BGRFDr. Lokesh Ramnath Maharajh

I have been lecturing at UKZ-N for eighteen (18) years. My research is mainly located in the interdisciplinary field of Curriculum and Religion. This is not a common combination, and it allows me to provide insight into the shaping of curriculum and religion. I have a standing in society as a religious scholar and religious leader. This standing arises from my PhD (qualification) and applying my academic work (scholarship). The national broadcaster (SABC) has recognised me as a religious leader and religious scholar. I appeared on SAFM’s Facts of Faith hosted by Naye Lupondwana to discuss the Hindu perspective on “Cultural Appropriation” after the singer Rihanna appeared semi-nude with Hindu symbols. I also participated in Facts of Faith on “Law of Karma”. I drew on my research from my PhD on “Perceptions and possibilities of the Bhagavad Gita for values education”. I was commissioned in 2017 to offer insights into scriptures (Ramayana) to a national television audience weekly. I am invited regularly by Lotus FM (SABC) to offer insights into Hindu festivals. These are distinct examples of where my scholarship speaks exceptionally to UKZ-N’s community engagement policy.

 My work and scholarly insights have extensive reach through television and radio, which is frequent. On 23 January 2021, I participated in a panel discussion on “Vishwa Samvad Shrinkla (World Dialogue Series) in commemoration of World Hindi Day organised by the Hindi Secretariat of Mauritius and India. I also participated in a webinar organised by the Study and Research Chair of India in March 2021. Here, I also drew on my experiences from my PhD in the Bhagavad Gita, my Honours studies in Hindi, and my experience as an Examiner of Grade 12 Hindi. As Head of the Priests’ Council of the South African Hindu Maha Sabha, I have participated in their Priests’ Accreditation application to the South African Qualifications Authority. I have used my experience and knowledge of Curriculum Studies to prepare the curriculum documents for the accreditation process. This demonstrates participation in Community Human Capital Development Activities, which develop people outside of the university and impacts the broader communities and society