Mr Lethukuthula Ndebele’s cum laude achievement for his Master’s in Applied Mathematics is one he hopes will inspire other students from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue studies and careers in science and mathematics.
Completing his undergraduate studies in Applied Mathematics, Mathematics and Statistics at UKZN, Ndebele, who grew up in the rural Empumeni area near Empangeni, chose the University for its academic and research excellence, appreciating its academic community, access to excellent supervisors and the opportunities for growth it provided. He excelled and was named Best First-Year Mathematics Student in 2019.
Fascinated with mathematics’ application to model, analyse and solve practical problems in areas like engineering and physics, Ndebele specialised in Applied Mathematics as it combines abstract reasoning with practical applications, especially in fluid dynamics, where it helps explain and predict complex physical behaviours.
In his master’s research, Ndebele focused on analysing the newly developed Block Hybrid Methods (BHM) for solving nonlinear boundary value problems, with applications to Casson fluid flow. Casson fluids are important in modelling biological and industrial processes, such as blood flow and polymer processing. By creating more efficient numerical techniques, his work helps advance the tools available for scientists and engineers working with complex fluid systems.
He aimed to evaluate the accuracy, stability and computational efficiency of the BHM, as efficient and accurate numerical methods are crucial for simulating complex physical phenomena which can be applied in engineering design and thermal management systems. Ndebele was the first to write a dissertation on this method.
He was surprised to uncover the strong performance of the BHM, which demonstrated high accuracy while maintaining computational efficiency and highlighted the potential of hybrid methods as promising alternatives to more established numerical techniques in solving boundary value problems.
Ndebele’s research involved heavy computational aspects that he had to balance with a deep theoretical understanding of the methods. This meant dedicating significant time to learning advanced numerical techniques and strengthening his coding skills in MATLAB, with the support of his supervisors and determination to persevere through setbacks.
“Being awarded my MSc cum laude is one of my proudest achievements, and I hope it inspires other students,” said Ndebele.
While conducting his research, Ndebele offered private tutorials to undergraduate mathematics students, particularly those taking first-year modules, requiring careful time management, discipline and a structured schedule.
Ndebele is now reading for his PhD in Applied Mathematics, focusing on fluid dynamics, particularly hybrid and nanofluid models. His long-term goal is to contribute to academia and research while mentoring future mathematicians.
Ndebele dedicated his master’s qualification to his mother, Ms Phikeni Ngcobo, who he said had been a pillar of strength and love, setting an example of resilience, courage and sacrifices that shaped him. He thanked his supervisors Dr Hloniphile Sithole Mthethwa, Professor Sicelo Goqo and Professor Sandile Motsa for their invaluable guidance and encouragement, and his family, particularly his brother, Mr Bongukukholwa Ndebele, whose sacrifices and dedication since the loss of their father provided a strong foundation for Ndebele. He also paid tribute to his late brothers, Mr Muziwokuphila and Mr Gcinokuhle Ndebele, whose values and spirit remain a source of strength and inspiration for him.
He also thanked his siblings, Ms Sikholiwe Ndebele, Mr Mluleki Ndebele and Ms Samkelisiwe Ndebele, for their love and encouragement that kept him grounded and acknowledged his UKZN colleagues for their support and enriching contributions.
Words: Christine Cuénod
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
