The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) proudly celebrates the achievement of Mr Ndabezinhle Masinga – an emerging legal scholar and grandson of the late education pioneer and broadcasting legend Mr KE Masinga, who graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree.
Masinga’s academic journey has been marked by leadership, resilience and a passion for legal research and scholarship. While pursuing his LLB at UKZN’s Law School, he actively participated in research initiatives and academic projects that helped shape his development as an emerging scholar.
Reflecting on his decision to study Law, Masinga said his passion stemmed from a desire to contribute meaningfully to legal jurisprudence and academic writing.
“During high school, I always wanted to become an authoritative writer and academic while also pursuing the legal profession. I decided to combine both interests by entering the legal field, particularly focusing on research and scholarship,” he said.
Masinga’s commitment to research earned him an appointment as a research intern within the School of Law’s Navi Pillay Research Interest Group, where he provided research and project support on social justice and international law initiatives. He also contributed to the School’s collaboration with the kwaMpungose Royal Authority.
Among his notable achievements was championing the revival of the UKZN Student Law Review and advocating for the establishment of a student research interest group within the School of Law.
Masinga also represented both the School of Law and UKZN at two international conferences: the Colloquium on Corruption and Human Rights hosted by the University of the Free State’s Centre for Human Rights, and the Albinism Beyond 2030: Legal and Healthcare Pathways to Inclusion International Conference hosted by the University of the Free State’s Disability Unit.
“What stood out for me was that I was the youngest presenter at both conferences. These opportunities transformed me from being an ordinary student into an emerging scholar and an early researcher in the field of Law,” he said.
Despite his success, Masinga’s academic journey was not without challenges. During his first year of study, he lost his grandmother, who he described as his greatest supporter.
“Her passing affected both my personal life and my academic life. To overcome the challenge, I had to remind myself of the promises I made and what would have made my grandmother proud.”
He credited long hours in the library and regular consultations with lecturers for helping him regain focus and persevere through difficult times.
Masinga said he was proud of his achievements and thankful for the opportunities he received during his studies.
“The research opportunities elevated my level in the field and motivated me to continue striving for excellence,” he said.
The late Mr KE Masinga, widely regarded as the father of Radio Bantu and Radio Zulu, now known as Ukhozi FM, remains an enduring source of inspiration for the family.
Now enrolled for a Master of Laws (LLM) in International Law at UKZN, Masinga plans to pursue a PhD and eventually enter academia as a lecturer while continuing to publish scholarly work and present at conferences.
He encouraged fellow Law students to embrace every opportunity available to them, engage actively with lecturers and participate in research initiatives early in their academic journeys.
Words: Hazel Langa
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini