Education
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Vaal University of Technology
Website
Dr Zondi Nate, a chemistry lecturer and researcher at the Vaal University of Technology, is passionate about science education and research. He teaches engineering chemistry to first-years and analytical chemistry to postgraduate students. His job also involves supervising postgraduate students. Zondi’s research focuses on developing diagnostic tools for neglected tropical diseases and synthesis strategies for nanomaterials used in wastewater treatment and as diagnostic tools. He has published 15 peer-reviewed research articles and contributed to three book chapters. The 29-year-old University of KwaZulu Natal graduate immerses himself in programmes that promote quality and equal education. Since 2016, he has helped high school learners from disadvantaged schools with facilities for chemistry and physics experiments. Zondi is a mentor and a judge at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists. He aims to open a laboratory that will focus on developing diagnostic tools for tropical diseases. The laboratory will also teach chemistry, nanotechnology and research methodology to young people and assist learners from underprivileged communities with science practicals. “I have always believed that we can use science to solve our everyday challenges such as access to clean water and good healthcare facilities. I would like to see a South Africa where your geographical location, social and economic status does not determine the quality of education that you will receive. I believe we can work around this to make sure that all schools are inclusive and well-equipped to develop the leaders, scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs that this country needs,” he says.
- I matriculated in 2011 at Winile secondary school, a high school in Katlehong. Below are my post-matric qualifications.
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of KwaZulu Natal, 2021
- Magister Technologiae (M-Tech) Chemistry, Vaal University of Technology, 2018
- Baccalaureus Technologiae (B-Tech) Chemistry, Vaal University of Technology, 2015
- National Diploma Analytical Chemistry, Vaal University of Technology, 2014
- Golden Key International Honour Society.
- Published 3 book chapters, 13 research articles, and 2 review articles.
- Graduated 2 master of medical science in pharmaceutical chemistry students and 1 Magister Technologiae Chemistry student as a co-supervisor at the University of KwaZulu Natal and the Vaal University of Technology, respectively.
I believe that we are all born for a greater purpose. My high school teacher Mrs Mooke made me fall in love with chemistry. I have always believed that we can use science to solve our everyday challenges, such as access to clean water and good healthcare facilities.
Believe in yourself and keep moving — it gets better with time.
South Africa is a developing country with huge potential in Africa and the world. In five years, I would like to see a South Africa where your geographical location, social and economic status does not determine the quality of education that you will receive. I believe we can work around this to make sure that all schools are inclusive and well equipped to develop the leaders, scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs that this country needs.