Sphelele Ngubane, a DUT cum laude recipient and alumnus, is headed for the United Kingdom where he will study towards a Master’s degree through the prestigious Chevening Scholarship at the Cardiff University, Wales.

Chevening is the UK government’s international awards scheme aimed at developing global leaders. Funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and partner organisations, Chevening offers the Chevening Scholarships and Chevening Fellowships, the recipients of which are personally selected by British Embassies and High Commissions throughout the world.
Chevening offers a unique opportunity for future leaders, influencers and decision-makers from all over the world to develop professionally and academically, network extensively, experience UK culture and build lasting positive relationships with the UK.

Until recently, Ngubane, 25, worked as a journalist at The Mercury; one of South Africa’s leading daily newspapers. Ngubane obtained his National Diploma in Journalism as well as his Bachelor of Technology (also in Journalism) at the Durban University of Technology. A native of Newcastle, northern KwaZulu-Natal, Ngubane is fascinated by nation building, unity, justice, peace, human rights, social justice as well as education. “I have issues of the community at heart which is why I felt that Journalism was the best platform for me to independently raise those issues through my writing,” he said. “I have always wanted a career that will provide me with a voice and opportunity to confront issues of the people and the community surrounding me. That is why I decided to study journalism and it has been the best place for me to be in,” he said.

Ngubane said furthering his education has always been one of his priorities, which is why he applied to do an advanced degree in journalism, media and communication that would also prepare him for his doctoral studies. “The opportunity offered by both Cardiff University and the Chevening Scholarship is also the best highlight of my professional and academic career,” he said.

Ngubane will travel to the UK during mid-September. His Master’s course is research orientated and is required to produce a research thesis at the end of his studies. His areas of interest include digitisation and new media, strategies to keep the newspaper industry alive, education and development.

– Noxolo Memela

Pictured: Sphelele Ngubane. Picture by Shelley Kjonstad