZulu and History and a master’s degree in isiZulu Poetry from the then-University of Natal, now UKZN.
Through Maskandi, Umzansi, and Gumboot dances taught by Nguni, Zondo and Zondi, the concert beautifully reflected Kunene’s mission to preserve and promote Zulu culture and language. Performers used traditional amaZulu movements to embody the depth of his poetry and his activism.
“We use amaZulu dances to symbolise Professor Kunene’s deep-rootedness in culture. We sing to rejoice and appreciate his role in preserving our heritage through poetry. We stomp, slap, and clap our gumboots as rhythmic codes - to communicate and remember how he stood firm as an anti-apartheid activist,” said Opondo.
The audience was moved by a series of emotionally charged pieces, including a song about family members fighting over inheritance, carrying a strong moral message that people should work for their livelihoods rather than quarrel over possessions. Another standout performance focused on empowering women, allowing female performers to embody strength and confidence traditionally associated with masculinity - a symbolic gesture of equality through art.
Commenting on the event, Opondo, Director of AMD, praised the concert as an important cultural moment for both students and the university.
She said: “This celebration goes beyond performance - it reflects how the arts can educate, preserve heritage, and inspire social consciousness. Honouring Professor Kunene through music and dance reminds us that education is not just about knowledge, but about connecting with our cultural roots and history,”
The concert concluded with loud applause and dancing from the audience - a fitting tribute to a man whose words, rhythm, and cultural activism continue to resonate deeply within South African society.
Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Showcases Innovation and Impact at 2025 Social Entrepreneurs’ Demo Day
Highlights from the day.The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), hosted the ‘2025 Social Entrepreneurs’ Demo Day’ on October 24 at the Archie Gumede Conference Centre in Durban.
The annual event showcased the achievements of emerging social entrepreneurs from across the province and marked the culmination of the KwaZulu-Natal Social Economy Development Programme (SEDP).
Now in its twelfth year, the SEDP - fondly known as the ‘Champions Programme’ - is a collaborative initiative between UKZN and EDTEA that has trained and supported over 250 social entrepreneurs since its inception in 2013. The programme equips participants with skills to scale their enterprises while creating meaningful social and economic impact in their communities.
In his welcome address, Professor Ernest Khalema, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the College of Law and Management Studies, commended the 2025 cohort for their creativity, resilience, and commitment to community transformation.
“Your work in fields ranging from waste management and agro-processing to education, health, and digital innovation demonstrates that entrepreneurship is not only about profit, but about people - about finding local solutions to local challenges,” he said.
He further applauded the collaboration between academia, government and the private sector, noting that the SEDP demonstrates the power of collective action in building a more inclusive provincial economy.
“This collaboration stands as a shining example of how universities, government and the private sector can work together to shape a more sustainable future,” he added.
The Demo Day featured 22 presentations by this year’s cohort of social entrepreneurs representing all corners of KwaZulu-Natal - from the uMkhanyakude to the Ugu districts. Their enterprises spanned diverse sectors, including agriculture, arts and culture, waste management, education, and health.
Dr Mlondi Vilakazi, UKZN’s Regional and Local Economic Development Project Manager, lauded the entrepreneurs for their courage and innovation:
“Each project tells a story of service and transformation. This year, our champions have turned challenges into opportunities, creating jobs, strengthening communities, and advancing sustainable development. Their efforts stand as a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to drive meaningful change even in uncertain times.”
The event also featured an inspiring keynote address by Mr Peter-Paul Ngwenya, founder of Gagasi FM and several other ventures rooted in the spirit of paying it forward. Drawing from his own entrepreneurial journey, Ngwenya reminded the audience that “you are never too small to make a contribution”. His words left the room energised, underscoring the belief that meaningful change often begins with a single, purposeful idea.
The event recognised these outstanding participants through certificate and trophy presentations, as well as the Absa Overall Social Entrepreneur Award worth R25 000 presented to three champions to help further develop their businesses. Winners were: Ms Farieda Jali of Active Minds Society, Mr Phakamani Ndlovu of Phakamani Empowerment, and Ms Zamakhabazela Mkhize of SAAH Learning Centre.
EDTEA’s Mr Ranveer Persad delivered closing remarks, reaffirming the department’s continued support for social innovation and community development.
As the event concluded, delegates, funders and entrepreneurs reflected on a shared vision of enterprises that not only drive economic value but also deliver lasting social change across KwaZulu-Natal.
Words: Lungile Ngubelanga
Photographs: Hesper Cele
author : .author email : .UTLO Symposium Explores the Future of Curriculum Design in the Digital Age
Scenes from the two-day Instructional and Learning Design Symposium.Students are moving at digital speed. The question for Higher Education Institutions is whether they can keep up, or if they are destined to be like a cartoon cat chasing an elusive mouse.
This was the striking analogy used by Professor Nyna Amin, Interim Director of the University Teaching and Learning Office at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, who opened a two-day Instructional and Learning Design Symposium. The event brought together academics, support staff, students, and instructional designers to reimagine the future of university teaching.
Under the theme ‘From Design to Impact: Driving Curriculum Digital Transformation in Higher Education’, the symposium addressed a pressing reality: transformation in higher education must go beyond mere digitalisation to tackle deeper systemic issues in the design of learning, teaching, and assessment.
Amin’s Speedy Gonzales metaphor resonated throughout the event. She described how universities often fall into the “Sylvester trap”: ‘technology first’, where complexity is mistaken for effectiveness; the ‘solo pursuit problem’, where academics reinvent pedagogical wheels in isolation; and the ‘performance versus purpose confusion’, where busyness is mistaken for achievement.
“Students are moving at digital speed and possess contextual intelligence about learning,” Amin explained. “The work of our digital content editors and instructional designers is helping to propel academics into the 21st century, creating learning environments where natural velocity becomes an asset rather than a challenge.”
The symposium showcased the Digital Curriculum Transformation (DCT) Project, an initiative enabling instructional designers to collaborate with academic staff and Deans of Teaching and Learning on high-impact modules identified through institutional data and consultations. Structured around five Instructional Design Learning Sprints, the project advances key goals in UKZN’s Strategic Plan for teaching excellence and student experience.
Keynote speaker Professor André Vosloo, Academic Leader for Teaching and Learning at UKZN’s former School of Life Sciences, drew on an equally compelling analogy: building architecture. Just as great buildings must be both functional and beautiful, he argued, so must learning design balance purpose with aesthetic appeal.
“This is what our learning experience should strive for – to be both attractive and inviting, while delivering its purpose,” Vosloo said, outlining three foundational design principles: Universal Design for Learning as the master plan, Backward Design as the blueprint, and Instructional Design as the engineering team responsible for execution.
He emphasised that learning is maximised when these principles work in synergy, incorporating user-centric approaches, media-rich and hands-on learning, gamification, microlearning techniques, and continuous feedback to enhance the student experience.
The symposium moved from conceptual frameworks to concrete examples through a panel discussion that provided a reflective overview of UKZN’s digital transformation journey. Panellists highlighted key successes while engaging critically with ongoing challenges, including issues of fragmentation, and outlined strategic directions to sustain this work across the institution.
Academic presentations from colleagues who collaborated with instructional designers throughout the year showcased innovative teaching practices developed through these partnerships. Student presenters offered their own perspectives, reflecting on how digital transformation has reshaped their learning experiences.
The symposium culminated in the recognition of Digital Curriculum Transformation Portfolio Award winners, each receiving institutional cheques of R10 000 for their outstanding submissions, along with certificates and a raffle draw.
In closing remarks that elevated the symposium’s significance beyond institutional boundaries, instructional designer Mr Mukondeleli Mulaudzi issued a powerful call to action: “Africa’s moment has come, not to imitate or compete, but to restore balance to a world in disarray. Through education rooted in harmony of Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether, we can cultivate leaders who think deeply, act wisely, and create holistically.”
His vision of classrooms as spaces of renewal, teachers as elemental masters, and students as seekers of balance framed digital curriculum transformation not merely as technological adaptation, but as a profound opportunity to contribute to a new civilisation grounded in harmony, wisdom, and purpose.
Words: Ndabaonline
Photographs: Andile Ndlovu
author : .author email : .Team UKZN Tops Deloitte’s 2025 CA of the Future Challenge
Team UKZN Shines! Front row (from left): Ms Amahle Dlamini, Ms Zahra Baig, and Ms Nikhita Naidoo. Back row (from left): Ms Adithi Ramachul and Mr Melusi Ncane.First-year Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Accounting students Ms Nikhita Naidoo, Ms Adithi Ramachul, Ms Amahle Dlamini, Mr Melusi Ncane, and Ms Zahra Baig clinched first place at the CA of the Future 2025 Challenge.
This is a Deloitte initiative in response to the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) updated competency framework for future Chartered Accountants (South Africa) [CA(SA)s]. This year’s case study focused on digitisation and sustainability, and tasked students with developing proposals to digitise an existing manual system.
This year was the first inter-university challenge with participants from Stellenbosch University, the University of Johannesburg, the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), the University of Pretoria (UK), the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), IIE Varsity College and IIE MSA. UKZN came first, followed by the University of Pretoria in second place and IIE MSA in third.
Speaking on their win, team UKZN said this experience opened their eyes to a world of possibilities within the accounting profession.
“As a first-year BCom Accounting student, this experience has opened my eyes to the possibilities within the accounting profession through interacting with professionals who shared advice, tips and their personal experiences with me. It was exciting to collaborate, learn, and challenge myself alongside other passionate future leaders and grow outside of my comfort zone,” said Ramachul.
For Baig, it was an opportunity to hone her presentation skills. “We learned a great deal about improving our presentation skills through a workshop conducted by Deloitte employees. I felt extremely happy and grateful that we returned as winners. It was a tough competition, but our determination, perseverance and effective collaboration enabled us to succeed,” she said.
For Ncane, winning proved that teamwork makes the dream work. “Winning feels special because it means our effort was recognised, not just by our university but by others too. Most importantly, it reminds me that success comes from unity, discipline, and believing in ourselves as a team,” he said.
Dlamini echoed Ncane’s sentiments: “This victory feels like more than just a title. It’s a strong validation of all our hard work and the long hours our team dedicated. Being recognised on such a prestigious platform is indescribable. Most of all, this experience reinforced my belief in the power of teamwork. Our success was the result of how we collaborated, debated and supported one another,” she said.
Naidoo, the win is motivation to aim higher. “I would describe our win as an emotional one, because we all faced personal challenges and fears while dealing with the pressure of standing out among so many talented teams. Despite everything, we supported one another and gave it our all. This achievement has truly inspired me to aim higher and pursue greater goals in the future,” she said.
Dr Vanessa Gregory, senior lecturer in the School of Commerce and Academic Leader for Financial Accounting, congratulated the students on their achievement. “The group showed tenacity and were humble in accepting feedback from the top five rounds, which they used to deliver an even stronger presentation in the Deloitte inter-university final. This growth demonstrates the kind of learning expected at first-year level - an essential skill for future CA(SA)s. We’re excited to see these students continue to grow in pursuit of their professional goals. Competing against top universities in South Africa and winning illustrates that UKZN is at the forefront of developing future Chartered Accountants,” she said.
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Serving Up Excellence: UKZN’s Squash Courts Back in Top Form
Mr Nashveer Naidoo and Mr Vasu Chetty play the first match on UKZN’s newly renovated squash courts.The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) recently unveiled its newly refurbished squash courts, located at the Sports Centre on the Westville campus.
The facility, which comprises six courts renovated to international standards along with male and female ablution facilities, is now ready for use by staff, students, and external stakeholders through a booking system.
As custodians of sporting facilities, the Sports Division, together with Campus Management Services (CMS), undertook a rigorous procurement process to refurbish the squash courts, which were damaged by the 2019 floods.
UKZN Acting Sports Manager Mr Zweli Sapula said they had sourced an internationally acclaimed company to build the squash courts according to specifications provided by CMS.
“The courts are made of special Malaysian wood, which is designed to cushion players’ knees and bodies during play. Malaysia is home to many top squash athletes, which is why this material was chosen,” he said.
Sapula said the squash courts will enable the Sports Division to foster relations with the squash federation, allowing them to host league matches and tournaments, and in return generate revenue.
He added that the new courts would help revive the sport and provide previously disadvantaged students and communities with the opportunity to immerse themselves in squash. “This bold step will enable the division to increase the number of league players at UKZN and diversify participation, as we regularly send our students to compete in national and international tournaments,” said Sapula.
Executive Director of Corporate Relations Division, Ms Normah Zondo, expressed her excitement about the launch of the state-of-the-art facility, noting that it serves as a strong selling point for the University.
“Having this kind of facility elevates our marketing pitch and showcases UKZN’s commitment to Goal 2 of the Strategic Plan - an excellent student experience. We are confident that CMS will ensure it is well maintained so that our students and the broader UKZN community can enjoy its full benefits.
“Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this project to life - we can’t wait to see the courts in use,” she said.
Mr Andre Jansen, Treasurer of the KZN Squash Union, said that as a sport that relies heavily on proper facilities, they were very excited to see the squash courts being renovated and to witness the University’s commitment to growing and developing the sport. “From the Union’s point of view, it’s always fantastic to see schools, universities and clubs investing in facilities and providing opportunities to play. We hope to see some future world number ones emerging from this university,” he said.
Dean of Student Services, Professor Percy Sepeng, said the refurbishment of the squash courts reflected UKZN’s continued investment in the holistic development and wellbeing of its students.
“This facility goes beyond sport - it represents our commitment to creating an environment where students can flourish physically, mentally, and socially. These internationally standardised courts will not only nurture athletic talent but also strengthen recreation and University pride,” he said.
The first squash match on the newly renovated courts marked an exciting start to the use of the facility, with UKZN student Mr Nashveer Naidoo securing a 2-1 victory over staff member Mr Vasu Chetty.
The squash courts are open Monday to Friday, from 08h00 to 19h00.
Bookings can be made through the UKZN Sports Division.
Words: Hlengiwe Khwela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Alan Paton: His Early Years - Reflections by Malcolm Pearse
Mr Malcolm Pearse (left) and an archived photograph of Alan Paton.The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Library Services and Special Collections at the Alan Paton Centre recently hosted the 2025 Alan Paton Lecture virtually. The lecture, themed ‘Alan Paton - His Early Years’, explored the formative years of South Africa’s celebrated author and anti-apartheid activist Alan Paton.
Delivering the lecture was Mr Malcolm Pearse, son of R.O. (Reginald Oliver) Pearse, a close friend and university contemporary of Alan Paton. He shared personal recollections and insights drawn from family archives. Pearse highlighted the enduring friendship between his father and Paton, which began at Natal University College (now UKZN) and lasted for decades.
“My father and Alan Paton met at the Natal University College in Pietermaritzburg and remained close for 60 years,” Pearse said. “I can still picture our families gathered around the dinner table, with Alan discussing his political views and my father responding accordingly.”
Pearse drew extensively from Paton’s autobiographies, Towards the Mountain and Journey Continued, as well as from a private collection of family memorabilia. He presented historic items, such as a booklet titled Rab and his friends, given by Paton to Mr Malcolm Pearse’s grandparents in July 1921, and a letter from Alan Paton to R.O. Pearse written in 1973, in which Paton praised Barrier of Spears, his father’s acclaimed book on the Drakensberg.
The lecture also highlighted the values Paton shared with his contemporaries, including a love of literature, poetry, debate and faith. Pearse discussed the establishment of the Students’ Christian Association youth camps on the Natal South Coast.
Referencing Paton’s writing, Pearse noted the author’s commitment to confronting injustice. Quoting Cry, the Beloved Country, he said: “The great red hills stand desolate, and the earth has torn away like flesh … The lightning flashes over them, the clouds are the red blood of the earth. Down the valleys women scratch the soil that is left, and the maize hardly reaches the height of a man. They are valleys of old men and old women, of mothers and children. The men are away. The young men and the girls are away. The soil cannot keep them anymore.”
Pearse explained that Paton’s work was not intended to romanticise South Africa, but to reveal and address its social injustices, laying the groundwork for his lifelong advocacy for a just and democratic society. The lecture concluded with Pearse doing a presentation of his father’s personal copy of Cry, the Beloved Country, one of the earliest editions printed in New York in 1948. The book was inscribed by Paton: “R.O.P., from A.S.P., 1904-48.”
Through his reflections, Pearse brought to life the friendship between his father and Paton, which helped shape Paton’s formative years. The lecture reinforced his legacy as a literary and moral icon, whose influence continues to inspire the UKZN community and beyond.
Words: Namisile Zuma
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .Department of Student Residence Affairs Westville Campus Relaunches Green Campus Initiative
Creativity meets sustainability.The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Westville campus recently buzzed with colour and creativity during the Green Campus Initiative (GCI) relaunch, themed ‘Creativity Meets Sustainability’.
Hosted by the Residence Life Team, led by Ms Lerato Khoali, the event celebrated innovation, environmental awareness, and student-driven sustainability.
Highlights of the GCI event included an inspiring performance by master of ceremonies (MC) Ms Xolisile Khumalo-Malinga and a unifying address delivered by Residence Life Officer (RLO) Ms Nomathemba Makhathini, along with guest speaker Ms Khanya Buthelezi, CEO of Owethu Waste Group Management, who emphasised the economic and social power of recycling.
Residences showcased their talents through recycled crafts, fashion, and sustainability presentations. Winners included Forest Residence (Best Presentation), Crystal Valley (Most Beautiful Dress), and Gapwood (Most Creative Craft).
Performances by Snothile from Dunstaple Heights Residence and Imbongi yase Khaya added a lively cultural flair, while the ‘Vision and Imagination’ digital session encouraged reflection on sustainable living.
The GCI relaunch successfully united creativity, education, and activism - reaffirming the University’s commitment to building an environmentally conscious and empowered student community.
Words: Nomathemba Makhathini
Photographs: Supplied
author : .author email : .Medical Class of 2005 Celebrates 20-year Reunion at UKZN
Celebrating 20 years of memories, medicine and meaningful connections.The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine welcomed back its Class of 2005 (old curriculum) for a heart-warming 20th reunion weekend filled with laughter, nostalgia, and pride.
The day began with an emotional tour through the iconic spaces that shaped the class’s journey from students to medical professionals. The tour began at the library and continued through the dissection hall, the skills laboratory (where an Objective Structured Clinical Examination was in progress), the Steve Biko Lecture Theatre, and the much-loved student social areas.
A special highlight of the reunion was the tour of the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA) and the KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP), where alumni were given an inside look into the world-renowned research being conducted on campus. Dr Jennifer Giandhari shared insights into the ground-breaking genomic work that led to the discovery of the Omicron variant, reflecting on the intense yet inspiring experiences during the pandemic.
Professor Salim Abdool Karim Director of CAPRISA, and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) at UKZN ... also addressed the group, highlighting CAPRISA’s core values - ‘Searching for Excellence’, ‘Thinking for Innovation’, and ‘Striving to Serve Humanity’ - principles that continue to inspire medical professionals across generations.
Representing the class, Dr Mohammed Mitha extended heartfelt thanks to UKZN and the School of Medicine for hosting such a memorable occasion. Professor Refiloe Masekela, Dean of Medicine, warmly welcomed the alumni back, reminding them that they will always have a home at UKZN and encouraging them to stay connected and continue contributing to the advancement of health sciences.
The reunion was more than a visit - it was a beautiful rediscovery of friendships, memories, and the enduring spirit of UKZN Medicine. Some of the classmates shared their reflections of the day.
“Being back at Med School felt like I never left. It was so nostalgic and heart-warming. Meeting our friends was also quite magical. It was amazing to see the progress at CAPRISA that Prof and his team are making - we are so proud to be part of UKZN. The visit renewed my excitement and inspiration to strive higher. We look forward to the next visit,” said Dr Zeenat Moorad, clinical haematologist.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the excellent job you and your team did with our Medical School tour. It brought back the best of memories. It was so lovely reconnecting after so many years. We did not have CAPRISA on site when I was there, so that was truly an exceptional part of the tour,” said Dr Nafeesa Vawda, clinical and radiation oncologist.
“The tour was well organised and informative, but also relaxed so that we all felt comfortable enough to be ourselves. It was wonderful to revisit our alma mater and see how far it has come,” said Dr Pravani Moodley, emergency physician and lecturer at Wits University.
As the Class of 2005 walked the familiar corridors once again, it was clear that while much has changed in the last two decades, the spirit of camaraderie, excellence, and compassion that defines the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine remains stronger than ever.
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photographs: Sethu Dlamini
author : .author email : .Webinar Explores Intergenerational Trauma and Healing in Post-Conflict Societies
UKZN SARChI in Peace and Justice Education, Professor Vaughn John.The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Legacies of Violence Programme recently hosted a webinar exploring the transgenerational transmission of trauma in the context of mass violence.
The webinar was co-facilitated by Professor Vaughn John, South African Research Chair (SARChI) in Peace and Justice Education, and Professor Philippe Denis, a senior researcher in UKZN’s Humanities Institute.
Three explored how peace-building interventions can reduce the effects of transgenerational trauma and violence. They focused on Zimbabwe, Rwanda and Burundi - countries that have all experienced mass violence in recent decades. Lessons were also drawn for KwaZulu-Natal and other parts of South Africa, which have endured similarly high levels of violence.
Dr Dumisani Ngwenya examined Zimbabwe’s unresolved national trauma, which continues to shape the country’s socio-political landscape. He noted that during the Gukurahundi period (1983-1987), systematic state violence targeted Ndebele people in Matabeleland and the Midlands regions.
He reported that more than 20 000 civilians were killed and thousands were tortured, detained, or displaced through the attacks of the Fifth Brigade, a military unit operating under government orders. He argued that younger generations may be more prone to violent behaviour than the original victims, as they feel a duty to defend their parents’ honour. “There is a cycle of violence if there is no healing,” he said. “The youth are seeing the response as a matter of family honour - to avenge their parents.”
He explained that trauma can be consciously or unconsciously transmitted by parents through narratives, behaviours and emotional states, often causing second-generation trauma to escalate. He highlighted three critical intervention points for preventive work, each reflecting the distinct needs of different generations. He also criticised the state’s role in perpetuating trauma and anger by refusing to acknowledge the harm it inflicted a generation ago.
Professor David Niyonzima, a life counsellor and academic, described the successive waves of violence that struck Burundi between 1965 and 2015, particularly in 1993. In each case, children of survivors from earlier generations became involved in acts of violence. He also shared his experience as a facilitator of psychological support programmes focusing on stress management and wellness.
Niyonzima is dedicated to peace and reconciliation, firmly believing that healing trauma and addressing historical wounds is essential. “As life counsellors, we look at the multiple pressures affecting individuals and try to make the entire system more positive,” he said.
Dr Munyurangabo Benda from the Queen’s Foundation in Birmingham shared lessons from Rwanda He noted that during the 1994 genocide, approximately one million people - mostly Tutsi - were killed; 250 000 women were raped; 95 000 children were orphaned; and around 120 000 people were imprisoned and, in most cases, convicted after the genocide.
He noted that many survivors experienced post-traumatic stress in the form of a specific Rwandan condition called ihahamuka, which involves the blockage of breath in the lungs.
Benda also discussed the phenomenon of trauma inheritance, where children of victims and witnesses become entangled in cycles of adult violence. He proposed that perpetrators and their descendants embrace peace-building through what he calls the “art of peace” and “aesthetics of trauma”- a strategy termed Urungano. He also suggested adopting a national intergenerational pact, guided by reflections on the past (rear-view) and aspirations for the future (windshield).
Professor Philippe Denis concluded the meeting with a summary of key insights. While most presentations focused on Zimbabwe, Rwanda and Burundi, the challenge now lies in applying these lessons to KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa. Several common themes emerged: first, the urgency of action - silence perpetuates trauma, and without intervention, conditions will worsen. Second, the role of the state in memory and memorialisation must be critically examined. Third, spiritual healing - including African traditional practices such as cleansing rituals and the respectful handling of victims’ remains - is vital. Finally, the centrality of children and families was evident, as speakers reflected on the experiences of children during past violence and those growing up today in its aftermath.
Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .UKZN Hosts SAASSAP Executive Committee for Strategic Planning Workshop
Members of the SAASSAP national executive committee in a recent workshop hosted by the UKZN.The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) recently hosted members of the South African Association of Senior Student Affairs Professionals (SAASSAP) National Executive Committee (NEC) for a two-day strategic planning session.
The session focused on reflecting on progress, refining strategic priorities, and finalising a three-year plan to guide the association’s programmes, partnerships, and advocacy work.
SAASSAP is a national professional association that brings together deans, directors, and senior managers responsible for student affairs and related portfolios across 24 South African universities. Formed in the early 2000s as a platform to strengthen leadership, professional practice, and collaboration within the sector, SAASSAP has become a trusted voice in shaping the national agenda on student success, transformation, and ethical governance in Higher Education.
UKZN’s Dean of Student Services, Professor Percy Sepeng, said SAASSAP plays a vital role in shaping a compassionate and student-centred Higher Education system. He noted that, through collaboration with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), Universities South Africa (USAf), and international partners such as the International Association of Student Affairs and Services (IASAS) and NASPA (Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education), the association is building a community of professionals committed to ethical leadership, inclusion, and student success.
“Our recent workshop at UKZN was a reminder that leadership in student affairs is about hope, humanity, and integrity, and about ensuring that every decision we make contributes to a more caring and responsive university environment. The purpose was to reflect on our progress, refine our strategic priorities, and shape a three-year plan (2025-2028) that will guide the association’s programmes, partnerships, and advocacy work,” added Sepeng.
He said the workshop produced several key outcomes. These included a refined vision and mission for the association; agreement on five strategic focus areas - leadership development, ethical governance, advocacy, professionalisation, and partnerships; a roadmap for implementing and monitoring of the 2025–2028 Strategic Plan; and a renewed commitment among members to work collectively to strengthen the student experience across the country.
SAASSAP’s vision is to advance ethical, transformative, and professional student affairs leadership that enhances student success and well-being across the Higher Education landscape. The association exists to support the individuals who help students, ensuring that every learner can thrive academically, socially, and personally within South African universities.
SAASSAP’s next gathering will be its annual general meeting and leadership conference scheduled for the 2026 academic year. During this event, progress on the new strategy will be reviewed and new initiatives launched.
Words: Sithembile Shabangu
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Unlocking Access: Future of Circulation in Libraries - The UKZN Story
Mr Nelis Botha.The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Library Services hosted a webinar on 15 October 2025, attracting 335 registered delegates. The event began with a welcome address by the Director of Library Services, Dr Nonhlanhla Ngcobo.
The keynote speaker, Mr Nelis Botha, Manager for Client Services at Tshwane University of Technology, spoke on the topic ‘From Good to Great: Leveraging Real-time Customer Feedback to Enhance Service Excellence at the Circulation Desk’.
Dr Praversh Sukram, the Portfolio Head of Circulation at UKZN Library Services, began with an overview of UKZN and its campuses, followed by a description of the libraries. He focused on the centralisation of circulation desks at all main libraries, highlighting the benefits, the challenges encountered, and how these were addressed.
Mr Nkululeko Duke Magwaza, the Acting Principal Librarian (Circulation) at Howard College Campus, presented the Library’s ‘Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme’. This initiative offers final-year Library and Information Studies students from Durban University of Technology (DUT) with a structured opportunity to gain hands-on experience with UKZN Library processes. The presentation highlighted the national need to bridge education and employment gaps. Students who participated in the eight-week programme provided positive feedback via video clips. UKZN Library Services hosts th programme annually.
Mrs Susheila Naidoo, the Principal Librarian for Circulation at both Edgewood and Medical School Libraries, presented on ‘Round-the-clock learning: UKZN’s 24/7 library opening’. She spoke about the various aspects of keeping UKZN Libraries open 24/7, including the selection and recruitment of student assistants and how the service is managed. A well-received aspect of her presentation was a video of students sharing their views on the benefits of the 24/7 service.
Mr Sipho Khumalo, the Principal Librarian for Circulation at Westville Campus, discussed the important aspect of library spaces in his presentation, ‘Repurposing Spaces at UKZN Library Services: Advancing the Future of Learning’. He highlighted the evolving needs of users due to technological changes and the necessity for libraries to repurpose spaces accordingly. Mr Khumalo noted the increased demand for group study areas and mentioned that all Main Libraries have now created dedicated spaces for research commons and accessibility units.
‘Beyond the Desk: The Changing Face of Circulation in the 21st Century Academic Libraries’ was the topic presented by Mrs Celeste Johns, the Principal Librarian for Circulation on the Pietermaritzburg Campus. Mrs Johns discussed how circulation services are moving beyond traditional desk-based roles to embrace innovative, technology-driven, and user-focused approaches. She highlighted the use of self-service systems, mobile tools, and data-informed practices to enhance access and efficiency. She also described how library staff are moving from routine transactions to proactive engagement, helping create dynamic, responsive spaces that better support modern academic communities.
Mrs Varsha Sookraj, Systems Consultant at the Library, demonstrated the Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) Digby application, following a brief introduction by Mr Nkululeko Duke Magwaza. She presented the results of a trial aimed at solving one of the library's most inefficient tasks: inventory.
Previously, staff were confined to desktops to use the OCLC Worldshare Management Services (WMS) inventory system, a process involved moving trolleys of books between shelves and workstations. In response, the GMJ Sweeney Law Library conducted a focused trial of the OCLC Digby mobile application.This app, included at no additional cost with the Library’s WMS subscription, enables staff to scan items directly in the aisles using a smartphone or tablet.
The results showed a significant improvement in productivity, with staff output increasing from 40–70 books per day to 200–300 items in a single morning. Based on this success, it has been recommended that Digby be implemented across all UKZN Libraries to enable a faster, more efficient, and staff-approved process.
The Circulation webinar, the first of its kind hosted by UKZN Library Services, received positive feedback from delegates.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photograph: Supplied
author : .author email : .Durban Business Confidence Index Receives Presidential Recognition
Key stakeholders in discussion on business investment at the BCI business breakfast.The Durban Business Confidence Index (BCI) computed by the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Macroeconomics Research (MRU) has received presidential recognition, according to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr Mike Raftery.
Raftery was speaking at a business breakfast hosted by the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Macroeconomics Research Unit (MRU), in partnership with the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC (DCCI) and eThekwini Municipality, to launch the 2025 third-quarter Durban Business Confidence Index (BCI) findings at a business breakfast.
“The Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) uses the Durban BCI as a key metric to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of its interventions in Durban.
“The index is an important indicator that the Working Group tracks to gauge the success of its efforts to improve service delivery, address infrastructure challenges, and reposition eThekwini as an investment and tourism destination,” said Raftery.
The business breakfast brought together influential leaders, innovators, business captains, the media and other stakeholders who continue to drive growth and resilience in the city’s economy.
Delivering the opening remarks, UKZN’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College of Law and Management Studies, Professor Ernest Khalema, emphasised the need for continued research on the BCI and its implications for Durban’s economic trajectory.
“Going forward, it would be much appreciated to have the business community assist with funding students’ postdoctoral research fellows mentored by professors in the BCI technical team. This support will help position Durban at greater heights, as it remains the first metro in the country with its own Business Confidence Index,” he said.
Presenting the findings, MRU founder and economics expert Professor Harold Ngalawa, reported that the Durban BCI declined by 0.53% in the third quarter of 2025, falling from 52.40 index points in the second quarter to 52.12 index points in the third quarter. He noted that this dip reflects a steady deterioration in economic conditions, although the index remains above the neutral zone - indicating continued investor confidence in Durban’s economy.
“The city’s confidence is driven by national economic trends more than local factors,” said Ngalawa, adding that South Africa’s current state of affairs and ongoing geopolitical and trade uncertainties continue to undermine investment attraction in the country.
Guest speaker, Dr Sthembiso Mthimkhulu, Senior Manager for Information and Research at eThekwini Municipality, shared insights on the local and global economic outlook. He noted that the decline in business confidence reflects concerns about service delivery, policy uncertainty, and global trade challenges.
“Changing market demands and labour pressures have left unemployment at persistently high levels, with limited absorption of new entrants into the labour market,” he remarked.
Representing the DCCI, Raftery said business investment remains a key avenue for addressing unemployment. “By identifying high-performing sectors and addressing structural challenges at their root, we can unlock new opportunities for entrepreneurship and growth.
“Collaboration between the public and private sectors is vital to driving robust and sustainable change in Durban,” he said.
Adding to this, Mr Shunnon Tulsiram from eThekwini Municipality underscored the importance of continued stakeholder collaboration to strengthen the city’s economic and social fabric. “We must not see this picture in isolation,” he said, “there is need for integration between academia, the business community, and all spheres of government to shape the city’s future.”
Facilitating the proceedings, College of Law and Management Studies Public Relations Manager Ms Hazel Langa closed the breakfast by emphasising the value of collaboration across different departments and relevant stakeholders, noting that such partnerships enhance the University’s contribution to knowledge generation and community impact.
Words: Andiswa Dladla
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
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