Mathematics Education lecturer in UKZN’s School of Education, Mr Mzwandile Wiseman Zulu has been awarded the ERASMUS+ Mobility scholarship to study at the Liepaja University in Latvia, Eastern Europe for a semester.
‘It feels almost surreal as it is a dream that I had imagined would come at a later stage. The primary focus after my first degree was getting a job and advancing in the academic field. I feel very honoured and privileged to be afforded this opportunity,’ he said.
Zulu added that the scholarship will enable him to gain international exposure whilst increasing his academic engagement to broaden his horizons, adding that it will increase his confidence in interacting with colleagues from the Global North.
‘It will enhance my learning, scholarship, and networking as an academic. Upon completion, it is envisaged that the skills acquired will enhance my engagement with my students at UKZN. These mutual benefits cannot be underestimated in the knowledge ecology in mathematics education’, he said.
He emphasized that the academic journey requires sacrifice, commitment, hard work, and discipline, adding that there are no shortcuts when it comes to achieving one’s goals: ‘Either you give it your all or face the risk of not achieving them all.’
Zulu urged anyone who wishes to study abroad to look for opportunities: ‘The opportunities are out there. They just need you to grab them and not be afraid. Educating yourself about such prospects is essential. You need to be willing to try something new and go for it. It is important to gain international exposure in the prime of your life’.
