An Electrical Engineering lecturer at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Dr Nomihla Ndlela has obtained a Degree of Doctor of Engineering at the age of 31. She was conferred with her PhD at the DUT Autumn Graduation ceremony, which was held at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban on Friday, 22 May 2026.
Dr Ndlela is originally from Esikhawini township at Empangeni, north of KwaZulu-Natal. She began her schooling in the rural area of KwesakaMthethwa and later completed her high school education in Esikhawini. Her journey from a rural background to earning a PhD has shaped her resilience, determination, and academic passion.
Through her thesis titled: The Development of an Optimization Technique for Transmission Expansion Planning with Renewable Energy Integration, she addresses real-world energy challenges associated with the global transition to renewable energy.
“My research focused on developing an advanced optimisation technique for transmission expansion planning with renewable energy integration under dynamic operating conditions. A key contribution of this work was the design and modelling of both a solar PV plant and a wind farm, where I analysed critical parameters such as system losses, energy production, and profitability prior to their integration into the power system. I also applied a hosting capacity analysis tool to determine the maximum amount of renewable energy that can be integrated at each busbar without compromising grid stability. The developed renewable energy models were then integrated into the IEEE 30-bus system, where dynamic characteristics were introduced by allowing load demand, generation, and renewable energy outputs to vary multiple times within an hour, reflecting real-world system behaviour,” explained Dr Ndlela.
To enhance system performance, she implemented Tie Open Point Optimisation in conjunction with Genetic Algorithms to minimise system losses and improve network efficiency. She also used a dynamic simulation approach to assess grid stability under varying conditions over extended periods and employed Quasi-Monte Carlo Simulation techniques to manage uncertainties associated with high penetration of renewable energy. This approach helped identify optimal timing and locations for transmission line expansion, ensuring stability in both short-term and long-term scenarios.
Her research contributes to integrating renewable energy into power systems while maintaining stability, efficiency, and reliability. It also supports the goal of achieving universal electricity access and promoting sustainable energy supply in South Africa.
Dr Ndlela is a proud recipient of the university’s Grow Your Own Timber programme, which supported her financially throughout her PhD and allowed her to study flexibly while gaining valuable experience in lecturing. Her academic journey at DUT, from Diploma to PhD, has been transformative and rewarding.
She also had the opportunity to participate in a semester exchange programme in Spain at Huella University of Technology. This experience broadened her perspective, exposed her to different research approaches and cultural environments, and enhanced both her academic and personal development. DUT provided her with opportunities to develop research skills, including writing academic papers and presenting work at conferences locally and internationally, which have been crucial in shaping her into a confident researcher and academic.
At DUT, her responsibilities include lecturing, supervising students, conducting research, and contributing to departmental and faculty activities. She also serves as Deputy Chair of Women in Engineering and the Built Environment, supporting female engineering students to complete their studies. She has taught modules such as Power Systems and Instrumentation and Control, helping students develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills in electrical engineering.
Balancing the demands of her work with the intensity of her PhD required discipline, sacrifice, and strong time management. She prioritised her academic responsibilities while also managing time for her two children. She overcame challenges through perseverance, continuous learning, guidance from supervisors, and a strong support system.
Her goal is to continue growing in academia and research, contributing to knowledge development and addressing real- world challenges in the energy sector. She aspires to become a professor, make meaningful contributions through teaching and research, and become professionally registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa. She is also passionate about mentoring future researchers and supporting more women to pursue and complete doctoral studies in electrical engineering
Pictured: Dr Nomihla Ndlela.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Simangele Zuma
