Umlazi Mother-of-Three Embraces Global Learning in Germany

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PhD candidate and mother-of-three Ms Nonjabulo MaZondi-Ndlovu of Umlazi, Durban, is home from a life-changing academic exchange programme in Germany where she broadened her research and personal outlook through international exposure.

MaZondi-Ndlovu, who holds a Master’s in Public Administration qualification, is Deputy Director: Transversal Contract Management at the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Treasury and is currently completing her PhD. Her research focuses on: ‘The Contribution of Government Procurement Policies to the Development of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises in the Construction Industry in KwaZulu-Natal.’

Through UKZN’s partnership with the Technical University of Chemnitz in Germany, she was selected to participate in a month-long PhD exchange programme in April this year, fully funded by Erasmus+. While there, she also attended the 16th AAE (American African European) Summer/Winter School, hosted by ICN (Institut Commercial de Nancy) Business School and Chemnitz University of Technology in Chemnitz and Berlin.

Welcomed by Chemnitz’s Professor Dr Stefan Hüsig, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, she immersed herself in lectures, tutorials and seminars. Engaging with corporate leaders and international students enhanced her analytical skills, expanded her professional networks and deepened her understanding of global economic and entrepreneurship issues. “These discussions enriched my knowledge and contributed positively to the body of my PhD research,” she said.

Adapting to a new country, however, was not without its challenges. The language barrier, unfamiliar food and cold weather made the first weeks difficult. Yet, by seeking out positive experiences, she grew more open-minded and embraced cultural diversity. “Each day had happier moments - flowers blooming, trees turning green and me becoming more confident in my abilities,” she reflected.

Looking ahead, MaZondi-Ndlovu plans to complete her PhD, publish academic journals and continue exploring the world. “This experience has given me the courage to grow, to learn and to embrace every challenge as an opportunity.”

Words: Raylene Captain-Hasthibeer

Photographs: Supplied