UKZN Staffer Scoops NRF Award

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Assistant Administrative Officer in the Research Office, Mr Mlungisi Zondi recently received an award for “Best Newcomer NRF Designated Authority” from the National Research Foundation (NRF).

Zondi feels ‘honoured’ to be acknowledged by the NRF. ‘It is always motivating to be recognised for hard work. I think the Awards Cluster is working tirelessly to contribute to the core mandate of UKZN and the National System Innovation,’ said Zondi.

Zondi spent his formative years in his hometown, Ixopo in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. He holds various degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts (Philosophy, Politics and Law) and a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Political Science and International Relations (both from UKZN) and is currently reading for his Masters in Social Science, specialising in Race Relations at the University of Fort Hare.

Zondi plans registering for his Doctor of Philosophy in Science and Technology Studies, specialising in Research Management and Evaluation. ‘This will enhance my knowledge of the National System Innovation and South African Higher Education landscape and also improve research administration and management skills,’ he said.

He acknowledged his family, colleagues and the NRF for supporting and inspiring him throughout his career and academic journey. He thanked his colleague from the Research Office, Mrs Patricia Ngwenya, who scooped the award for the Best Designated Authority from the NRF in 2016. Ngwenya took Zondi under her wing and mentored him ‘to become the best I can be,’ he said.

Words and photograph: Raylene Captain-Hasthibeer