The South African Association of Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST), in collaboration with the Department of Food Science and Technology (DFST), held its second evening lecture of the year titled: From Ploughs to Pixels: AI in Our Technology Continuum Towards Achieving Food Security.

The event attracted over 40 attendees, including academics, students, and industry professionals. Participants were treated to a tour of the university’s state-of-the-art pilot plant, exploring the chocolate factory and the microbrewery—complete with a bit of beer tasting.

Teaching and Learning Coordinator: Faculty of Applied Sciences, Prof Muhammad Nakhooda delivered an enlightening talk that journeyed through the history of food technology and examined the role that Artificial Intelligence (AI) currently plays and will increasingly play in ensuring sustainable future food security for the planet and potentially beyond. “Central to the discussion were new protein technologies and how AI is shaping our understanding of these versatile molecules,” said Dr Vusi Mshayisa, an esteemed researcher and lecturer at the Department of Food Science and Technology.

Nakhooda explored de novo, or novel proteins, that can now be created to serve a myriad of uses. Importantly, the talk highlighted how AI has unlocked the mysteries of proteins, opening up a new world of possibilities.

SAAFoST member Mshayisa, emphasised the importance of such engagements, stating that “it is crucial for the DFST to collaborate with industry and students in this fashion to stay abreast of developments”. “The event exemplified the department’s commitment to fostering innovation and maintaining strong connections within the food science community.”

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From green spinach to vine-ripe beetroot, the Division of Student Affairs (DSA) in partnership with the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Nautical Company and Convocation are celebrating the success of their joint Green Campus Initiative (GCI) initiative called One Residence, One Garden at the Catsville Residence.

Earlier this year, the Student Services Council Committee (SSCC) led by its Chairperson, Dr William Mapena, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Operations, Prof Gilingwe Mayende and Dean of Student Affairs, Nonkosi Tyolwana planted the first seedlings at Catsville to mark’ the 2024 Mandela Day and his passion for ending hunger.

Tyolwana says the Catsville Residence was identified as the first case study for this project. “Staff and students worked tirelessly to make this project a resounding success,” Tyolwana enthuses.

Nikhanye Sitoza, a Marine Engineering student residing at Catsville feels “incredibly proud and happy” about the success of the GCI project. “As a member of the team, I've seen firsthand the impact that this project has had on our community. From providing fresh produce to students in need to promote sustainability and community development, this project has exceeded our expectations,” she boasts.

Nikhanye is also grateful that the Catsville residence was chosen as the first case study in District 6 for this project. “It's shown that even in a residence with reputation issues, we can make a positive impact and create change.”

It took a lot of hard work, dedication, and teamwork to get the project to where it is now. The team faced several challenges along the way, including logistical issues, funding constraints, and initial scepticism from some stakeholders. However, they persevered and worked together to overcome those obstacles.

“Our team has been amazing, and everyone has brought their unique skills and perspectives to the table. We've also had incredible support from our dean and Deputy Dean of Student Affairs [Njabulo Maphumulo], residence coordinators, Convex, and [Faculty of] Applied Science, who have provided guidance and resources whenever we needed them,” Nikhanye remarks.

The project has been a game-changer for this community as it has not only provided a sustainable source of fresh produce but also created “a sense of community and cooperation among those who reside in Catsville”.

“One of the biggest challenges we faced was the initial scepticism from some stakeholders. Some people didn't think that the project would work or that we would be able to sustain it. However, we proved them wrong, and the project has been a huge success.

“Another challenge we faced was the reputation of Catsville Residence. Some people had preconceived notions about our residence and its residents, but we've shown that we're capable of great things,” Nikhanye says.

Residence Coordinator Xolani Jafta adds that the success of the GCI project means a lot to the residence and CPUT at large. “It shows that we're committed to innovation, sustainability, and community development. It also provides a model for other residences and institutions to follow,” Jafta continues.

“For our residence, it's a chance to change the narrative and show that we're more than just a residence with a reputation for behavioural issues. We're a community that's committed to making a positive impact.”

Jafta who is the advocate and great champion of One Res, One Garden across residences also urges the CPUT community to strive to make a positive impact on the environment. He says the GCI project shows that even small actions can add up to make a big difference. “I encourage everyone to get involved, think creatively, and work together to create a more sustainable, innovative, and compassionate community.

“As members of the GCI project, I've seen firsthand the impact that we can have when we work together towards a common goal. Let's continue to strive for greatness and make CPUT a better place for everyone.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Videos, peer education and online platforms are just some of the innovative tools the excellent teachers recently honoured by the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences use in their classrooms.

A number of outstanding teachers were honoured during the Faculty’s annual Teaching Excellence Awards.

Five departmental winners were recognised while Ryan Matthews from the Department of Emergency Medical Sciences (EMS) scooped the overall Faculty Teaching Excellence Award.

The five departmental winners are: Dr Lisa Graham, (Biomedical Sciences) Dr Kathleen Grant (Biomedical Sciences), Nkosikho Sogwagwa (Biomedical Sciences), Llizane McDonald (EMS) and Valdiela Daries (Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences).

This year the Faculty also introduced a number of new categories.

The winners in these categories are:

• Outstanding Workplace Learning Engagement Initiative: John Meyer (EMS)
• Service Learning – Saaiga Ismail (MITS)
• Language initiatives – Dr Lisa Graham (Biomedical Sciences).
• Outstanding Research Awardees: Prof Peter Clarke-Farr (Ophthalmic Sciences), Dr Hilda Vember (Nursing) and Dr Glenda Davison (Biomedical Sciences)
• Outstanding Teaching with Technology initiative: Dr Lisa Graham (Biomedical Sciences).
• Outstanding First-Year experience and Orientation Initiative: Wendy Solomon Biomedical Sciences)
• Outstanding Curriculum Development: Marlene Bezuidenhout (Dental Sciences)

Acting Dean of the Faculty, Prof Penelope Engel-Hills, said celebrating success in the workplace was important and thanked the winners for going the extra mile.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Faculty of Applied Sciences students who are participating in a Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) programme were urged to be hands-on during their industry training.

The faculty hosted an industry breakfast for second-year students and industry partners. Among the attendees were former WIL students who were top achievers in their respective programmes during the 2018 academic year. WIL coordinators awarded top achievers with certificates and a plaque. Faculty of Applied Sciences lecturer and WIL coordinator, Prof Lalini Reddy, highlighted the importance of working closely with the industry to prepare the students for work.

“Industry is invited to continue to engage with the institution to ensure students are provided with adequate learning in the workplace,” she added.  Guest speaker, Lorna Odendaal from Kutsha Agriculture, said internships benefit industry as well as students, but that expectations can be different from both parties.

She said students need to adopt a pro-active attitude.

“Be hands-on, do whatever needs to be done, learn as much as you can from everybody, taking part, experiencing as much as you can, ask lots of questions,” she said.

She then urged industry partners to make the internship placements meaningful.

In concluding her address, Odendaal told students to remain humble and in the service of others.

“To have a diploma or any tertiary qualification is a noble thing, but wear your nobility in your heart rather than your head,” she said.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The Faculty of Applied Science is taking bold steps to increase the number of doctoral graduates in South Africa.

Currently, South Africa produces just over 1000 doctoral graduates a year – a dismal figure compared to other countries producing far higher numbers. According to the Department of Science and Technology (DST), this figure is way below the number of doctoral graduates required for the growth of the South African economy.

With CPUT committed to addressing local and national problems, the Faculty of Applied Science has put in place strategies to increase the number of doctoral graduates.

Prof Michael Mcpherson, Faculty Research Coordinator said they have submitted an application to the Department of Education for the approval of several new programmes at the Doctorate of Technology level. 

“By offering more doctoral programmes we will be able to broaden our research base,” he said.

Doctoral programmes are planned in the Departments of Agriculture, Horticulture, Food Technology and Nature Conservation. The faculty already offers doctoral programmes in Chemistry and Environmental Health.

Prof McPherson said they are also in the process of recruiting post-doctoral fellows, who will play a critical role in the contribution of research and supervision of doctoral students.

The faculty has also increased its staff profile by employing several researchers who hold doctoral qualifications while a number of existing staff members have improved their qualifications up to doctoral level.

These initiatives will go a long way in improving the faculty’s research output, said Prof McPherson. Currently the faculty boasts the second highest research output at CPUT in terms of journal publications, conference proceedings and book publications.

The faculty’s initiatives are being supported by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships, Dr Chris Nhlapo.

“Efforts by Prof McPherson are lauded as these can only expand our research base and increase our research output,” said Dr Nhlapo.

The faculty’s initiatives are also in line with the CPUT 10-year Research and Innovation plan, which was tabled in September of this year. The plan outlines strategies that will ensure CPUT produces more doctoral candidates, research output and patents.

“The generation of new knowledge by researchers is highly acknowledged, lauded and fully embraced by my office. It is indeed the only way of building a globally competitive faculty,” said Dr Nhlapo.

By Candes Keating

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The Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town campus recently hosted the Learner-Meet Scientist @Work Programme. The programme provides role models for prospective CPUT students. Learners get the experience of visiting science laboratories and an opportunity to talk to postgraduate ‘scientists’ personally.

The programme started two years ago and is facilitated by Dr Shaheed Hartley, acting Dean of Contract Research in the Faculty of Applied Sciences. The programme aims to provide prospective students with insight in the science field at large.

“It’s important for our learners to get exposure to venues of study and career possibilities,” said Dr Hartley. He said the programme helps learners to make informed decisions about their future. The programme benefits learners, especially those in grade twelve. It also helps in marketing the courses the CPUT has on offer.

The Learner-Meet Scientist@Work Project began after an awareness campaign was held to promote Science and Technology in 1996. This was in response to a call to build a human resource for science and technology base of South Africa.

“CPUT thus embarked on this project to expose learners to some of the areas of study and research in science and technology. The project aims to promote Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) as a study field to meet the demand for scientific human capital in the country,” reports Dr Hartley.

The programme aims to inform learners from previously disadvantaged schools that Science, Engineering and Technology careers are achievable, socially relevant, rewarding and fun. It also aims to improve the image of science and technology as a career. It aims to provide information about SET and careers, expose learners to hands-on experience offered in these fields. It finally aims to impact on the learners’ attitudes and aspirations, to help them make informed decisions about their future.

Learners who attended the session were grade eleven and twelve learners from Cathkin, Harry Gwala, Florida and Spine Road high schools. Learners with Physical Science, Biology and Mathematics learning areas were chosen to participate in the programme.

*by Liziwe Ndalana

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Science Centre practitioners from around the country were hosted by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology for a two-day Science and Technology workshop conducted by Dr Shaheed Hartley, Director of Contract Research in the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Interim Dean of Research.

The South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA) asked Dr Hartley to develop this workshop for science centre practitioners to build capacity in science centres. This need becomes more pertinent in light of the fact that the Department of Science and Technology are planning to build more science centres around the country.

The workshop acted as a forum for science centre practitioners to share information and ideas about dealing with members of schools and the public who visit their respective science centres, as well as how to build science clubs.

Dr Hartley says, “We don’t have the numbers of people to do science shows at science centres and through this programme we hope to build critical mass of science centre practitioners.” The training is meant to help science centre practitioners with their presentation skills in physics, chemistry, technology and mathematics.

He says, “We need to get youth enthusiastic and interested in science and we can achieve this through the way we present the topics to them. We need to know our audience and be skilled in how to adapt our message and style of presentation to the people to whom we are presenting. This workshop helped participants adopt these skills.”

As part of the workshop, Dr Hartley explained how to go about organising science shows, what engages the audience, how to ensure the attention of the audience is captured, and how to organise the logistics.

In addition, the skills will enable participants to take the skills and apply it in their own environments. Dr Hartley says, “First we demonstrated different shows and thereafter the participants presented their own hands-on activities to the rest of the group. Participants moved between the lab, where they conducted their experiments, and the classroom where they demonstrated their experiments to the rest of the group.”

There are plans to continue teaching science centre professionals. Dr Hartley said, “This is the start of a series of workshops. I’ve also been asked to do mentorship in the Eastern Cape, and to assist in training in this regard.”

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The Institute of Material Science and Technology (IMST) at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and African Explosives Limited (AEL) recently signed their third threeyear research contract, which will, with associated academic activities, bring in more than R5million for the University as third-stream income.

Prof Paul Slatter, head of the Flow Process Research Centre said, “the main thrust of this project revolves around the science, engineering and technology of explosive emulsions. Besides the postgraduate students who qualified on the project, the first six years have shown that this emulsion system is scientifically and technologically unique”.

This is said to have enabled the project leader, Prof Irina Masalova, to present a number of papers internationally, as well as being invited to present lectures at top universities in Europe.

Prof Slatter said Prof Masalova’s work has led AEL to institute a number of production and delivery modifications to their emulsion explosives manufacturing processes, which has added considerably to their national and international competitive edge and profitability.

“In time, this will mean a safer and more accurate blasting practice for the South African mining industry – impacting positively on one of our major foreign exchange earning industries. Looking at the bigger picture, this industrial contract will form the nucleus of a major academic programme, which will draw in a multi-disciplinary team within the IMST, as well as establish long-term collaborations in Europe and North America,” said Prof Slatter.

He said the projected life-span of this much bigger and far reaching emulsion development programme is in the region of ten to twenty years, contributing significantly to the collective vision as a new university of technology.

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THE Cape Peninsula University of Technology again showed its devotion to education at The Aggrey Klaaste Math, Science and Technology Educator of the Year Awards held in March at Gallagher Estate in Gauteng.

Ms Melanie Sadeck, a senior chemistry lecturer in the Education department was honoured with an invitation to be part of the national judging panel at this year’s awards for the second year in a row.

The awards are the highest accolade a teacher can receive in the country and its core objectives are to identify teachers who have managed to motivate, inspire and produce good results in Maths and Science. It also serves as a reward for retired teachers in recognition of their efforts to dispel the myths linked to these subjects.

Ms Sadeck is involved in the training of future educators as well as curriculum development within the faculty. At the awards she joined the general education and training (GET) judging panel comprising of grade R to 9 teachers.

“It is an honour to have been asked to be part of the judging panel. The challenges most teachers face on a daily basis are extraordinary, especially because they still manage to deliver good results despite their respective obstacles,” she said.

“Most of the winners teach in utter poverty but manage to produce quality education to the learners. This is inspirational and deserves to be recognized. The work of an educator is challenging. When a teacher makes a difference in a child’s life by being an excellent teacher, it makes it all worthwhile,” she said.

The award also serves as a platform to meet mathematicians, scientists and other teachers who share her love for the profession. “Many of the provincial winners who automatically made it to the national awards may be coming to the department to talk and inspire the education students.” She said with the shortage of quality math and science teachers and practitioners in the country at present, the award also serves to inspire learners to pursue a career in these fields.

“We need to equip students with the necessary skills that will make them more than just an average teacher so that they can make a difference where ever they may go,” she added.

According to Ms Sadeck there is room for improvement within the awards. “I’m sure there are other teachers who deserve to be nominated and to win the award. We’ll have to look at the way teachers are being nominated by the learners, their colleagues and broader community. Since we are at the national judging level, it’s very difficult to have an input in the nominations and provincial judging levels,” she said.

* by Revona Kees

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The faculty of Applied Sciences received extraordinary results in staff academic development and achievement whilst excelling in the field of research.

The faculty’s output for 2005 boasts 36 journal articles, 25 submitted articles, 25 national conference presentations and 15 international conferences which include a conference on anti-oxidants in red palm oil held in Washington in 2005, a conference on anti-oxidants and health in school children held in Malaysia in 2005 and a conference on the role of anti-oxidants in health and disease which took place in Beijing, China in 2005. Mr Spinney Bernade, head of the anti-oxidant research group, was asked to present papers at these conferences.

In addition, the faculty has also received academic excellence by being awarded five Masters Degrees within the faculty, three members of staff have received their Masters Degree and five members will obtain Doctorates in 2005/6. Currently, 30% of staff hold doctorates while no less than 60% of the staff have either a Masters or a Doctorate degree.

Last year the faculty had received funding for their research that was estimated at more than R4.5 m. Nine of their staff members had received National Research Foundation (NRF) funding. The NRF also approved full funding for 2005.

The faculty’s research area of expertise lies in the areas of Environmental Toxicity and Human Health. Anti-oxidant and Biotechnology research has taken off to a good start despite some minor setbacks.

They have also established an anti-oxidant research group and they have been funded with R1.2 million whilst advancing their work in the speciality areas of Biotechnology, Environmental Toxicity and Human Health. An anti-oxidant research group was established to research the occurrence and neutralisation of free radicals in the body. The research will establish why an accumulation of free radicals is linked to diseases such as cancer, heart failure and so forth. “Anti-oxidant research is a relatively new research with exciting possibilities,” said Mr Bernade.

The CPUT’s unit is the only unit in the country which was established to do anti-oxidant research. The lab is equipped with the latest, state of the art equipment to aid them in their research. CPUT provided starting capital that enabled the group to begin their investigations.

The achievements by the Applied Sciences faculty can be attributed to a research thrust to establish units for research centres of excellence. The challenges for 2006 are to achieve their objectives by starting research projects, training students, obtaining internal and external funding, make money to support research, alleviate disease conditions through dietary means and to earn money to act as a service provider to industry.

Challenges also include limited lab space and funding for students and projects and allowing supervisors time off to supervise students.

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CPUT academic staff members Dr Shaheed Hartley and Prof Oluwole Makinde, were recently honoured at the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) awards ceremony.

The annual awards celebrate South Africans who have made outstanding contributions to Science, Engineering, Technology and Innovation (SETI) in South Africa.

This year’s event took place on 26 May 2009 at Emperor’s Palace, Gauteng , where the winners and finalist in the categories for mentors, science communicators and black researchers were commemorated for their achievements in SETI.

Dr Hartley, Director of the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education, received the prestigious “Science Communicator for Public Awareness” award for promoting science and technology as a career in rural schools in the Breederiver-Overberg region of the Western Cape .

Dr Hartley, who holds a Doctoral qualification in Science Education from Curtin University of Technology, Perth, Australia, has a long history of involvement in community capacity building projects.

He started his career as a Science Teacher at Westridge Senior Secondary School in Mitchells Plain , where he was later appointed to head up the Science Department.

While driving the science agenda at the school, he also taught Adult Education classes and was involved in a number of community activities.

He then took a post as Manager and later Director of the Research Development Division at the University of Stellenbosch .

During his tenure at the university he completed his doctoral studies, which were directed at the evaluation of outreach projects in science and mathematics education in peri-urban and rural schools.

His exemplary work received many accolades over the years, including the University of Stellenbosch Rector’s Award for exemplary service.

Dr Hartley said he was elated “at having received such an auspicious recognition from colleagues in the industry.”

“It is always good to receive recognition by peers in your field and that they acknowledge that you are making a difference,” he said.

“I would encourage graduates that there is a future in education, both as practitioners and as researchers to improve the education system”, he said.

Prof Oluwole Makinde, Senior Professor and Chair of Postgraduate Studies in the Faculty of Engineering, was nominated for his vigorous promotion of SETI and careers in SETI to black students.

Prof Makinde has taught, supervised and served as an external examiner and promoted several students at undergraduate and postgraduate level at universities both locally and internationally.

His main area of research is in Computational and Mathematical Modelling of Engineering and Biological Systems.

He has co-authored several textbooks and monographs on a variety of subjects in Applied Mathematics and has had his research articles appear in numerous reputable Scientific and Engineering journals and conference proceedings.

He has received several academic and research excellence awards, honours and grants, and was an associate member of the National Institute for Theoretical Physics (NITheP), an editorial board member and a regular reviewer of numerous international academic journals. Prof Makinde said this achievement has given his research niche area a boost in the right direction.

“My research work will definitely move to a new level of productiveness and I will continue to provide much needed mentorship and support that is necessary for the development of essential research skills,” he said.

By the Marketing and Communication Department

Photo: (left) Dr Shaheed Hartley, Director of the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education (right) Prof Oluwole Makinde, Senior Professor and Chair of Postgraduate Studies in the Faculty of Engineering.

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Mr Christian Daniels, a technician in the Department of Horticultural Sciences on the Cape Town campus, received a special award for exemplary service and dedication to duty by the Faculty of Applied Sciences. The award was handed over by Prof Lionel Slammert, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences.

Mr Daniels, along with his wife, Naomi and 10-year old son, Lance managed to contain and extinguish a fire which began on the properties surrounding the Cape Town campus. This was after he received a telephone call from the University security to inform him that a fire was headed for the campus and could potentially harm the nursery complex. The fire had already spread onto the south-east corner of the university and threatened to destroy the entire nursery complex on 24 December 2005.

Due to the fires which were taking place on the Table Mountain, the City Council Fire Department was unable to assist him. Mr Daniels then decided to take it upon himself and his family to attend to the fires.“When my family and I arrived on campus we discovered the fires already entered the nursery area and had engulfed many of the trees, irrigation pipes, and structures outlying the glasshouses. At one stage the glasshouses and the propagation tunnels were also under threat,” said Mr Daniels.

The fire was fierce due to the dry weather conditions and a south-easter blowing at more than 100 kilometers per hour.

After more than five hours Mr Daniels, his wife, son, and two security guards managed to control the fire before severe damage was done to permanent structures.

Due to the university being closed, Mr Daniels was unable to obtain immediate funding for material and labour. He made use of his own resources to do the most urgent repairs in order for the irrigation system to be operational once again.

After their brave efforts in helping with the fire, his wife and son also lent a hand with the repairs.

The award confirms the gratitude of the Department, the Faculty and the University for their exceptional courage in the face of danger, and exceptional loyalty and dedication to duty in ensuring that the irrigation system was re-activated and no plants were lost due to the non-functioning of the irrigation system.

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Two CPUT professors have made the institution proud by having their ratings improved by the National Research Foundation (NRF).

Prof Maureen Robinson, Dean of the Education and Social Sciences Faculty, has improved from a C3 to a C2 rating while Prof Chris Winberg of Applied Linguistics’ rating has improved from an L to a C2.

According to NRF criteria, the C rating is for scholars who are considered to have produced a body of quality work which has coherence and attests to ongoing engagement with the field, and who have demonstrated the ability to conceptualise problems and apply research methods to investigating them.

“A C3 rating is awarded when most reviewers feel the candidate meets these criteria, whereas a C2 rating indicates that all reviewers agree on this,” said Prof Robinson.

She said the reviewers were impressed with the way in which her “research outputs demonstrate a critically reflective engagement with the practices of teacher education and action research.

This conclusion was based on items published over the last seven years in national and international publications”.

Prof Robinson said reviewers suggested ways to broaden this work theoretically and comparatively, so that people in South Africa, as one reviewer reportedly put it, “could see their work and its significance in a wider context and continue to speak to ethically infused social research that can build scholarly networks across multiple countries.”

Prof Winberg on the other hand has been the leader of the Work-Integrated Learning Research Unit (WILRU) since 2002. WILRU is an NRF-funded unit that studies the relationship between higher education and workplaces.

“I have initiated several research projects that study the effect of different kinds of curricular, teaching, learning and assessment practices on students’ work readiness, professionalism, and so on. I’ve published around 30 articles in accredited journals, and graduated several Masters and Doctoral candidates since the founding of WILRU,” said Prof Winberg.

Prof Winberg feels that she is researching an area that is important for the development and identity of universities of technology.

“As an institution we have traditionally had very close ties with the industries that we prepare students for. As the world of work is changing very rapidly, it is important for us to know about these changes and to implement research-based interventions to address the changing contexts of work,” she said.

She mentioned that there are not many rated researchers in applied linguistics, so she is happy to contribute knowledge to the field. She recently convened the joint South African Applied Linguistics Association (SAALA) and Linguistics Society of Southern Africa (LSSA) conference, and was elected chairperson of SAALA for a two year term of office.

Prof Winberg said she was “particularly interested in relationships between language and discourse practices in higher education and in workplaces – as well as how they can be more productively aligned.

Prof Robinson is currently finalising four articles. These are on teacher development in South Africa and Namibia, professional learning communities as an approach to teacher development, teacher education practices in three Southern and East African countries, and the impact of the changing qualifications structure on teachers’ sense of themselves.

She said she enjoys working collaboratively, as this increases opportunities to share expertise and insights. Some of these articles are therefore co-authored by two colleagues in the Faculty, Melanie Sadeck and Chiwimbiso Kwenda, as well as a recent Fulbright visitor, Prof Peter Hewson.

Prof Robinson’s own long-term agenda is to establish a Chair in Teacher Education in the Faculty, so that the excellent work of her colleagues can be better supported and profiled.

Photograph: Prof Maureen Robinson, Prof Chris Winberg

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Outstanding contributions towards science, engineering, innovation and technology were acknowledged at the twelfth National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) Awards.

The winners of the 2009/10 NSTF Awards were announced at the annual Gala Dinner that took place on 4 May 2010 at Emperors Palace, Gauteng.

The Minister of Science and Technology, Ms Naledi Pandor presented the fourteen category awards on the evening.

The NSTF Awards affords an opportunity for recognition to all practising scientists, engineers, technologists and innovators across the system of innovation.

Teachers, schools and students who excelled in the mathematics, science, and technology field were also acknowledged.

The Awards represent a collaborative effort by the SET community of South Africa, made possible by the participation and sponsorship of a variety of stakeholders.

CPUT’s Prof Oluwole Daniel Makinde received recognition for his success in research in mathematical modelling and computation as well as research capacity development in challenging environments.

The NRF Sponsored T W Kambule Award to a 'senior black male researcher over the last five to ten years' was made to Prof Makinde, who is currently a Senior Professor and Chair of Postgraduate Studies in the Faculty of Engineering.

In 2009, Prof Makinde received an NSTF finalist award for outstanding contribution to science, engineering, technology and innovation.

This year, he was nominated by Dr S M Tshehla, Deputy Dean Military Science at the University of Stellenbosch.

Prof Makinde’s involvement in the NSTF is mainly through capacity development in the area of computational and mathematical sciences among previously disadvantaged communities in South Africa and beyond, as well as his contributions in the area of Computational Mathematics and Mathematical Modeling.

Over the past ten years his research work has contributed to the upliftment of students through supervision and training at Honours, Masters, PhD and post-doctoral levels.

“This achievement has given my research niche area a boost. Computational and mathematical modeling of engineering and biological systems provide a cost effective means of investigating the inherent complex dynamics embedded in them”, said Prof Makinde.

The main objective of his research work is to use mathematical theories and methodologies to gain insight into the dynamics of various engineering & biological systems which are of industrial, environmental and social interest.

“The NSTF provides a good platform for our academic staff and students to embark of quality research activities. We are here to provide adequate mentorship in order to make their dreams a reality. Research excellence is achievable and we can all contribute to the advancement of Science/Technological Innovation/New Knowledge in South Africa and Africa in general”, said Prof Makinde.

Presently, he is serving as the Secretary General of the African Mathematical Union and an Associate member of National Institute of Physics in South Africa (NIThep).

He has co-authored two textbooks, two monographs and published numerous research articles in journals and conference proceedings and has received several academic and research excellent awards, honours and grants within and outside South Africa.

He added: “I will continue to provide much needed mentorship and support that are necessary for the development of essential research skills for both academic staff and students at CPUT, other South African institutions and Africa continent in general”.

For more information and a gallery of photographs from the event visit the NSTF website at www.nstfawards.org.za.

By Thando Moiloa

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Professor Olalekan Fatoki, former Director of Research at the University of Venda, commenced duties as Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences at CPUT on 1 April 2008.

Professor Fatoki holds an MSc in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria and a PhD in Chemistry (Analytical Chemistry) from the University of Salford in England. Prior to his position at the University of Venda, he served as Head of the Department of Chemistry and Head of the Directorate of Physical Sciences at the University of Fort Hare.

One of Professor Fatoki’s major research interests is the development of methods to monitor environmental pollutants. His work on environmental analytical chemistry has been published widely in accredited journals. His current research focuses on endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), phthalate ester plasticisers and heavy metals, and their associated impact on health.

Professor Fatoki looks forward to a productive relationship with CPUT’s Applied Sciences Faculty:

“I would like to see the Faculty of Applied Sciences moving forward to be the faculty of choice for students regionally and nationally, providing equitable access to education and offering a quality suite of programmes that will produce highly competent graduates.”

Professor Fatoki takes pride in the Faculty’s ability to equip students to meet industrial, regional and national skills requirements through its career-oriented academic programs.

In years to come, he envisions the Faculty of Applied Sciences becoming even more engaged in meaningful and mutually beneficial partnerships with industry, government, research institutes, the local community and other national and international institutions of higher education.

By Ilana Abratt, Marketing and Communication Department

Written by CPUT News
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Anyone and everyone looking to pursue a PhD degree must reflect on the problems within the society and direct their research towards a theme that would add value to people’s lives.

This is a message to the prospective PhD students from Dr Wasiu Afolabi who will be the only candidate to be awarded his PhD in Chemistry in the Faculty of Applied Sciences

The title of his research was: “Synthesis and bioactivity evaluation of selected pentacyclic triterpenoid hybrid-conjugate derivatives”. It focused on the functional improvement of naturally occurring biologically active chemical molecules and the limitations of synthesising large hybrid compounds as well as the significance of structure-activity relationship in rapid bioactive compounds development.

“The synthesis and screening of nature-mimicked conjugate-hybrids, therefore, presented novel bioactive derivatives that are reported for the first time which may have applications in the development of new drug leads,” he adds.

Afolabi recalls that his accomplishment was not a bed of roses. “The journey was paved with thorns. It has been sweat, tears, and pains all the way. There were several obstacles that posed challenges to my progress. These include financial constraints for the most part and cultural shock in a foreign environment in the early days.”

He adds that while he wanted to excel academically, “but the realisation that it was not an option to fall back into poverty was a strong motivation”. His parents were helpful with the constant motivation and push for them to study in order to become independent. “To those who believe, they would understand God is a crucial factor in the journey. I had suffered multiple challenges but [I am] grateful to have overcome every problem.”

Meanwhile, Dr Imisioluseyi Akinyede will be awarded his  PhD degree in Civil Engineering. His research title is: “Framework for effective management of cost toward sustainable housing delivery”. The purpose is to investigate influencing factors and then develop a framework for effective cost management toward sustainable housing delivery, thus, housing will be available and affordable for all people irrespective of their income.

The Nigerian-born Akinyede urges prospective PhD students to be focused without wavering, and be determined based on the fact that there are challenges on the road to attaining a Doctorate degree. “The journey is not smooth as expected, glory is to God that I have achieved the targeted aim,” he remarks.

“I am grateful to the Vice-Chancellor [ Prof Chris Nhlapo], management team, and the award committee for Vice-Chancellor Prestigious Achievers Award. I am a recipient of this award twice with financial benefits. The financial support provided enhances the completion of this study as scheduled. His aspiration is to create construction techniques that will make housing affordable for the poor people in Africa, and educate them on how to live a sustainable life.

“The fulfillment of my dream is a joy to me, [I aspire] to help in the development of the sustainable environment, through the developed validated framework on sustainable techniques for construction operators toward achieving affordable housing production process.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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On the recent 32nd anniversary of the New Product Launch, Head of Department of Food Science and Technology, Prof Jessy Van Wyk expressed her contentment with the students’ proficiency in producing new food products from insects essentially for poor communities.

The annual event gives a platform for students to showcase their projects and the subject knowledge of the students are evaluated by industry experts. Van Wyk says the students’ products are safe for human consumption, “but they are not ready for the market yet”.

She says: “More development will be needed (4 weeks are not enough). Three of the products, Flyer Cracker, Crunchy Rusks and Amasoja cookie have excellent prospects of making a success in the market, should we be able to find a company or an SME who would want to take it further.”

The full list of the products which were assessed by the industry experts were:

• Amasoja cookie – Chocolate cookies with black soldier fly flour, increasing the protein content.
• Bite Cookies – a chocolate-flavoured cookie with mealworm flour.
• Cheesy Bug Bites – savoury biscuits with black soldier fly flour.
• Flyer Crackers – Savoury crackers with black soldier fly flour.
• Pasta Al Manjo – pasta made with mealworm flour, also with increased protein content, compared to commercial products.
• Spin-A-Cracker – Savoury crackers made with mealworm flour with a spinach and tomato flavour.
• Vanilla Rusk – buttermilk-flavoured rusks made with mealworm flour.

Food Science and Technology third-year student, Megan Mulholland, says before the event they were nervous about the assessors because they only had one month to prepare, however, the assessors were, “very approachable and not too scary”. Megan states that the food they produce (from insects) is aimed at addressing poverty in poor communities and that normally foods from insects are consumed in rural areas and the third world countries. The students’ aim is to introduce this type of food to urban and first world countries.

“Insects are cheap and nutritious, basically it’s the future for the third world countries because they’re high in Omega 3 and 6, and high in protein. They are a good source of energy which is perfect to provide food in rural areas… We had to make it tasty, safe and appealing for consumers and we also want to make it popular in the urban areas and the first world countries”

“The student is absolutely correct,” Van Wyk quips.  She says insects are still considered, “a poor man’s food to a large extent, so our aim at the moment is to develop products for the top-end of the market.”

She adds: “We believe that once the idea is established that it is considered a gourmet or rich man’s food, we would also develop healthy, tasty food products for lower-income groups. In this way, we would be able to contribute to the supply of food products for the poor communities while avoiding the stigma of ‘poor man’s food’ for products made with insect protein.”

Van Wyk adds that this can be a solution to food security challenges to the global community. “The cultivation of insects requires a fraction of the resources (land, water, feed, other energy, etc.), hence it is and will progressively become a more sustainable source of protein to feed the population of our country, the continent and the world.”

She adds that the product has to be developed using the scientific method and integrate all relevant sub-fields in Food Science & Technology, such as Food Quality Assurance, Food Microbiology, Food Analysis, Food Chemistry, Sensory Evaluation, Food Legislation, Food Packaging, Food Engineering and many more.  Van Wyk confirms that all the staff members in the department and many staff of the Agrifood Technology Station are also involved in the project, “true example of teamwork makes dream work”.

“The industry assessors also commented on the professionalism and how well prepared the students were in terms of their subject knowledge. One of the assessors indicated that there is a strong possibility that one of the products would have a good chance to compete next year at an international Food Innovation Awards platform in the UK.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Department of Biotechnology and Consumer Science lecturer, Theloshni Govender is sharing a number of immune-boosting recipes on social media, which she hopes will benefit students during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Govender initially shared the recipes on the CPUT Consumer Science: Food and Nutrition Facebook page but she hopes the University’s alumni and numerous ‘fellow colleagues’ also benefit from her initiative.

The bubbly lecturer says this was a wonderful opportunity for her to share her family’s immune-boosting recipes.  “I feel great to give back to my community; I was inspired by my family’s immune-boosting remedies which I grew up using. These recipes have been passed down from generation to generation.”

Govender’s recipes include:

• Garlic Tea
• Lemon and Honey Flu Drink
• Immunity Tea Citrus and Cayenne Pepper Flu Juice
• Apple Cider Flu Tonic
• Turmeric immune booster

Govender says: “Living a healthy lifestyle with good nutrition is even more important during this pandemic which is critical to supporting a strong immune system.”  

Here are a few tips from her to incorporate into your daily lifestyle:

• Plan your meals to eliminate spending unnecessary money and ensuring you are incorporating a variety of foods in your diet.
• Avoid processed and junk foods as these are high in fats, sugar and salt and lack essential nutrients.
• Incorporate plenty of seasonal fruits and vegetables, which are rich in vitamins, minerals as well as fibre.
• Frozen or canned fruits and vegetables can be consumed as they also contain vitamins and minerals, however, the processing of these products adds ingredients such as sugar, salt or preservatives.
• Add whole grains, nuts and healthy fats such as in olive, sesame, peanut or other oils rich in unsaturated fatty acids in your diet. These foods will help to support your immune system.
• Replace snacks like crisps and sweets with fresh seasonal fruit, yoghurt, peanut butter, cheese etc.
• Reduce sugar-sweetened beverages as they are high in empty calories.
• Drink water regularly: at least eight glasses a day to stay well hydrated which will also help your immune system.
• If you consume alcohol, do so only in moderation.
• Quit smoking or reduce the amounts of cigarettes per day.
• Incorporate 30 minutes of exercise per day. Taking a walk around the neighbourhood is a great start.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Department of Chemistry lecturer, Prof Vernon Somerset’s contribution to his field has been recognised with a nomination for the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)-South32 South32) Awards. 

Somerset has been nominated in the TW Kambule-NSTF: Researcher Award category which seeks to acknowledge the contribution made by an individual researcher over six to 15 years, for research conducted in South Africa.

 “It also asks that your research is taken from publications to another level where it is seen to benefit the public domain,” Somerset said.

His research activities focus on the determination of inorganic and organic pollutants in the aquatic ecosystem, air, and wet deposition samples.  “High levels of some of these pollutants will harm human health,” Somerset states.

This determines the levels of certain pollutants and linking it to the aquatic ecosystem and human health so that the risk to human health is established and highlighted. 

He adds: “If scientists can find a way to showcase to policymakers some of the science needed to improve policy decisions, you create a value chain of the research that you are involved in”.

“Being nominated means that my peers have recognised the work I have been doing in my research area for the last 19 years. It means that my focus area is assisting others in this field of research.”

His interest also falls on one particular pollutant called mercury, which he says is also a global pollutant. Somerset’s research in this area has seen him contributing to the wider international mercury research community, assisting in establishing a baseline for South Africa and assisting the Department of Environment, Forestry, and Fisheries with the ratification of the International Minamata Convention on Mercury.

“This is a good example of where research and science informed policymakers towards a convention that will be implemented globally. It is an ongoing work [and] a good model for future endeavours.”

The lecturer who dedicates his free time to his family, together enjoying good food and conversation, adds that his nomination is rewarding and an indication that his hard work has been an investment in him, his collaborators, and the students involved in the research activities and training.

“For CPUT, it should be an indication that excellence is possible, but it requires support, effective systems, investment, and the attraction of key industrial partners. My achievements are catalysed through a team of dedicated people that I can always count on, sometimes in difficult circumstances. My appreciation, therefore, goes to my family, my fellow researchers, students, and collaborators.”

Somerset’s research experience in this field has seen him being part of the technical advisory committee to review documents and research data in assistance to the government and the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury at the international level.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Prof Victoria Jideani’s pioneering research has earned her three nominations for the NSTF-South 32 Awards, known as the Science Oscars of South Africa.

Jideani’s research in: transforming the science of Bambara groundnut [BGN] into innovation: gluten-free, lactose-free, plant-based proteins and meat alternatives value-added products has propelled her to the three nominations for the prestigious awards.

She is the project leader: Cereals and Legumes Biopolymer Research for Food Security.  

Jideani has been nominated for the TW-Kambule-NSTF Award for her contribution through research and its outputs over a period from six years up to 15 years from the commencement of the research career, predominantly in South Africa. Her second nomination is for the Innovation Award: Corporate Organisation Award; for her innovations, research and/or development – contribution through a corporate organisation over the last five to 10 years.

The third nomination is for a Special Annual Theme Award: Plant Health which is awarded according to criteria in any of the categories.

Grown in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and Kwazulu-Natal, BGN (Vigna subteranea) is commonly cultivated by women and called “the groundnut of the women” and “a poor man’s food”. 

“BGN is regarded as an inferior crop and its full economic significance remains to be determined,” said Jideani.

“My pioneering research harnessed the abundant protein, phenolic and antioxidant content of BGN into functional food for consumer wellness.”  She said these value-added products and patents include gluten-free flour (BamFlour), baked goods (BamBiscuits and BamBrownies), fibres (BamFibre-I, BamFibre-S), lactose-free beverages (BamMilk, BamPro), plant-based protein (BAMOLP, BamTofu) and meat alternatives (BamPolony). 

These products are high in protein, polyphenols and antioxidants and may, therefore, ‘break the cycle of poverty, malnutrition and contribute to a healthy diet’.  The differentiation of BGN products is in their pleasant taste.  CPUT Aonyx Foods spin-off company will be commercialising the technology.

Jideani’s painstaking efforts earned her first-time nominations for these awards.  “Apart from the recognition, putting together the nomination application enabled me to become more competitive and increased my visibility… it created an opportunity to receive useful feedback about my research and how it is perceived from CPUT who nominated me, and the National Science and Technology Forum Awards Committee.”

She said her nominations increase the visibility of CPUT, and validate the institution’s recruitment ability while positioning it as a university of choice for future employees. The National Research Foundation rated researcher aspires to raise a new generation of researchers who are passionate to transform indigenous cereals and legumes for sustainable food and nutrition security. Jideani said their research will ‘act as a motivation for all’. 

“CPUT recognised creativity in me...  I owe my success to CPUT, the Department of Food Science and Technology for providing the appropriate environment, research facilities and infrastructure.  I am very grateful to all my undergraduate, postgraduate students and collaborators who contributed immensely to the research outputs,” the modest professor remarked.

She said it took many years of research activities in an effort to be at the heart of innovation and to be respected in the area of value-addition to cereals and legumes in Africa.

“In particular, we focus on design, modelling and optimisation of food processes.  Our primary focus is to train the next generation of scientists while creating an environment that is conducive to learning and testing new skills.”

The announcement of the NSTF-South32 Awards finalists will be made in May and the 22nd annual Awards function will be in an online format this year. The date for the function is yet to be announced.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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