UKZN Duo Soars to Global Heights with Overseas Scholarship

Two University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) students, Ms Kamalia Marimuthu and Ms Shreya Maharaj, have been awarded Emma Smith Overseas Scholarships, enabling them to pursue their studies abroad in recognition of their perseverance, dedication and commitment to using education to create meaningful change.

Marimuthu is pursuing a Bachelor of Social Science Honours in Psychology and Maharaj, a Master’s in Social Justice Education.

The Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship at UKZN supports female South African graduates who have been residing in Durban for at least three years and wish to pursue postgraduate studies overseas. The scholarship provides recipients with an opportunity to gain international academic exposure while developing knowledge and skills that can ultimately benefit their communities and South Africa.

Maharaj’s decision to pursue a career in education is personal, as she follows in the footsteps of her beloved late grandmother.

“My passion for education has always been rooted in the belief that every learner deserves the opportunity to feel seen, supported and capable of succeeding,” said Maharaj.

“This scholarship is recognition of the hard work, discipline and commitment that I have invested in my education. It is also a reminder that the work I am doing has value. Receiving this award has encouraged me to continue striving to make a meaningful contribution to the field of education. It is truly a blessing and honour,” she added.

Although balancing postgraduate studies with her responsibilities as an educator and her personal life has been one of her biggest challenges, Maharaj says the experience has taught her to manage her time intentionally, remain consistent and understand that priorities can change.

“I have learned that academic success is not always about working harder but also about working consistently,” she said.

For Marimuthu, the scholarship carries a similar sense of purpose. She sees it as much more than an opportunity to study at an overseas institution. To her, it reflects what can be achieved through dedication to education, consistency and valuing the opportunities one receives.

“I believe that when you commit yourself wholeheartedly to learning and continue to show up with discipline and purpose, great opportunities naturally begin to find you,” said Marimuthu.

Marimuthu hopes to use the opportunity to expand her understanding of psychology, further develop her research interests and gain perspectives that she can bring back to South Africa. Her long-term goal is to contribute to the mental health field in South Africa.

Marimuthu’s interest in psychology stems from her curiosity about the brain’s capacity to change and adapt while also being susceptible to psychological difficulties and mental health disorders.

Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini