UKZN Hosts National PhD Conference for Economists
The Economics discipline within the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s (UKZN) School of Commerce and the University of Zululand (UNIZULU) hosted the third National PhD Conference of the Economic Society of South Africa (ESSA), in partnership with Economic Research South Africa (ERSA).
ESSA is a longstanding forum for economists across academia, government and business, while ERSA supports the development of economic policy by linking research to national policy debates and identifying future research priorities. Welcoming delegates, UKZN Professor of Economics and ESSA President-Elect, Harold Ngalawa, emphasised the strategic significance of UKZN and UNIZULU working together on initiatives that position the two universities as key players in advancing knowledge and solving community problems.
In her opening remarks, ESSA President Professor Jen Snowball noted that the conference aimed to cultivate a new generation of doctoral economists from South African universities by providing mentorship, networking opportunities and professional development.
With more than 70 abstracts received, the Conference Scientific Committee faced the challenging task of selecting only 20 extended abstracts, based on completed or near-completed PhD research papers. Snowball commended the presenters for the high quality of their submissions, which formed the basis for rigorous peer discussion over the two-day programme.
UKZN doctoral candidate Ms Suzana Sylivester Assenga, who travelled from Tanzania to participate in the conference, presented her research titled: ‘Quality of Life Among Households Raising Children with Autism in Urban Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’, under the supervision of UKZN economist Professor Josue Mbonigaba. Said Assenga: “Presenting my research reinforced my confidence in its potential to make a meaningful impact, not only for families in Tanzania but across Africa. The conference provided valuable, constructive feedback that will help refine my work and guide it towards publication.”
As an international PhD student, Assenga thanked ESSA and ERSA for the opportunity and sponsorship to attend the conference, noting the experience had left her feeling inspired, supported and more connected to the broader academic community.
Recent PhD graduate and UKZN School of Commerce academic, Dr Simiso Msomi, shared insights from his doctoral journey. “A PhD is not only about completion, but also about the person you become in the process,” Msomi said, describing his journey as a series of challenges and lessons that ultimately shaped his growth as a scholar. “A PhD in economics is not for self-gratification but for the advancement of humankind,” he added.
The conference proved to be a memorable and productive platform for learning and networking among emerging economists. Social events, including a welcome cocktail function and conference dinner, provided additional opportunities for engagement in a more informal setting.
The conference was funded by ESSA, ERSA and Professional Provident Society (PPS).
Words: Hazel Langa
Photograph: Andile Ndlovu
