Personal Highlights:
Talent Equity and Excellence Scholarship Grantee
“Becoming a family role model while providing development opportunities for my hometown of Estcourt in the KwaZulu-Natal
Midlands have been very humbling and rewarding for me. I managed to excel academically at Estcourt Senior Secondary School and
enrolled at UKZN as a Geography and Environmental Management student. I completed a Bachelor’s degree in Geography and Environmental Management, followed by an Honours degree in International Relations, and a Master’s degree
in Community Development and PhD in Community Development. I also work as a part-time lecturer in the Community Development discipline. I applied for the scholarship because I saw it as an opportunity not only to further my studies but to become an integral part of the academic family at UKZN. The award really helps me financially and has created numerous opportunities
that I would not otherwise have had. I now have a responsibility to serve as a team player within the UKZN academic family.”
Inspirational success story:
Dr. Marole Moloi embodies a good teaching philosophy that is student-centered, transformative, and deeply rooted in the belief that education is a tool for empowerment and social change. He sees students not just as learners, but as future leaders who can drive meaningful change in society. This philosophy aligns with the current focus in higher education on fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and the practical application of knowledge. Dr. Moloi’s approach to teaching emphasizes personalized mentorship, adaptability, and creating learning environments that encourage active participation, reflective thinking, and community engagement. In today’s higher education landscape, which increasingly values inclusivity and the development of real-world skills, Dr. Moloi’s philosophy is both relevant and impactful. His commitment to assisting students from other institutions further demonstrates his belief in education as a universal right and a shared responsibility.
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A key achievement that highlights Dr. Moloi’s commitment to this teaching philosophy is his development of interdisciplinary seminars and workshops that integrate real-world issues such as community development and social justice. He regularly organizes events that bring together students from different institutions, bridging gaps and promoting collaborative learning. This approach mirrors the modern shift in higher education toward interdisciplinary learning, where students are encouraged to draw connections between their academic studies and broader societal challenges. By doing so, Dr. Moloi equips students with the critical skills needed to navigate and solve complex issues, which is increasingly prioritized in higher education today. His workshops have been instrumental in helping students apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, aligning with the growing trend of universities emphasizing experiential learning and community impact.
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Dr. Marole Moloi’s ability to inspire stems from his active involvement in youth development and community-based initiatives, which complement his student-centered teaching philosophy. Beyond his academic responsibilities, Dr. Moloi has been a key figure in the Youth Development Programme in Stanger, where he has mentored and guided young people on issues such as education, career choices, and personal development. His participation in initiatives like this showcases his belief in empowering youth not only within formal educational settings but also in broader community contexts. This outreach directly addresses the current challenge in higher education of connecting academic learning with community service and development. In addition, Dr. Moloi’s involvement in career expos in Clermont has further amplified his impact by helping students from disadvantaged backgrounds gain insights into potential career paths, thus bridging the gap between education and employability. These career expos reflect the growing emphasis in higher institutions on career readiness, skills development, and preparing students for real-world challenges. By participating in these expos, Dr. Moloi ensures that students, especially from marginalized communities, have access to information, guidance, and inspiration to pursue higher education and professional opportunities. This aligns perfectly with the current direction of higher education institutions, which are increasingly focusing on creating holistic, employable graduates who are equipped to thrive in a competitive job market. Through these activities, Dr. Moloi serves as a living example of how educators can extend their influence beyond the classroom, inspiring others in the organization and community to adopt a more inclusive and action-oriented approach to education. His involvement in community and youth programs showcases his belief in education as a lifelong process and demonstrates how educators can contribute to the society.
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Evidence of works:
https://sobeds.ukzn.ac.za/staff-profile/dr-marole-moloi/
https://wp-coh.ukzn.ac.za/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/UKZN-COH-Profile-brochure.pdf
https://ww2.coh.ukzn.ac.za/news/2019/08/aspirant-academics-receive-boost-through-scholarships/