A Great Mathematician in the Making

BY: .

Ms Jadene Janel Raghunan received the 50^th Anniversary award for achieving the top senior undergraduate position in the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science. 

This scholarship is based on merit and is awarded to the top student in each College. 

Raghunan’s passion for mathematics began while she was a pupil at Solvista Secondary School. She accredits her interest in mathematics to her teachers who provided a supportive environment.

After matriculating Raghunan chose to study for a Bachelor of Science at UKZN, attracted by the University’s stellar reputation in mathematics and strong emphasis on research and innovation. 

Currently, Raghunan is undertaking the final year of her BSc (M stream) degree, majoring in Pure and Applied Mathematics. 

For the past two years, Raghunan’s excellent performance has resulted in her receiving the Dean’s Commendation and certificate of merits. She also received a scholarship in her second year of study, which relieved a significant financial burden and allowed her to focus on her studies. 

‘The 50^th Anniversary award has been a game-changer for me,’ said Raghunan. ‘It has motivated me to excel academically and take full advantage of the opportunities at UKZN.’ 

The receipt of the scholarship for 2024 has solidified Raghunan’s ambition to pursue an Honours degree in Mathematics. ‘I am passionate about contributing to the academic community and tackling complex mathematical problems that can have real-world applications,’ she said. 

‘To the generous donors and funders of this scholarship, I cannot thank you enough. Your support has made a profound difference in my academic journey. I am deeply committed to making the most of this opportunity and am excited about the future contributions I can make to the field of mathematics, thanks to your investment,’ said Raghunan. 

Raghunan is grateful to the Discipline of Mathematics, which she has found inspiring and incredibly supportive, making the challenging curriculum a rewarding experience. 

Her lecturer, Dr Sisize Simo Mthethwa said: ‘Jadene is an exceptional and committed mathematics student; this duly reflects in her marks. I am often impressed by the analogies that she uses to explain abstract mathematical concepts. She is going to be great mathematician.’ 

Raghunan’s former mathematics school teacher, Mr Morgan Yellapin commented: ‘Jadene is an exceptional student whose growth and potential remind me of an exponential graph. Just like an exponential graph, Jadene has shown continuous improvement in her academic performance. Her passion for mathematics and dedication to her studies have been remarkable. The scholarship has undoubtedly fuelled this growth, allowing Jadene to reach new heights and unlock her full potential.’ 

Her parents, Mr and Mrs Raghunan said they were extremely proud of their daughter and thanked the University for easing their financial burden through the scholarship. 

Words: Leena Rajpal

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini