Prof Nomakhwezi Mzilikazi

Professor Mzilikazi holds a BSc in Zoology and Chemistry from the University of Transkei, where she also completed her honours. She pursued her Masters and PhD in Zoology at the University of Natal, earning the inaugural Women in Science award during her doctoral studies. Following her PhD, Prof Mzilikazi was awarded the prestigious Alexander von Humboldt fellowship to conduct postdoctoral research in Germany.

Returning to South Africa, she became the first Black, only female, and youngest member of Nelson Mandela University’s Zoology Department. Her leadership journey includes working with key national and international stakeholders like the Department of Science and Technology, the National Research Foundation, and various embassies. She served as Director for Strategy, Planning, and Partnerships at the National Research Foundation before rejoining Nelson Mandela University as Director of Research Support and Management. Prof Mzilikazi’s career ref lects a deep commitment to advancing research, fostering innovation, and building strategic partnerships to drive transformation in higher education.