Dr Lindelani Matshidze

PhD Construction Economics, 2019

What made you choose to study a PhD at Heriot-Watt?
The University's' international reputation in teaching and research. The University's diverse population provided a unique opportunity to learn from new and different cultures, plus Edinburgh is a great and historical city.

What's your favourite / most memorable memory of your time as a Heriot-Watt student?
My most memorable moment at the University was my first meeting with my Research Supervisor Professor Ogunlana. He asked me to take bus number 34, however I was on the wrong side of the road and I took the right bus to the wrong direction. Instead of a few minutes trip it took much longer, however Professor Ogunlana waited for me and I was touched by his patience and willingness to see me succeed.

Tell us about your career since graduating from Heriot-Watt.
Currently I am teaching and conducting research at University of Witwatersrand, I'm a Postdoctoral Fellow at University of Cape Town and a council member at the South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession.

How has your Heriot-Watt University education contributed to your success?
Heriot-Watt University gave me an edge. I was able to learn critical thinking, using existing theories to solve problems, as well as developing new theories.

What advice do you have for current students?
Work hard, enjoy the city and make friends.

What are your aspirations for the future?
(a) For your career?
To contribute to the betterment of South Africa, Africa and the world.
(b) For your local and wider community?
As a South African currently based in Johannesburg, I want to assist young people in training and preparing them for future employment and entrepreneurships.