Zuko Komisa

The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) proudly celebrated a historic moment at its recent 10th graduation ceremony with Dr. Khumbelo Mabadahanye becoming the institution’s first-ever PhD graduate.
Dr. Mabadahanye, a dedicated environmental science researcher hailing from Tshikweta village in Venda, made history as she received her prestigious doctoral qualification at the ceremony held at the university’s Mbombela Campus.
Her groundbreaking thesis, titled Evaluating Plastic Pollution, Management Strategies, and Employee Perceptions in Water and Wastewater Treatment Facilities, was a focal point of her academic achievement.
In her address, Dr. Mabadahanye elaborated on her research and also acknowledged the inspirational figures whose aspirations for academic excellence fueled her pursuit of a PhD at UMP.
UMP Celebrates Its First PhD Graduate 🎉
— University of Mpumalanga (@UniMpumalanga) May 8, 2025
The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) has conferred its very first Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree to Ms Khumbelo Mabadahanye. #UMPGrad2025 #CapsOffUMP #MyUMPStory pic.twitter.com/fARwM56IJf
This significant milestone not only marks a personal triumph for Dr. Mabadahanye but also signifies a crucial step forward in the University of Mpumalanga’s academic journey and its growing contribution to research and development within South Africa.
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