Sibusiso Lindokuhle Mahlangu is a living testimony of how the international forum of developing and developed countries known as the Group of 20 (G20), among other international relations organisations, is benefitting South Africans.
He is a candidate civil engineer who holds a Bachelor of Science Honours in Civil Engineering from the University of Pécs in Hungary. The opportunity to study abroad was made possible by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
The DHET collaborates with various countries, including Germany, China, Hungary, and the United States, to provide scholarships at all academic levels.
“I learned about the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship programme through the DHET international scholarship website. It was an opportunity that aligned with my academic ambitions, and I applied after carefully reviewing the requirements and benefits,” explained Mahlangu.
He received a scholarship to study in Hungary in 2018 and completed his honours degree in January 2022.
“I had the opportunity to interact with students from diverse backgrounds, which broadened my perspective on engineering solutions and global best practice in the industry. While it was initially difficult to adjust, I learned to be independent, resilient, and open-minded,” he said.
Professionally, he added, the experience reinforced the value of networking and building international relationships, which is crucial in today’s globalised engineering industry.
Throughout his career, Mahlangu has worked in various roles in civil engineering companies in the country. He currently works as an Intermediate Civil Engineer in the mine residual facilities field in the mining industry.
“Since returning to South Africa, I have applied my engineering expertise in various ways. As an Intermediate Civil Engineer, I contribute to the mining industry to support sustainable development. My exposure to international engineering standards has helped me bring new insights into design processes, quality assurance, and operational improvements,” Mahlangu explained.
On a personal level, he said studying abroad made him more adaptable and solution-oriented, which has been valuable in his career and personal growth.
“I continue to share my knowledge through mentorship and technical support, helping others advance in engineering and related fields,” he added.
Trade and economic relations
Mahlangu believes that Hungary and South Africa have growing trade and economic relations, particularly in areas like education, technology, and infrastructure development.
He said the scholarship programme is a great example of Hungary’s investment in skills development and international cooperation.
“Strengthening these ties can lead to more collaborative projects, knowledge exchange, and investment opportunities that benefit both countries,” he said.
Furthermore, he believes that the G20 is crucial because it promotes economic cooperation, development, and global stability.
As someone who has benefited from an international scholarship, Mahlangu sees firsthand how global partnerships in education and skills development contribute to economic growth.
“Through such initiatives, young professionals from developing countries can gain expertise abroad and bring back valuable knowledge to contribute to their home countries. The G20 facilitates such cooperation by fostering educational and economic exchange programmes between nations,” he said.
The Group of 20 (G20) is an international forum of both developing and developed countries dedicated to resolving global economic and financial issues. South Africa assumed the G20 Presidency from 1 December last year to November 2025. The country’s presidency will culminate in the 20th Heads of State and Government Summit, which will take place in Johannesburg on 22 and 23 November.
Visit: www.g20.org
For more information on the DHET scholarship visit www.internationalscholarships.dhet.gov.za
Did you know?
Hungary is a member of the European Union, which maintains a significant partnership with the G20, influencing global economic and political discussions.
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