Mthabiseni Majola, an aspiring researcher and Advanced Diploma in Business Law student at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), recently won the prestigious Gold Research Award from the Metal Packaging Association of South Africa (MetPac-SA). She was honoured for her outstanding research on “Consumer Practices and Challenges in Recycling Metal Packaging in South Africa,” a project that brought together 28 students from five universities across the country.
The Silver Research Award went to Seth Geysman from the University of the Western Cape. Meanwhile the Bronze Research Awards were presented to Libonge Blandine from Stellenbosch University, Denae Naicker from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, and Belinda Manda from the University of Johannesburg.
Majola (21) from Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal shared her excitement on receiving a call from Dr Ravi Nadar, Research Analyst of MetPac-SA informing her about coming out top on the competition.
“Winning the Gold Research Award is a milestone achievement that holds deep personal significance. It validates my hard work and dedication, proving that perseverance and commitment yield great rewards. Moreover, this achievement reflects positively on DUT, as it demonstrates the institution’s ability to produce high-calibre students who can compete and excel at a national level. I take great pride in representing DUT and hope that my success brings recognition to the university’s research excellence,” said Majola.
She indicated that according to MetPac-SA, her research demonstrated exceptional dedication, analytical rigor, and a strong commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges.
“My ability to synthesise data, generate actionable insights, and propose practical solutions was particularly noteworthy. These qualities, combined with my diligent approach to research, set me apart from other participants. Research has always been an area of great interest for me, and this achievement has further solidified my passion for contributing to meaningful and impactful studies,” shared Majola.
Her role was conducting quantitative research, including Likert- scale surveys, data analysis, and various research methodologies. Majola feels this experience allowed her to gain invaluable insights into waste management and sustainability practices.
Giving insight on the competition, Dr Ravi Nadar, Research Analyst of MetPac-SA said its purpose was to raise awareness about the value and recyclability of metal packaging, while also equipping students with the skills and experience they need to succeed in their future careers.
He believes the excellent work delivered by the students not only highlights the potential of South Africa’s future researchers but also underscores the importance of fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
Sharing her congratulatory remarks, Dr Nomcebo Mthombeni, Interim Director of Research and Postgraduate Support unit at DUT said: “On behalf of DUT, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mthabiseni Majola for her exceptional achievement in securing the prestigious Gold Research Award from MetPac-SA. Her work exemplifies the core values of DUT’s ENVISION2030 strategy, which prioritises innovation, sustainability, and societal impact. We are immensely proud of how she has represented DUT on a national platform, competing alongside peers from leading universities. This achievement underscores the calibre of our students and the transformative power of our research-focused academic environment.”
Dr Mthombeni also commended MetPac-SA for their visionary initiative in nurturing future researchers and fostering a culture of sustainability among young scholars.”
Pictured: Aspiring researcher, Mthebiseni Majola is ecstatic after winning the Gold Research Award.
Photo: Supplied
Simangele Zuma
