Dr Anette Mienie, Director of Research at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), has paid heartfelt tribute to her team of dedicated professionals and emerging scholars, describing them as the driving force behind the Research Directorate’s growth and success over the past 25 years.
Reflecting on the Directorate’s journey, Dr Mienie expressed deep appreciation for the external funding partners who have played a crucial role in expanding the unit’s capacity. “It is an incredible honour to lead the Research Directorate, which has undergone significant transformation and development over the years,” she said. “I am especially grateful to the funding organisations whose support made it possible to establish critical posts within the Directorate.”
Dr Mienie acknowledged the strength of her team, noting that their energy, talent and commitment continue to inspire her leadership. “This is a dynamic and capable group of professionals, whose work significantly enhances the visibility and impact of our research endeavours.”
A Growing Team with a Shared Vision
The Directorate’s core team includes long-standing contributors Sfiso Qwabe and Sindi Ngongoma, whose institutional knowledge has helped shape its foundation. Recently, the team welcomed a new cohort of experts:
- Dr Mandla Hlongwane, Deputy Director: Intellectual Property
- Dr Melvin Mothoa, responsible for Higher Degrees and Postdoctoral Research Fellowships
- Mthobeli Myeza, overseeing NRF and Pre-grant Administration (NRF-funded projects)
- Makhosi Cebekhulu, Intellectual Property Administrator
- Nozipho Mnguni, Secretary: Higher Degrees and Postdoctoral Research Fellowships
The team is further strengthened by a group of interns who bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm:
- Portia Dlamini (Intern: Intellectual Property)
- Senamile Zuma (Intern: University Capacity Development Programme, Grant and Ethics)
- Celani Tshazwa (Intern: Research Support)
Together, this multidisciplinary team ensures the smooth functioning of key research operations, from intellectual property management and postgraduate research to ethics and institutional capacity development.
Supporting Research Journeys at MUT
Having been at the forefront of research development at MUT, Dr Mienie highlighted one of the most rewarding aspects of her role: engaging with the journeys of researchers across the institution.
“Being part of our researchers’ academic and professional growth—understanding their passions, challenges, and ambitions—has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” she shared.
She also recognised the many forms of support extended to the Research Directorate—often unsolicited but always impactful. “This collective support has elevated both the Directorate and the MUT brand in meaningful and measurable ways,” she concluded.
Dr Mienie’s leadership continues to steer the Directorate towards its mission of building a vibrant and inclusive research culture, supported by strong partnerships, a committed team, and a shared vision for excellence.
