A message about an overseas research opportunity sent North-West University (NWU) PhD student Thamaga Boiketlo into celebration mode. He read the email several times, recorded a video singing “Million little miracles”, and called his family with the news.

Thamaga, who is pursuing a PhD in physics, was selected for the Erasmus+ mobility programme at the University of Craiova in Romania from 1 April to 31 May 2026. The programme allows him to continue his work on MXene-based materials, while he gains access to specialised equipment and international research networks.

What began as a research opportunity soon developed into broader academic engagement. During his stay, Thamaga engaged with academics and researchers at the University of Craiova to discuss future collaborations and international partnerships. He also became part of the internationally recognised Shakespeare International Festival, which runs from 21 to 31 May 2026.

“My interest was driven by a simple curiosity about how things work,” said Thamaga. “The turning point in my life came when I was introduced to solid-state physics during my undergraduate studies. It was then that I realised physics is more than just theory, it can be used to design and understand real materials with useful applications.”

His research journey began during his undergraduate studies, where he majored in chemistry and physics. He later pursued postgraduate studies and developed an interest in computational physics and density functional theory. His current work combines laboratory experiments, characterisation techniques and computational modelling.

“At the University of Craiova, I will continue to expand my work on MXene-based materials,” he said. “This collaboration gives me access to specialised equipment and expertise that complement my current research. I feel like I am getting closer to seeing the whole picture of my research instead of just one side of it.”

Beyond his research, Thamaga recently founded a Physics Society in the faculty to connect students with research opportunities and encourage scientific curiosity.

He credited his family with helping him stay focused during the difficult stages of his PhD journey.

“They may not understand the deeper concept of my research, but they understand the effort, late nights, early mornings and my hunger for it,” he said. “Their encouragement and belief in me serve as a reminder of why I started this journey in the first place.”

Thamaga encouraged other students to pursue international opportunities even when they feel uncertain.

“You will never be ready, but you develop into these opportunities,” he said. “Just apply, even if you feel unsure.”

He hopes the Erasmus+ experience will shape his future career in academia and research. He plans to lecture in physics, mentor students and contribute to advanced materials research.