Denis Hurley Scholarship Brings Renewed Hope and Relief for UKZN Students

For a group of University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) students, receiving the Archbishop Denis E. Hurley Scholarship has brought renewed hope, financial relief and the opportunity to pursue their academic ambitions.

Named in honour of Archbishop Denis Eugene Hurley, a Catholic cleric, anti-apartheid activist and advocate for social justice, the scholarship reflects his lifelong commitment to education, equality and human dignity.

Among the scholarship recipients are Mr Simiso Gumede, Mr Busani Hlophe, Ms Londiwe Mdleko, Ms Aneliswa Mdluli, Mr Xolani Mthembu, Ms Nondumiso Nsele, Ms Bongiwe Radebe, Ms Nkosinolwazi Sakhile, Ms Sanelisiwe Takata and Ms Phindile Zuma.

For Mdleko, the scholarship has removed a significant financial barrier to continuing her honours studies.

“My biggest challenge was securing funding to continue my studies at honours level. Receiving this scholarship has removed that barrier and allowed me to focus fully on my academic work.”

She said the scholarship represented more than financial support, describing it as an affirmation of her potential and dedication.

Mdluli described her experience at UKZN as transformative, shaping both her academic development and personal growth. “Transformative journey – this phrase best describes my experience at UKZN because my time at the Institution has shaped not only my academic knowledge but also my personal growth.”

Through her studies, Mdluli developed critical thinking, discipline and resilience while gaining a deeper understanding of geography education. She said the challenges she encountered strengthened her determination, while the support she received helped her recognise her potential.

Nsele described the scholarship as a source of “hope, relief and opportunity”. The financial support eased pressure and allowed her to devote greater attention to her studies.

“It reduces financial pressure and allows me to focus more on my studies. It also shows recognition of my hard work and determination. Most importantly, it gives me more motivation to continue pursuing my academic and professional goals.”

Her journey also taught her the importance of determination, discipline and purpose. Through her teaching practice, Nsele gained greater clarity about her career direction and the importance of remaining committed to her goals despite challenges.

“I have learned that having a vision, making good decisions and staying committed to my journey can lead to success even when things are difficult.”

For Takata, receiving the scholarship was both an honour and a source of motivation.

“Receiving the Scholarship is a great honour and blessing. It is a reminder that hard work and dedication are recognised.”

She said the scholarship had strengthened her confidence in her academic abilities and future aspirations, while motivating her to continue striving for excellence.

Takata also highlighted the role UKZN had played in her development, particularly through access to knowledgeable lecturers, academic resources and an environment that encourages critical thinking and personal growth.

“These opportunities have helped me develop as both a student and an aspiring education professional.”

One of the moments that affirmed that Zuma was on the right path was realising how much she had grown from being a learner who once found History boring to becoming a History Education student who wants to change how the subject is experienced by learners. “Working on my research and thinking critically about history education made me realise that this is exactly where I am meant to be.”

Gumede said that receiving the Dean’s Commendation showed him that his hard work, determination and changes in his approach to studying had paid off. He said: “It gave me confidence in my abilities and reminded me why I had chosen History Education as my field of study. It also motivated me to continue working hard, complete my Bachelor of Education and pursue my current Honours in History Education.”

Mthembu said his involvement in education had exposed him to aspects of the field that were previously unfamiliar to him. He said: “With my current involvement in community education and training (CET) colleges I believe there is a lot of contribution am still yet to contribute which will benefit the community of South Africa as a whole.”

As Hlophe progressed through his Bachelor of Education, his interest grew beyond the classroom. “I became increasingly interested in how effective leadership and management can create supportive school environments where both teachers and learners can succeed.”

“My goal is to contribute meaningfully to the education system and, in the future, become an education leader who helps improve teaching, learning and learner outcomes.”

For Radebe, receiving the Scholarship represented more than financial assistance; it is affirmation that her hard work, commitment and potential have been recognised. “This scholarship has renewed my motivation to continue pursuing academic excellence, even when the journey becomes difficult. Personally, it reminds me that there are people and institutions that believe in young people and their ability to contribute positively to society. I receive this opportunity with gratitude and a strong sense of responsibility to use my education to uplift others.”

When Sakhile struggled with a particular assignment or found a concept difficult to understand, she made a conscious decision to seek assistance rather than allow the challenge to discourage her. She made full use of the support available at UKZN, including the Writing Place, guidance from senior students and consultations with her lecturers.

“I was never afraid to raise my hand in class and ask for clarification when I did not understand something,” said Sakhile. “These experiences taught me that asking for help is not a weakness, but an important part of learning, growing and improving.”

Administered through UKZN, the Archbishop Denis E Hurley Scholarship supports students across various fields of study, helping them overcome financial barriers and focus fully on their academic and personal development.

Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela

Photographs: Sethu Dlamini