A master’s degree student at the University of Venda, Fulufhelo Mabuduga, is currently gaining tutorial experience at the University of California in the United States of America, courtesy of the Mellon Foundation.

This according to Mr Rufus Kharidza, Director of Public Relations and Development at Univen, who says Maduduga’s achievement is indicative of Univen’s success stories. “It is indeed pleasing to see one of our own making a mark in the global higher education arena, even though we are operating under difficult circumstances.”

Kharidza says Mabuduga has always shown real potential since enrolling at the university in 2004. “He has won numerous awards, including being nominated as the best student in Environmental Management at the May 2005 graduation ceremony.”

According to Kharidzha, Mabuduna’s research is worth R109 000 and he also has an operational budget of R 35 000 from the foundation. This will making him more marketable in the future and ready for the working environment in South Africa.

“He is already involved with South Africa’s Kruger National Park and his hands-on strategy will assist him in his study topic – modelling the consequences of elephant damage to Marula trees,” he says.

The US-based Mellon Foundation makes grants in higher education, museums and art conservation, performing arts, conservation and the environment. “This experience will qualify Mabuduga to work particularly effectively in his field of study,” says Kharidzha.

Mabuduga left the country in August and is expected back in December 2005.