The Beer Team from the Department of Food Science and Technology (DFST) recently showcased their talent and passion at the Intervarsitybrew™: Brewing & Tasting Challenge in Bloemfontein.

The team is bursting with pride over their incredible achievement of clinching two third prizes in the prestigious African WiLD Ale (sponsored by SAB and Heineken Beverages) and Aged Beer (sponsored by Shimadzu) categories. Competing against a fierce lineup of 18 universities, they truly showcased the amazing power of dedication and creativity. This thrilling event was co-hosted by the Central University of Technology (CUT) and the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA), making their success even more electrifying.

Lamla Mayekiso, the captain and technician at DFST, says every year a dynamic team is brought together. This elite squad consists of ten enthusiastic students, each selected based on their dedication and attendance throughout the year. But that's not all. From this spirited group, three exceptional students arehandpicked to join the captain and their mentor in the thrilling Intervarsitybrew™: Brewing & Tasting Challenge. This year's team is an inspiring blend of talent and dedication, led by mentor Thembelani Xolo, accompanied by Bongisiwe Zozo, Wayne Lindeque and Asisiti Gcolotela. Together, they brought a wealth of experience and creativity to the table and tackle any challenge that comes their way.

Mayekiso noted that this competition is a celebration of creativity, skill, and passion for brewing, and the excitement is palpable

“The core aim and the purpose of the brewing team is to educate students about beer making and careers in the brewing industry, as well as responsible drinking awareness. One of the end goals is to showcase the ability to brew different beer styles using African ingredients only.”

She continues: “Getting third place in the two categories of Wild African Ale (sponsored by SAB and Heineken Beverages) and Aged beer (sponsored by Shimadzu) categories was the best highlight. The competition is growing year by year, as this year, with about 18 universities participating in the competition, and each year the competition is growing, and universities are investing a lot in their equipment.”

Mayekiso expresses pride and excitement about the CPUT team's exceptional performance in the prestigious Intervarsity Brewing and Tasting Competition, highlighting their extraordinary talent, creativity, and dedication. “These accomplishments demonstrate not just our technical prowess but also our dedication to creativity and using brewing to celebrate African history.

Working with native African ingredients, especially sorghum, gave our students tremendous practical experience. Deeply ingrained in African agricultural culture, this ancient grain created new opportunities for making distinctive, regionally inspired drinks. The contest served as a reminder that re-establishing a connection with our cultural history is frequently the key to creativity.”

She adds that this accomplishment serves as a reminder that there are no boundaries to “our potential when we embrace our African identity, integrate traditional knowledge with modern technology, and strive for excellence”. “Our students have proved that CPUT is not merely participating in the future of African brewing; we are actively defining it. Let's rejoice in this accomplishment and take it as motivation to keep striving for greatness in whatever we do.”

Mayekiso expresses his admiration for the seminar, noting that it was well organised by CUT and BASA from the beginning of the preparation to the end. They provided support by supplying ingredients and bottles. The audience, consisting of students, attended an online course on brewing, which included training on key aspects to consider, as well as a sensory evaluation session. During this training, students learned how to taste beer and identify off-flavours to avoid.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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A Master’s student and clinical instructor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences recently scooped the award for best oral presentation at the Society of Medical Laboratory Technology of South Africa (SMLTSA) Congress.

Koketso Mogashoa said she felt extremely proud to have won the award.

“It was a great honour to have been voted the best presenter at the SMLTSA Congress, among a panel of exceptional presenters on the day. This made me reflect on all the hard work, sacrifice and dedication I put into this research, and it has motivated me to persevere to complete my research study with great excellence.”

Her presentation was titled: Elevated levels of TNF-α associated with endothelial dysfunction.

“My research investigates the possible use of a panel of biomarkers for early detection of endothelial dysfunction to enable timely intervention and reduce long-term complications. Endothelial dysfunction and inflammation are regarded as early events of cardiovascular disease, a common complication and leading cause of death among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Identifying non- or minimally invasive methods for early detection of endothelial dysfunction can facilitate early diagnosis and treatment while opening the possibility of preventing endothelial dysfunction.”

Koketso was born in the Limpopo province “and grew up in humble beginnings as a child playing in the dusty streets of Mankweng, a township commonly known as Turfloop”.

“I grew up with a quiet determination to make a success out of my life and make my family and community proud.”

Asked why she decided to follow a career in biomedical sciences, she said: “It all started with a desire to help others, and with my growing interest in investigative science, biology and human health. I knew this would be the ideal career for me. As a scientist, I am always motivated by these four questions: What how, when, and why.”

She expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed towards making her presentation a success.

“I am grateful and indebted to everyone who contributed toward this success story namely, both my supervisors (Prof Glenda Davison and Dr Don Matshazi) for their unwavering support and dedication to my journey, not forgetting the Ultrasound team of collaborators in the Department of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences, and the Cardiometabolic Health Research Unit team for their collective input and support in the preparation of my presentation for the SMLTSA Congress.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Advancement Department proudly hosted the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards and Brian Figaji Scholarship event at Bellville Campus recently, celebrating the remarkable achievements and inspiring journeys of outstanding individuals.

The Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards, launched in October 2018 by Prof Chris Nhlapo, aim to inspire excellence among students by providing them with vital financial support and mentoring to fuel their pursuit of further studies. Additionally, the Prof Brian Figaji Scholarship for Women in Engineering stands as a beacon of empowerment for exceptional female engineering students at CPUT, recognising their academic brilliance, leadership potential, and dedication to making a meaningful difference in society.

Speaking at the event, Nhlapo congratulated the “talented” awardees of the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards. “To be a recipient of a Vice Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards, you have to be the best of the best…We are immensely proud of you. In my calendar, this is actually one of the best moments of the institution…

“I hope that today is the beginning of a long academic journey that you will traverse.”

Prof Joseph Kioko, Chairperson of the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards Committee, paid tribute to the Vice-Chancellor’s inspiring vision in establishing this award, which creates a powerful platform for the emergence of new greatness. “This year, that platform attracted 18 ambitious applicants from South Africa, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, showing the vibrant and diverse intellectual community we are fostering.”

Advancement Department Director, Mandla Maseko, said the vice-chancellor observed that some of these top-performing graduates were entering industries that did not align with their passions, while others aspired to become academics but lacked support. This programme was therefore established to develop and retain such talent.

“It aims to recognise, reward, and support academically excellent Master’s and Doctoral students at CPUT who demonstrate strong potential to contribute positively to society and embody the University’s graduate attributes. Ultimately, the programme contributes to the development of the next generation of academics, academic supervisors, and research capacity, benefiting not only the University but also the country as a whole,” Maseko noted.

Figaji said he was “indebted” to the Mauerberger Foundation Fund (MFF) for offering to fund a scholarship in his name and for giving him the option to choose the institution where he would like to have this scholarship established. “I am also indebted to the leadership at CPUT for the enthusiastic acceptance of the scholarship proposal. Both gestures make me feel validated but also humbled…I have now succeeded in establishing a scholarship for female engineers that hopefully will encourage female students to not only study engineering but also advance the knowledge through research and innovation. Congratulations to Lanay [De Reuck] and Refiloe [Selai] for being the torch bearers that will lead the way and set the standards for others to follow.”

Both students made presentations on their research journeys. Lanay’s research title is: Synthesis of an Eco-friendly Ag/CQD/g-C₃N₄ Composite for Photocatalytic Degradation of Methyl Orange. Refiloe’s research title is: Mathematical modelling of wind-induced vibrations in transmission line conductors.

Maseko said through this scholarship, the MFF and Figaji seek to break barriers to education for women in engineering, ensuring that deserving students have the financial resources and opportunities to succeed in their Master’s and Doctoral studies, and to become the next generation of engineers, researchers, leaders, innovators, and change-makers.

“The throughput rate of the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards is very good and, in recent years, there has been at least one graduate from the programme in every graduation ceremony, demonstrating its growth and maturity. The Figaji Scholarship, on the other hand, was only launched recently, and the first two recipients are still completing their studies, so there are no outcome reports available yet. Both programmes are funded by the MFF, and therefore, it was both efficient and practical to host a single joint event…”

The programme also featured presentations on research areas and topics by the 2025 awardees. Nhlapo and Advocate Dianna Yach, the MFF Chairperson, distributed certificates prior to each student presentation.

The students and their research titles were as follows:

• Babalwa Gqomfa (Doctor of Environmental Management): "Prevalence of Micro- and Nano-Plastics in Selected Areas of Cape Town: An Environmental Risk Assessment and Metagenomic Analysis of Microbial Communities."
• Nomnqophiso Zantanta (Doctor of Horticulture): "The Feasibility of Soilless Cultivation of Selected Indigenous Legumes as Fodder Crops for Small-Scale Livestock Farming in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa." Nomnqophiso said: “Today I am receiving the award again this year. I stand here with a clear vision and a stronger purpose- one that seeks to contribute to sustainable agriculture and food security in our country.”
• Kudzai Mugejo (Doctor of Engineering in Civil Engineering): "Infrastructure Performance and Water Governance for Climate Change Adaptation in Smallholder Farming Systems in the Western Cape, South Africa."
• Additionally, there was a message from Dr Murendeni Nethengwe, a former recipient who has graduated and holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Sciences.

Yach said the MFF’s continuing support for the CPUT Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards stems from their deep and enduring commitment to growing future leaders who are devoted to advancing social justice and social cohesion, ethics, good governance, and human rights – aligned with our core mission. Prof Driekie Hay-Swemmer, the Executive Director of the Office of the Vice Chancellor and Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Operations, powerfully delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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CPUT Dental Technology students are at the forefront of protecting and giving back the smiles to South Africans through sophisticated dental prosthesis and protective guards.

CPUT Dental Technology Lecturer Dr Quintin Norval says the loss of a smile through either injury, disease or defect can have a profound impact on an individual’s confidence.

“The work we do can be two-fold. It is firstly to try and educate youngsters about the importance of mouth hygiene so that they protect their teeth against disease, and it is also about helping someone to replace something they once lost. This has widespread benefits like better digestion and a boost in confidence.”

CPUT is home to a cutting edge Dental Technology and Dental Assistant School which does numerous community outreach projects.

Norval says the days of putty imprints are long gone and that dental technology is going fully digital now.

“3D Dentistry means we use scans and 3D printing to create the prosthetics and we can do this virtually and anywhere in the world,”

The school recently worked with a youth rugby club in Saldanha to produce mouth guards for the young men.  The pro-bono guards are custom made and will help protect the youngsters mouths during games and training.

Written by Lauren Kansley
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Liaises with the media and writes press releases about interesting developments at CPUT.

With heartfelt dedication, the CPUT Golf Day Planning Committee, led by Johnny Basson, Manager of the Business Unit in the Finance Department, successfully hosted the first corporate golf day at the Kuilsriver Golf Course, bringing together the community for a day of connection and support.

“This initiative was launched in response to the urgent need for the development of a golf driving range at the Bellville Campus of CPUT,” said Basson.

He emphasised that this golf day aims to raise funds for creating a facility that will play a crucial role in the student development initiative. “This project will not only strengthen the sporting culture within the university but will also contribute to skills development and the overall well-being of our students.”

Basson also announced plans to make the golf day a staple on the university calendar, and the excitement is already building for the next event, set for 23 October 2026. The CPUT community is encouraged to mark their calendars and prepare for a day of fun, camaraderie, and competition on the greens. “The feedback we received from the golfers who participated is just overwhelming. It's been described as one of the best golf days that they played in. Thanks to my amazing A-Team for working together to pull this off.

“We hereby appeal for your continued support of this initiative. It is a worthy cause that directly benefits our students,” Basson noted.

He expressed his belief that, with the dedication and support already shown, this project is poised to flourish and shine as a highlight on the CPUT calendar.

“We want to express our sincere gratitude towards our Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chris Nhlapo, and his executive team for their support.”

Basson expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the sponsors, the golfers, and the Kuilsriver Golf Course for their unwavering support, celebrating the spirit of community and collaboration. “Events like this heavily rely on such support to be a success. Cathy Cloete and the Marketing [and Communication] Department, Advancement [Department], Calvin Maseko, RBU [Residence Business Unit], DSA [Division of Student Affairs], were just proof of how we can come together and continue to grow from greats.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The Operations Management team put Ubuntu at the centre of a drive to support students ahead of the exams.
As part of a student-centred activation, the department supported about 60 students with essential exam-readiness packs.
The objective was to help reduce exam stress and to reinforce a sense of belonging and peer support.
The event also provided a space for encouragement between peers—students checked in with one another, shared revision tips, and expressed appreciation for the sense of care on campus. The result was a visible boost in morale and a shared commitment to finish the academic year strongly.
This activation is the first in a continuing series designed to ensure that no student is left behind. Over the coming cycles, Operations Management will:

• Scale support before each exam period, informed by simple needs assessments.
• Grow student leadership, with peer teams coordinating sign-ups, packing and handovers.
• Strengthen partnerships with sponsors and units across CPUT to broaden reach and sustainability.
• Share good practice — templates, timelines and checklists — to help other departments run similar initiatives.

The Department thanked Prof Mercy Makhitha, Dean of the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences, Shoprite, the Marketing and Communication Department and Operation Management staff members for making the event possible.

Departments, alumni, and partners who wish to collaborate on upcoming drives are warmly invited to contact the Operations Management Department.

Written by CPUT News
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The Global Institute for Teacher Education and Society (GITES) Symposium is more than just an annual event; it serves as a catalyst for creating sustainable scholarly networks that transcend disciplinary and institutional boundaries. The symposium was recently held at the Granger Bay Campus.

The annual GITES symposium was established in 2023 to create an inspiring platform for academics, teachers, policymakers, and community members to engage in vital discussions about the contemporary issues facing South African education and beyond. The discourse emphasises the crucial need to cultivate social justice in education, fostering a united community of practice that brings together all stakeholders in society to drive meaningful change.

This year’s symposium was themed: Can Educational Equity and Quality be advanced in both the Global South and North within the context of Artificial Intelligence? The inspiring speakers included Prof Muhammad Khalifa from Ohio State University, Dr Robyn Whittaker from Africa Voices Dialogue, and Prof Andrew Hargreaves from Boston College and the University of Ottawa.

Prof Zayd Waghid, GITES Director, said this symposium had a strong internationalisation aspect by drawing attendees from across the globe, including Africa, Europe and Asia. Waghid said this year’s speakers had made a significant contribution to the field of education. “The perspectives of the keynotes provided much food for thought and dialogical engagement that were both insightful and provocative around the need to re-imagine South African education within the context of Artificial Intelligence towards realising equity and social justice.”

Waghid, Assoc Prof in the Faculty of Education, noted that one of the major highlights of the event included the work that the Africa Voices Dialogue has made concerning establishing a network of leading African scholars in debating contemporary issues influencing Africa and how the organisation has navigated around some of the major issues towards promoting equitable and quality education in several African schools. Khalifa’s talk on the influence of colonisation on education and its link to Artificial Intelligence was both provocative and necessary in creating discomfort around “our positions as educators”.

“Hargreaves' talk was an emotional one that enabled the audience to situate themselves in the stories that he presented through a humanistic pedagogy.”

He added that the GITES symposium was a catalyst for building sustainable scholarly networks that extend beyond disciplinary and institutional silos. “As GITES continues to grow, it envisions a ‘glocal’ (global and local) approach to education that values shared commitment, cultural responsiveness, and inclusivity.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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An article on one of South Africa’s favourite brews, which was written by senior researcher Dr Mariska Lilly, has captured international attention.

Titled: The everyday tea that can boost your gut health and reduce inflammation, the piece was published in the Independent UK on 5 October after originally being published in the Conversation Africa.

It has attracted more than 580 000 views internationally.

“I am ecstatic that our article is doing so well nationally as well as internationally,” said Lilly, a Senior Researcher: Proteomics & Molecular Biology in the Applied Microbial and Health Biotechnology Institute (AMHBI).

She joined CPUT in 2014 and over the past ten years, her research has focused on understanding molecular mechanisms underlying disease prevention, inflammation modulation, and toxin regulation through integrative proteomic, lipidomic, and transcriptomic approaches.

“My work bridges mycotoxicology, chemoprevention, and biotechnology, with a particular emphasis on the health-promoting potential of South African herbal teas and their bioactive compounds.”

“I initially investigated Fusarium verticillioides–maize interactions and the regulation of fumonisin biosynthesis, applying proteomic and transcriptomic tools to identify molecular targets for reducing mycotoxin production. This work led to the development of biocontrol strategies using rooibos and honeybush extracts. Building on this foundation, my research expanded into the chemopreventive and anti-inflammatory properties of rooibos and honeybush polyphenols in models of UVB-induced skin damage, gut inflammation, and barrier dysfunction. These studies combine advanced omics technologies, cell-based models, and bioinformatics to explore their mechanisms of action.”

In recent years, she has extended this work to include the development of delivery systems such as rooibos phenolipids and honeybush phytosomes to improve the absorption and bioavailability of polyphenols for therapeutic and cosmeceutical applications.

“In parallel, I have initiated research on probiotic-based formulations for animal health, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and microbial biotechnology.”

Read the article here.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Acting Head of the Department of Wellness Sciences, Assoc Prof Kareemah Najaar, has been selected as one of the finalists in Good Hope FM’s Warrior Woman Awards.

The awards honour “South African women who are changing the game, not for applause, but because it’s who they are at their very core”.

Najaar is a finalist in the Education and Research category and is being recognised for the matric Life Science Revision Project.

Launched in 2018 by Najaar, the initiative was designed to support learners in achieving the minimum entry requirements for higher education science programmes.

“I am very honoured and overwhelmed to have been selected as a finalist. This vision to support our matrics from disadvantaged backgrounds is only realised because of the amazing team that I have,” she said.

“Being recognised for our work and passion is extremely humbling and in fact further ignites me to continue striving to redress the current education inequalities and to continue growing our collaborations so that we are able to extend our reach to additional high schools.”

Asked why she started the project, Najaar said: “I believe that high school learners registered in STEM programmes, are in the programmes because they love science, but their socio-economic statuses unfortunately put them at a significant disadvantage”.

“What if we could be the difference for these matrics, provide opportunities for them so that they may qualify for STEM programmes at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)? By creating a community of practice in which we combine the educational resources from their schools and from the HEIs, would be a powerful collaboration to support the learners.”

The project has grown from strength to strength.

“It has even expanded to include programmes that support our young female learners and to empower women in academia. I feel in many ways it is an extension of myself and an integral part of my academic path. Seeing the positive feedback from the learners and teachers makes me extremely proud to be allowed to support our future generation.”

To vote for Najaar, SMS WWA25, Kareemah Najaar, your name, surname and ID number to 37766.

For more on the awards, click here.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Faculty of Business and Management Sciences (FBMS) recently held its annual Emerging Researcher Conference (ERC) at the Cape Town Hotel School, creating a dynamic platform for students and staff to engage with industry partners and adjudicators.

This inspiring event served to elevate the FBMS’s academic, developmental, and strategic goals. The ERC is a collaboration between FBMS and the Cape Town Hotel School, along with various external sponsors, and it has been a flagship academic event for over 10 years.

The ERC provides Advanced Diploma, Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s, and Doctoral students with an opportunity to present their research, engage in scholarly discourse, and receive constructive feedback from faculty and external adjudicators. This platform enhances the quality of research, promotes critical thinking, and upholds academic rigour across FBMS.

The event, themed: Nurturing emerging voices in business and management sciences research, united participants from various departments, fostering interdisciplinary exchange and innovation. It also cultivated networks that often lead to collaborative research efforts across different disciplines. Additionally, the conference helped develop essential academic and professional skills, such as public speaking, academic writing, and networking.

 By hosting a high-impact academic event like the ERC, FBMS enhances its visibility and reputation. This demonstrates our commitment to student development and research excellence, making us more attractive to prospective students, collaborators, and industry partners. Furthermore, the ERC fosters a sense of belonging and motivation among students and staff, contributing to the development of a supportive and vibrant academic community.

Sinethemba Dangazele, the founder of Promotions & Events with Sinethemba, delivered a heartfelt keynote address at the conference. His words resonated deeply with the audience, leaving a lasting impact as he shared his journey and insights.

In her welcome address, Prof Renitha Rampersad, Assistant Dean Research and Innovation: FBMS, said the theme of the conference appropriately covered the strategic intent of the FBMS, and they had gathered not only to share research and insights, but to celebrate the dynamism, creativity, and intellectual curiosity that drive the next generation of thinkers and leaders in their field. “The faculty is proud and excited to offer these state-of-the-art programmes that are designed to address the demands of a rapidly changing world of work.

“Today marks not only an academic gathering, but a celebration of curiosity, innovation, and the bright emerging minds of our undergraduate and postgraduate students who will shape the future of business and management in our country and beyond.”

She mentioned that they have come together under the banner of knowledge and collaboration. She acknowledged that the world is changing rapidly — markets are evolving, technology is redefining industries, and leadership is being redefined. In this dynamic environment, she emphasised that their ability to think critically, act ethically, and lead with purpose has never been more important.

“In a global environment marked by rapid technological innovation, shifting markets, and complex social challenges, it is essential that we create platforms where fresh perspectives can thrive and influence the direction of our disciplines. And this conference provides a platform for you, our students, to present your research, exchange ideas, and engage in meaningful dialogue with peers, academics, and industry professionals. It is a space where theory meets practice, and where innovation meets opportunity.”

Chris Hattingh-Niekerk, Assoc Prof in the Department of Tourism and Events Management, said he was extremely pleased with the organisation and outcomes of this year’s ERC. “The event ran smoothly, thanks to the excellent collaboration between the organising committee, academic departments, and the Cape Town Hotel School team. The level of engagement from both presenters and attendees was exceptional. Students demonstrated strong preparation, confidence, and enthusiasm in sharing their research, while the audience actively participated through thoughtful questions and discussions.”

Hattingh-Niekerk was also impressed by the maturity and originality of many of the presentations, “particularly from our postgraduate students, which reflected the growing research culture within the faculty”. “The presence of external adjudicators and industry guests added significant value by providing students with constructive, real-world perspectives on their work. The atmosphere throughout the day was one of intellectual curiosity and collegiality, which truly embodied the spirit of the ERC.”

Hattingh-Niekerk was impressed by CPUT alumnus Dangazele, who captivated the audience with his inspiring journey from ECP student to successful entrepreneur running an event management business in Cape Town. He is also a lecturer in Entrepreneurship and was recently accepted to pursue a Master of Philosophy in Inclusive Innovation.

“There is no greater reward than witnessing the success of our students and seeing their journeys come full circle. Sinethemba is a true testament to the transformative power of education and an outstanding CPUT product.” The awards ceremony at the end of the day was another significant moment. It celebrated academic excellence while recognising the hard work and perseverance of our students. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors whose vital support made the ERC a reality.

Hattingh-Niekerk said the Cape Town Hotel School, Europcar, Cape Town Tourism, Southern Sun, XL Events, Emerald Publishing, and The Diamond Works Institute exemplified a commitment to advancing research and fostering student development at CPUT through their unwavering partnership.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The Department of Applied Legal Studies recently celebrated a major milestone — the official launch of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) CPUT Student Chapter.

The launch marks the beginning of an exciting new era for students, offering them the opportunity to connect directly with industry professionals and bridging the gap between academia and practice.

In his welcoming address Servious Hungwe, Acting Head of the Department and student advisor to the new chapter, said the Department of Applied Legal Studies and ACFE had previously signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that marked the beginning of the journey.

“With that MOU, we undertook to achieve quite a number of things. And the launching of this student chapter is one of the deliverables,” he said.

 “We are indeed proud to partner with the world's largest anti-fraud organisation and premier provider of anti-fraud training and education, and we remain truly grateful for their continued support.”

He said the main objective was to introduce fraud-related topics to members and students and to get the younger generation interested and excited about fraud-related careers.

“The ACFE CPUT Student Chapter provides students with opportunities to network with industry experts, attend regional conferences, and gain insight into the realities of fraud prevention and investigation,”

He thanked the ACFE national delegation, including President Jonathan Le Roux and Membership Officer Katleho Seqapotsa, the ACFE Western Cape Committee delegation, advisory board representative Sanlam’s adv Sankie Morata, and the students for their attendance and support.

Le Roux, a CPUT alumnus, said an important aspect of the student chapter was networking “amongst yourselves and secondary to that, you also have access to conferences”.

He said ACFE South Africa was formed in 1998, adding that by joining the chapter, the students had access to people, not just on the continent, but globally.

Seqapotsa said the students would be tasked with organising anti-fraud events and AFCE would provide support in terms of expert speakers.

Senior Lecturer Prof Noleen Leach said the event was a milestone in the lifespan of the Bachelor of Paralegal Studies.

“It's confirmation that our curriculum bears value – that it’s unique, that it's increasingly being recognised everywhere, not only in the public sector, but also in the private sector.”

Aluve Mnqika, president of the student chapter, encouraged the students to attend their events and to ask questions.

“Our mission as the student chapter here is that we want to connect students with industry experts, who will be able to inspire you and also mentor you.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Centre for Diversity, Inclusivity and Social Change (CDISC) recently hosted another impactful instalment of the Crucial Conversation Series under the theme “Intersecting Paths – Advancing Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Through Decolonial and Cultural Lenses.

Facilitated by the Centre’s Tumiso Mfisa, the virtual dialogue created a platform for reflection, learning, and exchange on how gender, disability, culture, and decoloniality intersect to shape inclusive practices in higher education. Kevin Petersen served as the sign language Interpreter.

Opening the conversation, Brightness Mangolothi, Director of CDISC, encouraged participants to rethink inclusion as more than a policy requirement.

“Today, we are not just convening to discuss gender and disability mainstreaming as a policy imperative,” she said. “We are here to challenge ourselves to move beyond compliance and towards commitment. Because inclusion is not a checklist, it is a value, a practice, a way of being.”

She further emphasised that advancing gender and disability mainstreaming requires a transformative, decolonial approach, one that challenges Western-centric frameworks, centres dignity and justice, and is culturally grounded in Ubuntu epistemology.

Representing the student body, Thato Masonganye, Secretary General of the CPUT Central SRC, delivered a message of support and solidarity.

“This gathering is a reminder that inclusion is not a privilege, but a right,” he said. “It calls upon us to challenge systems that continue to marginalise and to reimagine a future rooted in equality, dignity, and justice.”

He further affirmed the SRC’s commitment to intersectional transformation, referencing Audre Lorde, Nelson Mandela, and Bell Hooks to underscore the importance of collective action and community in advancing social justice across all dimensions of identity and ability.

Keynote speaker Nosipiwo Matiwane, Programme Coordinator at the FVZS Institute, Stellenbosch University, delivered a powerful and reflective presentation that traced the historical and contemporary struggles of African universities and students against colonial and capitalist systems. She examined how the legacy of colonisation continues to influence institutional cultures, knowledge production, and access within higher education.

Matiwane underscored the importance of Pan-Africanism, feminism, and protest culture as interconnected tools for decolonisation, liberation, and the reimagining of African knowledge systems and leadership. She called for universities to actively dismantle structures of exclusion and to embrace epistemic justice, where indigenous knowledge, cultural identity, and lived experience are valued equally in shaping inclusive and transformative academic spaces.

Undere Deglon, Institutional Culture Lead Specialist at the Office for Inclusivity and Change, University of Cape Town, underscored the importance of transforming higher education into truly inclusive spaces through policy, infrastructure, partnerships, and cultural change, ensuring access, participation, and success for persons with disabilities.

Limpho Makapela, Programmes Coordinator at the Gender Equity Unit from UWC, shared practical insights into how the university translates intersectional and feminist theory into action through policy reform, curriculum development, advocacy, community engagement, and student-led initiatives.

The Disability Unit’s Dr Amanda Ismail and CDISC’s Zikhona Plaatjie highlighted that the People with Disabilities Policy serves as a vital framework for ensuring equitable access, reasonable accommodation, and protection against discrimination within CPUT. They encouraged students and staff to voluntarily disclose disabilities not as a requirement, but to enable the Disability Unit and Human Capital to provide tailored support, assistive resources, and inclusive interventions that promote success and full participation across the university.

The session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Luchulumanco Nanto, who extended gratitude to all speakers, participants, and the CDISC team for fostering a meaningful and transformative exchange of ideas.

The Crucial Conversation Series continues to serve as an essential platform for driving institutional dialogue and awareness around transformation, diversity, and social justice. This edition reinforced the need for inclusive, decolonial, and culturally responsive frameworks that move beyond policy compliance toward authentic commitment and systemic change.

Written by CPUT News
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In celebration of South African heritage, the Faculty of Applied Sciences (FAS) recently showcased various aspects of our heritage across different disciplines. As part of this commitment, the faculty invited two traditional healers to share their insights on addressing ancestral calling during a heritage event held at the Bellville Campus.

The event, which was opened by the Faculty Learning and Teaching Coordinator, Prof Muhammad Nakhooda, and closed by the Assistant Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Prof Rashieda Toefy, brought together students and staff from various departments, including Biotechnology and Consumer Science, Chemistry, Agriculture, Mathematics and Physics, Food Science and Technology, and Horticultural Sciences. This gathering highlighted the idea that science, enriched by aspects of heritage and indigenous knowledge, can be both fun and exciting.

Nonkosi Cubeka and Dr Mavuso Gqoa, both traditional healers, addressed the ancestral calling (ukuthwasa) in Higher Education under the theme: Building Awareness and Offering Remedial Assistance in lecture rooms. In his statement, Phumlani Roto from the Department of Horticultural Sciences said: “Informed by my experience within the department, particularly in matters of health and safety, I have observed a growing trend of students experiencing ancestral calling (ukuthwasa). This is often misunderstood due to limited information and the diversity of our campus community. Heritage Day provides an important opportunity to formally communicate about ancestral calling and explore how we, as an academic community, can support students who find themselves navigating this path.”

Pumla Brooke-Thomae delivered an inspiring keynote address. Chef Pumla, a farm girl from the Eastern Cape, made a remarkable transition from acting and television to become a celebrated chef and food storyteller. Her culinary journey began at the age of 13 with her very first loaf of bread, evolving into a passionate mission to preserve and promote the rich heritage of South African cuisine.

Reflecting on the event, Dr Ignatius Khan Ticha, Language Coordinator of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, said the event not only highlights the rich elements of heritage and indigenous knowledge ingrained in the different disciplines of the Faculty of Applied Sciences but also demonstrates the value of all academic departments in the Faculty coming together to collaborate. “It was joyful to see students lead the demonstrations, presentations and performances that showed that science can be so much fun when communicated creatively. I am deeply thankful to all the staff and students who worked hard over a long period to plan the event.”

Puleng Sefalane-Nkohla and Dr Lutendo Nendauni from Fundani CHED delivered the vote of thanks, while Mmabatho Mobo from Biotechnology and Consumer Science prepared and served a traditional home-cooked meal to all 175 participants.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE) recently celebrated excellence at its annual FEBE Research Awards ceremony, held at the Cape Town Hotel School. This gathering recognised outstanding achievements in research, innovation, teaching, and learning, highlighting the remarkable talent within the faculty.

These prestigious awards inspire a vibrant research culture, encouraging young researchers and honouring exceptional contributions from both staff and students. Presented during the annual Research and Awards Day, winners showcased their groundbreaking findings through papers, posters, and technology demonstrations. Earning a FEBE Research Award offers significant recognition within the institution and may include monetary grants for work-related pursuits.

In his welcome speech, Prof Suresh Ramsuroop, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, said: “Today is about celebration - celebrating the incredible work, creativity, and dedication that make our faculty such a vibrant community in research and innovation. Not only has the faculty engaged in impactful research in recent years, it has also been a leading faculty in research outputs and technology innovations.

Ramsuroop said over the past year, their faculty has achieved so much - more publications, stronger collaborations, and a growing number of postgraduate successes. “These achievements don’t happen by chance; they reflect your hard work, teamwork, and a shared commitment to excellence, transformation, and impact.”

Addressing the recipients, he said: “To our award recipients - congratulations! You remind us of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. And to all who support this journey - our supervisors, research units, administrators, Ndumi [Mangqwengqwe-Siko] and Elizma Alberts, thank you for the energy and spirit you bring to our faculty every day.

“Let’s continue to inspire one another, build on this momentum, and keep making research matter. Enjoy the afternoon, and once again, congratulations to all our awardees!”

Ramsuroop said their work plays a vital role in connecting their research with industry, innovation, and real-world application - “ensuring that the knowledge we generate at CPUT truly makes a difference beyond our campus”.

Prof Veruscha Fester, Assistant Dean: Research, Technology, Innovation & Partnership, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, said: “We want the top performers in terms of research to know that they are appreciated. We are aware that to perform so well, a lot of family time is sacrificed. We therefore invited the spouses/support structure at home to attend with them and also come with to collect the award. I believe it is a very special gesture.”

Fester said the event shows that FEBE values their staff and values outstanding performance. “Hard work never goes unnoticed.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The Peaking Technologies Seminar, a collaborative effort by Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd and CPUT, served as an inspiring platform for knowledge-sharing.

Its core purpose was to ignite technical exchange and innovation in generation engineering, renewable energy, and emerging technologies, all vital to South Africa’s energy transition. The event took place at Planet Shakers Church, Cape Town.

Prof Senthil Krishnamurthy from the Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Computer Engineering stated that the seminar aimed to:

• Strengthen partnerships between academia and industry, specifically between CPUT and Eskom’s Peaking Generation Division.
• Showcase cutting-edge research and engineering solutions in mechanical, electrical, civil, and environmental disciplines.
• Encourage discussions about the future of energy technologies, including long-duration energy storage (LDES), cybersecurity resilience, and AI-based energy optimisation.
• As its ultimate goal, promote sustainable innovation in power systems and develop pathways for future collaboration, research, and graduate development within South Africa’s energy sector.

The well-organised seminar was technically rich and highly engaging. “The diverse participation from both Eskom professionals and CPUT academics reflected a strong commitment to bridging theory with practical applications.
Participant engagement was notably high discussions following each technical session were insightful and collaborative.”

The structured sessions, led by professional chairs, facilitated smooth transitions between topics and disciplines. The event also included a combination of in-person and online presentations, allowing contributions from international experts, such as Dr Justin W Raade from the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) in the USA. The seminar provided a balanced mix of technical depth, networking opportunities, and strategic insights.

Several presentations were particularly impactful:

• EPRI’s sessions on Long-Duration Energy Storage (LDES) provided a forward-looking perspective on global trends and included practical case studies relevant to Eskom, presented by Raade.
• The presentations from CPUT showcased advanced, locally developed solutions for modernizing Digital Substation Automation in the field of power systems, including topics like IEC 61850-based Line Protection and Machine Learning for Anomaly Detection.
• The Renewable Energy track featured innovative studies on AI-based Maximum Power Point Estimation under Partial Shading and the enhancement of PV reactive power, demonstrating how data-driven models can improve efficiency.
• Sessions on the design and modeling of the Tubatse Pumped Storage Scheme highlighted the engineering complexities and collaboration necessary for South Africa’s large-scale energy infrastructure projects.
• Equally valuable were the networking opportunities, where students, academics, and engineers exchanged insights that could potentially lead to future research partnerships and internships.
• The seminar reaffirmed that CPUT plays a crucial role in South Africa’s energy innovation ecosystem. The collaboration with Eskom not only enhances the impact of academic research but also opens opportunities for applied learning, graduate development, and technology transfer.

“The CPUT's Engagement with industry-driven research and technological advancement is vital for shaping the nation’s sustainable energy future. CPUT students and researchers are encouraged to build on these insights, explore interdisciplinary collaboration, and actively contribute to the next generation of energy solutions,” Krishnamurthy noted.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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An Interior Design student has made her mark on the global stage – raking in several awards at the BLT Built Design Awards 2025.

Lisa van Staden claimed two category wins and the coveted title of Emerging Interior Designer of the Year for 2025.

The awards celebrate excellence across architecture, interiors, landscapes and construction products. This year’s programme drew entries from 68 countries and received almost 900 projects, illustrating the event’s global reach and the diversity of its participants.

Lisa won the Interior Design – Spa / Fitness / Wellness category for her project titled Healing Hands Primary Care Clinic as well as the Interior Design – Exhibition/Gallery category for her project titled Symphony – Museum of South African Languages.

Another CPUT entry also took top honours in the category Interior Design – Hospitality: Hotel and Resort category.

Minette Visagie, an alumna who entered the competition as an Advanced Diploma student, won this category for her project titled Shimmer and Shine.

It celebrates South Africa's thriving wine industry through the design development of a heritage building located in the V&A Waterfront.

The brief and mentorship were supported by the Advanced Diploma, year coordinator and senior lecturer, Colleen Cocotos. 

Lisa, an Advanced Diploma student said: “Being announced as the winner in one category would already have been an incredible achievement — but hearing that I won in two categories and was also named Emerging Interior Designer of the Year honestly left me speechless. It reminds me that all the effort, late nights, and challenges were worth it, and that hard work really does pay off”.

Her award-winning project, Symphony – Museum of South African Languages, explored how sound travels as waves, “projected from the mouth and received by the ear”, and translated that movement into architectural form.

“The façade of the building mimics the shape and rhythm of a soundwave, specifically based on the waveform of someone saying the word language. The museum is ultimately about celebrating the diversity of South African languages, a symphony of sound, culture, and identity that unites people through communication.”

She credits her lecturer, Wendy Anne Press for helping her to explore the full potential of her ideas.
 “Her guidance, constructive feedback and motivation constructive feedback helped shape Symphony into the project it is today.”

Lisa hails from Ottery and said she’s always had a natural passion for design.

“I’m passionate about creativity in all forms. I love working with my hands, creating, and bringing ideas to life. I love local design and the way South African creatives use storytelling in their work. I cannot wait to step into the professional world next year, bringing all things great, creative, and inspiring to the design world!”

Cocotos said Lisa is an ambitious and passionate designer who has been enthusiastically mentored by all the interior design staff from her first year through to her advanced diploma.

“Her responsiveness to learning and receptiveness to guidance have made our jobs as lecturing staff a true pleasure."

Head of Department, Rayner Moodley, congratulated Lisa on her outstanding achievement and praised the collective efforts of the department’s academic staff, whose steadfast commitment and support have been instrumental throughout her educational journey.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The recent CPUT Research Festival highlighted the university’s thriving research culture and its commitment to excellence, innovation and collaboration.

This inspiring event, themed: Research with Purpose: Grounding Innovation in African Realities, united academics, doctoral students, and industry partners to showcase their remarkable contributions to knowledge creation and innovation.

Prof Dina Burger, Director of the Directorate of Research Development, highlighted the importance of reflecting on and celebrating the remarkable scholarly achievements of our outstanding academic staff.

Lara Smith, organising committee member, said the annual CPUT Research Festival, held at the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre, is a celebration of research excellence and collaboration. “[It was] established to recognise outstanding research achievements and to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration, the Research Festival serves as a vital platform for sharing ideas and fostering partnerships within and beyond the university,” Smith noted.

Burger emphasised that the Research Festival beautifully embodies the essence of a unified, intelligent CPUT, showcasing everything the University philosophically aspires to and practically strives for, as envisioned in “our Vision 2030” – a testament to “our goal of becoming one smart CPUT”. “This relates to the event itself and how it was organised and executed by all the different role-players that were given a task to fulfil, up to the excellent presentations that were given by our two keynote speakers.”

In his welcome address, Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo said: “We are pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Therefore, we must proudly celebrate fundamental discoveries and practical applications alike. As educators, we also value research as a potent form of learning by doing. Today we stand at a remarkable moment, marking 20 years of excellence in education, two decades of commitment, discovery and impact. It’s an opportunity not just to look back but to genuinely appreciate how far we have come.

“This research festival comes at a moment and time when we celebrate our 20th anniversary as a merged institution, appropriately themed: 20 Years of Growing from Greats. We are celebrating the milestone of two decades of love, commitment and shared memories.

“We are celebrating the milestone of excellence in education, where education meets innovation. The milestone of great research and innovation. The milestone of sustained good governance. The milestone of guiding the students to scale the greatest heights.”

The first keynote address was delivered by Jetane Charsley, Head of the National Intellectual Property Management Office (NIPMO) at the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. Her presentation, "NIPMO Empowering Innovation: Leveraging Technology and Innovation for SDG Impact," showcased inspiring success stories from South Africa.

Dr Gugu Moche, Acting Deputy CEO: Research, Innovation, Impact Support and Advancement (RIISA) at the National Research Foundation (NRF), delivered an inspiring keynote address on the future of research and innovation in South Africa, emphasising the powerful role of national research systems in driving societal transformation.

Burger highlighted how the festival showcased CPUT’s profound appreciation for the incredible scholarship of its academic staff, celebrating the pinnacle of their achievements. This includes Research Chairs, esteemed rated researchers, and prolific scholarly contributions, as well as excellence in mentoring Master’s and Doctoral students. The honour of national and international accolades, alongside the pursuit of external funding for meaningful research and innovation, reflects a vibrant commitment to academic excellence.

“My own view is that our Research Festival is one of the highlights of our academic endeavours annually.”

During the Research Festival 2025, CPUT showcased the work of its eight research chairs, highlighting various projects and areas of research excellence. The chairs are as follows:

• Prof Jeanine Marnewick: CPUT Research Chair in Biotechnology
• Dr Conrad Sparks: Interim CPUT Research Chair in the Oceans Economy
• Prof Mohammed Tariq Kahn: CPUT Research Chair in Energy
• Prof Nothemba Joyce Nduna: ETDP SETA WIL Research Chair in Work-Integrated Learning in TVET Colleges
• Prof Bongani Ncube: NRF–WRC SARChI Research Chair in Governance and Economics for Water and Sanitation Sector Institutions
• Prof Zayd Waghid: Interim NRF SARChI Research Chair in Teacher Education
• Prof Chris Winberg: NRF SARChI Research Chair in Work-Integrated Learning
• Prof Glenda Davison: Interim NRF Nedbank SARChI Research Chair in Cardiometabolic Health

Reflecting on the event, Davison, Head of the Department of Biomedical Sciences, said the research festival was “a wonderful success”. “The organisation was exceptional, and it attracted academics from the entire university. It was heartwarming to see the room full and also the discussion around the exhibits and posters. [The] delegates were engaged, and lots of networking happened.”

The event also included the annual Research Excellence Awards, which pay tribute to the dedication, creativity, and vision that continue to shape CPUT’s research journey.

Burger added that this year’s exhibitions were of a very high standard and that they received positive feedback on their exhibitions and excellent posters displayed at the festival.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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