University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Mathematics student, Ms Keryn Scott, received two prestigious accolades in recognition of her outstanding academic achievement and leadership potential.
Scott was awarded the Maryam Babangida Scholarship, presented to the best female student in the entire University progressing from undergraduate to honours study as well as the highly coveted Abe Bailey Travel Bursary, which recognises exceptional student leaders from South African universities with a three-week educational tour of the United Kingdom.
Scott, who recently completed her undergraduate studies and is pursuing an Honours degree in Mathematics, described the dual recognition as both humbling and affirming.
Growing up in Westville and attending Westville Girls’ High School, Scott said choosing UKZN was a natural decision. Remaining close to home enabled her to continue living with her family while balancing her studies with work, and she had long been aware of the excellent reputation of UKZN’s Mathematics Department within the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science.
She said one of the aspects she valued most about studying at UKZN was the University’s diversity.
“Every day I am surrounded by people with different backgrounds, cultures and perspectives, which has made my university experience both enriching and eye-opening,” she said. “The discipline of Mathematics has been incredibly supportive, and I have particularly enjoyed learning from and working with the dedicated Mathematics lecturers and professors. UKZN truly feels like a microcosm of South Africa, reflecting the diversity and spirit of the Rainbow Nation.”
Scott’s passion for mathematics began long before university. She said the logical structure of the subject had always appealed to the way her mind worked, while also providing the intellectual challenge she needed.
She initially enrolled for a degree majoring in Mathematics and Chemistry before realising that Computer Science better complemented her interests and career aspirations. The combination strengthened both her analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities and confirmed her desire to pursue postgraduate research in mathematics.
Outside the classroom, Scott has successfully balanced an impressive range of commitments.
A passionate performer, she has appeared in several professional musical theatre productions while studying and has undertaken a variety of professional performance engagements. She credits her involvement in the performing arts with helping her maintain balance throughout her studies.
“Performing demands the same level of commitment, discipline and concentration as my academic work, but exercises a completely different side of my mind,” she said. “The contrast between the logical precision of mathematics and the creativity of performance has been invaluable.”
Her Christian faith has remained central to her life, and she leads the worship band at her church. She said her faith has sustained her throughout the challenges and pressures of university life.
Scott also runs a private tutoring business teaching high school Mathematics and Science, while serving as a tutor at UKZN, where she enjoys helping students build confidence and develop a love for mathematics.
This year she also joined the STEM MentHER programme, founded by UKZN’s Dr Cerene Rathilal, and now serves as Operations Coordinator for South Africa. The national mentorship initiative connects high school girls with women working in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), encouraging learners to pursue careers in these fields.
Receiving the Maryam Babangida Scholarship was a significant milestone in Scott’s academic journey. “This is an incredible honour and a truly humbling experience,” she said. “Throughout my studies, I have simply tried to work as hard as I can and pursue my goal of doing the very best in everything I undertake. This scholarship is far more than an award to me – it is an affirmation that I am on the right path. It motivates me to continue striving for excellence and to pursue my goals with the same dedication and passion that have brought me to this point.”
Scott plans to complete her honours degree before progressing to a master’s degree, with the ultimate goal of earning a PhD. She hopes to pursue postgraduate research in mathematics before travelling and possibly teaching mathematics overseas. In the longer-term, she is increasingly drawn to a career in academia that combines research with teaching and mentoring future generations of students.
The Abe Bailey Travel Bursary represents another life-changing opportunity. Having never travelled overseas before, Scott said she was excited to spend three weeks in the United Kingdom exploring universities, museums and sites of historical and cultural significance, while attending theatre productions and engaging with students and academics from around the world.
“As someone who loves both mathematics and the performing arts, I can’t think of a more exciting combination of experiences,” she said. Equally meaningful would be the opportunity to build friendships and professional networks with fellow Abe Bailey Scholars from universities across South Africa.
“I hope to return with a broader perspective, new ideas and a deeper understanding of how I can use my own skills and experiences to make a meaningful difference in South Africa,” she said.
Scott thanked those who had supported her success: her parents for their unwavering love, encouragement and sacrifices; her boyfriend for his constant care and support; her friends for their encouragement and shared study sessions; and her lecturers and mentors at UKZN for investing in her academic growth and helping her achieve her goals.
Words: Sally Frost
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini