Having served as a part-time lecturer in Siswati from 2018 to 2021, Dr Lubisi is not new to UMP. Prior to joining the university, he held the position of General Manager in the Department of Cultural Affairs at the Mpumalanga Government, a role he occupied from 2007 until recently.
From 1991 to 2007, Dr Lubisi served as a Senior Lecturer in Siswati and Zulu at the University of Zululand. Before that, he acted as the Head of Department in the Department of African Languages at the same institution.
Born in Nkomazi, he began his work career on a farm and in a coal mine before pursuing his studies at the University of Zululand and the University of Pretoria. He obtained degrees in STD, B Paed, BA (Hons), B Ed, MA, and a PhD. He was a lecturer at the University of Zululand for 17 years.
"I also had the opportunity to deliver lectures to BA (Hons) students at the University of Pretoria through telematic methods. Additionally, I served as a supervisor for MA students at the same university."
His scholarly contributions include publishing numerous articles, including entries in an international folklore encyclopaedia, and presenting papers at conferences both within and outside of South Africa.
Dr Lubisi has also served as an external examiner for various universities, including the University of Zimbabwe. Additionally, he has authored several books and held memberships and leadership positions in organizations such as the South African Geographical Council, Siswati National Language Board, Silulu National Lexicographic Unit, and the Mpumalanga Provincial Language Committee.
Extensive experience and reach
Beyond academia, Dr Lubisi is a sought-after speaker at summits, as well as at church and government functions. He is a regular contributor on SABC radio, both commercial and community stations.
"UMP's name will undoubtedly gain widespread recognition as public, commercial, and community radio stations will mention the university whenever they invite me for discussions. Documentaries featuring me on TV will also highlight the University of Mpumalanga," he affirms.
Dr Lubisi holds a PhD from the University of Zululand, a master's from the University of Pretoria, a B.Ed from the University of Zululand, an Honours degree from the University of Pretoria, and a B.Paed from the University of Zululand.
His extensive body of work includes contributions to accredited articles and presentations at conferences. He has also served as a judge for the Usiba Writers Association and MNet Competition and regularly features in newspapers such as Mpumalanga News. "I will ensure collaborations with other institutions and organizations, which will extensively promote and benefit UMP," he concludes.
@ Story by Lisa Thabethe. Pictures supplied.