In a week’s time, the Graduate Internship Programme, established by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) in collaboration with the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), will celebrate its 20th anniversary. This influential programme has significantly shaped South Africa’s research and innovation landscape, providing thousands of graduates with practical experience, professional development, and mentorship.
To commemorate this achievement, the DSI and HSRC will host a special gala dinner, bringing together key stakeholders, partner institutions, and both past and present interns. A major highlight of the evening will be the graduation ceremony for the 2023–2025 cohort, marking an important milestone for these new interns.
During this celebration, the Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) will be prominently recognised for its contributions to the programme’s success. The Department of Community Extension’s Professor Xolile Mkhize has been officially nominated for the prestigious Best Mentor Award 2025, selected by the outgoing interns.
Professor Mkhize’s nomination is a testament to MUT’s increasing influence in the national research and innovation ecosystem. Her dedication to mentoring young professionals with care and support has made a lasting impact on her mentees.
In response to her nomination, Professor Mkhize expressed her joy, saying, “Aah, daughter of mine, I cannot be prouder – this award is well deserved.” With a proud smile, she added, “My feathers are all puffed up.”
The strength of her mentorship reflects the high calibre of professionals emerging from MUT and the university’s strong values.
In celebration of this milestone, the Senior Director of Marketing and Communications at MUT, Mbali Mkhize, remarked, “It is heartwarming to see MUT being recognised. Such successes enhance MUT’s reputation. More accolades, led from the highest office, affirm MUT’s brand positioning strategy.”
As the nation comes together to honour 20 years of transformation through the DSI-HSRC Internship Programme, MUT stands proud, represented by a mentor who embodies the institution’s commitment to excellence and social impact. This nomination goes beyond recognition; it celebrates MUT’s evolving legacy within South Africa’s knowledge and innovation landscape, inspiring and empowering future generations, and leading.