Ms Philile Ngcobo, a Technical Assistant in the Department of Horticulture at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), is celebrating the completion of her Master of Applied Sciences in Biotechnology.
Ngcobo’s master’s research focused on plant science, specifically investigating the physiological and phytochemical responses of the medicinal plant Bulbine natalensis to climate change-related stresses, particularly drought and rising temperatures.
Ngcobo, 37, from KwaQwabe at uMthwalume on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, will celebrate this achievement among the Faculty of Applied Sciences graduands at DUT’s Spring Graduation ceremony at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban on Wednesday, 16 September 2026.
Her thesis, titled “Physiological and phytochemical responses in Bulbine natalensis Baker to warming and drought futures for Southern Africa”, examined how projected climate warming and drought conditions could affect the growth, physiological functioning and phytochemical composition of the medicinal plant.
According to Ngcobo, climate change poses a growing threat to medicinal plants, which remain an important source of compounds with antioxidant, antimicrobial and anticancer properties.
As part of her research, she cultivated Bulbine natalensis under different temperature and moisture conditions to examine its growth, physiological responses and phytochemical properties under climate scenarios projected for Southern Africa.
Her findings indicated that warming and drought conditions are likely to affect both the physiological characteristics and phytochemical composition of Bulbine natalensis. The research also showed that environmental stress can trigger structural and biochemical adaptive responses in the plant, including metabolic adjustments that help maintain its physiological functions.
Ngcobo believes the findings highlight the importance of proactive conservation, cultivation and policy interventions to mitigate the effects of climate change on indigenous plant species and their medicinal properties.
Reflecting on her DUT journey, Ngcobo described completing her master’s degree as challenging but deeply rewarding.
“This journey has taught me far more than scientific research and academic writing. It has strengthened my resilience, discipline, problem-solving abilities and confidence. Completing my master’s degree is one of my proudest achievements,” she said.
She believes her journey also demonstrates that age should never be regarded as a barrier to academic success and personal growth.
“It has shown me that age is not a barrier to academic success and personal growth. I hope my journey inspires others to pursue their educational aspirations, regardless of where they are in life, and to never stop investing in their personal and professional development,” added Ngcobo.
One of the greatest challenges she faced was balancing her academic responsibilities with professional and household commitments.
“Navigating these multiple roles required effective planning, resilience and dedication. With the support of my family, supervisors, friends and colleagues, I was able to overcome these challenges and remain focused on my research goals,” she explained.
Looking ahead, Ngcobo aspires to continue developing as a researcher and contributing to horticulture, plant science and environmental sustainability. She is particularly interested in generating knowledge that supports the conservation of indigenous plant species and promotes sustainable horticultural practices in changing climatic conditions.
She hopes to pursue a PhD in the future, expand her research in plant science and contribute meaningfully to environmental sustainability and communities.
Offering advice to aspiring postgraduate students, Ngcobo encouraged them to remain passionate and resilient throughout their academic journeys.
“There will be challenges, setbacks and moments of self-doubt, but perseverance is key. Build a strong support network by engaging regularly with your supervisors, mentors and other postgraduate students,” she advised.
Ngcobo also expressed her appreciation to DUT’s Department of Biotechnology and Department of Horticulture for their support and for providing the resources and facilities required to conduct her experimental research.
As she celebrates this significant academic milestone, Ngcobo’s journey demonstrates how determination, discipline and perseverance can create opportunities for growth and achievement at any stage of life.
Pictured: DUT staff member Ms Philile Ngcobo, who will graduate with a Master of Applied Sciences in Biotechnology.
Photo: Supplied.
Simangele Zuma
