UKZN School of Education lecturer Dr Michael Mthethwa successfully completed his PhD in Sport Science with his novel study titled, “Health-Related Activeness of Student Teachers in Durban”.
Mthethwa was supervised by Professor Michael Anthony Samuel of the School of Education and Professor Rowena Naidoo of UKZN’s Discipline of Sport Science.
Reflecting on this achievement, Mthethwa said, ‘I am deeply honoured to have completed a PhD in Sport Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. As I advance in my career, I am committed to pursuing further research, aiming to contribute fully to the field of Sport Science.’
Mthethwa’s research introduced the concept of ‘Health-Related Activeness’ (HRA), an interdisciplinary framework that explores the role of active choices in shaping physical, nutritional, emotional and social well-being. Through a mixed-method approach, the study delved into the health behaviours of student teachers, identifying the challenges and motivations influencing their lifestyle choices. The findings underscored the connection between personal well-being and professional development, providing valuable insights into how health impacts teacher education.
‘The study contributes to a deeper understanding of health in the context of teacher education,’ said Mthethwa. ‘It goes beyond conventional medical paradigms, acknowledging the modern factors that influence health and lifestyle behaviours of student teachers.’
Over the past few decades, there has been a push to reassess global health frameworks but Mthethwa saw a gap in the literature from developing countries. His study is one of the first from a South African researcher to re-conceptualise health in this way, focusing on student teachers as a critical population in need of attention. By introducing the concept of HRA, Mthethwa’s research offers a nuanced understanding of how student teachers navigate health behaviours in a demanding professional landscape.
‘Through rigorous theoretical and methodological analysis, this study not only contributes to the broader dialogue on health but also establishes a more relevant and comprehensive framework for assessing health-related activeness in educational settings,’ he said.
Like many PhD candidates, Mthethwa encountered challenges during his study, particularly balancing his professional responsibilities with his academic commitments. ‘There were many sleepless nights, and I relied heavily on the support of colleagues and family members to overcome the difficulties,’ he said. He credits their encouragement and assistance as key factors in his success.
‘UKZN’s environment, supported by a team of dedicated professionals, made for a productive and enriching learning experience,’ said Mthethwa. He thanked supervisors Samuel and Naidoo for their invaluable guidance and mentorship throughout his studies.
Born and raised on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, Mthethwa’s passion for sport began early in life. ‘My involvement in rugby, cricket and body-boarding during my school years significantly contributed to my physical and nutritional health,’ he said. His personal experience with sports, despite challenges such as limited access to equipment, inspired him to pursue further studies in the field.
Mthethwa continues to stay active outside his academic work, serving as the captain for the Amanzimtoti Rugby Club and playing in the 1st XV.
With a PhD under his belt, Mthethwa is now focused on his future aspirations which include continuing his academic journey, with the goal of becoming a senior scholar. He hopes to further contribute to the academic field and inspire future generations of teachers and researchers to prioritise health and well-being in both their personal and professional lives.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini