Two previously disadvantaged African women students from UKZN’s School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences (LMMS) are busy studying for their honours degrees thanks to the foresight of an iconic Catholic Archbishop.
The award, the Archbishop Denis E Hurley Scholarship, is named after the theologian of international status who was committed to leadership, ethical vision, community co-operation and community development, across a broad sweep of the human and social sciences.
This scholarship allows disadvantaged but academically excellent candidates to study for honours degrees.
Ms Nokwethaba Kweyama is pursuing a Bachelor of Medical Science Honours in Medical Biochemistry while Ms Nokwethemba Ngcobo is doing her Bachelor of Medical Science Honours in Human Physiology.
‘“We give glory to God” were the exact words uttered by my parents when they heard of my achievement,’ said Kweyama. ‘My friends and family were overjoyed and exceptionally proud but mostly they were grateful because they knew how important this was to me.
‘I feel truly honoured – the award came after many years of bursary application rejections. I was humbled to feel noticed and rewarded after years of hard work going unnoticed with financial struggles always there.’
Kweyama said her experience at UKZN had been challenging. ‘Two years of my undergraduate studies were online, then came the transition to contact learning in the final year which was not without its fair share of issues, including getting lost on campus on several occasions whilst adjusting to a new learning environment. However, the day I walked across that stage in the Sports Centre to graduate made it all worthwhile.’
‘Upon completion of my undergraduate degree, obtained cum laude, I was awarded the Scholarship from the University in recognition of my academic performance, for which I am also deeply grateful.’
Said Ngcobo: ‘I am truly honoured and humbled by this recognition. The scholarship holds immense significance as it not only acknowledges academic achievement but also embodies the values of leadership, ethical vision, community co-operation and development that Archbishop Denis E Hurley stood for,’ said Ngcobo.
‘I am 21 years old this year and throughout my time at UKZN, I have encountered challenges that have tested my resilience. Balancing academic demands with extracurricular activities and personal commitments has been challenging. However, these challenges have taught me time management, perseverance and the importance of seeking support when needed,’ she added.
‘Looking toward the future, my aspirations are deeply rooted in creating a positive impact within the community and beyond. I aim to apply values instilled by Archbishop Denis E Hurley in my endeavours, whether it’s research, community development projects or advocating for social change.’
She enjoys writing poems, novels and short stories. ‘These activities provide me with a well-rounded perspective and serve as outlets for creativity and relaxation.’
Words and Photograph: Lunga Memela
