UNIZULU Academic Breaks New Ground Through Book

Media statement by Gcina Nhleko, Director: Communications and Marketing at the University of Zululand

The University of Zululand (UNIZULU) celebrates its academic in the Faculty of Arts, Mr Khenani Makhoba, who has broken new ground as the first individual to publish a book in his chosen genre in IsiZulu.

Makhoba is a prolific columnist and writer who has a number of IsiZulu books under his name. He has, until recently, only published short stories, poetry and other non-fiction books.

His latest work, titled: Amancoko Okuqala, studies the genre of jokes. A self-proclaimed man of humour, the lecturer in the Department of African Languages and Culture, said his love for comedy dates back to his childhood when he and his friends used to engage in ukujovana (teasing). This, he recalls, taught him to be witty. “With jokes, communication is made easier, accessible and understandable to everyone. I sometimes use jokes as ice-breakers when I lecture my students. I find that jokes are applicable to every aspect of life but the trick is in the interpretation. Some jokes may not be funny to some because of language barriers,” Makhoba said.

Amancoko Okuqala was published as a result of a Master’s degree research project which Makhoba started in 1992 but did not complete as he wound up changing his research topic. He compiled the book strategically to accommodate readers of all age groups, but most especially the elderly and primary school learners. The book covers the theory behind jokes and features a variety of jokes which Makhoba either wrote or borrowed from friends and family members. “I believe that such books would be essential for primary schools as they would encourage children to be more confident to speak in different spheres. But most importantly, I believe that there is always a lesson to be learnt in jokes. Cartoonists like Jonathan Shapiro for instance are a good example of this,” Makhoba said.

Professor Gregory Kamwendo, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts at UNIZULU, commended Makhoba on his hard work and accomplishment, promising to have an official launch the book early in 2018.

Mr Makhoba is available for interviews via ndlovusp@unizulu.ac.za/ (035) 902 6665. 

For a copy of Amancoko Okuqala, kindly email Makhoba at MakhobaK@unizulu.ac.za.

Issued by:

Sinegugu Ndlovu

PR Manager

(035) 902 6665

ndlovusp@unizulu.ac.za