Graduate Mr Njabulo Maphalala says being awarded a BSc in Geological Sciences from UKZN symbolises his successful completion of a journey of transformation, perseverance and purpose.
Born and raised in Newcastle’s Osizweni township, Maphalala chose UKZN because of its academic reputation, immersive learning approach and the opportunities offered for both intellectual and personal growth.
“I knew UKZN would not only equip me with geological expertise but also expose me to leadership, protocol and work ethics through its many facilities and extracurricular platforms,” he explained. “It is an environment where learning happens in and out of the classroom.”
Maphalala’s interest in Geological Sciences was sparked by a fascination with Africa’s mineral wealth, particularly in mining and petroleum production. “I have always been curious about how these resources are formed, discovered and used to shape economies and societies,” he said. That curiosity grew into a passion for exploring the Earth’s processes and applying geological knowledge to real-world problems.
Among the modules he studied, several stood out as favourites – Economic Geology and Ore Deposits captivated him for their direct relevance to the mining industry and resource management. “These modules connected the science of geology with its practical applications in the world,” he said. Structural Geology intrigued him with its puzzle-like nature that unraveled the Earth’s tectonic past to understand its present. Rock Mechanics, he added, was especially valuable for its focus on how rocks behave under stress, a crucial aspect of mining safety and geotechnical engineering.
Maphalala’s academic journey extended beyond lecture halls and labs. Enthusiastically involved in campus life, he helped establish the Geological Student Society and took on a number of leadership roles, serving as a librarian assistant, a peer educator and a volunteer with the Campus HIV/AIDS Support Unit. He also participated in Graduation ceremonies and institutional events as an usher for UKZN’s Corporate Relations Division and worked as a general assistant at the UKZN Jazz Centre. “In my spare time, I immersed myself in leadership and community-building activities,” he said. “It gave me a chance to give back and grow.”
His talents also found a creative outlet as he participated in background acting for productions such as Umkhokha, Uzalo, Seekers, and Sibongile and the Dlaminis. “Balancing extracurricular activities with academic demands helped me to adapt, engage and lead in diverse environments,” he said.
Looking ahead, Maphalala has ambitious plans. He intends to further his studies in Environmental and Engineering Geology, mineral exploration, petroleum geology and sustainable resource management. “My dream is to use Geology not only to understand the Earth but to heal communities through sustainable mining, groundwater access and carbon sequestration,” he shared. Of particular interest to him is mineral carbonation, a method of capturing and storing carbon dioxide by converting it into stable minerals – an area with growing importance in climate change mitigation.
“Science has power,” he affirmed, “and it must serve people.”
Maphalala’s journey has not been without challenges. He credits his resilience to a strong support system grounded in family and faith. “This journey has been marked by sacrifice, disappointment and hope. It was not easy from day one,” he reflected. “I would like to give special recognition and appreciation to His Holiness Professor Shembe (uNyazi LweZulu) and my family for being constant figures of stability and continuity throughout my journey – they have been the wind beneath my wings, my strength and stay.” He also paid tribute to his mother, Ms Lindokuhle Makhubu, “for her unwavering support and for being my pillar of strength.”
Maphalala said he hoped his story inspired others. “UKZN has not only shaped me academically but has been a platform where I learned to serve, lead and adapt. My story is one of perseverance, and I hope it inspires others to pursue their dreams despite challenges. It is worth every effort.”
Words: Sally Frost
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini