Red All the Rage at UKZN!

BY: .

UKZN’s College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science (CAES) once again made a significant contribution to South Africa’s much-needed brain pool of highly-qualified science, technology and engineering specialists, awarding an impressive 117 PhDs out of a University total of 330 during the 2016 graduation ceremonies. 

The College’s total is a noteworthy increase over previous years with 106 PhDs being awarded in 2015, 98 in 2014, 76 in 2013, 77 in 2012 and 69 in 2011. 

This steady increase in PhD production is in line with UKZN’s strategic imperative to become the leading research-based university in the country. Marked progress is being made in this regard, with the Department of Higher Education and Training confirming UKZN’s No 1 slot in university research output for the third year in a row! 

PhD research showcased by CAES at the 2016 Graduations produced a rich and varied body of knowledge, ranging across the agricultural, scientific and engineering disciplines. 

Examples include a study of the rock fabric of Karoo Dolerite Sills along the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast by Dr Lauren Hoyer; research into the extracellular matrix of muscle stem cells by Dr Nick Walker; mathematical modelling of Cancer treatments by Dr Joseph Malinzi of Uganda; and an examination of the urban ecology of the Crowned Eagle Stephanoaetus coronatus by New Zealander, Dr Shane McPherson. 

Not only does the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science aim to increase its PhD graduates; it also supports a flourishing post-doctoral research programme. During 2015, the College supported 197 postdoctoral scholars. 

Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Head of the College, Professor Deo Jaganyi, said: ‘The success of the College is owing to the commitment and hard work of its academics, professional staff and its students. It is a pleasure to lead this group of individuals.’ 

In total, the College conferred 1 821 degrees out of a University total of 10 015. 

Sally Frost