The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) celebrated the resilience, diversity, and academic triumphs of 1 665 graduates during its Spring Graduation Ceremonies at the Westville campus on 15 and 16 September 2026.
Of the 1 665 certificates awarded (922 undergraduates and 743 postgraduates), women made up 63% of the graduating class.
Among those capped were 82-year-old Dr Dolly Nontuthuzelo Nyasulu, a veteran Nurse who earned her PhD in Public Health; and Dr Lusanda Ncisana, a former Grade 9 dropout who earned a PhD in Crop Science and now serves as a lecturer at the University of Limpopo.
The graduating class also featured 87 international students, demonstrating UKZN’s global reach and inclusive community. Twenty-two (22) graduands with disabilities were also capped.
In addition, three distinguished academics were celebrated with UKZN Fellowship Awards for their contributions to African scholarship: Professors Ntombifikile Mazibuko and Paulus Zulu, and the late Professor Adrian Koopman, who was honoured posthumously.
Dr Normah Zondo, Executive Director of Corporate Relations, praised the class of 2026, saying the ceremonies reflected UKZN’s commitment to driving academic excellence and transformation. “With women making up 63% of the cohort and 87 international students receiving their degrees, these ceremonies showcase our vibrant diversity and expanding global reach.
“By also celebrating our Fellowship Award recipients, we recognise that true African scholarship extends beyond the classroom into leadership and public service. We are immensely proud of our graduates and look forward to the meaningful impact they will make across their professions and communities,” she said.
Words: Ndabaonline
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini