
College Deputy Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships for Maths and Science Boffins
The three top-ranked undergraduates proceeding from second to subsequent years of study in the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science (CAES), all emanating from the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science (SMSCS) are the proud recipients of College Deputy Vice-Chancellor Scholarships for their excellent performance over two or more years of undergraduate study.
Mr Reshay Naidoo, studying for a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Computer Science and Information Technology, was interested in studying in this field after excelling at Information Technology and Engineering, and Graphics and Design while at Northwood High School where he received numerous awards in these two subjects. A visit to the Vega School in Durban, where scholars could explore their aptitude for game design and creation, prompted Naidoo to learn how to develop his own computer games.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Naidoo sought a university close to home that offered qualifications in the fields he was passionate about and found this in UKZN. His experience of the Institution, exemplified in his selection for this scholarship, is that it rewards high-achieving students and motivates them to aim for excellence throughout their studies.
Naidoo also appreciated UKZN’s well-structured academic programmes that enabled students to continue with their studies online seamlessly during times of protest and unrest, thereby ensuring their safety.
He enjoyed the flexibility and focused study afforded by online learning, which enabled him to learn in his own time and revisit lectures to deepen his understanding of new concepts and content, as well as balance his studying time with the pursuit of his hobbies and other interests.
‘One of my passions outside of my studies, which also happens to be my hobby, is computer games - which allows me to connect with friends from across the world and presents me with challenges that I have to develop an ability to overcome,’ he said.
Naidoo also maintains close family ties, spending lots of time with his cousins at social activities including braais, movies and weekend getaways.
Receiving this scholarship not only enables him to pursue his studies at the next level, but is a welcome boost to his CV, and the recognition of his achievements and hard work has provided a great sense of satisfaction.
He plans to continue with his studies to PhD level, hoping to be able to fit in some part-time work alongside his studies to provide insight into the direction he would like to take in his research and later career. Naidoo hopes to include some travel outside of South Africa to expand his knowledge and experience, and one day enter the tech industry by working with leading computing firms.
He credited his parents and sisters for their support of his dreams and their encouragement, expressing gratitude to his parents for creating opportunities for him to succeed at what he is good at. He thanked his family for their words of encouragement and praise and thanked the staff and educators at Northwood High School for their guidance and leadership.
Mr Sithembiso Ntanzi is also pursuing a degree in Computer Science and Information Technology, choosing UKZN for its research focus as he is motivated by tackling complex, unsolved problems, and because of the University’s proximity to his loved ones in eSikhaleni, near Richard’s Bay, where he attended Ikhandlela Secondary School.
Excited at the prospect of studying at UKZN when he received his acceptance, the experience has not disappointed him as he has had the opportunity to make good friends and form lifelong memories while studying and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of campus life.
Passionate about learning, Ntanzi formed an interest in studying Computer Science while in high school as computers seemed to have almost magical, unlimited capabilities. He learnt about computer programming and circuitry in Grade 10 and developed two computer games using the Unity Game Engine, a gratifying experience that solidified his passion for the field.
Ntanzi’s interests are not limited to the technological - fascinated by broad fields of knowledge and especially languages, he is currently learning German and enjoys the power of language to connect him to diverse groups of people and develop diversity in his thinking.
Hoping to become an artificial intelligence engineer or work in quantum computing, Ntanzi is intrigued by challenging problems and the prospect of being part of the development of innovative solutions.
Receiving this scholarship is especially meaningful to someone who struggled with dyslexia throughout his academic life and represents Ntanzi’s success in overcoming this challenge. ‘I never envisioned myself earning such a prestigious award; it shows me that I can conquer any challenges and that I should never give up on what I am passionate about,’ said Ntanzi.
He plans to continue his studies to honours level and is open to continuing his educational career even further.
Ntanzi expressed his gratitude to his parents for their support throughout his journey, thanked lecturers and staff at UKZN for their guidance and availability to assist, and finally, thanked his sponsor for their valuable support.
Ms Larissa Singh is studying for a BSc in the Mathematics stream after finding the subject particularly intriguing during her high school years at Mountview Secondary School in Verulam. Knowing that her choice of university in both its curriculum and environment would shape her life, Singh knew UKZN was a good choice because of its reputation for academic excellence and encouraging a diverse and inclusive learning environment, as well as the opportunities it would provide in pursuing her professional goals.
It was clear to her that her chosen degree was well suited to her, and after just a few lectures during first year, she knew that data science, which combines statistics and computer science, was where she wanted to aim her academic career due to the promise of its focus on application and innovation.
‘Now in my final year, the excitement I still feel when starting a new section in one of my modules leaves me with no doubt that I made the right decision in choosing this degree,’ she said.
Singh plans to advance to honours level to explore her field further and refine her expertise and abilities.
Receiving this scholarship has relieved financial constraints and freed Singh up to pursue her academic goals without this worry and is a reward for her hard work and dedication, standing as a symbol of recognition and encouragement and reminding Singh of her ability to make a meaningful contribution and motivating her to continue to excel.
Once she has completed her studies, Singh has her sights set on applying her skills, abilities and knowledge in the professional world; contributing to the advancement of data science. She prioritises continuous learning and development to keep up to date with progress in the field and is working on being adaptable to contribute her growing skills to an ever-changing profession that has the potential to drive positive societal change.
The experience of UKZN has been exactly what Singh hoped for - she called being taught by dedicated lecturers and enthusiastic tutors while surrounded by inspiring fellow students a privilege. The University’s extracurricular offerings have also enhanced her university experience, developed valuable skills, and formed the basis for lasting memories and unforgettable experiences.
Despite beginning her studies while teaching and learning was still online, Singh found lectures interesting and engaging with diverse and enriching activities forming part of the programme, and was able to meet inspiring lecturers, tutors, peers, and friends.
In-contact lectures and the full university experience have only increased her sense of encouragement, diversity, and inspiration through the supportive and interactive atmosphere on campus, providing more confidence and motivation especially as Singh has taken on tutoring responsibilities herself.
‘The journey so far has been nothing short of self-discovery, personal development, and academic development and achievement, and the past few years and the rest of my time at UKZN will shape my future endeavours and leave a lasting impact on my life,’ she said.
A creative person, Singh balanced her demanding and at times stressful studies by engaging in art and music as a means of mental stimulation and relaxation. She has also found meaning in teaching and helping other students as a tutor, acquiring hands-on experience and learning opportunities through this work, and developing a strong sense of responsibility and improved time management skills.
Quality time with friends and family is essential to Singh - she said their support, limitless encouragement, and belief in her played a pivotal role in helping her navigate the challenges and celebrate the highlights of academic life. She credited her strong support structure, which included teachers, lecturers, and tutors for making sure she got the most out of her academic experience, and thanked her parents for their belief and encouragement.
She said her family and friends’ unwavering support, love, and encouragement kept her motivated, dedicated, and feeling like she could accomplish anything.
Words: Christine Cuenod
Photographs: Albert Hirasen