ayanda shabalala

Ayanda is a PhD civil engineering student at the University of Johannesburg

SO… YOU'RE A DOCTOR?

I'm not there yet, but I'm making great strides to get there.

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO TAKE YOUR STUDIES TO POSTGRAD LEVEL?

I wanted to further my knowledge in the field of water resources management. As someone who is already in academia, a PhD is a requirement for professional recognition and to further my career.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UNDERGRAD CIVIL ENGINEERING AND POSTGRAD CIVIL ENGINEERING?

Postgraduate studies require a deeper analysis of the subject rather than that of an undergraduate degree, which covers broader themes. It enables you to be a specialist or expert in your field.

During postgrad, you undertake more individual study, which promotes independent thinking. It also teaches you to be more responsible, as you have to take charge of every aspect of your research – and whether or not you make progress is dependent on your level of dedication and hard work.

While doing your postgraduate, you are required to publish research papers. This gives you local and international recognition.

DO YOU PREFER RESEARCH TO FIELD-WORK?

Yes. I enjoy working independently and in my own space – it allows me to be creative, try out different ideas and test my capabilities as a young researcher. Research is a way to find solutions to current environmental problems. In this way,

I am a positively contributing citizen of this country. It also broadens your physical horizons, because being a researcher means you have to present your findings on different international platforms.

WHAT'S THE MOST EXCITING PIECE OF RESEARCH YOU'VE SEEN LATELY?

Although my research is in water treatment, I also enjoy reading and partaking in work outside of my field of study. I've been reading about the socio- economic impacts of and coping strategies adopted by communities following mine closure. Mine
closure is associated with negative economic and social consequences. Proper planning and effective implementation of national policies on mine closure is needed to ease its diverse socio-economic impact.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS?

As a professor and a world-renowned specialist in my field, contributing to the body of knowledge through various publications.

I would also like to help communities find solutions to their challenges of water scarcity, water pollution and other environmental problems. I'd one day like to mentor and supervise postgraduate students.