UNIZULU honours Apostle Mandlenkosi Dhlomo for social contributions
THE University of Zululand (UNIZULU), during its recent 2024 graduation week, conferred a degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Development Studies (Honoris Causa) to the esteemed Apostle Mandlenkosi Collins Dhlomo – the founder, senior pastor and leader of the Covenant Fellowship Church International (CFCI).
Dr Dhlomo received his degree during the second graduation ceremony of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FHSS). This was in recognition of the great strides he has made in pursuit of community upliftment throughout his career in the clergy.
Providing the rationale for Dhlomo’s conferment, FHSS Dean Professor Allucia Shokane said his work contributes significantly to higher education, the field of community development and development studies. “Interestingly, all the pillars of higher education are here – teaching and learning, research, community engagement, as well as service and administration”, said Prof Shokane.
One of the ways in which Dr Dhlomo has affected positive change in society is through an outreach project named HOPE. This programme is based on four pillars: healing, outreach, people development and evangelism (HOPE). It provides social and health support to more than 600 people infected and affected by HIV/AIDS; as well as to more than 2000 orphaned and vulnerable children. The programme is facilitated through 32 volunteers, who run garden projects in chosen communities as well as three feeding schemes for needy families.
Since its inception, HOPE has led to the establishment of clinics in rural areas like Nkandla, Mpembeni and Port Durnford. These clinics are administered by CFCI, in collaboration with the Kwazulu-natal Health Department. HOPE also operates a mobile clinic that is voluntarily run by CFCI members who are medical practitioners.
Dr Dhlomo has a vested interest in the spiritual development of the youth and a dedicated focus on assisting youth entangled in drug addiction. He runs several interventions that spur the youth to achieve academically and professionally, and attain entrepreneurial skills.
On receiving his honorary doctorate,
Dhlomo could not contain his excitement.
“I feel humbled and blessed by this gesture carried out by this prestigious institution. What an honour to be recognised for my determination, dedication and perseverance. Thank you, University of Zululand. I salute you.”
He also clarified that his recognition was a result of support he had received from multiple individuals in his life. Among the key role players who he dedicated the award to were his late parents, late parents in-law, family and CFCI brethren. He also singularly expressed gratitude to his wife, Prophetess Nomusa Dhlomo, for her unmatched faith in his abilities and constant words of encouragement.
“I grew up in the fear of the Lord; giving God my unrivalled awe and living a life guided by God. All this tutelage instilled in me a passion to lead by example and make significant strides within the humanities, while ultimately leaving a legacy for future generations to come,” Apostle Dhlomo added.
He noted that there was a necessity to “turn the wheel” to reinstate a culture of hope, accountability, responsibility, care, excellence, honesty, resilience and self-love.
Dr Dhlomo urged the audience to join him in contributing their bit to the reconstruction of their communities for the benefit of all, “as God has placed each of them on Earth to live a purpose-filled life”.
He concluded by quoting the late Mother Teresa, saying: “Together, we can do great things”.
FAMILY AND EDUCATION
Dr Dhlomo and his wife are blessed with four children. He holds a Senior Secondary Teaching Diploma and B Paed Degree (Maths and Music) from UNIZULU; a Diploma in Ministry from Rhema Bible School; a Bachelor in Ministry from Heritage of Faith Bible College in Florida, United States; and a Post-graduate Diploma in Leadership Development from the University of Stellenbosch. In addition, he has obtained multiple other qualifications from across the globe and has held many leadership roles in various structures.