Emmanuel Mkumbuzi
Durban
Summary
Passionate and experienced Chemistry Teacher with 15 years of expertise in delivering engaging and effective instruction across various educational levels. I specialize in creating a positive, student-centered learning environment that encourages curiosity and critical thinking. With a focus on innovative teaching methods and a commitment to student success, I align my approach with the latest global trends in education. Currently completing a Ph.D. in Chemistry, I am dedicated to continuous learning and eager to contribute my skills to inspire and support the next generation of learners.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Private Online Tutor
Self-employeed
12.2021 - Current
- Develop customized lesson plans tailored to meet each student’s learning goals and academic needs.
- Simplify complex chemistry concepts to enhance student comprehension and engagement.
- Create digital learning materials, including quizzes, presentations, and video lessons, to support online instruction.
- Provide detailed feedback on assignments, tests, and lab reports to help students improve their understanding and performance.
- Conduct regular assessments to monitor student progress and adjust teaching strategies accordingly.
- Prepare students for exams by offering review sessions, practice problems, and test-taking strategies.
- Encourage critical thinking by applying chemistry concepts to real-world scenarios and problem-solving exercises.
- Offer flexible tutoring hours to accommodate students’ schedules across different time zones.
- Motivate students and mentor them by helping them set and achieve academic goals.
Chemistry, biology and maths online tutor
Studiosity
03.2016 - 12.2021
- Delivered targeted tutoring in Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics for students from Grade 3 to Undergraduate level, effectively addressing diverse content area needs
- Facilitated online learning by breaking down complex science concepts to enhance comprehension and real-world application
- Remained current with cutting-edge developments in Chemistry and Biology to provide the most relevant instruction
- Employed the 'help not answers technique' to empower struggling students in completing science homework independently
- Enhanced student performance through strategic test preparation, improved note-taking, and mastery of material content
- Conducted thorough needs assessments to create customized tutoring services tailored to individual student requirements
- Adapted teaching methodologies to align with varied learning styles, ensuring optimal educational outcomes.
Chemistry and Biology teacher
High Achievers Coach Educational Centre
12.2014 - 12.2015
- Developed and distributed innovative learning aids in Chemistry and Biology to enhance student comprehension
- Delivered personalized support to students, facilitating mastery of complex concepts in Chemistry
- Supervised laboratory experiments, ensuring safety protocols while preparing and evaluating student assignments
- Strengthened understanding of Chemistry principles through tailored assistance on student assignments
- Monitored student progress and collaborated on the development of comprehensive progress reports
- Designed and implemented engaging daily lessons on core Chemistry and Biology topics
- Offered after-school tutoring sessions to support students in need of additional help
- Stayed informed on the latest advancements in Chemistry and Biology to ensure cutting-edge instruction
- Actively participated in the selection of materials that enhance both theoretical and practical curriculum
- Collaborated with colleagues across Science disciplines to optimize experiments, projects, and curriculum development
- Employed a variety of instructional methodologies, including lectures, discussions, and audio-visual aids, to create an engaging learning environment.
Quality Assurance intern
Varichem pharmaceuticals (Prochem)
10.2012 - 07.2013
- Conducted comprehensive analysis of effluent water to ensure environmental compliance
- Ensured the quality of deionised water through stringent control measures
- Oversaw raw material handling processes to optimize operational efficiency
- Maintained strict adherence to ISO 9001 QMS and ISO 14001 EMS standards to uphold quality management
- Stayed current with health and safety regulations regarding hazardous chemical usage and disposal
- Executed laboratory testing of plant and lab chemicals to guarantee compliance with environmental safety standards
- Ensured optimal laboratory performance through meticulous maintenance, cleaning, and calibration of equipment
- Generated and disseminated weekly laboratory reports to the Quality Assurance Manager to inform decision-making
- Efficiently captured and managed test results using Navision software for data accuracy
- Managed procurement of laboratory chemical supplies to ensure uninterrupted operations.
Chemistry and Physical Science Teacher
St Mathias High School
09.2009 - 08.2010
- Developed and implemented a comprehensive core chemistry curriculum aligned with state standards for high school students
- Created engaging and innovative lesson plans that maintained student interest and enhanced learning outcomes
- Fostered a positive and dynamic learning environment that encouraged lively discussions and critical thinking
- Provided constructive feedback to students and parents, ensuring transparent communication on academic performance and progress
- Supervised students in conducting complex laboratory experiments, emphasizing safety and proper chemical handling
- Collaborated with colleagues to enhance instructional materials and improve overall teaching effectiveness
- Established strong relationships with students and peers, promoting a supportive educational community.
Grade 3 Teacher
Njerama Primary School
06.2009 - 08.2009
- Functioned as the primary third-grade teacher, leading classroom instruction and management
- Designed and implemented structured classroom routines that enhanced predictability and fostered student independence
- Utilized standards-based strategies to prepare students for testing, driving academic achievement
- Employed guided reading and mixed-ability group instruction to effectively differentiate learning
- Conducted individual conferences with students to set and discuss personalized reading and writing goals
- Actively participated in weekly staff development meetings, exchanging insights on innovative instructional practices
- Developed comprehensive lesson plans that integrated math, reading, writing, science, and social studies
- Customized all lesson plans to meet diverse student needs, facilitating their transition from non-proficient to proficient levels in every subject
- Contributed as an assistant coach for the school's boys' soccer team, promoting teamwork and sportsmanship.
Education
Ph.D. - Chemistry
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Durban, South Africa04.2025
Master of Science - Chemistry
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Durban, South Africa09.2018
Bachelor of Science - Applied Chemistry
National University of Science And Technology (NUST)
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe11.2014
Skills
- Online tools proficiency
- Student Engagement
- Self-discipline
- Motivational Techniques
Publications
- Emmanuel Mkumbuzi, Werner E. van Zyl. Synthesis and structures of zinc and cadmium bis ( dithiophosphonate ) complexes, Journal of molecular structure, Feb 2021,10.1016/j.molstruc.2020.129338
- Emmanuel Mkumbuzi, Michael Nivendran Pillay, and Werner Ewald van Zyl. Reaction mechanisms in microwave-assisted lignin depolymerisation in hydrogen-donating solvents, Green Processing and Synthesis, Nov 2023, 10.1515/gps-2023-0154
- Emmanuel Mkumbuzi, Werner E. van Zyl. Facile microwave assisted preparation of Fe3O4 nanoparticles supported on sugarcane bagasse derived carbonised cellulose nanocrystals, Chemical Papers,Jan 2024, 10.1007/s11696-023-03282-5
- Emmanuel Mkumbuzi, Bishop Bruce Sithole, and Werner Ewald van Zyl. Microwave-assisted extraction of acetosolv lignin from sugarcane bagasse and electrospinning of lignin/PEO nanofibres for carbon fibre production, Green Processing and Synthesis, July 2024, 10.1515/gps-2023-0258
Hobbies and Interests
Tennis, documentaries, exercising, motor mechanics, gardening, carpentry work
Personal Information
- Date of Birth: 25/01/1990
- Nationality: Zimbabwean
- Marital Status: Single
- Visa Status: Permanent Resident of South Africa
References
- Prof W.E van Zyl, Professor, School of Chemistry and Physics, UKZN Westville campus, Durban, SOUTH AFRICA, vanzylw@ukzn.ac.za
- Dr Michael Pillay, School of Chemistry and Physics, UKZN Westville campus, Durban, SOUTH AFRICA, niven.sa@gmail.com
- Dr Vashen Moodley, School of Chemistry, Durban University of Technology, Durban,SOUTH AFRICA, vashenmoodley@gmail.com
Timeline
Private Online Tutor
Self-employeed
12.2021 - Current
Chemistry, biology and maths online tutor
Studiosity
03.2016 - 12.2021
Chemistry and Biology teacher
High Achievers Coach Educational Centre
12.2014 - 12.2015
Quality Assurance intern
Varichem pharmaceuticals (Prochem)
10.2012 - 07.2013
Chemistry and Physical Science Teacher
St Mathias High School
09.2009 - 08.2010
Grade 3 Teacher
Njerama Primary School
06.2009 - 08.2009
Ph.D. - Chemistry
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Master of Science - Chemistry
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Bachelor of Science - Applied Chemistry
National University of Science And Technology (NUST)
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