THE politicians in KwaZulu-Natal who wore the coats of higher education this week are TRYING to get doctor’s degrees.
The Mayor of Mgungundlovu Municipality, Mr. Mzi Zuma, and the former mayor of Richmond Municipality, Mr. Samora Ndlovu, said that they have started their journey towards medical degrees.
Zuma graduated with a Masters degree in Commerce from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
He said he will apply to continue his studies before the end of this year.
“I want to see myself wearing a red coat now.”
It was Zuma’s second graduation as he obtained his Masters in Public Administration from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
Zuma said it is important for leaders to develop themselves through education.
“Education through education is something that is in my heart, I always encourage you. I have plans to go to schools. It is important that young people get closer to education because schools are now free. Almost 90% of public schools are free of charge. Even where the fees are paid, no one who fails to pay is expelled. This makes it easier to study. Even in higher education institutions there is support from the NSFAS (National Students Financial Aid Scheme). NSFAS has a budget of approximately R55 billion. There are many opportunities to conduct education.”
Zuma said he was doing most of his school work at night as he was busy with councilor work during the day.
Apart from being the mayor, Zuma has been the secretary of the ANC in the Moses Mabhida region, and he was part of the executive committee of the ANC.
Ndlovu graduated with a National Diploma in Public Administration from Durban University of Technology.
Ndlovu said that even this year he is continuing to study as he strives to graduate as a doctor.
“There is no time to rest. Just yesterday I was sweating from the exams. I want to work hard this year and I will succeed with flying colors.”
Ndlovu was the secretary of the ANC in the Moses Mabhida region before the leadership was disbanded last year.
He was previously a spokesperson for the Richmond Municipality.
Ndlovu said he decided to go back to school to improve his knowledge.
“I see that I keep getting elected to positions in the government but I don’t have qualifications. It is dangerous for politicians to pass laws when they don’t have administrative qualifications. I want to take part in passing laws.”
Ndlovu said that since there is a coalition government, it is necessary for all leaders to really improve themselves with knowledge.
Ndlovu is doing his studies full time.
“It wasn’t easy but I was forced to lower myself and go back to the desk.”
Other political leaders who graduated from higher education are the member of the Legislative Assembly, Dr. Ntuthuko Mahlaba and the Mayor of Mhlathuze Municipality, Mr. Xolani Ngwezi.
Mahlaba graduated with a Masters degree in Commerce from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
Ngwezi was awarded an Honors Degree in Development Studies at the University of Zululand.