Deputy Minister Post for Former UKZN SRC President

Ms Bavelile Hlongwa, a UKZN alumna who completed a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering in 2010, has been appointed Deputy Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy in the country’s Cabinet under the leadership of re-elected President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Until her appointment as Deputy Minister, Hlongwa served as the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) Deputy Chairperson.

Originally from the South Coast region of KwaZulu-Natal, Hlongwa entered UKZN’s Science Foundation Programme after matriculating from Sihle High School which propelled her into her studies in pure and applied chemistry, followed by chemical engineering.

Her career has included work as a community health worker and tutor during her undergraduate studies. Later, she went on to work in the refinery industry as a process technologist, production engineer, and gas scheduler.

During her studies, Hlongwa served in the Student Representative Council (SRC); first as an academic and transformation officer, and then as Central SRC President in 2009. After her graduation, she continued to serve her alma mater as deputy president of the Convocation Executive. Her involvement with the ANC Youth League also included terms on provincial task teams and the executive committee provincially and nationally.

While a student, Hlongwa also played for the University’s Durban ladies’ soccer team.

Mr Ashton Bodrick, Executive Director: Corporate Relations at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, said the University is honoured to acknowledge Hlongwa’s latest appointment, adding that the University is positive that she will make her mark in her role as Deputy Minister. ‘I am impressed to see our alumni making waves and flying our flag and brand, both in leadership and in society. It is a testimony that UKZN truly inspires greatness in everything its stakeholders do. I am confident that the Honourable Hlongwa will make a positive impact and contribute immensely to the growth of our country. I take this opportunity to congratulate her and many other UKZN alumni on their appointments through which they serve our beloved country and great nation,” said.

Author: Christine Cuenod

Photograph: Supplied