Jan/Feb 2008 olume 5 Number 1/2olume V Law Professions’ Day epresentatives from Each year we employ about five some of South UKZN students,” he said. Africa’s finest law firms converged on Mr Luyanda Mtukushe, a third year UKZN’s Pieter- part time law student on the maritzburgR and Howard College Pietermaritzburg campus said the campuses on 27 and 28 February event enabled him to interact with to participate in Law Professions’ attorneys and human resources Day. personnel from corporate law firms. “I would love to start Organised by the Faculty of Law, work at a firm where I will be the event gave law companies the exposed to business and legal opportunity to inform law students transactions that corporate firms of the diverse job opportunities engage in. This event makes available to them, and select some applying for jobs much easier,” of UKZN’s talented students as he said. prospective employees. Miss Nazrana Sultan attended Law Law Professions’ Day is especially Professions Day for the first time. significant for third and fourth year The third year student who aspires law students who have to serve to be a prosecutor said she came articles on completion of their Law firm representatives interact with students on Law Professions’ Day. Picture: Hazel Langa out of the event with information degrees. For many students it was that would assist her in applying for an information gathering oppor- year to assist students to secure job and the Attorneys Fidelity Fund has branches in Cape Town and jobs. tunity to decide which area of law placements and bursaries. (which provides bursaries for law Johannesburg said his company has they would like to pursue. Around 40 legal organisations, students) participated in this year’s recruited law students from UKZN The event also benefited approxi- including law firms, the South programme. for many years. mately 60 LLB students from the Co-ordinator of the event, Ms African Law Society, the Legal Aid University of Zululand. Robynne Louw said Law Pro- Board, the National Prosecuting Mr Alan Keep, a Director for the “We think highly of this university. fessions’ Day was introduced last Authority, the Society of Advocates law firm, Bownan Gilfillan which Many of our partners studied here. - Neesha Maharaj FarewellFarewell toto HeadsHeads ofof SchoolsSchools

THE College of Humanities Heads of School at a luncheon February. Their 3-year term of were largely due to the Heads of School enabled him to do. He paid tribute to its outgoing on the Edgewood campus on 26 office has expired. of Schools who created two plans to focus his attention on Faculties that have “a clear and academic work. Professors Volker Wedekind distinct life and identity of their (School of Education and De- own but at the same time com- After a well deserved sabbatical, velopment), Michael Chapman plement each other.” Professor Volker will take on the (Literary Studies, Media and post of Co-ordinator for De- Creative Arts), Isabel Phiri She said: “I would like to thank velopment Education. High- (Religion and Theology), the Heads of Schools and De- lights for him as Head of School Raphael de Kadt (School of puty Heads of Schools who were development of a strong Politics), Julian May (School of served in our pioneering phase research culture and establish- Development Studies), and Dr and who through their tenacity ment of the new undergraduate Nobuhle Hlongwa (School of and wise guidance ensured that programme in Social Sciences isiZulu Studies) were acknow- the vision and mission of the within the discipline of De- ledged, particularly for their University is now firmly velopment Education. leadership role during the rooted.” merger process. Professor Phiri said she planned The challenge of negotiating the to catch up on her research on Deputy Vice-Chancellor and merger was a highlight for the impact of religion and (l-r): Professor Michael Chapman, former Head: School of Literary Head of the College of Humani- Professor de Kadt who said he culture in the spread of HIV and Studies, Media and Creative Arts; Professor Fikile Mazibuko, DVC and ties, Professor Fikile Mazibuko would miss the opportunity to AIDS. Head: College of Humanities; and Professor Raphael de Kadt, Former said the successes within the create new institutional arrange- Head: School of Politics. College over the past four years ments that the position of Head - Neesha Maharaj Inside 2 MOU with Malagasy university 4 UKZN achievers 11 Teaching and Learning 16 Sport Corner

Founding Campuses Edgewood Howard College Medical School Pietermaritzburg Westville MOUMOU withwith MalagasyMalagasy universityuniversity

KZN signed a Memo- Disciplines, including Science, Malagasy universities coincide randum of Understand- Humanities, Law and Management nicely with our own.” U ing (MOU) with the Uni- Studies, informed visiting dele- versity of Antananarivo, Mada- gates of the academic programmes Profesor Ratsimbazafy said as gascar on 19 February. The MOU in their respective Faculties and South Africa was “geographically commits the parties to collaborate opportunities for collaboration. close” to Madagascar it was ideal on a series of research and other for the two universities to join projects that the institutions have An MOU was signed between the forces. He added that UKZN has identified as critical for their three universities in the year 2006 many qualified researchers that development. and the new agreement is a more would facilitate greater under- substantive document that will standing and preservation of the The delegation from Madagascar enable the universities to work on unique flora, fauna and water included the President of the joint projects in future. Work resources of Madagascar. University of Antananaravio (UA), between the University of Professor Adolphe Rajerison Antananaravio and UKZN com- “The exchanges between per-

Wilson; Professor Yvonne menced in 2006 with a collabo- sonnel and students of the Mangana Makhumisane Picture: Ranarivelo, Head of PhD training rative science project between universities will significantly At the signing ceremony standing (l-r) are Professors Kevin Kirkman; Ratsimbazafy; Dasarath Chetty; and Monique Ramanamihantatsoarana. in Chemistry at the Faculty of these university’s Chemistry contribute to building capacity.” Seated (l-r) are Professors Johan Jacobs; and Adolphe Rajerison. Science; and Professor Monique Departments. The earlier con- Ramanamihantatsoarana, Vice- nection with University of The Malagasy delegation con- Chancellor of Training, Research Fianarantsoa commenced in 2005 cluded their visit to UKZN by the respiration laboratory, the Professor Lovegrove is optimistic and International Relationships; the when Dr Rasoanaivo conducted dropping in on the Pietermaritz- animal house and the botany and excited about the potential for President of the University of research for her doctoral thesis in burg campus where they were gardens. the School of Biological Sciences Fianarantsoa, Professor Chemistry at UKZN. hosted by Professor Barry and Conservation Sciences to form Ratsimbazafy and Dr Albertine Lovegrove and the School of Prominent researchers presented a mutually beneficial relationship Rasoanaivo Razafizanaka, Head of Professor Dasarath Chetty, Pro- Biological and Conservation brief sketches of their main areas with the Malagasy Universities. the International Relationship Vice-Chancellor, Corporate Re- Sciences. They were treated to a of research expertise. This was Service. lations commented that “This tour of the Schools’ diverse faci- followed by a workshop on oppor- partnership is in keeping with the lities that included the Grassland tunities for future research and Facilitated by UKZN International, vision and mission of the Univer- Science Unit, the Pollination academic collaboration as well as - Neesha Maharaj and Vicky the Heads of Schools from various sity. Many initiatives at the Research Centre, the herbarium, student exchange. Crookes

Editorial Send your news to [email protected] Feral cats need help FOR the past eight years Mrs Wendy Hart has taken care of feral cats on the Howard Partnerships critical for progress College campus through the UKZN Feral Cat Management Programme. However, FORGING strategic partnerships is a due to dwindling funds the programme key goal that underpins UKZN’s operational plans. is in jeopardy. Industry, government and business links with institutions of higher learning provide a platform for valuable intellectual exchange and Mrs Hart, a retired Admissions Officer Piper, the rescued kitten. investment in human capital. The corporate sector enjoys meaningful engagement at the Faculty of Law, has made a plea to with a range of our disciplines through sponsorships, bursaries and scholarships and staff to donate funds towards the programme so that she can continue the recruitment of UKZN graduates. This signals confidence in UKZN – in our students, in taking care of the cats. our academics, many of whom are widely recognized for excellence in teaching and research, She introduced this initiative after she discovered that feral cats in our community engagement with society and in the efficient and effective management of our roaming about the campus were in poor condition and needed attention. institution. Mrs Hart has set up ten feeding stations around the campus with cat This edition of ukzndaba highlights the Faculty of Law’s partnership with eminent law firms in the country. food. About 60 cats depend on the programme. The Law Professions’ Day held on the Pietermaritzburg and Howard College campuses at the start of the Over the past eight years the programme survived through a monthly new year attracted senior law professionals from many of the finest law firms in South Africa to recruit our contribution of R1 000 from Mrs Hart herself and donations from other most talented law students. This longstanding tradition spans many decades – a partnership cherished by the staff members. She said staff who donated money in the past had moved Law Faculty and demonstrates outside confidence in it. on and their contribution has dwindled to about R225 per month. Other significant partners covered in this edition include ABSA who made a significant investment of “As I retired in November last year I cannot afford to sponsor the R 354 000 in bursaries and scholarships and a FIFA scholarship to support PhD research. Our students programme anymore. But I cannot turn my back on them,” she said. and staff must be commended for their outstanding performance as recipients of the prestigious Mandela Scholarship, the Cecil Renaud Scholarship, the David Hepburn Study Award, the Corobrik Award Over the years Mrs Hart has rescued many cats in distress from and the South African Association of Botanists award. rooftops and up palm trees. However, she embarked upon her toughest rescue mission on 18 February when she learnt through a former In line with the vision of a student-centred University, the new Engineering and colleague that a kitten was trapped in an old pipe that runs through a Technology Access Centre is a bold and an ambitious initiative aimed at building in the vicinity of the TB Davis building at Howard College. promoting technological awareness and Engineering as a career of choice for school learners. A brainchild of UNITE; this worthy project Staff responsible for maintenance management and the air conditioning deserves the full support of all our partners. services who know the layout of the building traced the exact location of the pipe in which the kitten was trapped. Professor Dasarath Chetty Pro-Vice-Chancellor: Corporate Relations “We discovered that the kitten was trapped in a disused water pipe with a drop of about 5m and which was blocked at the end.” It took The ukzndaba team the `rescue’ team three days to reach the kitten because sections of the pipe had to be disconnected.

Mrs Hart said the kitten was six weeks old, had been traumatised and had leeches on its body. It was attended to by a vet and is recovering.

Contact Mrs Hart on 082 218 5960. Dasarath Chetty Deanne Collins Fikisile Mabaso Neesha Maharaj Thembeka Nyaba Vidhya Singh - Neesha Maharaj Pro-Vice-Chancellor Publications Manager Distribution Journalist Journalist Layout & Design

2 InkInkInkomoomoomo yesikhwamayesikhwamayesikhwama n 28 February 150 tradi- Bill Folk of the University of In his opening address Vice- tional healers gathered Missouri in the USA. It is the only Chancellor Professor Malegapuru Oon the Westville campus centre in the world that focusses on Makgoba offered insight into his to seek the blessings of their Ances- African Phytotherapies (plant own life and his belief in traditional tors in the exchange of information derived medicines). healing. Born and bred in a tra- on traditional medical knowledge ditional village, Professor for research purposes. The Cow Traditional healers understand the Makgoba has for the past 55 years Exchange Ceremony, in isiZulu medicinal benefits of plants that they been visiting traditional healers for translated into “Inkomo use on a daily basis. For the first counsel. Referring to the fact that yesikhwama”. is a firm commit- time in history medical doctors and traditional healing has been denied ment of the medical scientists to scientists are collaborating with a space in the public arena for deepen their partnership with traditional healers to meet the needs centuries, he said everybody had a of the community in a holistic traditional healers. It is also a choice to exercise truths and that Sally Giles Picture: visible demonstration of UKZN’s manner. there were many sides to truth Professor Nceba Gqaleni, DST/NRF Chair of Indigenous Health Care vision of promoting African “although sometimes people are Systems Research; Makhosi Doreen Buthelezi, Provincial HIV/AIDS co- South Africa has more than 21 000 ordinator of the KZN Traditional Healers Council-THC; Baba Thandonjani Scholarship. pressurised into thinking there is Hlongwane, Chair, eThekwini THC; Makhosi Bongi Nkomo-Gwala, species of plants of which approxi- only one truth.” Secretary, eThekwini THC; Professor Quinton Johnson, Co-Director: Professor Nceba Gqaleni, Depart- mately 3 000 are used medicinally. TICIPS-University of Western Cape, and Professor Bill Folk, Co-Director: ment of Science and Technology/ About 80% of the population “There are rules, ethics and a sense TICIPS- University of Missouri. National Research Foundation consults with traditional healers of dignity that traditional healers Chair of Indigenous Health Care and uses indigenous medicine for adhere to,” he explained. He Systems Research at UKZN, to- a wide range of conditions. pointed out that traditional healers of the Western Cape said he had a for traditional healing to be re- gether with members of the Inter- have tried and tested their medi- vision some 25 years ago when he cognised so that partnerships with national Collaborating Centre on eThekwini Executive Mayor Coun- cines over generations (which the used to sit and listen to his Gogo doctors and those of the tradi- Indigenous Phytotherapies cillor Obed Mlaba said, “The Cow modern world calls ‘clinical Winnie. tional healing fraternity could be (TICIPS) hosted the Ceremony. Exchange is reminiscent of the trials’). acknowledged.” TICIPS is co-directed by Professor ceremony that is performed when “When Gogo died, so too did Quinton Johnson of the University two families are united through a Co-Director of TICIPS, Professor volumes of work on traditional - Tasnim Langry and MaryAnn of the Western Cape and Professor matrimonial bond.” Quinton Johnson of the University healing. I realised there was a need Francis Promoting agricultural growth New Access Centre INCREASING access to social best type of education, health and services and introducing effective social safety net services that A new Engineering and Technology Access Centre is on the cards methods to enhance the pro- contribute the most to increasing for UKZN. This proposed centre will be a multi-purpose facility ductivity of poor households, the productivity of smallholders in with the objective of addressing the existing skills gap in South especially in rural areas, are steps farming and other poor people in Africa by promoting technological awareness and Engineering as that African countries should take rural areas. a career of choice for school learners. to achieve a six percent annual national growth rate to reduce An example of an education It’s the brainchild of UNITE, which was established in 1988 in an poverty. initiative that could assist the poor agreement between the Anglo American Corporation of South in the rural areas, Dr Badiane Africa Ltd and the then University of Natal to establish an Alternate This is the view of Dr Ousimane suggested, was a broad based Access Programme to develop Engineering study capacity among Badiane, Africa Co-ordinator for vocational programme that will Black learners. the International Food Policy have a more immediate and Research Institute (IFPRI ) whose stronger positive impact on labour The new project, named 20/20 Vision, aims to celebrate 20 years research paper on “Optimising the Alistair Picture: Nixon productivity in rural areas. This will of successful teaching and learning while raising the R20 million Dr Ousimane Badiane, Africa Co- Impact of Social Services Expendi- ordinator for the International Food not take away any resources from needed to build the Centre. tures on Agricultural Growth and Policy Research Institute. the education sector. Poverty Reduction” encourages UNITE stands for University (of KwaZulu-Natal) Intensive Tuition synergies between health, edu- “Similarly a national health agenda for Engineers. The specific mandate is to recruit high academic cation and finance as the route to “Politicians cannot ignore the that has a strong component which potential learners from disadvantaged socio-economic and take to increase productivity. social needs of people in general. targets the seasonal diseases which educational backgrounds and to improve their chances of success And this puts governments in a affect the availability of labour by upgrading their academic and life skills. Dr Badiane presented his paper at delicate situation because they during peak agricultural seasons, the Conference on Convergence have to find money, expertise and will significantly contribute to The new Centre will provide the necessary resources by having between Social Service Provision the institutional capacity to raise productivity among the rural poor, fun, interactive Engineering workshops for junior learners; remedial and Productivity Enhancing Invest- investment to increase productivity beyond serving their health needs,” facilities to address the academic deficiencies of tertiary students; ments in Development Strategies as well as catering to people’s he said. capacity building and career guidance workshops for the teaching held in Pietermaritzburg from social needs. corps; and a platform for Engineering professionals to engage with 29-31 January. An initiative of He also encouraged partnerships the local community through presentations and workshops. IFPRI in conjunction with UKZN, “… this creates conditions under between the private and public the Conference was attended by which expertise, financial re- sectors to increase agricultural It will provide enhanced learning space and among other things, more than 50 delegates from around sources and institutional capacity growth. will allow for the expansion of the capacity of the Programme to the globe. are in short supply. Therefore accommodate an additional 152 students, making a total of 200 governments are left with no other Other delegates in attendance students (equivalent to the mainstream enrollment numbers) who Dr Badiane pointed out that Afri- choice but to ensure that public suggested the inclusion of farming will in future be able to enroll for this exceptional Programme. can countries lacked access to expenditure leads to the maximum organisations and that their input social services due to low house- possible outcomes in terms of into improving agricultural growth Only 48 students can be enrolled into the current Programme not hold productivity, deficient fiscal satisfaction of social needs and must be taken into account. Organi- only because of the limited space, but because each student is given resources, poor delivery and ob- increase in the productivity of sing farmers so that they have personal support to ensure that they are equipped with the necessary stacles to access. He suggested agriculture in order to achieve the access to information and social holistic learning skills required in industry. raising the productivity of the kind of growth that reduces services was also imperative to resources the poor have at their poverty.” increase agricultural growth and UNITE staff express pride in the fact that students who have gone disposal such as land and labour minimise poverty. through the Programme tend to excel in the mainstream. was the route to take to reduce He said governments should search poverty. for ways and means to obtain the - Neesha Maharaj - Thembeka Nyaba and Rudi Kimmie

3 UKZN achievers HistoryHistory prizesprizes CivilCivil EngineerEngineer HistoryHistory prizesprizes blazesblazes aa trailtrail he top History students for Cassimjee who was recognized as Miss Upton said she was 2007 were acknowledged at the best first year student, was “honoured” to have received the DR Cristina Trois from the School Ta prize giving ceremony at awarded the Louis Botha prize. Jan van Riebeeck prize. “I love of Civil Engineering, Surveying the McIntyre Library on the Howard Miss Helen Clark received the studying history and it feels good and Construction made history College campus on 20 February. Ken McIntyre Prize for writing to have my hard work recognised. recently when she was promoted to the best history essay in her third To study history is to take an Associate Professor and appointed Six students from the History year. interest in the world around you as the Deputy Head of School. “I Departments at the Howard Col- and become a critical thinker.” believe she is the first woman to lege and Pietermaritzburg cam- The prize giving ceremony is an achieve either of these positions in puses received awards. annual occasion aimed at en- Mr Ngonyama, a Masters student the history of the Engineering couraging excellence in History. said he was “excited” to receive the Faculty and in the Civil Engin- Miss Jennifer Upton, studying With the exception of the Jan van Philip Warhurst prize although he eering programme,” said Professor towards a Bachelor of History and Riebeeck prize, all the prizes are did not expect it. “You do your Derek Stretch, Head of the School English degree received the pre- internal awards. Recipients are work not expecting any award but of Civil Engineering, Surveying

stigious Jan van Riebeeck prize, an selected by staff who each semester just good marks. So winning such Supplied Picture: and Construction. Dr Cristina Trois. external award by the Jan van submit names of students they feel a prize inspires you to continue Riebeeck Society presented to the excel and show commitment to doing well. I use to think History The Civil Engineering programme Coastal and Hydrological Engin- best history student in each uni- their work. was boring until I started studying at UKZN has a long and dis- eering (CRECHE) and was also re- versity’s History Department. Two the subject. Knowledge in History tinguished history that dates back sponsible for developing and co- students Mr Xolani Magwaza and Handing over the prizes, lecturer, can be a radical tool to challenge to 1922. Together with the pro- ordinating the coursework Masters Mr Percy Ngonyama scooped the Dr Vukile Khumalo said: “All our injustices and demand radical gramme at the University of Cape programme in Environmental Philip Warhurst prize for their students have done well, especially change,” he added. Town, it is one of the oldest in the Engineering. Her community work commitment to history. Academic our honours students. There are country. involves environmental awareness excellence earned Michelle Floyd some who need to be awarded for and education campaigns as well the Pat Merret prize for the best their contribution and commitment Originally from Sardinia in Italy, as conducting research and pro- third year student. Mr Adam to their work.” - Neesha Maharaj Dr Trois joined the University in viding expert advice to com- 1999 fresh from completing her munities in the eThekwini Munici- PhD at the University of Cagliari. pality and surrounding areas. One Her general area of expertise lies of her recent projects focuses on in Environmental Engineering and developing innovative waste com- much of her research and work posting for rural communities in the involves wastewater treatment, St Lucia area. solid waste management, and fill emissions control and treatment, Although juggling the many re- acid mine drainage and geoengin- sponsibilities associated with eering. administration, teaching and re- search will prove quite a challenge Dr Trois’ work over the years for Dr Trois over the coming year, embodies the goals of the Uni- she is not afraid of hard work and versity and she has committed is determined to stay ahead of the herself fully to the strategic areas game. She is proud of her achieve- of research, teaching and com- ments and hopes more women will munity outreach. She was a co- follow in her footsteps. founder of the School’s Centre for Research in Environmental, - Vicky Crookes Picture: Neesha Maharaj Picture: (l-r) Prizewinners Mr Xolani Magwaza, Miss Jennifer Upton, Dr Vukile Khumalo (lecturer), Ms Michelle Floyd, Mr Percy Ngonyama and Mr Adam Cassimjee. Breakthrough book

Recognition for Maths Lecturer MR Shamim Bodhanya, Senior Lecturer at the Leadership Centre, HIS research in the field of topo- accolades, the most recent being a in Topology which he obtained at is part of a select group of inter- logy over the years has resulted in promotion to Professor. the Sofia University “St. Kliment national academics who have made a UKZN lecturer receiving many Ohridski” in Bulgaria. Professor Valentin Gutev of the important contributions to the School for Mathematical Sciences Over the years he has represented discipline of knowledge manage- was promoted at the end of 2007. UKZN at many conferences includ- ment in a new scholarly book To achieve the Professorship he ing the RIMS (Research Institute Knowledge Management and had to submit 27 research papers of Mathematics Sciences) Inter- Business Strategies: Theoretical outlining the work he carried out national Conference on Topology Frameworks and Empirical over the last seven years. in Kyoto, Japan in December. He Research, edited by Professor El- will attend the Advances in Set – Sayed Abou-Zeid, of Concordia A lecturer in Mathematics Analysis, Theoretical Topology in Sicily University, Canada, and published Professor Gutev said of his pro- (Italy). by the premier reference source for motion: “It is recognition for my information science and techno- organisations, thus setting the tone contribution to research and Profesor Gutev’s research papers logy research, Information Science of inquiry for the rest of the work. lectures at UKZN and the way I have been published in prestigious Reference. have represented the University international journals like the Mr Bodhanya is currently editing internationally.” Journal of Mathematics Society of Mr Bodhanya’s contribution in the a new scholarly work on large-scale Japan and Proceedings of the first chapter of the book critiques systems change which will be Formerly from Bulgaria, he joined London Mathematical Society. the traditional view of knowledge published this year. management and addresses its

Picture: Supplied Picture: the University of Natal in 1999. He Professor Valentin Gutev. has a Masters in Science and a PhD - Neesha Maharaj growing role in systemic change in - Kriben Pillay

4 UKZN achievers

New book honours Islamic Law Graduation THE CEO of Albaraka Bank Mr Course co-ordinator, Advocate MA Professor John Milton Shabir Chohan was the guest of Vahed outlined the origins of the honour at the graduation ceremony course and how it has grown since book in honour of campus and Professor PJ and his capacity to enjoy life to the for the Certificate in Islamic Law 2004, both in terms of student Professor John Robert Schwikkard, Head of the Depart- full,” said Advocate Alistair Dixon, course at the Graduate School of numbers, as well as block lectures ALandrey Milton, who re- ment of Criminal Justice at the SC in his address. Professor Milton Business on the Westville campus being offered to accommodate tired from UKZN’s Faculty of Law University of Cape Town. It com- was awarded all his degrees, on 9 February. Professor Managay students from all over the country. in 2001 was launched in the John prises essays written by former included his Masters and a Docto- Reddi, Deputy Dean of the Faculty He emphasised that this is not just Milton Moot Court lecture hall on colleagues, students and others rate in Law, from this Institution of Law attended the function on a course for lawyers. “In the past, the Pietermaritzburg campus on who were influenced by Professor and dedicated 36 years of his life behalf of the Dean, Professor we have had professionals, ulema 7 December. “The exemplary Milton. to teaching. While he was unable Michael Cowling. [Muslim theologians], business- scholar: Essays in honour of John to attend the launch due to illness, persons, bankers, home executives Milton” is edited by Professor “Those who know him will know the Dean of Law, Professor “UKZN is one of the leading law and students do the course.” In Shannon Hoctor from the Faculty of his huge sense of fun and Michael Cowling, said he had faculties in South Africa. The 2009 a Postgraduate Diploma in of Law on the Pietermaritzburg humour, his spontaneous laughter received the book enthusiastically. Certificate in Islamic Law course Islamic Law will be offered by the The naming of a lecture theatre fulfils two roles: one of social University, with plans afoot for after Professor Milton was upliftment and community out- Masters and PhD degrees. announced at the same function. reach [by attracting students from all walks of life], and the other of Professor Cowling described cultivating a niche area,” noted Professor Milton as one of the Professor Reddi. - Sana Ebrahim foremost legal academics in South Africa, a “famous writer”, an outstanding teacher and a very able administrator.

For more information on the book visit www.jutalaw.co.za, email [email protected] or telephone Juta customer services on +27 21 763 3600. Picture: Thembeka Nyaba Thembeka Picture: Professors Shannon Hoctor and Pamela-Jane Schwikkard at the book launch. - Thembeka Nyaba FIFFIFAA ScholarshipScholarship Picture: Supplied Picture: MS Claudia Martinez-Mullen has “What I want to know is whether – and football makes people happy. From left: Mr Shabir Chohan, CEO of Albaraka Bank; Professor Managay been awarded a Fédération Inter- the spectators of professional It involves and engages them and Reddi, Deputy Dean: Law; Ms Munirah Osman, Law Lecturer and Overall becomes a personal and emotional Top Student in the course, 2007; Ms Preesha Seetal, Law Lecturer and nationale de Football Association football in South Africa and in Student; and Advocate Mohamed Vahed, Course Co-ordinator. (International Federation of Associ- Argentina perceive that they can part of their lives. Through her ation Football, commonly known by choose what to do with their leisure research she hopes to discover how its acronym, FIFA) towards her time – why they choose to spent globalisation can affect these PhD titled “A Comparative their leisure time in football.” relationships differently through Analysis between South Africa and gender, social class differentiation, PPaulaul HarrisHarris Argentina’s football spectators.” Asked “Why South Africa and ethnicity, and age, for example. Argentina?” she responds that it is A cultural and political researcher, not just because she was born and Her research has involved looking FellowshipFellowship Ms Martinez-Mullen says that raised in Argentina, but because of at the history of the mining in- “Research has been done about the the way Argentineans treasure the dustry, where football was used as PROFESSOR Dasarath Chetty, UKZN Pro-Vice-Chancellor and production and history of football, sport – “From childhood we were a mechanism to distract mine President of the Child Welfare South Africa (CWSA) has been but minimal if any about the raised to love it.” When she arrived workers from other forms of enter- awarded the prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship from the Rotary consumption of the sport.” She in South Africa eight years ago, she tainment that made them ‘unfit’ and Club of Durban-Morningside for his sterling contribution to the hopes to determine why football is found the same culture here. ‘unproductive’ for work. Football improvement of conditions of vulnerable children in South Africa. so widely consumed and what stadiums were used for mass meet- ings. They became a meeting place historical, cultural, and societal Happiness, says Ms Martinez- The CWSA is an umbrella body that represents more than 260 Mullen, is associated with freedom where Black South Africans could situations have led to its popularity: Child Welfare Societies and developing children’s organisations devise ways of “freeing themselves in South Africa. Together with their member organisations, they from the white man’s rule.” Many form the largest non-profit organisation in the country in the field prominent political leaders spoke of child protection and child and family care development, to the masses in the stadiums. extending services to more than, 1, 5 million children and their Orlando Pirates is one of the clubs families or caregivers. that was established by the mine workers of those times. CWSA, the new name of the former South African National Council Ms Martinez-Mullen received her for Child and Family Welfare, represents the culmination of a three Masters Degree summa cum laude year restructuring process towards greater integration, unity and from UKZN and is currently uniformity between the national body and its member organisations lecturing part time in the Spanish countrywide. The new structure has already introduced greater and Sociology Departments as well efficiency in their response to the plight of the children of South as Industrial Organisational and Africa through structured co-operation, joint programming and Labor Studies (IOLS). nationally standardised policies. Picture: Supplied Ms Claudia Martinez-Mullen. - Thembeka Nyaba - Tasnim Langry

5 UKZN achievers APSTAPSTARAR graduationgraduation

n 2007, the Applied Population thanked UKZN and UNFPA for Sciences Training and Research hosting it, adding that support I (APSTAR) Programme pro- between the partners is the key to duced its largest number of gradu- APSTAR’s success. ates since it started in February 2005. “The challenge begins from here on, it’s about how you will go and APSTAR 11 is a short training apply the skills you have learnt at programme which is implemented APSTAR”, said Mr George Nsiah as part of the Population Studies of UNFPA in his address. “Some Programme in the School of De- of you are the only ones from your velopment Studies. It is initiated institutions who have had the and implemented jointly by the privilege of coming to a pro- Department of Social Develop- gramme like this, to be trained and ment, United Nations Population taught about population issues … Fund (UNFPA), and UKZN. Its the responsibility lies on you to main purpose is to promote an assist in the implementation of understanding of population issues policies within your institutions”. in relation to the broader sphere of Prospects for APSTAR’s extension development among government in 2008 and for a further three-year officials. Professor Julian May, out- project starting in 2009 look very going Head of the School of Supplied Picture: bright. Professor Julian May, Mrs Lizel Charlene Henney, Dr Marietjie Strydom, Ms Fikile Sengwayo, and Professor Development Studies, was the Donal McCracken. Director of APSTAR 11 last year. Dr Marietjie Strydom was awarded cycles. Seven graduates from this presented the certificates, noted of government departments work- a prize for being first overall in the The graduation took place on cycle have qualified to apply for the that the APSTAR students come ing with the University to achieve 2007 class. The runner up was Mrs Saturday 12 January at the Masters Population Studies Pro- from eight of South Africa’s nine positive results for our country. Lizel Charlene Henney. Ms Fikile Emakhosini Boutique Hotel & gramme at UKZN. provinces. He described the Pro- Sengwayo was rewarded for being Conference Centre. Twenty eight gramme as one of the “finest Mr Jacques van Zuydam from the the most improved student. graduates received their certi- Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, sections that we have at a post- Department of Social Development ficates, in comparison to a total of Development and Social Sciences, graduate level in Humanities,” paid tribute to all those who have 21 graduates in the past three Professor Donal McCracken, who adding that it is an excellent example participated in the programme. He - Thembeka Nyaba

Mandela Scholarship Cecil Renaud Scholarship

ECONOMICS Honours graduate at the Pietermaritzburg campus, UKZN graduate Miss Jothi Ms Divinia Sebastian has been graduating in 2006. After leaving Moodley has received the pre- awarded the Nelson Mandela UKZN, she was employed by stigious Cecil Renaud Scholarship. Scholarship, enabling her to study Mintex, a mining company. In October, she will be heading for for her Masters’ degree in Eco- Portsmouth University in England, nomics at the London School of The Nelson Mandela scholarship is where she will spend the next two Economics. awarded to students with an ex- years studying towards a PHD in cellent academic record and with Mathematics. This study oppor- Ms Sebastian completed her under- leadership potential, who can make tunity will take her closer to graduate studies in Philosophy, a positive difference to people’s realising her dream of becoming a Politics and Economics at the lives in South Africa. lecturer in Mathematics. University of Cape Town, before doing her Honours in Economics - Darma Mahadea Her excellent academic perfor- mance throughout her tertiary education – she received both her Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and Statistics and her

Bachelor of Science Honours Veeran Picture: Shaun degree in Applied Mathematics Miss Jothi Moodley. summa cum laude – made Miss skills and knowledge which will be her to make a meaningful contri- Moodley the ideal recipient for the beneficial to my career as a mathe- bution to society by imparting her scholarship. The Cecil Renaud matician,” she said. skills to students in future: “I find Scholarship is open to postgraduate solving mathematics problems students from all Faculties at the Her Masters dissertation, “Global using logic and reason stimulating. University. Embeddings of Pseudo- It’s something I am passionate Riemannian Spaces” will hopefully about and enjoy.” The prospect of studying abroad contribute to the study of higher has left Miss Moodley “excited yet dimensions which is applicable to She thanked her supervisor, Dr nervous”. the study of cosmology and high Gareth Amery and other lecturers energy physics. for their advice and guidance over “I’m hoping to be challenged by the the years. work. I look forward to working Having excelled in Mathematics Picture: Supplied Picture: Mr Nelson Mandela congratulates Ms Divinia Sebastian on receiving a with experienced researchers in the since grade one, Miss Moodley Nelson Mandela Scholarship. field of Mathematics. I hope to gain said qualifying to lecture will allow - Neesha Maharaj

6 UKZN achievers

NeverNever tootoo young!young! New Head for hen Mr Afzal Modi popular children’s music talent but you cannot participate in School of Religion graduates this year, he show, who is 12 years old and a 3rd research surveys. Afzal was one of School of Religion Wwill be one of the year university student. Whilst he the best learners I have ever had. youngest students to graduate with is sure that his family is proud of He was kind, courteous and very and Theology a degree from the University. his achievement, it was not new to diligent. I wish him all the best.” them as his elder brother and sister PROFESSOR Steve de Gruchy is Mr Modi passed his Bachelor of both matriculated at the age of 15. Senior Lecturer at the School of riding the crest of a wave after Commerce (Accountancy) degree The youngest of three siblings Accounting, Mr Nigel Hemming achieving two milestones in his in December 2007 at the age of 18 attributes his success to his parents said, “Despite his youth (or maybe career. In January he was appointed years and two months. He was born as they’ve always encouraged him because of it) he was not shy of Head of the School of Religion and in India, where he started school at to perform at his best and always asking questions and, on occasion, Theology and was promoted to full age three. When his family moved provided him with everything he challenging my statements. He was professor. to South Africa he was admitted to needed to do so. always a pleasure to teach. I’m sure Grade 3 after being interviewed by he will go far.” Married to Ms Marian Loveday, a the school. He remembers not Senior Lecturer in the School of researcher at the Medical Research being able to celebrate his 15th Economics and Finance Dr Richard A keen cricketer, Mr Modi has Council and father of three, Pro- birthday as he was writing matric Simson said, “I discovered [his always put his career first. He fessor de Gruchy acknowledges examinations. age] when I asked him to do a enjoyed playing cricket for the that his appointment coincides with

survey for me which had a consent University until last year, but had a time of important challenges for Supplied Picture: He says that it is not unusual to find form. It turned out he could not do to give it up since practice times the School. He hopes that by the Professor Steve de Gruchy. young graduates in India and cites the survey as he was not 18. The were in conflict with his tutorials. end of his tenure all these chal- the example of a contestant in a irony is that you can get a degree He hopes that now that he has lenges will be met. Agency for Christian Social completed his degree that he will Awareness (PACSA) and various be able to play video games, watch As a student, de Gruchy was eager other church bodies that work movies with friends and pursue his to learn about the relationship closely with government and public interest in photography. In addition, between the Christian faith and policy. he wants to travel to foreign lands. social, political and economic His role model is his father, who issues “which is why I love my His appointments before his tenure he describes as “calm, cool and work as Director of the Theology at UKZN include working as a collected.” and Development Programme.” Hospital Chaplain (whilst being a Conscientious Objector), being a Mr Modi’s plan for the future is to “This is an interest that goes back minister of Gleemoor Con- pass his BCom Honours to my time as a student, and it has gregational Church and a Director (Accounting), serve his articles shaped my reflections here.” of the Kuruman Moffat Mission with Deloitte and Touche and Trust. This latter appointment, qualify as a Chartered Accountant. His main areas of research are the from 1994 to 2000, was a highlight history of the church and apartheid He strongly believes that age is just of his career: a number and that you are never too in South Africa, the contribution of young or too old for anything! the church to contextual matters “I was able to make all kinds of such as the Earth crisis, public

Picture: Supplied Picture: connections to rural development Mr Afzal Modi. - Indu Moodley health and HIV and AIDS, poverty in the first five years of demo- and food security and exploring the cracy.” relation of a faith commitment to the rigours of academic social With not much spare time this RResearchesearch grantgrant science. family man, who is dedicated to keeping up with his children’s With a determination to understand THE KwaZulu-Natal Kidney The R15 000 grant will be used for related Nephropathy in KwaZulu- school activities, loves being the academic and practical inter- Foundation has awarded medical his research on kidney patients with Natal: a Pathogenetic appraisal and outdoors in mountainous terrain face between the Christian faith student Mr Duran Ramsuran the HIV and AIDS. His research is impact of Highly Active Anti- where he hikes regularly. “I think and social ethics, he was been David Hepburn Study Award. titled “The Spectrum of HIV retroviral Treatment (HAART).” my love for nature is one of the involved in numerous projects reasons I am concerned about across the globe and his experience Mr Ramsuran, who is working with ecological justice,” he says. has afforded him the opportunity to an experienced team said: “I participate in a number of book submitted my application last year Then there is music … he plays the and quite a bit of time went by projects. He serves as the Editor of guitar and as a singersongwriter, the Journal for Theology for before they contacted some of my sometimes performs at the ‘Maritz- Southern Africa, and has engaged professors to let them know I had burg Music Club and other venues. with the African Religious Health won. I was shocked and excited. He also leads his church music Assets Programme (ARHAP) for The funds will go towards buying group. the past three years as well as co- chemicals. I hope to complete the research in about two years and authoring essays with his graduate This year will see him involved in students. ARHAP has had trust that it will be successful.” research taking place in three relationships with policy makers in African countries, supervising a Professor Yackoob Kassim Seedat various African countries through range of Masters and Doctoral said Mr Ramsuran’s idea was work done for the World Health students, attending a number of original. “The research will make Organisation, the Gates Foundation international conferences, and a major contribution towards and now UNAIDS. providing leadership in the School understanding kidney disease in of Religion and Theology. Professor de Gruchy contributes to AIDS patients and whether the the work of Christian organisations treatment of AIDS can modify or It promises to be a busy year. such as the South African Council

Picture: Supplied prevent kidney disease.” Mr Duran Ramsuran with Mr Leonard Botha from the KwaZulu-Natal of Churches, the Diakonia Council Kidney Foundation. - Xoliswa Zulu of Churches, the Pietermaritzburg - Tasnim Langry

7 UKZN achievers

AttractingAttracting butterfliesbutterflies toto WOSA Scholarship YOUNG, intelligent and sporty – “In the past, men were more edu- these words describe 17-year-old cated and women were always at a youryour gardengarden Robyn Kime, recipient of a pre- disadvantage. There have also been stigious Carnegie-funded Women stereotypes that men are scientific- he Chair of the University’s South Africa’s most comprehensive in Science, Engineering and Agri- ally minded, but women are just as Environmental Committee butterfly gardening guide, this book culture (WOSA) Scholarship. She good in science and engineering,” TProfessor Julia Botha and is virtually an encyclopaedia of is studying Electrical Engineering she said. her husband, Charles, recently butterfly gardening because it this year. produced another exciting book. includes all indigenous plants Ms Kime is also one of the top Bring Butterflies Back to your which have been recorded to She said: “I heard about the scholar- canoeists in the country. She came Garden is a follow up to their much support butterfly larvae. Though ship through school and I applied. I second in this year’s Dusi acclaimed Bring Nature Back to written in non-scientific language went for the interviews and a few Marathon with partner Ms Lauren your Garden. It is designed and full of humour, it will also be weeks later I was told that I had Thompson. primarily to provide information valuable to natural scientists. been awarded the scholarship. I for gardeners who already have was very excited, but surprised as “I took up canoeing when I was in some interest in indigenous plants. The book explains how to create a a lot of people had applied. My grade 8, but it took more seriously butterfly habitat, and details what family was very proud and they when I was in grade 11. I love these beautiful little creatures like have been very supportive.” sports and I’m lucky that it comes and dislike about gardens. The naturally to me. I put a lot of time book also covers unconventional Ms Kime, who excelled both into my training, but I also put a The front cover of the book. butterfly food, of which most academically and in sport, com- lot of time into my academic gardeners will be unaware, as well Richly illustrated and with some pleted her matric last year and work,” she said. as giving an insight into the bizarre beautiful colour pictures, this book received 96% in Maths and 98% lifestyles of some of these will be invaluable to conservation in Science. - Xoliswa Zulu fascinating insects. A sobering conscious gardeners and chapter highlights the plight of lepidopterists across the country. butterflies and, as in their previous All proceeds from the book, books, the strong message including royalties, have been conveyed by the authors, albeit in donated to a Botanical Education a lighthearted way, is that humans, Trust under the auspices of the with their ever increasing footprint, Botanical Society of South Africa. are destroying the natural habitat One of the aims of this Trust is to of butterflies and other creatures. assist with the education of those A picture, from the book, of They highlight the efforts that have who wish to do research or Xylotheca kraussiana (African Dog- rose) the larval host-plant of the been made to save endangered undertake post-graduate studies beautiful butterfly the Blood-red butterflies, such as the Karkloof into our indigenous flora, but are Acraea (Acraea petraea). This plant Blue, and inspire all of us to make not in a financial position to do so. can be seen flowering around October on the Howard College a difference by planting local campus. plants. - Article and pictures: Supplied Picture: Supplied Picture: WOSA recipient and Electrical Engineering first year student Robyn Kime CorobrikCorobrik AwardAward in action. MR Sikhumbuzo Mtembu, a thesis efficiency of the overall city muter Station for Kings Park Sport student of Architecture, won the transportation network. Given the Precinct”. THE 2008 academic year marked the beginning of a new chapter Regional Finals of The Corobrik negative image of rail in South in the lives of 16 young women embarking on UKZN study Architectural Student of the Year Africa, this project explores how Mr Mtembu designed a railway programmes previously dominated by men. Award for 2007. Architects can help redefine the station that could be built near the image of rail through architecture New Durban Stadium. The railway These women are all recipients of WOSA Scholarships aimed at Mr Mtembu conducted research on in order to establish it as a major station would serve the 70 000- nurturing women scientists and engineers. how the railway system can have transportation system in the seater Sports venue during major environmental and economical country. His research is entitled: tournaments, as well as cater for The WOSA scholarships target the “cream of the crop” with entry benefits over buses and taxis, while “The Architecture of Railway passengers on the Umgeni Road criteria which demand excellent academic merit – an average of maintaining a link with them, to Stations and Transport Nodes”. His Corridor and Beachfront areas on 75 percent in matriculation scores, a Higher Grade ‘A’ in ensure that it contributes to the design is entitled: “A New Com’- a normal day scenario. Mathematics and one of the Sciences or being among the top fifth percent of the matriculation grade. He said: “It’s a dream come true for any architecture student to be The majority of this year’s recipients exemplified academic in the Corobrik Finals, and excellence by achieving matriculation averages in the mid-to-upper definitely a great feeling to have an 80 percent. Over half registered for matriculation packages opportunity to showcase one’s comprising seven subjects and several attained their schools’ ideas as an emerging architect to a coveted Dux awards. These credentials will stand them in good wider audience. In terms of my stead as they will be required to maintain an average of 70 percent chances in the National Com- throughout their undergraduate studies at UKZN in order to retain petition, it depends on the judges’ the WOSA Scholarship. criteria. My project is very practical; I wanted to explore my Fourteen of the 16 WOSA Scholarship recipients have chosen to ideas using a real life situation. follow study careers in one of the Engineering disciplines and the They decide which project is more remaining two have opted to pursue degrees in Agriculture and relevant to South Africa’s needs Science. They will join the five remaining WOSA students from today.” 2006 and 2007 whose scholarships have been renewed.

Picture: Supplied Picture: - Xoliswa Zulu - Vicky Crookes Mr Sikhumbuzo Mtembu.

8 UKZN achievers

Academic to address AbsaAbsa ScholarshipsScholarships UN Commission en UKZN students have their studies. However, he added Mr Brightwell Shezi, a second year received scholarships from that students had to maintain a student studying for a Bachelor of SENIOR Research Fellow Mr TAbsa Bank with a total minimum 60 percent aggregate Science in Applied Mathematics Imraan Valodia will present a paper value of R354 000. throughout their studies. and Statistics said he was “ecstatic” in the United States at the 52nd to receive this scholarship. He said Session of the United Nations Mr Brightwell Shezi, Mr Sabelo “Awardees will also be allocated a it would relieve the financial strain Commission of the Status of Mwisi, Mr Mxolisi Dlamini, Miss mentor to advise and guide them on his parents, who are both Women. His paper is tiled “Making Nontobeko Dlungwana, Mr Rhee until they complete their degrees. At pensioners. tax reforms work for women.” Molefe, Mr Sihle Kubheka and the end of their studies recipients are Miss Hlengiwe Mkwanazi each expected to work for Absa for the Ms Merci Rajkumar, Bursary He said the key message that will received R37 000, while Miss number of years they have received Advisor at the Student Funding be presented at the meeting is that Sharon Pillay, Mr Suvarn Maharajh this scholarship,” said Mr Flanders. Centre said they received about 30 while tax systems, and more and Mr Jashan Rajkumar received applications for the scholarships. A broadly the manner in which Second year Bachelor of R29 000 each. shortlist of 15 candidates who met governments raise their revenue, Commerce Accounting student, the academic requirements had appear to be gender-neutral, an

The selection process was based on Miss Hlengiwe Mkwanazi said she Picture: Supplied been submitted to Absa’s Bursary analysis of the structure and inci- Mr Imraan Valodia. good academic performance – was relieved to here she had been Administrators, who selected ten dence of taxes shows that there are candidates had to have achieved a awarded the Scholarship, which candidates following interviews in significant gender inequalities in minimum 70 percent aggregate in will enable her to pursue her goal November last year. tax systems. system from different country their studies and their area of study to become a chartered accountant. experiences.” had to be commercially related. “This was one of the best Mr Valodia, from the School of Mr Suvarn Maharajh, a final year sponsorships that the Student Development Studies, and co- He added: “The end result that we At a presentation function on 25 student studying towards a degree Funding Centre received since the researcher Ms Caren Grown from are interested in is one where the February, recipients were also in Politics, Philosophy and merger. Apart from being given the American University have been tax system is recognised as reflect- presented with laptop computers Economics in Social Science said: money to fund their studies, conducting an international com- ing gender biases in society. We valued at R8 000 each. “I’m excited and hoping to make students have received laptop parative project on the gender would like to see tax reforms that the most of the opportunity that computers to assist them with dimensions of taxation and tax seek to redress these inequalities” Bursary Administrator for Absa, Absa has afforded me. Economics assignments and research,” said Ms policy reforms. The project, which Mr Peter Flanders said the Absa has always intrigued me and the Rajkumar. commenced in 2006, is funded by The outputs of the project are Scholarships were offered to stu- field of commerce and finance the Ford Foundation, the Inter- expected to include an edited dents so that they could complete blends in perfectly with politics.” - Neesha Maharaj national Development Research volume containing the country case Centre (IDRC), and the United studies, information briefs for Nations Development Programme policy advocacy, country specific (UNDP). recommendations for tax policy and tax reform, a new network of The research is being conducted in researchers conducting research on Argentina, Ghana, India, Mexico, the gender dimensions of taxation Morocco, South Africa, Kenya, policy and policy advocacy at the Uganda and the United Kingdom. international level.

Mr Valodia said: “Our interim He said: “This is not just about findings show that, from a gender academic research; the information perspective, there are important will be passed on to policy makers areas where the tax system is not for debate and discussions.” equitable. There is a lot one can learn about how to reform the tax - Xoliswa Zulu Accolades for alumnus

UKZN alumnus Dr Shiven Ramkissoon received two acco- lades recently.

A Senior Registrar in the Depart- Picture: Neesha Maharaj Absa Scholarship recipients celebrate with Absa Bursary Administrators and staff of the Student Funding Centre. ment of Urology at the Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, Dr Ramkissoon’s presentation on “The Bosniak Classification of Renal BotanyBotany studentsstudents eexxcelcel Cysts” won the prize for best poster at the South African Urology THREE up-and-coming young oral paper delivered by a young ecology under the supervision of Association meeting last year. This botanists from UKZN’s School of botanist (under 30 years of age) and Professor Steve Johnson, the NRF was followed by first prize for his Picture: Supplied Picture: Biological and Conservation the prize for the Best Botanical Research Chair in Evolutionary talk on “The Clinical Uses of the Dr Shiven Ramkissoon. Sciences scooped the key prizes at MSc or Honours presentation. Biology. Botulinum Toxin (Botox) in the the 34th annual South African Postdoctoral student, Dr Timotheus Lower Urinary Tract” at the Associ- Luthuli Hospital. “It was a great Association of Botanists (SAAB) van der Niet received third prize Host and Head of the University of ation’s Registrar Forum. Both honour to represent the Department conference. The event was held in the Best Young Botanist category the Witwatersrand’s School of achievements were profiled in the and the Hospital at these Con- from 14 -17 January at the Drakens- and Mr Craig Peter claimed the Animal, Plant and Environmental South African Urology Association gresses,” he says. “It is a good ville Resort in the Drakensberg. Hannes van Staden Prize for the Sciences, Professor Kevin Newsletter. opportunity to share ideas. I am best PhD oral presentation. Balkwill, congratulated UKZN on also honored by the recognition I Honours student, Mr Peter Wragg their “brilliant performance”. Dr Ramkission graduated from the have received.” won two major awards: the Best The work of all three students Medical School in 1999 and is Young Botanist Prize for the best focused on the field of pollination - Vicky Crookes currently based at the Albert - Deanne Collins

9 NTESUNTESU celebratescelebrates 1010th Arts-in-Medicine AN innovative approach in dealing allowing something new to be born. anniversaryanniversary with illness was outlined at a pre- This something could be a new sentation at the Nelson Mandela feeling, a new thought, a new School of Medicine on 18 January. perspective, a new sensation of he National Tertiary Edu- pain relief or physical relaxation,” cation Staff Union of South Visiting lecturer from the Uni- said Professor Repar. TAfrica (NTESU) hosted a versity of New Mexico Associate conference at the Innovation Centre Professor Patricia Ann Repar She added that introducing creative at UKZN from 13-16 January to explained how introducing the arts art at sterile hospital environments mark NTESU’s 10th Anniversary. at hospitals can assist the healing such as waiting rooms and break NTESU National Secretary, Pro- process and at the same time rooms has had a positive impact on fessor Charlotte Mbali, said while rejuvenate stressed-out health care stressed out staff. During her stay NTESU did not have branches in workers. She was invited to the in South Africa, she visited com- all South African universities, there Medical School by the Director of munity based organisations in are growing branches in both the Centre for Rural Health, Pro- KwaZulu-Natal that are assisting former white universities and fessor Steve Reid. HIV positive people earn a living former disadvantaged institutions, through art. in both those involved in mergers The Arts-in-Medicine (AIM) pro- and those who are not. “This gramme was implemented at hospi- Professor Reid said it is possible diversity of experience is stimu- tals in New Mexico five years ago. to introduce such a programme at lating at a Conference such as this Vice-Chancellor, Professor Malegapuru Makgoba, Mr John Landman, Dr Cancer and psychiatric patients and South African hospitals if people where those active in labour Sue Higgins-Opitz, Professor Charlotte Mbali, Minister Naledi Pandor, Mrs people in the trauma units were with vision link up and work relations from across South Africa Sylvia Nkanyuza and Mr Vukile Mbunge. introduced to yoga, free writing, towards this goal: “ … Cancer Picture: Mangana Makhumisane got together to share information massage, energy treatment, open patients at the Oncology Wards, on their successes and challenges.” dialogue, live music, journaling, and children need stimulation and “We have a national system of with the input that we received. writing poetry and clay making. entertainment and music and arts quality assurance and promotion There was a very lively contingent In her address the Minister of Edu- can alleviate stress experienced by cation, Mrs Naledi Pandor, ex- that includes accreditation and from Botswana and a guest speaker “At the centre of AIM’s philo- people at accident and emergency pressed concern over the low num- institutional audit. The programme from Kenya who braved the current sophy is the use of creative en- departments.” He is exploring the ber of students graduating from accreditation, in particular the Kenyan insecurity to travel to Dur- counter, the meeting or joining with idea of creating a programme such Higher Education institutions. She audits, have highlighted uneven ban to tell us about the courageous another – be it a person or place, as AIM at the Medical School. quality within our Higher Edu- struggle of UASU (The Univer- said that cohort studies of 2000 and idea, image or sensation – in cation system. Our challenge into sities Academic Staff Union)”. 2001 showed that too few entry level openness, without judgment or the future is to institutionalise and Asked to describe the strengths of students graduated after five years. expectation, intending for and - Neesha Maharaj deepen the quality of management NTESU, Professor Mbali said: While the reasons for the low and governance systems in all our “We believe in winning by good graduation rates were numerous institutions.” She also urged unions arguments and being well in- and complex, “the fact remains that and other stakeholders to partici- formed so as to participate well in access without fair chance of pate in the development of insti- any debates whether it be insti- success is no access at all.” tutions. tutionally or nationally.”

Mrs Pandor said while Higher Said Professor Mbali: “We were See www.ntesu.org.za for further Education had struggled over the able to exchange information very information on this conference. past ten years, many successful successfully and many good papers gains had been made. were presented and we are pleased - Xoliswa Zulu AtAt thethe helmhelm ofof thethe Picture: Mangana Makhumisane Picture: SchoolSchool ofof NursingNursing Professor Patricia Ann Repar and Professor Steve Reid at the presentation.

WHEN Associate Professor The immediate challenge was staff projects, plans are on track to entered the profession I grew to children to pursue education and Busisiwe Bhengu considered ap- shortages due to secondment and strengthen local collaborative love it. I loved the interaction with colleague Professor Leana Uys; plying for the position of Head of resignations. Temporary replace- projects. These include a pro- people and taking care of patients.” Head of the College of Health the School of Nursing at UKZN she ments have now been found. A gramme to advance midwifery in Sciences who exposed her to many knew it would come with certain month into the job, and she has the rural areas, the accrediting of A patriotic person herself, she said career opportunities, with her challenges. But as she isn’t one to executed plans she believes will nursing courses offered by smaller it is “heartbreaking” to see the success. shy away from challenges she improve the School. colleges like the Amatikulu Skills exodus of nurses from South Africa proceeded with her application and Development School in Zululand to international shores: “Our com- Career highlights included co- was successfully appointed as Professor Bhengu is a passionate and the Young Ambassador Project munities in the hospital wards ordinating the Masters in Critical Head in January. believer in staff development. “We where the School of Nursing will suffer as a result (of the exodus). It Care Nursing at the Institute of require a lot of capacity building assist in training unemployed also negatively affects the training Nursing in the United Arab in the areas of teaching and matriculants so that they can assist of new nurses. Skilled nurses who Emirates in 2002, her involvement research. My first task was to their communities. leave are needed to mentor newly in the Primary Health Care Project secure support for this. As fate qualified nurses. for Rural Women Empowerment would have it we have been invited Having worked at the School of (1999-2003) and developing a by the South African Institute for Nursing as a lecturer in Critical Care “I also take cognisance of the fact curriculum for Nurse-Anaesthesia Advancement in collaboration with Nursing for almost 10 years, Pro- that exposure to the nursing pro- at the Kigali Health Institute in the Atlantic Philantropies to submit fessor Bhengu said she chose nur- fession in other countries is Rwanda in 2006 a proposal for funding for capacity sing as a career out of necessity but important. Institutions should building for scholarly work carried grew to enjoy and love it over the support exchange programmes When she isn’t working, Professor out at the school.” years. She started nursing at the Went- where nurses go abroad for a few Bhengu loves to cook, read journal worth Hospital in Durban in 1978. months and return to South Africa article and dabble in pottery Professor Bhengu who obtained a with additional skills, instead of making. PhD from the former University of “Coming from a large family with having nurses leave their jobs.” Natal in 2003 said while the School four younger siblings to support I had collaborated with institutions needed to choose a career that She credits her father Mr Anthony

Picture: Neesha Maharaj Picture: abroad on mutually beneficial would bring in an income. Once I Mdlalose who encouraged his - Neesha Maharaj Professor Busisiwe Bhengu. 10 VVulindlelaulindlela empowersempowers communitycommunity

he Centre for the AIDS to participate in the trials, said she Programme of Research in was proud to be part of the trials. TSouth Africa (CAPRISA) hosted the Deputy Minister of She said: “I was one of the first Science and Technology, Mr Derek participants to take part in the Hanekom at the CAPRISA microbicides testing. I’m using the Vulindlela Clinical Research Unit gel and I have had no problems on 28 January. with it. I’m fortunate to be a part of this research. The trials are The aim of the visit was for Mr important to prevent diseases like Hanekom to witness the tremen- HIV. I will be extremely happy if dous success of the Tenofovir Gel this gel works because many lives Microbicide trial which is a part- will be saved, especially for those nership between the Department of women who cannot get their part- Science and Technology through ners to use condoms.” LifeLab; CAPRISA and the US government through USAID; Ms Zandile Zuma who has been a Family Health International and participant in the trials since 2005 CONRAD. said since then she has realised the importance of taking regular HIV The department of Science and tests. She said although the com- Picture: Supplied Technology has contributed more Deputy Minister of Science and Technology, Mr Derek Hanekom (second from left), Dr Carl Montague (third from munity has discriminated against than R8,5 million towards the left) Professors Quarraisha Abdool Karim (seated on the right) and Salim Abdool Karim (third from right) with her for taking part in the trials, she project over a three year period. some of the participants at the Caprisa Vulindlela Clinical Research Site. is proud to be part of the ground- breaking research. Microbicides are substances that impact of the decisions that they HIV and if the trials produce the Professor Quarraisha Abdool Karim are designed to reduce or prevent make and it was important for me results that we are hoping for, then said the visit by the Deputy Minister “I don’t care what people say when the sexual transmission of HIV or to understand the real potential of we would have made an enormous was significant in that it showed the they see me coming to CAPRISA,” other sexually transmitted infec- microbicides.” contribution to fighting the importance of such trials. said Ms Zuma. “Coming here is one tions when applied either in the disease.” way of ensuring that I am aware of vagina or rectum. In South Africa, He added that while microbicides “The research we are conducting my status. I have not encountered they are being tested for the pre- may bring a major breakthrough in He added: “The work being done is part of a community response to any problems with the gel since I vention of male-to-female trans- the fight against HIV and AIDS, it here and its success depends on HIV and AIDS. The department started using it. I am also able to mission when applied vaginally. was a matter that needed to be ongoing support from the commu- investing in microbicides marks a educate other women about con- approached cautiously. nity and its leadership. This project first in government and we are doms and how practicing safe sex Mr Hanekom said: “The aim of the can act as a catalyst to get other proud that they are playing a role,” can save our lives.” visit was for me to be in contact “We are responsible for research in important projects off the ground she said. with the trial sites and to give South Africa and we need to focus and if the community wants to be encouragement. It’s important for our attention and energy on critical successful in all their endeavours, Participant Ms Duduzile Ndlovu, policy makers to understand the areas, including the fight against they will need to be active.” who was the first from Vulindlela - Xoliswa Zulu TTeachingeaching andand LearningLearning Research and Service-Learning

TWENTY five Biological for sustainable development of Inchanga area; Impact of Sport Sciences for Educators student people with their environments on the Lifestyle of the youth in teachers in the Faculty of Edu- and the development of social Inchanga and the Challenges cation and the School of responsibility and personal faced by child-headed families. Science, Mathematics and growth (inter- and intrapersonal Technology Education com- learning) of the student teachers. The outcomes and the students’ pleted a research and Service- experiences of this module far Learning module in the second The student teachers were outweigh the challenges and semester of 2007. The purpose placed into three groups on the frustrations that I as a co- of the module was for the basis of their motivation for the ordinator and they as students student teachers to develop placement site where they experienced. Some reflective appropriate knowledge, skills, wanted to complete their ser- statements that students wrote in values and attitudes about vice. The three placement sites their reflective journals: “I have research in Biological Science, were the Sciencentre; Com- developed a positive attitude. Biological Science Education munity Outreach Center, St Previously I used to think that and Service Learning. The stu- Mary’s (Tshelimnyama Drop-In research is only done by certain dent teachers were expected to centre); 1000 Hills Community people – but I have done it.” (M. fulfil specific learning outcomes Helpers Clinic. Mbudu); “It amazes me that I which included: Apply acquired have learnt so much from a Biological Sciences for Educators 420 students and lecturer Mrs Angela knowledge and skills to con- A total of 17 research projects James. small community in such a short duct research in the placement were completed as students time.” (D. Naicker); “This site; Prepare a mini thesis either worked individually or in module helped me realise that I (report) and present the report groups of two. The students active exhibits and the science and schooling; An investigation have potentials and capabilities at a student research day presented their research pre- show at the Sciencentre; A of stress and depression ex- within me that I could not even seminar; Demonstrate an aware- sentations on 15 and 16 No- student teacher’s experience of perienced among families in the dream possible and that for me ness of research and service- vember. Examples of the re- designing an interactive Science Inchanga area; An investigation is success enough.” (D Ramiah). learning as parts of a dynamic search presentations are: exhibit for the Sciencentre; of the factors influencing the field which has great application Learners’ experiences of inter- Experiences of teenage mothers nutrition of babies in the - Angela James

11 EnvironmentalEnvironmental LawLaw International AwardAward research project r Herman Oosthuizen thrilled to announce him as the unintentionally, on our environ- IN 2008, fieldwork at a school in has fire in his belly recipient of this prestigious award ment which is increasingly becom- KwaZulu-Natal saw the start-up of M when it comes to pro- for 2007.” ing more fragile. “I understood then a three-year research project on tecting the environment. A true son that the environment needs an ally, gender equality policies and of Mother Nature, he says he is Mr Oosthuizen’s project analysed and that is what I resolved to be. I practices in the education sector in “hell bent” on opposing people, the legal implications of intro- am fully aware that one person Kenya and South Africa. This companies and institutions who ducing potentially harmful aquatic seldom makes a difference, but it research will be conducted by Dr will not preserve our natural micro-organisms into the Durban is in a collective capacity we can Jenni Karlsson, a senior lecturer in heritage. harbour from international ships do so, and that is where I hope I the Faculty of Education’s School which empty their ballast water into will be able to make a contribution. of Education and Development. Dr This passion for the earth was a the bay. Karlsson is the UKZN member of major factor in Mr Oosthuizen, a “Taking the course in environ- the international research team that final-year LLB student at UKZN, He said that his upbringing mental law has provided me with won a research grant from the winning the Garlicke & Bousfield nurtured a deep respect and under- an avenue to apply my knowledge United Kingdom’s Economic and award for Environmental Law with standing for nature. and my expertise in a useful way, Social Research Council (ESRC).

an overall year mark of 76%. and hopefully in the process I will The grant is to research global Supplied Picture: “My environmental awareness was be able to find a balance between poverty reduction initiatives Dr Jenni Karlsson. Mr Richard Pemberton, Chair of heightened in 1993 when I was part the conflicting needs of humans focussed on gender equality as Garlicke & Bousfield Inc, said the of the first South African expe- and the environment. I know it is a expressed in the Millennium nect and disconnect, and explore award was made each year to the dition to trek in the Himalayas. It tall mountain to climb, but hey, I Development Goals (MDGs) and the relationships that bring about student who received the top mark was there I became acutely aware haven’t hung up my boots yet!” other global declarations. The change in gender equality policies for Environmental Law. “Herman’s of the negative impact we as study will concentrate on the and practices in education. The passion shone through and we are humans have, intentionally and - Shirley Williams education sectors in South Africa team will also work with organi- and Kenya and the sub-grant to sations at national, provincial and UKZN for work in KwaZulu-Natal local level to examine how and why is £69 897. certain conditions, interpretations and actions regarding gender and The international research team is education impact on poverty reduc- led by Dr Elaine Unterhalter, a tion and how to enhance policy, Reader in Education and Inter- advocacy, debate, and imple- national Development at the Insti- mentation in this area. tute of Education in the United Kingdom and author of Gender, In KwaZulu-Natal Dr Karlsson will Schooling and Global Social examine how global aspirations to Justice. Other members of the advance gender equality in and project team include researchers through schooling in contexts of from the Institute of Education, poverty, are receiving attention in Wits University and the Catholic policy and practice at three organi- University of East Africa. sational sites: the provincial De- partment of Education, a non- The research team will examine governmental organisation en- ways in which global, national, gaged in children’s rights work, and regional and local ideas and actions a public school. Picture: Roy Reed Picture: With Mr Herman Oosthuizen (third from left) are (l-r) Professor Managay Reddi, Deputy Dean of Law; Mr Ed regarding gender equality in edu- Couzens, Senior Law Lecturer; Richard Pemberton, Chair of Garlicke & Bousfield, and Ms Kuphakwenkosi cation and poverty reduction con- - Jenni Karlsson Gumede, Environmental Law Lecturer. PParents’arents’ DayDay APPROXIMATELY 2 000 parents Zacharias, Deputy Vice-Chancellor On the Westville campus Pro-Vice- of first-year students visited and Head of the College of Agri- Chancellor (Corporate Relations), UKZN’s five campuses on Parents’ culture, Engineering and Science Professor Dasarath Chetty, outlined FirstFirst ofof itsits Day, 2 February. Parents travelled said, “The greatest challenge is not the issues relating to the merger and from all corners of KwaZulu-Natal operational or logistical, but the responded to concerns and ques- to attend the event, while others excitement of building a Truly tions raised by parents. Safety and kindkind made the trip from other pro- African University. Your children security on campus, student fund- vinces. will benefit from the academic ing and student counselling ser- offerings and will not only be South vices were among issues high- IN line with the vision of University to become “The Premier Addressing parents on the Pieter- African graduates but global lighted. University of African Scholarship”, the School of Philosophy maritzburg campus, Professor Pete leaders.” and Ethics in the College of Humanities is offering, with Professor Chetty assured parents effect from the first semester of 2008, a module called that various security measures had “African Ethics and the Post-Colonial Condition” (ETHS been put in place, including 24- 303). The module deals specifically with African ethics from hour campus security patrols, additional patrols by the SAPS and a theoretical and applied perspective and will be the first of CCTV monitoring to create a “safe its kind in the whole country. This module was developed by and secure environment” for stu- Dr Munyaradzi Felix Murove of the School of Philosophy dents. and Ethics after the realisation that a distinct study of African values must be made integral to our curriculum. The module Parents of the more than 220 first- will be offered to third year students. year medical students accepted for 2008 attended a welcome cere- For further details contact Dr Murove: mony at the Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine in January. E-mail: [email protected] Picture: Francis MaryAnn Parents of first-year medical students at the welcoming ceremony. - Corporate Relations staff 12 MedicalMedical SchoolSchool UKZN welcomes Bioethics Professor openingopening ceremonyceremony THE College of Health Sciences recently welcomed Professor ore than two hundred to study.” A Velangaye High School study medicine. She hopes to Sylvester Chima as Head of the first year students at the matriculant she said she completed become a paediatrician. Programme of BioResearch Ethics MNelson R Mandela her schooling under challenging and Medical Law. His office will School of Medicine (NRMSM) circumstances without a proper For Mr Cheval Murugas of Phoenix primarily serve students and staff were “officially accepted” after laboratory and equipment. who has always wanted to help sick of the College but he hopes to they took the Hippocratic Oath at people, admission to medical extend his advisory services to the an opening ceremony on 22 “Taking the oath today showed me school is the accomplishment of a broader University population. January. that my life is about to change. It major goal in life. has introduced me to a new life and The Programme will produce For the students, reciting the I have to prepare myself for the Deputy Dean of Students Dr intellectual material, educate Hippocratic Oath symbolised the challenges ahead.” Bhekithemba Ngcobo stressed the students by running various beginning of a “new chapter” in need for positive interaction among courses, provide a resource for their lives, with five years of hard Miss Abigail Tennassie of Pieter- students and academics. academic researchers, and advise maritzburg said becoming a doctor on ethical conundrums encountered work and dedication ahead of them. MaryAnnPicture: Francis was her “purpose in life.” “We want to produce well balanced, by researchers. Professor Sylvester Chima. Dean of the Medical School Pro- well grounded students who partici- fessor Willem Sturm warned the “Taking the oath made me realise pate in sports and social activities Born in Nigeria, Professor Chima Disclosure of information to re- students that “Studying medicine is the seriousness of studying. It is a in addition to their academic work.” spent more than 20 years of his search participants is a legal hard work – you have to have a sacrifice and joy at the same time. academic career in the United requirement under United States significant amount of intelligence. Knowing that I will be helping He encouraged students to make States, the United Kingdom, the federal regulations, but the It is time consuming and entails a people at the end of my studies use of the various counselling Caribbean and more recently in St National Bioethics Advisory Com- lot of studying.” He added that “it’s fives year from now evokes a sense services at their disposal. Lucia promoting ethical scientific mittee found that disclosures also rewarding and fun.” of joy,” she said. research. He trained as a medical relating to diagnosis, risk, research doctor in his home country and design, and benefits after the trial Miss Ayanda Sibiya of Nkandla is Miss Shivanthna Ramdass’s father qualified as a pathologist at were not always clearly presented “grateful” to have secured a place is a doctor and this inspired her to - Neesha Maharaj Howard University in the USA. in developing countries. Professor Chima suggests that countries in Professor Chima’s research inter- Africa need to introduce a frame- ests include the international work for research governance, regulation of research in response based on international guidelines to major violations of international and local cultural, medical, and ethical codes. He hopes to contri- legal realities. These could provide bute to better regulation of research guidance on forming local research carried out in Africa and other ethics committees, informed con- developing nations. “Although sent procedures, standards of care most developing countries adhere in biomedical research, and aspects to international ethical codes, some of distributive justice, such as post- foreign researchers have taken trial benefits or compensation for advantage of the lack of local injuries arising from research. legislation and have ignored rudi- mentary local statutes,” he says. He Contact Professor Chima on argues that local and regional 031 – 260 4604, 071 2466 168 or regulatory frameworks and legis- Email: [email protected]/chimasc Picture: Mangana Makhumisane Picture: lation are needed to protect re- @hotmail.com Students reciting the Hippocratic Oath. search participants in Africa and feels that the African Union should consider legislation and directives on biomedical research in Africa. - MaryAnn Francis NSFAS/NEDBANK BURSARIES

Nedbank has made funds available to UKZN for the 2008 academic year.

Nedbank has requested that funds be granted to students who: Psychological

O Are citizens of South Africa Society President O Are studying in the following areas:

S BCom or BBusScience majoring in PROFESSOR Basil Joseph Pillay has been elected President of the Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA), the X Accounting or Banking professional body representing psychologists in South Africa. X Economics Professor Pillay is the Acting Head of the Department of X Finance/Financial Management Behavioural Medicine at the Medical School.

X Statistics PsySSA was formed in January 1994 out of various bodies then X Investment Management existing and representing Psychology in South Africa. The Society X Actuarial Science has dedicated its work to the reconstruction and development of

X Information Systems and/or majoring in post-apartheid South African society. It is also involved in on-going negotiations with government and other legislative bodies to S BSc Computer Sciences or Information Systems contribute to issues affecting South Africa’s rapidly changing environment. O The Nedbank bursary is performance-based and as such students with the potential to succeed must be identified. Professor Pillay has served on the PsySSA Executive and Council for several years and also served on the previous Professional Board Application forms may be obtained at the Financial Aid Office. for Psychology of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

13 AccountingAccounting Molecules DistanceDistance LearningLearning Captivate New he Accounting Distance that is responsive to both the per year. Lecturers travel to teach Learning Programme on demands of the job market and the and engage with students at various Professor the Westville campus has accounting profession.” The low centres. Tests are carried out in T UKZN Associate Professor Orde Munro was recently promoted to almost 1 000 students registered for number of Black CAs is another Johannesburg, Cape Town, Port full Professor, an honour he is still coming to terms with. “I am the 2008 academic year. This is a worrying factor. The Intermediate Elizabeth, East London, Windhoek, honoured by the recognition my research contributions at UKZN decrease from last year’s intake of Programme offered by Accounting Pretoria, Polokwane, Bloem- have brought me. The process is fair and transparent and promotion 1 500, as the entry requirements Distance Learning helps those who fontein, Nelspruit and Mbabane. is contingent on academic achievement and high scholarly have become more stringent. are not yet ready to handle the This is also a challenging oper- standards.” Advanced Programme (Honours). ation. Students from all nine provinces Professor Munro has been with the University since August 1997 have registered for this Programme The Advanced Programme is The distance learning team under- when he joined as a lecturer in Inorganic Chemistry. and there is also a sizeable number aimed at students who aspire to be stands the need for efficiency and of students from Namibia and Chartered Accountants. This is a is up to the challenge. At peak times “I have been captivated by the beauty and functionality of Swaziland. “The Programme is very challenging programme with the Centre has about seven em- molecules. Chemistry is also the central science and directly at the sought after because of the extra high entrance requirements. The ployees, who work very hard to forefront of a wide range of modern and innovative technology.” support we provide,” says Opera- students are registered for four ensure that these students receive tions Manager Mr Len Mzimela. modules that they have to pass in the support they need to pass. “We Professor Munro’s research focuses on the structures and the “We have hundreds of students on one examination sitting. The pro- act as facilitators between the physical properties of novel inorganic and organic compounds. the Programme who are sponsored gramme attracts mainly students academic teams and the students, by major accounting firms and the who choose not to study full-time. creating systems that allow for the “More recent work funded by AuTEK BIOMED involves the Auditor General’s office.” Another challenge is the need to smooth delivery of services to our development of novel compounds as potential drugs for the balance work, family life and study. students, setting up necessary treatment of cancer,” he said. “There is a shortage of Chartered structures so that the programme Accountants (CAs) in South Africa The Distance Learning Programmes achieves UKZN’s and SAICA’s set “Our experience with porphyrins and other pyrrole-based and that is why we are working hard differ from part-time offerings at goals.” compounds has meant that we have applied this fundamental work to ensure that we play our role as other institutions in that UKZN to the development of libraries of new DNA intercalators capable UKZN in providing a Programme offers students four lecture rounds - Thembeka Nyaba of targeting tumours with specific receptors. In effect, my work has moved into the area of targeted drug delivery systems using metal-inorganic compounds with intrinsically high cytotoxicity due to the careful combination of metal ion(s) with nominally planar ligand systems.”

Professor Munro’s work has been published in over 50 primary research articles in a variety of international journals, including several articles in the most prestigious chemistry journal in the world, – The Journal of the American Chemical Society.

- Xoliswa Zulu

UKZN Strengthens links with Sweden

THE GGKM Research Group at the Schools of Chemistry, Bio- chemistry and Pharmacy holds two South Africa-Sweden bilateral grants funded by the National

Picture: Thembeka Nyaba Thembeka Picture: Research Foundation (NRF). The Accounting Distance Learning Team. One of the Swedish collaborators, Professor P G Andersson, visited New book from UKZN Press UKZN from 12-18 February as part of the agreement to share research DR Xolela Mangcu’s book, To the Dr Mangcu, chairperson of the Postcolonial Sphere: South African knowledge and was hosted by the Brink: The State of Democracy in Platform for Public Deliberation at Democracy at the Crossroads,” Schools of Pharmacy and Article Supplied and Picture: South Africa, was launched at the Wits University and a celebrated held at Wits University last month. Professor P G Andersson. Chemistry. Harold Wolpe Lecture on the newspaper columnist/feature writer, Since then it has received Howard College campus. was motivated to write To the Brink widespread media interest with Professor Andersson is one of deliver a two-week course on “Co- by his urgent sense that South launch events in Cape Town, East Sweden’s most promising scientists ordination chemistry and Africa’s black political and intel- London and Grahamstown atten- with around 120 publications in the asymmetric catalysis” and recruit lectual tradition was being deeply ded by capacity crowds. highest ranked chemistry journals. graduates for his research group. violated. He studied under Nobel Prize To the Brink: The State of Demo- winning scientists and has himself He summed up his impressions of In the book, no relevant issues cracy in South Africa is available escape his analysis, from policy at Adams Campus Bookshop, and been the recipient of many inter- Durban with these words: “You all national accolades. live in paradise.” controversies surrounding HIV and other reputable bookstores at a cost AIDS through to Zimbabwe, cor- of R160. For more information on He was pleasantly surprised at the For further information visit: ruption, the labelling of black this title and others published by high quality of research students at critics as “foot lickers” of the white UKZN Press, visit www.ukznpress. UKZN and has committed to host- (http://www.ukzn.ac.za/ggkm/ person, and President Thabo co.za or call the Press on (033) 260- ing and teaching three students ggkm.htm) & Mbeki’s leadership style. 5226 every year for six months in his laboratories in Sweden. He has (http://www.biorg.uu.se/Forskning/ The book was first launched at a promised to return next year to pga/index.shtm) conference, “Paradoxes of the - Adele Branch 14 AA passionpassion forfor desertsdeserts StudyStudy onon ewly-appointed Professor Town, has collaborated with uni- Between September and December AIDSAIDS StigmaStigma in the Faculty of Science versities and foundations in dif- 1997, Professor Lovegrove under- and Agriculture, Pro- ferent parts of the world, including took a sabbatical research pro- N HEALTHCARE workers and HIV fessor Barry Lovegrove, has a the United States, Germany, gramme in the laboratory of Pro- fascination for deserts, especially Australia, Namibia and Mada- fessor Fritz Geiser of the Uni- positive people need to join forces the Namib and Kalahari deserts. gascar. versity of New England in to identify and find solutions to Australia. The study evaluated the minimise the stigma of AIDS which Professor Lovegrove has been a His area of focus is Evolutionary proximate heterothermic responses in turn would encourage those with lecturer for the past 16 years during Physiology. He lectures in Animal of marsupials during summer the virus to seek the treatment they which time he has collaborated Evolutionary Physiology, the Com- torpor (animals hibernating in require. This emerged from a five- with some of the best minds in parative Method, Desert Biology summer instead of winter), a year study undertaken by Professor science and explored and grown his and Desertification. “I became an response to climatic unpredict- Leana Uys, Deputy Vice- passion. evolutionary physiologist because ability. The three-month study was Chancellor and Head of the Col- of my fascination for deserts, published in 1999. lege of Health Sciences, together Professor Lovegrove, who studied especially the Namib and Kalahari with academics from four other Zoology at the University of Cape Deserts.” Over the past five years he has African universities.

acted as reviewer for a variety of Picture: Anand Govender journals including the Journals of The goal of the study was to Professor Leana Uys. Comparative Physiology B, Animal examine the stigma experienced by Behaviour, the Journal of Zoology, people living with AIDS and the them. This project was funded by African Zoology, and the Aus- negative impact this had on their the National Institute of Health tralian Journal of Zoology and lives. In addition to Professor Uys, (NIH) Fogarty International Evolution. “I’m fascinated by the research team working on Centre. physiological diversity, particularly Perceived AIDS Stigma: A Multi- At a press conference on 21 Feb- in mammals and birds,” he said. national African Study included Professor William L Holzemer, ruary the team of researchers He added: “I enjoy writing papers University of San Francisco; Dr revealed their findings. Research which change the way researchers Priscilla Dlamini of the University showed that communities in all five think about patterns of physio- of Swaziland; Dr Minrie Greeff countries had certain terms they logical diversity. My greatest pride from North West University; Ms used to describe people living with and joy has been supervising PhD Thecla Kohi of the Muhimibili HIV. These included “he has eaten students who go on to do great University of Health and Allied plastic” and “you have been eaten things in science.” Sciences in Tanzania; Dr Maureen by a ladybird”. Researchers believe that such human rights violations

Picture: Supplied Chirwa of the University of Malawi Professor Barry Lovegrove. - Xoliswa Zulu and Dr Lucy Makoae of the discourage HIV positive people National University of Lesotho. from revealing their status and seeking the treatment they require. The study saw each of the five The study found that stigma was African academics embark on a greater in the rural areas, and project in their respective countries women experienced more stigma ProfessorProfessor toto serveserve onon to identify how AIDS stigma affects than men. people living with the virus as well EnvironmentalEnvironmental LawLaw as the lives of nurses who care for - Neesha Maharaj AcademyAcademy Schools presentation FIVE Durban high schools atten- overview of UKZN’s programmes PROFESSOR Michael Kidd, Deputy Dean of Law, has recently been elected as the representative for ded UKZN’s Information Evening and explained the new admission Africa on the Governing Council of the IUCN Academy of Environmental Law. His term of office will at Glenwood High School. The requirements. end at the beginning of 2010. event, co-ordinated by the Schools Liaison Unit at Corporate Relations Breakaway sessions provided the The IUCN Academy of Environmental Law is dedicated to advancing knowledge of environmental targeted schools in the Glenwood opportunity of direct interaction law through an international network of universities teaching and researching in this area. The Academy and surrounding areas. with academic staff from the engages participating universities, governmental institutions and international environmental various Faculties. Presentations organisations in innovative, multi-disciplinary research into how law can best address environmental Schools that participated were: were made by Professor Willem problems around the world. Glenwood High School, Durban Sturm, Dean of the Nelson R High School, Durban Girls’ High Mandela School of Medicine, Dr Professor Kidd was selected through an election process that involved institutional members. He was School, St Henry’s Marist Brothers Robin Joubert of the College of nominated by other South African members and was running against two other African candidates. and Eden College. Mrs Sarda Pillay Health Sciences and Professor Steve There are about 40 institutional members including UKZN’S Institute of Environmental Law. from the Schools Liaison Unit Pete, from the Faculty of Law. addressed the prospective students “The role of the Council would be to set the goals of the Academy and see through the implementation and their parents and provided an - Ashay Nathoo of these goals. These would include things such as collaborative research amongst members, teaching and capacity-building initiatives, oversight of the annual Academy Colloquia (the sixth of which will be held this November in Mexico), and publications,” explained Professor Kidd.

The Governing Council is made up of nine elected members and some ex-officio members. The elected members each represent one region (Africa, Meso-America, North America and Caribbean, South America, South and East Asia, West Asia, Oceania, Eastern Europe and West Europe).

The Academy is involved in organising several conferences on topical issues (such as climate change initiatives in developing countries).

Professor Kidd delivered an inaugural lecture on Removing the Green-Tinted Spectacles: The Three Pillars of Sustainable Development in South African Environmental Law on 12 March.

- Hazel Langa Picture: Vicky Crookes Picture: Vicky The new School’s Liaison display stands.

15 Sport Corner SurfSurf skiski champchamp TimeTime ofof thethe er ability to ‘read’ the March. Winning will enable her to encouraged training in junior WWriterriter ocean and ‘catch’ the enter the World Surf Ski lifesaving. Hright waves and runs have Competition in Dubai later this THE Time of the Writer inter- writers, and an opportunity for the secured many surf ski victories for year. Her confidence and determination national festival of writers cele- public to gain insight into the Bachelor of Education student to win ensured she claimed many brates its 11th edition with a six-day creative processes and perspectives Miss Tiffany Kruger. It is currently A recipient of a four year Entrant sporting wins the most recent being programme of readings, presen- which inform their writing. keeping her in the lead of the Kia Sports Scholarship offered by the Marine Surf Ski series (2007), tations, discussions and book Marine Surf Series which started UKZN, Miss Kruger’s sporting the Scottburgh to Brighton surf ski launches nightly at the Elizabeth Time of the Writer 2008 is sup- in January. prowess does not end here. She is competition and the Winkle Toti Sneddon Theatre on the Howard ported by the Department of Arts also an avid canoeist who is part Winkle. In canoeing she was College campus. and Culture, Humanist Institute for The third year student majoring in of the UKZN Canoeing Team and victorious in the Ngwenya Classic Development Cooperation Sports Science Education at the a lifesaver who has entered and K2 championships, the South As part of the festival’s ongoing (HIVOS), Stichting Doen, French Edgewood Campus’s School of won a number of competitions. African Marathon Champs in the effort to promote and nurture a Institute of South Africa, the Royal Social Science hopes to bag yet under 21 K2 category and the Natal culture of reading, writing and Netherlands Embassy, City of another win in the Senior Women’s Her interest in water sports began K1 Flat Water Championships, to creative expression, the presence of Durban, Adams Campus Books, Category when the series ends in at the age of nine when her mother name a few. In addition to all these writers is spread across Durban and Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre and the local wins, Miss Kruger was surrounding areas in wide-reaching University of KwaZulu-Natal. selected to participate in several day activities that include youth international competitions over the workshops, a prison writing work- Ticket prices are R25 for the years including the World Marathon shop, a writers parliament, a evening sessions, R10 for students Canoe Championships in Australia publishing forum, and other semi- on presentation of a student card. (2004), the All Africa Games in nars and workshops. Workshops, seminars and book Algeria (2007) for a 200m canoeing launches are free of charge. Book demonstration event and partici- With a line-up of 18 new and estab- through Computicket Tel: 083 915 pated in a lifesaving competition in lished writers, predominantly from 8000 or 011 340 8000 or at the Australia in 2007. South Africa and elsewhere on the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from African continent, the festival 18h30. For more information Sports Science was the ideal career provides a stimulating platform for contact the Centre for Creative choice for Miss Kruger who said it dialogue and exchange between Arts, UKZN. would allow her to give back to the community and at the same time participate in the sports she loves best. Picture: Supplied Picture: Miss Tiffany Kruger in action. - Neesha Maharaj KarateKarate kingking

BACHELOR of Education student setting up a dojo at his campus in the national championships in the Mr Busani Luthuli is majoring in June last year, offering karate under 60kg category in 2006. Sports Science Education at the lessons to students. Edgewood College campus. “Karate teaches you discipline, to Having won many local and Mr Luthuli who has achieved a work hard and be focused. This is national karate competitions over black belt first Dan in the what I like about it,” he says. the years, he was instrumental in Kyokushin Kai style of karate, won While a shoulder injury in 2006 curtailed Mr Luthuli’s participation in karate tournaments, it has not stopped him from encouraging other students to engage in the sport. His efforts at Edgewood have inspired 50 students to enroll for karate classes as a means to de- stress.

Mr Luthuli hopes to have a positive impact on the lives of children through teaching them sport. He has developed a keen interest in volleyball and swimming and after honing his skills in these sporting codes he intends to take it back to the townships.

In addition to his sporting activities Recycle your ukzndaba Mr Luthuli is the Student Services Please don’t litter ... when you’ve finished with your Officer for the SRC on the Edge- ukzndaba, why not pass it on to someone else, or wood campus. place it in a bin for recycling with other paper-waste. Picture: Supplied Picture: Mr Busani Luthuli. - Neesha Maharaj

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