Graduate shines with vice-chancellor’s award

Coming from a family which is deeply ingrained in the values of unity, shared experiences, and collective resilience has shaped the academic success and personal growth of Melody Mukandi, a recipient of the Vice-Chancellor's Prestigious Achievers Award , who graduated with her PhD in Engineering in Chemical Engineering this afternoon.

The elated Zimbabwean-born graduate said: "Every family harbours a unique essence that propels its members through life's daily demands. For me, it was a maternal figure, having endured the loss of her mother at a tender age, my mother took it upon herself to display unwavering support to her children without restrictions, instilling in me an intrinsic drive, free from the need for external validation, and nurtured by unwavering support."

Mukandi enrolled for a Diploma in Biotechnology in CPUT in 2011. Graduating in 2014, she furthered her studies with a BTech in Biomedical Technology, followed by a Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering, passing both cum laude. She embarked on a Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering, publishing several manuscripts in Q1/Q2 scientific journals. Her journey to where she is today required resilience against financial and social challenges, coupled with "unwavering support from my supervisors, Prof Karabo Ntwampe and Prof Mushe Basitere, as well as from my family and friends".

"My mother serves as my primary inspiration and role model, always prioritising my well-being and having my interests at heart, hence, her contributions are loudly noticeable." She also acknowledges that her journey has been a roller coaster ride. "Covid-19 posed significant challenges, delaying my project due to equipment delivery issues. Financial and social struggles also threatened my academic journey at times to the point that I almost walked away from everything.

"Nonetheless, being one of the first recipients of the Mwalimu Nyerere African Union Scholarship grant at CPUT and also receiving the CPUT's Vice-Chancellor Prestigious Achiever's award were notable highlights."

Currently, Mukandi is seeking employment or a fellowship. "The Vice-Chancellor Prestigious Achievers Award provided critical financial relief during a challenging period, enabling me to persevere and complete my studies. I am forever grateful to the Vice-Chancellor and his team."

She adds that life has its challenges in general and towards the end of her studies when she was overwhelmed and contemplated giving up, the award was instrumental in overcoming the challenges, providing accommodation and financial support that allowed her to focus on completing her research.

Mukandi also acknlowdges the support from CPUT staff , stating that "their guidance and technical assistance was invaluable, particularly Mrs Hannelene Small, Mr Alwyn Bester, and the Biotechnology team. "This includes the supervisors who patiently guided me through the doctoral study. The Bioresource Engineering Research group at CPUT, became a home, and a nourishing environment to conduct high level research, thus instrumental in my academic success." The academic, who considers herself as proactive finds solace in nature and enjoy going for walks during her free time. The hardworking individual who is driven by results, believes that if she can achieve her goals, anyone can. "To aspiring students, particularly young women, I encourage you not to be confined by societal norms; you are capable of achieving greatness.

"If I address the younger me I would tell her that it is okay to be unique and not to try to fit in. Embrace your uniqueness and strive for excellence. Our African context presents unique challenges, but with passion and determination, you can redefine your narrative and make a meaningful impact. Navigating through life is demanding, take it one step at a time, the point is to survive not to be consumed."

Mukandi also extends "my heartfelt gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chris Nhlapo, and the awards committee for their invaluable financial support during challenging times". "I hope that future initiatives will consider integrating award recipients into the workforce to maximise the socio-economic contributions of young talents. Additionally, a structured support system for students pursuing a thesis by publication would be beneficial, enhancing the University's publication profile."

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