UKZN Distinguished Teacher Appointed Deputy Dean for Medical Sciences
The appointment of Distinguished Teacher Award Recipient Professor Andile Khathi as Deputy Dean for the Division of Medical Sciences in the College of Health Sciences (CHS), drew widespread applause and support, including from the Dean and Head of the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) School of Medicine, Professor Refiloe Masekela.
Khathi’s appointment follows his Teacher Award recognition during UKZN’s 2026 Autumn Graduation ceremonies, where he received one of UKZN’s highest teaching honours in recognition of his academic excellence and transformative contribution to Higher Education.
An accomplished educator, Academic Leader for Human Physiology and Anatomy, and internationally recognised researcher in prediabetes, Khathi described the accolades as “something unbelievable”, dedicating the honour to his family, whose encouragement, he says, has supported his academic journey from the very beginning.
Khathi said his passion for teaching was developed early in life. “I come from a long line of teachers. Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, or in church, my family loved learning and teaching. When I discovered human physiology, I realised I had found a place where I could do the same.”
Khathi said he believed exceptional teaching was built on passion, empathy, adaptability and creating an inclusive learning environment where students feel encouraged to participate. “When students see that you are passionate about what you do and that you understand their backgrounds, learning becomes a conversation rather than simply listening to facts.”
Khathi’s research focuses on human physiology, anatomy and prediabetes, helping bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world clinical and community practice. His work continues to advance understanding of metabolic disease while reinforcing the vital relationship between teaching, research and societal impact.
Despite the demands of academia, he remains driven by a desire to develop future researchers and healthcare professionals.
“UKZN gives you knowledge that’s already out there. It is your responsibility to use that knowledge to generate new knowledge through research in your field and in your communities,” Khathi said.
Beyond his professional achievements, Khathi says his greatest fulfilment comes from seeing former students graduate and thrive in their careers. “It always feels good to know I’ve made a difference.”
As UKZN celebrates his achievements and new leadership appointment, Khathi’s journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of education, research and mentorship in shaping healthier communities and future generations of healthcare professionals.
Khathi completed his Honours in Medical Sciences cum laude in 2011. His master’s research was upgraded to a PhD in 2013, and he graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (Physiology) in 2015. He joined UKZN as a lecturer in 2015, was promoted to senior lecturer in 2019, Associate Professor in 2023, and now serves as Deputy Dean for the Division of Medical Sciences.
His achievements include:
- UKZN College of Health Sciences Best Emerging Teacher (2018)
- National Research Foundation Best Emerging Researcher in Natural Sciences (2022)
- South African Medical Research Council Research Excellence Award (2025)
- UKZN Vice-Chancellor’s Research Award (2025)
- UKZN Distinguished Teacher Award (2026)
Khathi has devoted his work to leading the Human Body Form and Function academic theme, encompassing Human Physiology and Anatomy. He has published more than 145 peer-reviewed publications and a book chapter, while supervising 12 PhD, 49 master’s, and 61 honours graduates, reflecting his enduring commitment to research excellence and postgraduate mentorship.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
