A hall filled with cheers as UKZN graduands support their peers on stage. A Zulu queen, a former street child turned economist, and a trailblazing municipal speaker are among the 1 521 graduands being capped at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) Spring Graduation ceremonies on 17 and 18 September 2025.
Dr Zamokuhle Wiseman Magubane re-imagines a decolonial university in his doctoral research.Dr Zamokuhle Wiseman Magubane received his PhD in Curriculum Studies with a thesis titled: ‘Re-imagining a Decolonial University? Exploring the Voices of Black Academics in the Struggle for Transformation in a South African Higher Education Institution’.
Overcoming the odds, Dr Pinky Ntombizonke Zwane graduated with a PhD during the UKZN Spring Graduation ceremony.
Reverend Dr Sithembiso Zwane gives thanks as he celebrates the achievement of his doctorate.
Using popular music, Dr Denosha Maniraj’s study makes poetry learning more engaging and effective.
Dr Valerie Reddy marking the culmination of a fulfilling journey, pursuing equity and change.“Completing my PhD represents not just an academic achievement but also the triumph of perseverance, sacrifice, and resilience over every obstacle I faced.” These are the words of Dr Valerie Reddy after earning her PhD in the School of Education.
Master’s graduate, Ms Kajol Ramlakhan, described teaching as more than just a calling.
Master’s graduate, Mr Nico Nehaal Ramdhani (centre) celebrates with (from left) his supervisor Dr Cherry Muslim, and his family, Ms Sashnie Ramdhani, Ms Dhiya Ramdhani and Mr Subashen Naidu.
Dr Nalini Chitanand’s PhD explores the evolution of academic staff development in South Africa.With a career in Higher Education defined by curiosity, resilience and a deep commitment to transformative education, Dr Nalini Chitanand’s research has culminated in her doctoral thesis, ‘Academic Staff Development in a Changing South African Higher Education Context’.
Confidence personified: Ms Nicolene Samson graduates with a Master’s in Education.
Highlighting ways to boost student success, Dr Rajesh Ramlall’s PhD focuses on timely support and digital tools.
Master’s graduate, Mr Zikhethele Gumede, explores isiZulu-speaking history teachers balancing content and language.
Master’s graduate, Ms Thandeka Maphumulo, explores urban isiZulu and African storytelling in children’s narrative.A study by a master’s Linguistics graduate, Ms Thandeka Maphumulo, highlights the beauty and complexity of urban isiZulu narratives but also challenges educators, parents and communities to re-centre language and culture in children’s lives.
