A lecturer in the Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering (ECE) at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Dr Ntombenhle Mazibuko has made history by becoming the first female student to obtain a Degree of Doctor of Engineering in the Department of Electrical Power Engineering at DUT. She was honoured for her academic excellence at the DUT 2025 Spring Graduation ceremony, which took place at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban on Thursday, 18 September 2025.
The 34-year-old emerging researcher from Nquthu, north of KwaZulu-Natal described herself as someone who always strives for excellence, being driven by ambition and results.
Her DUT journey began in 2008 when she enrolled for her undergraduate studies in the Department of Electrical Power Engineering. Over the years she had evolved in the same department as a student and a staff member through various support programmes and staff members who believed in her and motivated her to always strive for excellence.
“Earning a doctorate from the very department that has nurtured my career was one of the most thrilling milestones, and it was historic for me to be the first female Doctoral of Engineering graduate in this department,” shared Dr Mazibuko.
Sharing insight on her dissertation, Dr Mazibuko said the development of an adaptive protection scheme for compensated transmission networks with a significant penetration of renewable energy sources was underway.
“This initiative was primarily motivated by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which was adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015. It provides a cohesive framework aimed at fostering peace and prosperity for individuals and the planet, both now and for future generations. Central to this agenda are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which demand immediate action. In particular, SDG 7 aims to ensure that everyone has access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy by 2030. The persistent gap between energy supply and demand, known as load shedding, continues to be a significant challenge. Therefore, research into the development of advanced protection schemes that incorporate machine learning is vital for progress towards achieving SDG 7,” shared Dr Mazibuko.
As a lecturer in the Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering (ECE) her responsibilities include teaching two modules within the department. Additionally, she is a staff member at the Space Science Centre, where she oversees projects within the Centre. Mazibuko’s duties also involve supervising master’s and honours projects in both the EPE and ECE departments. She is thankful for the opportunity to support, inspire, and mentor the next generation of young researchers and engineers.
“Finding the right balance between work and study was straightforward when I first began, as I was employed as a technician. The practical sessions would commence later in the day, allowing me to dedicate at least two hours each day to research. However, this changed when I transitioned to lecturing; the workload became substantial, especially with large numbers in first-year modules and the demands of lecturing for the first time, which required significant preparation time essential for delivering quality teaching and learning. At one point, I found it challenging to engage in any activities related to my studies, yet in terms of professional development, I thrived. The faculty advertised for applications for a PhD Staff Relief Programme, and I applied, ultimately receiving the funding. I successfully completed my studies, aided by supervisors who provided invaluable support and guidance throughout this journey,” explained Dr Mazibuko.
Although her area of study remains male-dominated, she believes that by continuously enhancing her skills and inspiring the next generation, especially young girls, she can significantly contribute to bridging this gap and demonstrate to the world that men and women are equally capable. She expressed her gratitude to DUT for the opportunity to obtain her highest qualification in her field.
Pictured: Dr Ntombenhle Mazibuko who obtained her Degree of Doctor of Engineering.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Simangele Zuma
