Professor Hangwelani Hope Magidimisha-Chipungu received her full professorship in town and regional planning from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN).
Professor Hangwelani Hope Magidimisha-Chipungu has made history – she is the first black woman to achieve full professorship in town and regional planning from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN).
The professor, who is dedicated to creating cities that are inclusive, smart, and resilient, is the founder and chief editor of the Journal of Inclusive Cities and Built Environment. She actively advocates for urban environments that cater to the diverse needs of their inhabitants,
“I share a vision with many to create positive urban transformation for the benefit of all people. I am an eternal optimist and believe that greatness can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to creating positive change in our cities and societies,” she said.
Some of Professor Magidimisha-Chipungu’s noteworthy achievements include her appointments as the youngest UKZN SARChI (South African Research Chairs Initiative) chair for inclusive cities, alternate chair for the South African Council for Planners and a member of the eThekwini planning commission.
She has authored and co-authored several books and peer-reviewed many journal articles. Her most recent book is titled The Anatomy of Inclusive Cities in Southern Africa.
The Dean and Head of the School of Built Environment and Development Studies at UKZN, Professor Ernest Khalema congratulated Professor Magidimisha-Chipungu on her achievements.
“This promotion to full professor is testament of UKZN’s commitment to excellence through leadership. We are proud of Professor Magidimisha-Chipungu, particularly for her world record-breaking accomplishments, mentorship, and tenacity to date. We look forward to increased trailblazing from the only female full professor in the field of Town and Regional Planning in the nation,” said Professor Khalema.
Professor Magidimisha-Chipungu said this achievement had demanded extensive training and unwavering commitment. She added that it had taken years of dedication to academia, effective mentoring of students, imparting knowledge through teaching, engaging with the community, and establishing both national and international recognition.
“I am grateful to my family, UKZN, colleagues, friends, and students for supporting me throughout my academic journey. I am ready for the next phase of my career. I plan to spend the coming years trying to mentor more planners to become the best version of themselves including becoming full professors,” said Professor Magidimisha-Chipungu.