It is with immense pride that I present the second edition of the UKZN Vice-Chancellor’s Newsletter, dedicated to celebrating our exceptional women – staff, students, and alumni – whose achievements exemplify the power of excellence and determination.
As we commemorate Women’s Month, we honour the remarkable contributions of women across our University who have excelled in their fields. Women are the backbone of society, and their indispensable contributions are celebrated here at UKZN. We are privileged to be surrounded by such extraordinary individuals.
However, we must also acknowledge the persistent challenges women face including that of gender-based violence (GBV). We remain steadfast in our commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment where women are respected and can thrive without fear.
Throughout history, women have made extraordinary contributions across all spheres of life – education, healthcare, science, public service, business, and community development. Their unwavering strength, resourcefulness, and intellect have been the cornerstone of progress, shaping a future that is brighter and more equitable for all. Their indomitable spirit in the fight against oppression and their pursuit of justice and equality continue to inspire.
At UKZN, we stand on the shoulders of countless women, both past and present, who have played a pivotal role in building our reputation as a leading academic institution. Their excellence is woven into the very fabric of our University, evident in the remarkable achievements in teaching, learning, and research that we witness daily.
In celebrating these exceptional women, we recognise their immense contributions to UKZN, South Africa, and the world. Their successes inspire us to strive for excellence, equity, and empowerment. As we look to the future, let us continue to support and uplift the women in our community, ensuring they reach their fullest potential, free from discrimination and violence.
As we honour Women’s Month, it is essential to spotlight the phenomenal women affiliated with UKZN who have made significant strides in their respective fields. These women are not just achievers; they are leaders, innovators, and change-makers who inspire us to dream bigger and reach higher. Their successes are particularly poignant as we continue our fight against GBV, advocating for a society where women are safe, respected, and empowered to excel.
Please join me in celebrating our remarkable women who have distinguished themselves in their areas of expertise. Many of these female achievers have been highlighted in previous UKZN Women’s Month communications and campaigns, and their stories continue to inspire us all.
College of Law and Management Studies
Professor Thea van Der Westhuizen
A multi-award-winning academic leader, Professor van Der Westhuizen recently launched two books that will significantly contribute to youth entrepreneurship and academic discourse. Her mission is to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Dr Dusty Donnelley
Dr Donnelley, Director of the UKZN Unit of Maritime Law and Maritime Studies, is a leader in maritime research both locally and internationally. She is currently developing short courses tailored for the maritime sector.
Dr Suhayfa Bhamjee
A UKZN Law academic, Dr Bhamjee recently earned a PhD for her thesis proposing a legal framework for physician-assisted suicide (PAS) and physician-administered euthanasia (PAE). Her work argues for the decriminalisation of PAS/PAE by examining criminal law principles, medical ethics, and patients’ rights under the Constitution.
Other women who inspire us from the College include Professor Micheline Naude, Dr Ayanda Makhaye, Ms Zinhle Khumalo, and Ms Zizile Sibiya.
College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science
Dr Maqsooda Mahomed
Dr Mahomed is a Lecturer in Hydrology at UKZN. Her ground-breaking PhD (Hydrology) thesis pioneered South Africa’s first-ever community early warning system, aimed at improving rural communities’ and small-scale farmers’ resilience to climate-driven risks and increased lightning activity.
Ms Michaela Geytenbeek
Ms Geytenbeek, a UKZN Mechanical Engineering graduate, was honoured as one of News24’s Young Mandelas for her contributions to building a better South Africa. She founded the Kinship Programme, a non-profit that promotes environmental stewardship and nature-based education for young children.
College of Health Sciences
Dr Bawinile Hadebe
Dr Hadebe, Head of the Department of Nuclear Medicine’s Clinical Unit at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, won the Best International Abstract Award at the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) Conference in Toronto. Her study focuses on cervical cancer, a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among Southern African women.
Dr Saloschini Pillay
Dr Pillay, Student Support Services Manager at the College of Health Sciences, received a global award from Hyland UK for her innovative Student Wellness and Academic Transformation (SWAT) system. This accolade celebrates the Best Implementation of a Digital Solution for Student Support and Wellness.
Ms Kristy Greener
Ms Greener, a blind UKZN staffer, completed the Midmar Mile, the world’s largest open-water swimming event, in an impressive hour and 14 minutes. She has idiopathic motor polyneuropathy, which affects her hands and feet, yet she continues to inspire through her resilience.
Other achievers from the college include Professor Veena Singaram, Professor Ncoza Dlova, Dr Chauntelle Bagwandeen, and Professor Motshedisi Sebitloane.
College of Humanities
Professor Nirmala Gopal
A senior professor in UKZN’s School of Applied Human Sciences, Professor Gopal focuses on the field of Criminology with her research interests spanning gender-based violence; youth criminality and violence in schools; cybercrime security and peace; and theories on criminal behaviour. The National Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS) recently honoured her in its Women of Impact Series, which celebrates the outstanding achievements of female graduates, partners, and project leaders in the Humanities and Social Sciences.
Professor Vivian Ojong
This UKZN academic from the School of Social Sciences co-edited a book, together with her colleague, Professor Radhamany Sooryamoorthy, that explores adaptations to transforming social circumstances, showcasing innovative research methodologies that can be employed in challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ms Thobile Sibiya
Ms Sibiya, a lecturer at UKZN’s Educational Psychology Discipline, earned a Master’s degree with merit in Special and Inclusive Education from the University of Nottingham. She plans to pursue a PhD in the same field, continuing her journey of academic excellence.
Other women of action from the college include Professor Nyna Amin, Professor Angela James and Professor Shakila Singh.
Alumni
Chief Justice Mandisa Maya
Justice Maya, a UKZN alumna, recently made history by becoming the first female Chief Justice of South Africa. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in the country’s judicial system, as she will lead the Constitutional Court and the entire judiciary.
Dr Nobuhle Pamela Nkabane
Another distinguished UKZN alumna, Dr Nkabane, was appointed South Africa’s Minister of Higher Education. Her focus on developing a skilled and capable workforce while broadening the country’s skills base is crucial for supporting an inclusive growth path.
Students
Ms Khethelo Sibisi
A UKZN student, Ms Sibisi has made waves in entrepreneurship with her Naturena Hair Care brand. Her passion and determination are inspiring other students to explore entrepreneurial ventures and create their paths to success.
In celebrating these remarkable women, we not only recognise their profound contributions to UKZN, South Africa, and the world but also draw inspiration from their unwavering pursuit of excellence, equity, and empowerment. Their achievements serve as a beacon, guiding us toward a future where every woman can realise her fullest potential. As we look ahead, let us renew our commitment to supporting and uplifting the women in our community, ensuring that they continue to break barriers and thrive, free from the challenges of discrimination and violence.
Together, we can build a more just and inclusive society for all.