It took well over a decade to realise, but Sport Management staff and students are officially in their new custom-built departmental home.

This week, Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo officially launched the new satellite campus, which is in the aspirational surrounds of the Newlands Cricket Ground.

Head of Department for Sports Management Associate Professor Brendon Knott says the prime location will be a game changer for their students.

“Being at the heart of a working sporting precinct introduces so many experiences and opportunities to the students. We are right here at Newlands Cricket ground, a place where international games are played, down the road you have an Olympic sized swimming pool, we are within radius of some of the top sporting schools in the country. The opportunities are plentiful,” he says.

Nhlapo congratulated the past and present Sports Management staff, like former HOD Prof Simeon Davies, for doggedly pursuing the dream of a dedicated space for the department.

“This opening us a major milestone which represents growth and the development of future sports leaders. Sports Management started as a very small entity in 2006, but seeing the growth and the potential our students have within the national and international sports space I see this satellite campus as being a major milestone. At CPUT we place a premium on innovation and it will flourish here,” he told the audience.

Director of Sports Development in the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (WC Government), Danielle Manuel emphasized that the new satellite campus was allowing opportunity to flourish.

“We are celebrating more than just a new academic space. We are celebrating a bridge between those early moments of participation and the future of sport leadership, science and innovation,” she says.

“If we want to change the future of sport, we must continue investing in the knowledge, leadership and partnerships that allow sport to contribute meaningfully to jobs, wellbeing and safety across our province.”

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

The Sport Management Department within the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences, along with the Sport Management Department in the School of Management Sciences at North-West University (NWU), recently hosted the 5th World Association for Sport Management (WASM) Conference.

The WASM 2026 took place at CPUT's Newlands Satellite Campus, located at the Newlands Cricket Grounds. Both institutions are dedicated to pioneering research-informed teaching in Sport Management, passionately embracing technology integration to transform higher education.

The NWU and CPUT are collaborating with industry and academic partners to advance sport management education and practice by hosting WASM 2026. This event aims to connect sports management experts and industry leaders to exchange ideas and foster collaboration. South Africa, a nation passionate about sports, offers excellent infrastructure and a beautiful setting in Cape Town for the conference.

The participation of international experts enriched the local knowledge base, benefiting lecturers, students, and sports organizations. The organisers stated that the WASM legacy would promote innovative solutions to contemporary sport management challenges and facilitate lasting collaborations, ultimately supporting the sustainability of research and practice in the field.

In her opening, Dr Ruth Crabtree, WASM President, noted that they had been working with the Local Organising Committee, led by Head of Department: Sport Management Department Prof Brendon Knott, and Prof Liandi Van Den Berg from NWU, with their “fantastic teams”. “I want to take this moment to thank them for all their hard work, enthusiasm, and the fantastic way they have worked with the Board over the past two years.”

Crabtree continued: “That hard work and commitment have now come to fruition, and I am very excited about the programme of events, academic, social, and cultural, they have planned for the Conference.”

She also stated that it was the first time that the WASM has hosted its conference in Africa, “and the WASM Board is extremely excited about this”. “The one thing that unites all of Africa is sport. You are so enthusiastic and passionate about many sports and the power that holds within your nation.”

Crabtree said this was evident when the former President, Nelson Mandela, stated that sport has the power to change the world. “It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does”. And this week, we will live up to those sentiments and be true to the values of WASM. By networking, meeting new people, sharing new ideas, and learning different ways to view things. To discuss, debate, and work together, we can realise the mission of WASM to facilitate sport management research and teaching and learning excellence worldwide.”

Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, outlined the ongoing sport programmes and the upcoming sporting events in the province. Mackenzie pledged the provincial government’s commitment to investing in school sports. He also noted the importance of partnerships and collaboration between the government and educational institutions in sport development for young people, as some, unlike others, were not fortunate enough to obtain a qualification in sport management.

Reflecting on the event, Knott said: “It was a world-class international conference, delivered at CPUT’s newest satellite campus at Newlands. We maximised the student involvement in the event through student volunteers and a postgraduate seminar.” Over 200 delegates attended, with more than 50% being from other countries.

The legacy programme, in conjunction with Groote Schuur High School, included a programme of engagement with delegates, selected students, and captains of sport at the school. The Keynote speakers included Annemarie Hill of the Special Olympics and Dr Decius Chipande of the African Union Sports Council. Knot added that hosting the 5th WASM conference provides numerous stimuli for teaching and research in Sport Management. “The influx of international experts within the field contributes to expanding the South African knowledge and research field, impacting lecturers, students, sports organisations, local and provincial sporting organisations, sports events, and educational institutions that engaged with this prestigious international event.

He noted that the South African WASM legacy would enhance innovative and interdisciplinary solutions to challenges in contemporary sport management. “Likewise, postgraduate students and academic staff will enjoy long-lasting international collaborations, aiding the sustainability of sport management research and practice.”

The support of partners such as the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport, the National Convention Bureau, and the National Research Foundation ensured the conference's success. The next WASM conference will be hosted in Brisbane, Australia in 2028.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Dr Pieter Steenkamp, a senior lecturer in the Department of Marketing in the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences, in partnership with academics from Germany, has been honoured and recognised internationally for innovative e-learning.

Their project, titled “A Day in Two Lives: Building Empathy and Understanding Across Cultures”, led by Steenkamp, Prof Daniel Michelis, and Carolin Rautenberg (student) from Anhalt University of Applied Sciences, was awarded second place in the 2025 e-Learning Excellence Awards. This is a prestigious global achievement and places the project among the top two most innovative e-learning initiatives internationally for the year 2025.

Steenkamp said for CPUT and its partner university, Anhalt University of Applied Sciences, this accomplishment enhances international stature, demonstrating leadership in e-learning transformation, global collaboration, and digital pedagogy - promoting the One SMART CPUT vision.

He stated that the e-Learning Excellence Awards, presented annually at the European Conference on e-Learning (ECEL), recognise the most innovative, high-impact contributions in digital education from universities across the globe. Hosted by Academic Conferences International (ACI), “the awards have become one of the most respected benchmarks of excellence in technology-enhanced learning within the international higher education community”.

“The competition is rigorous: entrants must demonstrate pedagogical innovation, measurable impact on learners, and a contribution that pushes the boundaries of what e-learning can achieve. Most finalists came from well-resourced leading institutions and were invited to present their work to a panel of international judges who are experts in digital pedagogy, instructional design, and educational innovation.” The submissions were scored against criteria such as originality, scalability, academic rigour, and societal relevance.

Steenkamp et al’s project competed against well-resourced, first-world universities without any budget. They applied their knowledge and skills, and “through determination, passion, and with an innovative mindset, gave their students a rich international learning experience. “Being awarded second place globally as a department against universities with substantial budgets is almost unthinkable,” he reflected.

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Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The Department of Tourism and Events Management has compassionately held a student food drive during the October-November period, aiming to support and uplift students who are facing food insecurity.

This initiative was launched to improve student welfare by providing essential nutritional support. Dr Cynthia Dube, the acting head of the department, highlighted that the food drive was made possible through the generosity of corporate sponsors and individual donors. A total of 29 students received meal packets containing staple foods, such as canned proteins (beans, pilchards, baked beans), carbohydrates (maize meal, rice, pasta), and toiletries. These packages were designed to offer well-balanced meals and essential nourishment for a limited time.

“This approach was designed to ease the burden on students, especially those who are financially disadvantaged or unfunded by their bursaries, which enable them to focus on their academics. This initiative has managed to minimise disruptions caused by hunger,” she noted.

The goals of this food drive initiative are to support students facing financial difficulties by providing essential food parcels; to build partnerships with business sponsors who support student welfare programmes; and to encourage student participation and awareness of mutual aid and food security.

Nobesuthu Magida, a lecturer in Tourism and Events Management and the project coordinator, highlighted the department's commitment to student privacy and dignity. To protect privacy, no identifiable photos were used in documentation. Various communication channels, such as class representatives, campus notice boards, and WhatsApp messages to class groups, were employed to raise student awareness and ensure equitable access to the initiative. “Most importantly, in order to maintain the initiative's inclusivity and respect for each student's circumstances, students were urged to ask for help through a private process. This approach promoted a culture of trust and concern throughout the department and emphasised the importance of student-centred support,” Magida said.

The sponsors included Shoprite, African Bank, Unilever, Diamond Works and individual donors.

For this campaign, the Department sent a WhatsApp message to students, placed food drive posters on notice boards in key campus areas, and promoted it through word-of-mouth by class representatives and the student support team. The Department plans to appeal to new and existing donors, to launch a similar initiative during the 2026 academic year. “The goal is to build on the success of the 2025 Student Food Drive by expanding its reach and sustainability. This upcoming phase will not only focus on aiding during the examination period but will also aim to offer continuous support to students throughout their academic journey at CPUT,” said Dube.

Magida added: “To achieve this, the department plans to strengthen and formalise its partnerships with corporate sponsors like as Shoprite, African Bank, and Unilever, as well as pitching to new industry partners, local businesses, and CPUT alumni. The idea is to create a stable Student Food Drive account that can be used to purchase food vouchers, hygiene packs, and other necessities regularly. This fund will be managed transparently, with clear reporting methods to ensure accountability and donor confidence.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Recently, the Brand and Digital Research (BDR) Hub came together at the Cape Town Hotel School Restaurant for its fifth symposium, where Dr Pieter Steenkamp, Dr Kuhle Zwakala, and Prof Rodney Duffett sought to consolidate their research in brand and digital marketing.

The Hub consolidates the two realms to equip postgraduate students to contribute to knowledge production and solve business problems. The purpose statement was: “To advance brand and digital marketing knowledge and skills in higher education and business through technology-led education, research and innovation for the benefit of society”.

Duffett said the advent of AI requires adaptation and innovation to address digital marketing theory and practice challenges. “Strategic branding yields differentiation points and builds a positive brand image and reputation in higher education and business.”

The BDR Hub objectives are to:

Support CPUT’s FBMS research output objectives by focusing on the current industrial revolution.

• Build an intensive research Marketing Department.
• Explore and develop a Pan-Africanist perspective on strategic brand and digital marketing research.
• Improve the quality of research output.
• Attract high-calibre postgraduate students and researchers.
• Attract internal and external research funding.
• Increase research and supervision capacity.
• Foster and leverage industry linkages.
• Expand the Marketing Department’s international footprint.
• Increase research and supervision capacity.
• Foster and leverage industry linkages.
• Expand the Marketing Department’s international footprint.

The 5th BDR Hub symposium focused on advancing its objectives and featured several speakers, including Head of the Department of Marketing, Dr Sandra Williams; Director of the Centre for Postgraduate Studies, Prof Izak van Zyl and Duffett. Master’s student Llewellyn Church also contributed with a presentation.

The guest speaker was Omphile Setiloane, Lead Digital Marketing Manager at Spur Corporation. The other speakers included Prof Renitha Rampersad, Assistant Dean for Research and Innovation in the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences (FBMS). A significant highlight was the launch of the book: Marketing Management: Integrated Perspectives, accompanied by a panel discussion led by Prof Nkosivile Madinga from the University of Cape Town, featuring contributors such as Zwakala, Duffett, Steenkamp, Mandy Jones, Andiswa Mrasi and Dr Nicole Morrison.

This annual symposium has established itself as a key event for the Marketing Department, fostering collaboration, innovation, and engagement among academics, students, and industry professionals. It promotes the dissemination of research, aligns with CPUT’s strategic goals, and supports the Department’s focus on research and postgraduate development, while also celebrating academic achievements.

The book provides a comprehensive and integrated view of the marketing discipline, bridging theory and practice for the modern context. The book addresses key areas such as strategic and digital marketing, consumer behaviour, brand management, integrated marketing communications, sales and services marketing, and contemporary issues, including ethics and AI in marketing.

It was also announced that Steenkamp, Daniel Michelis, and Carolin Rautenberg were awarded second place at the highly prestigious international 11th e-Learning Excellence Awards 2025.

Duffett expressed that the 5th BDR Hub Symposium beautifully highlighted the profound impact that research and innovation in marketing can have when academia, industry, and students come together in collaboration. “The discussions highlighted that the future of marketing and higher education depends on our ability to integrate technology into all we do. The Hub’s work demonstrates that CPUT is not only responding to the digital revolution but actively shaping it through applied research.

“Collaboration is key, whether through postgraduate study or industry partnerships; every member of our university community can contribute to advancing brand and digital research that benefits society. Events like the BDR Hub Symposium remind us that we are part of a forward-thinking academic community committed to building One Smart CPUT.”

Further information and the free first two book chapters are available to everyone at:

https://sio.brandforsuccess.com/marketing-book

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 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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CPUT continues to celebrate the country’s heritage with a variety of events and initiatives, such as faculty heritage days, recreation activities, and discussions about heritage collections. 

These celebrations highlight the country's cultural richness, encourage social cohesion, and explore the role of heritage in national identity and education. The nation reflects on the lives and sacrifices that have shaped its journey toward freedom and unity. Different faculties recently organised heritage days to showcase a vibrant mix of traditions, including music, dance, food, and performances. 

The Faculty of Business and Management Sciences (FBMS) hosted an event at District Six Campus to celebrate heritage under the theme: Celebrating Bursts of Western Cape Cultures: A multidisciplinary celebration of heritage and culture at the FBMS.

“The FBMS is very diverse in nature and embodies the values of fairness, boldness, morals, and sincerity. Students and staff members were invited to participate in this event and showcase their cultures through a variety of performances, including traditional dress. The purpose was to rekindle a sense of belonging within our faculty and to enhance social cohesion,” said FBMS Acting Language Coordinator, Nobuhle Luphondo, who is also the Communication Lecturer: Management and Project Management Department.

The guest speakers included Judge Igshaan Higgins, an Acting Judge in the Western Cape High Court, Khayzuran Jaffer, a lecturer in Professional and Technical Communication in the Department of Construction Management and Quantity Surveying. Jaffer said: “It was wonderful, not just for me but for everyone.” Meanwhile, Anthony Jacobs from the FBMS Language committee said: “We need to find time to celebrate who we are as people.”

Luphondo stated that the FBMS is incredibly diverse and reflects the values of fairness, boldness, morality, and sincerity. Students and staff members were invited to participate in this event and showcase their cultures through various performances, including traditional dress. She said: “The FBMS Heritage event was a meaningful reminder of the power of cultural identity and unity. It was heartening to see individuals express pride in their heritage while also embracing the diversity around them. For me, it reaffirmed the importance of inclusivity and the value of shared human experiences beyond cultural differences.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The third CPUT International Week was elevated by the inspiring presence of two esteemed diplomats: Her Excellency Joan Edwards Thomas, the Jamaican High Commissioner to the Republic of South Africa, and Her Excellency Elsa Caposso Vicente, the Consul General of Angola to Cape Town.

The International Week, recently held at the Cape Town Hotel School, is an annual conference hosted by the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences (FBMS). The three-day event was organised in collaboration with the Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships (SIP) Directorate and the Jamaican High Commission. The event is vital for positioning CPUT as a global university and provides a platform to strengthen relationships with quintuple helix partners, including the diplomatic community, government, industry, academia, and civil society.

Prof Marshall Sheldon, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships, conveyed her “sincere appreciation” to the guests with a special mention to the diplomats and their teams, and industry partners for joining CPUT in the conference.

“This week is more than just a celebration for us as the institution; it’s our commitment to shaping the university that is purposefully connected to the rest of the world. That is responsive to local challenges. That’s open to meaningful partnerships and opportunities that are aligned with our institution’s vision 2030.”

Dr Tasmeera Singh, Director: SIP Directorate said: “The purpose of the 3rd International Week under the theme: ‘The Role of Universities, Through Internationalisation, in Economic Growth in Developing Economies,’ brings together the diplomatic core, industry partners, and higher education stakeholders as we navigate the challenges of internationalisation in a BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Non-Linear and Incomprehensible) context.” 

The conference convener, Andiswa Mrasi said the event was important in positioning CPUT as a global university, while creating a platform to strengthen relations with quintuple helix partners, namely, the diplomatic community, government, industry, academic, and civil society.

There was also an industry roundtable on how universities can leverage entrepreneurship, employability, and tourism to drive national economic growth.

Caposso Vicente participated in the Diplomatic Roundtable, and she shared her insightful reflections on the theme “The Role of Universities, Through Internationalisation, in Economic Growth in Developing Economies,” elevating the event. “Your contributions, shaped by your distinguished leadership and profound dedication to fostering international relations, were deeply inspiring to all our delegates. The perspectives you offered on the importance of sustainable partnerships between higher education institutions and the diplomatic community were invaluable,” said Mrasi.

Edwards Thomas reflected on the 31st anniversary of diplomatic ties between Jamaica and South Africa – a bond that predates formalisation in 1994. “Jamaica’s steadfast support during South Africa’s struggle for freedom, and your country's unwavering commitment to the fight against apartheid, have been instrumental in shaping the deep and enduring friendship between our nations. Your remarks resonated with all of us, reminding us of the importance of solidarity and shared history,” Mrasi remarked.

The event was a resounding success, more so as it attracted industry stakeholders as well as nine South African universities. Mrasi, Manager: Strategic Initiatives and Projects, FBMS, was impressed with the event’s goal of attracting international partners: “Witnessing such an increased participation from local universities as well as private institutions of higher education is evidence to the strategic importance of promoting internationalisation.”

She continued: “We are proud to have been the official hosts of the Jamaican Culinary Tour featuring the multi-award-winning Chef Brian Lumley, who treated our delegates to a taste of the Caribbean dinner, which forms part of the celebration of 31 years of diplomatic ties between Jamaica and the Republic of South Africa.”

The exceptional sponsors of this event included: Appleton Estate, VISA, Southern Sun Waterfront, Jive, Cape Town Hotel School, and Double Barrel. Together, they elevated the event, creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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A powerful collaboration between the W&RSETA, the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences, and the Department of Retail Business Management recently hosted a Transformative Workshop aimed at tackling Gender-Based Violence (GBV), inspiring change, and fostering a safer community for all.

In this workshop, the Inclusive and Affirming Ministries (IAM), in collaboration with CPUT, invited students to engage in an interactive and empowering session dedicated to tackling GBV through meaningful dialogue, education, and practical practices. Jonathan Aspeling, a lecturer in Retail Business Management, emphasised that this event was vital for raising awareness among students about the critical issues of GBV and femicide, providing a platform for student voices to resonate. Aspeling, who is also the project manager, commended the facilitation team for their extensive experience in GBV awareness training and support, ensuring that the workshop's goals of enhancing awareness and equipping participants with practical tools were successfully met.

“The workshops have reduced stigma, encouraging help-seeking, equipped students to support survivors, challenged harmful attitudes, and promoted a culture of accountability and equality.” 

He said the workshops benefit students by enhancing their awareness of GBV under the banner of “Not in my Name”, adding that the GBV awareness workshops are funded by the W&RSETA and hosted by the Retail Business Management Department, but have resulted in dynamic partnerships within the Business Management and Sciences Faculty and between different faculties. “Creating awareness about the scourge of gender-based violence prevalent in our communities and country, ensuring that our CPUT community is not only aware but is also encouraged to speak out, support, and address correct attitudes.”

Thuli Mjwara, the Strategic Advocacy Coordinator at IAM, facilitated the workshop. During a participatory exercise, students identified societal factors that contribute to GBV, including patriarchy, toxic masculinity, and restrictions on women’s choices. The session also emphasised the process of obtaining a protection order and explained important legal documents, such as the J88 form and victim impact statements, which are essential when reporting cases to the South African Police Service.

 “I believe this workshop will foster meaningful change, as it equips students with immediate access to a comprehensive directory of support services available within the Western Cape province. By empowering victims and first responders with this vital information, we take a crucial step towards ensuring timely assistance and intervention. Eradicating gender-based violence requires not only raising awareness but also making support services easily accessible to all, enabling survivors to report incidents and hold perpetrators accountable. This approach strengthens our collective effort to create safer communities.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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CPUT and the University of Cape Town (UCT) recently co-hosted the 2025 African Marketing Academic Collaboration (AMAC) Seminar.

The theme of the event was Bridging the Divide between Industry and Academia for Sustainable Futures.

“The theme is inviting us to reflect on how we can strengthen the connection between theory and practice, said Dr Sandra Williams, Acting Head of the Marketing Department in CPUT’s Faculty of Business and Management Sciences, who welcomed the attendees on day one of the seminar at the Cape Town Hotel School.

“We need to collaborate; we need to rethink and reimagine so that we can align education with the evolving needs of industry and certainly society”.

Prof Mercy Makhitha, Dean: Faculty of Business and Management Sciences, said AMAC was started in 2016 with just a few universities participating.

“We have grown since then to more than 20 institutions across Africa and beyond. AMAC provides opportunities for us to share best practices and learn from each other. That is learning from other universities and benchmarking against each other. AMAC enables us to strengthen those relationships among marketing departments and to ensure that we do not work in silos but work together for the common good of marketing education.

The keynote speakers were Martin Neethling, former Chief Marketing Officer: PepsiCo and Prof Mornay Roberts-Lombard, Professor of Management: University of the Western Cape.

The day also included thought-provoking panel discussions, which included both industry experts and academics and centred around industry expectation versus academic delivery.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Faculty of Business and Management Sciences recently partnered with the Alliance for Youth Sub-Saharan Africa to host the Career Hook-Up.

The event, which was held at the District Six Campus, brought together industry leaders, academics, students and young professionals to explore this year’s theme: Human-AI Collaboration: Optimising Partnerships Between Humans and AI (Artificial Intelligence).

It focused on how young people can build smarter, more meaningful partnerships with AI across industries.

The day opened with a welcome from Prof Sharhidd Taliep, Acting Assistant Dean: Learning and Teaching in the Faculty, before the first panel discussion, which focused on how AI is transforming the way we live, work and create.

Panel members included Juan Geel (Publicis Groupe Africa), Millicent Hopane (Nestle), Tiara Pathon (Microsoft), Lawrence Kanotsauka (ABB), Louis van Tonder (Adcorp), Brett Wyngaard (Puma) and Beverley Seagar (CPUT).

The second panel discussion reflected on, amongst other things, first encounters with AI in the workplace. Panel members included Shareef Cornelius (Philips Medical Systems) and Mkhuphuli Ncube (Conversion Science) and Lindelani Khunou (Cape Grace Hotel).

The programme concluded with an energetic speed mentoring session, connecting students with professionals.

Senior Lecturer and the Faculty’s Transformation Forum Chairperson, Mandie Richards, thanked all the partners. “It has been an absolutely amazing event. This could not have been possible without the support of PAWA Africa, Alliance for Youth, our various partners, our students, and the support of Prof Taliep, Fundani and the Marketing and Communication Department. Very importantly, to all our speakers and panellists, we thank you for the information that you imparted to the students, the ideas you gave them, of always ensuring that they do their best, that the sky is not the limit, and that they can achieve greater heights with a positive mind, a positive mindset, and the careers of tomorrow have never ever been formulated yet and they are the leaders who are going to take us forward.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Faculty of Business and Management Sciences (FBMS) hosted its inaugural Mother Language Day, bringing together diverse students from various linguistic backgrounds. This significant event aimed to celebrate their heritage and encourage students to take pride in their mother languages/zidle ngolwimi lwakho/ wees trots op jou taal.

The event was organised by FBMS staff and students, including the FBMS Language Committee task team and the Unit for Language and Academic Literacies. It was sponsored by Red Bull. Nobuhle Luphondo-Ncanda, the Acting Language Coordinator of FBMS, stated that the purpose of the event was to celebrate linguistic diversity, appreciate students' respective mother tongues, and encourage participation in the FBMS. “Our ultimate goal was to nurture and promote competencies in languages other than English, ensuring that these do not create barriers for speakers of other languages. This aligns with our commitment to uphold the constitutional values of inclusivity, social cohesion, and equitable access.”

Students were invited to write and submit poems in their mother tongue, with the requirement to also provide translations into English for those who do not understand their first language. This initiative by the faculty aimed to celebrate students' native languages and was a resounding success, receiving over 30 poem submissions. “It was very difficult for us as a team to choose the best 10 poems,” Luphondo-Ncanda shared.

The top 10 poems were selected based on their quality and authenticity. Each submission was checked using AI detection and plagiarism software. Lunga Nanase, one of the participants, expressed: “I'm deeply inspired by today’s event. I would appreciate it if you could keep me in mind for future events or gatherings.”

Luphondo-Ncanda remarked: “As lecturers, we often underestimate our students. It became clear that when they engage in the languages, they are comfortable with, they participate fully and give their best effort.”

She continued: “To me, as an individual, it meant: Celebrating mother tongues is a celebration of identity. It’s about honouring the first language that shaped our earliest thoughts, emotions, and stories. Personally, it feels like reconnecting with the voices of our elders, the lullabies, idioms, and expressions that no other language can quite replicate. It's a moment of pride and remembrance—a way to say, this is where I come from, and it matters.”

For the faculty, this event serves as a beacon of inclusivity, cultural awareness, and linguistic diversity. It fosters a profound sense of belonging among students and staff who speak various mother tongues, encouraging an atmosphere of mutual respect. Moreover, it highlights the pivotal role of language in knowledge creation, expression, and learning, which lies at the heart of any academic mission.

At the institutional level, this event boldly embraces South Africa’s rich multilingual heritage and the broader African context. It aligns seamlessly with the goals of transformation, the decolonization of education, and active community engagement. This commitment demonstrates that CPUT treasures linguistic heritage not just as a cultural artifact, but as an essential and vibrant aspect of its identity and educational philosophy.

Luphondo-Ncanda also encouraged the CPUT community to participate in similar events: “As we gather to honour our mother tongues, we celebrate more than just words—we celebrate identity, heritage, and the unique rhythm of every culture that forms part of the CPUT family.

“Let us continue to appreciate multilingualism and translanguaging as a resource to support our students. Let us leverage our students’ mother tongues to ensure access. Let this event remind us that multilingualism is not a barrier, but a bridge—connecting us, enriching our learning, and deepening our understanding. May we continue to build a CPUT where all languages are respected, where every student and staff member feels seen and heard, and where diversity is celebrated as our greatest strength. Be proud of your mother tongue/ zidle ngolwimi lwakho/ wees trots op jou taal.”

Luphondo-Ncanda expressed gratitude to FUNDANI for their support, which helped them provide prizes and vouchers to the winners.

Winners:

First Prize: R3000 - Akanani Lungani (Graduate Centre for Management, GCM Department) for the poem titled I Choose a Bear / Ndikhetha Ibhere.

Second Prize: R2000 Voucher - Lucille Jacobs (Accounting and Internal Auditing Department) for the poem titled Herfs is amptelik hier /Autumn is officially here.

Third Prize: R1000 Voucher - Neo Lekgeu for the poem titled The Heartbeat of Sekhukhune/ Go Betha ga Pelo ya Sekhukhune.

Special Recognitions:

Best Performer: Xolani Mabuyaze (Event & Tourism Department).

Best Performer:Lucille Jacobs (Accounting and Internal Auditing Department)

Best Dresser: Zama Ncwane (Entrepreneurship Department).

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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CPUT and North-West University are set to co-host the World Association for Sport Management (WASM) 2026 conference in March next year - marking a significant milestone for the Sport Management Department.

The event will take place at the iconic Newlands Cricket Ground from 3 to 6 March 2026 under the theme: Global Visions, Local Actions: Innovation and Sustainability in Sport Management.

The conference theme resonates with current industry trends that shape the practices and perspectives of sport management professionals and academics alike.

“It is an honour for the Sport Management Department at CPUT to co-host this prestigious global event. It is an opportunity to showcase the efforts of the department, as well as the new CPUT satellite campus at Newlands,” said A/Prof Brendon Knott, Acting Head of the Sport Management Department and conference co-chair.

“It is the most significant event ever to be hosted by the Sport Management Department, as it will certainly position the department at the forefront of African and global sport management academia.”

Knott said at least 300 delegates from sport management academia and industry were expected to attend the event.

“We welcome inter-disciplinary research papers and practitioner presentations or workshop proposals related to sport management.”

The call for abstracts is currently open and can be found on the conference website.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Department of Accounting Sciences recently celebrated the graduation of the first cohort to complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Taxation (NQF8), marking the beginning of new opportunities.

The group is immensely proud and grateful to have reached a milestone, which not only represents their academic achievement but also their resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. Dr Aletta Neethling, Acting Head of the Department of Accounting Sciences, said this qualification is fully accredited by the South African Institute of Taxation (SAIT) and pertains to the knowledge component required for the occupational certificate for tax professionals. “This allows students to obtain, after doing their practical and workplace experience and writing the final professional evaluation, the designation tax advisor.”

How many students graduated?

The goal of this course is to deliver advanced professional training by providing intensive, focused, and practical knowledge in taxation. This qualification prepares students with the essential knowledge, skills, attributes, and ethical awareness needed to perform effectively and become competent tax professionals, adhering to the professional and ethical standards established by the South African Institute of Taxation (SAIT) and the South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA).

“The qualification will thus bridge the gap in knowledge of aspiring accountants and tax professionals to gain professional accreditation. The qualification offers a career path for students leading to professional accreditation in the respective fields of taxation.”

Students require a minimum average of 60% in the Advanced Diploma in Accountancy, which includes the elective course in Advanced Taxation. This programme spans two years and follows a block release format, requiring at least three months of practical experience during the second year.

“We worked so hard to develop this qualification in collaboration with SAIT, and I am so proud of this first cohort of students. They are really the pioneering batch of this programme. They worked hard and truly deserve their qualifications. I also want to thank the lecturers working on this programme. They developed each subject according to the vision we had. It is just a wonderful feeling to be part of this team,” Neethling enthused.

The students also reflected on their academic journey. Asanda Sabata said: "Being part of the first group to graduate from this programme has been both an unexpected honour and a big responsibility. My journey through the taxation specialisation has truly been transformative.” Mihle Magwaza said: “The challenges, the late nights, the tears -they were all part of the process that shaped me into the person I am now. I leave this programme not only with knowledge, but with growth, clarity, and a deep sense of purpose in pursuing a career in tax."

Mpholose Ponya said being the very first students to pursue the Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Taxation felt almost “unreal, like standing on top of the cream”. “In a place few have dared to reach, it felt abnormal, even intimidating, to carve out a path where there was none.”

Neethling emphasises that this course is quite challenging and requires significant persistence and dedication from students. “However, the opportunity to eventually qualify as a tax advisor through SAIT will open a lot of doors for your future tax career.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Outstanding academic and administrative staff members and students were honoured during the recent Faculty of Business and Management Sciences Faculty Achievers Awards.

The event held at the Cape Town Hotel School Restaurant was a celebration of excellence, innovation and dedication.

Assistant Dean: Research and Innovation, Prof Renitha Rampersad, said it was an honour to celebrate the remarkable contributions made by all the awardees.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Learning and Teaching, Prof Rishidaw Balkaran, also congratulated the winners and emphasised the role of ethics in their work.

The winners were:

Research Department/Unit of the year – Marketing Department

Supervisor of the year – Prof Michael Twum-Darko

Emerging Researcher – Dr Jaron Ras

Top Doctoral Student – Awonke Geqeza

Top Master’s Student – Jamie-Leigh Bruce and Madelynn Gordon

Teaching Excellence Award Facutly winner – Prof Brendon Knott

Secretary of the year – Thersia Conolly

Administrative Assistant of the Year – Vidonia Viviers

The guest speaker at the event was renowned sport scientist Dr Ross Tucker.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Dr Michael Twum-Darko, BIIC project manager is over the moon after the Business Innovation and Incubation Centre won a grant of GBP 20 000 to implement a community-building programme.

The Business Innovation and Incubation Centre (BIIC) has won a grant of GBP 20 000 to implement a community-building programme called Inclusive Technopreneurship Forum/Conference (ITF). The ITF is intended to bring African universities together in 2022 to share research output, learning, teaching and assessment experiences as well as community engagement activities to develop African graduates to become technopreneurs.

This is an additional grant to the GBP 100, 000 granted to the BIIC to implement an inspiring-based pedagogy to develop graduates as technopreneurs – sustainable inclusive industry-linked graduates technopreneurship development infrastructure. This CPUT/ Faculty of Business and Management Sciences /BIIC initiated projects with Manchester Metropolitan University (as a United Kingdom partner) and Snake Nation (Ecosystem Partner) have received global recognition.

While each participating Innovation for African Universities (IAU) stakeholder will feature on the ITF programme flyer CPUT and Manchester Metropolitan University remain the convener and organiser Institutes, respectively to ensure a responsible sustainability plan in the foreseeable future. The ITF was designed using the International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics framework, and the co-partners are Durban University of Technology , Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (Ghana), University of Venda , Kenyatta University (Kenya) and Industry partners from FinTech, GovTech, WineTech and Telco global players.

“We have already received enquiry from leading publishing houses in UK to publish the proceedings of ITF,” said Dr Michael Twum-Darko, BIIC project manager.

However, CPUT and Manchester Metropolitan University remain the convener and organiser institutes respectively to ensure a responsible sustainability plan in the foreseeable future.

Dean of Faculty of Business and Management Sciences, Prof Paul Green, said the grant was some exciting news which is aligned to Vision 2030 of One Smart CPUT.

Industry and ecosystem partners will be invited to participate and sponsor the annual ITF . Future editions of the annual ITF will be planned at least two years in advance to mitigate any potential risks associated with it. Technical and non-technical keynote speakers wil be invited to the ITF.

A dedicated database and email updates subscription will be explored to establish the world’s first inclusive technopreneurship community of practice (ITCoP) that works collaboratively with the IAU CoP.

Written by Kwanele Butana
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Students gained valuable insights into the topic of human trafficking thanks to a partnership between the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences and A21, an organisation which fights human trafficking.

Co-ordinated by Mandie Richards, Senior Lecturer and Transformation Forum Chairperson, and Douglas Dyers, Lecturer and Transformation Forum Representative in the Faculty, the project saw Katie Modrau, A21 South Africa Country Manager, and Chené Fourie, the A21 SA Reach Co-ordinator, sharing information with academics and students.

They interacted with Diversity Management second-year students, co-ordinated by Richards and Advanced Diploma Project Administration students, co-ordinated by Dyers, as students worked on their research projects, which were integrated into the curriculum of their respective subjects.

Richards stated: “False promise and hope are often sold to people, and it is indeed tragic that people are exploited for financial gain, and traffickers take advantage of the vulnerabilities and desperation of people. Even more shocking is that one in every four children are victims of human trafficking.”

Dyers commented: “Human Trafficking is a crime hidden in plain sight, it happens in our communities often, and the responsibility of the Advanced Diploma students is to create awareness as to this shocking crime. The fulltime and part-time students created awareness through activations on campus, as well as in shopping malls and in community spaces”.

“According to national statistics, 30% of people who are trafficked know the traffickers as they are either friends or family members,” said Fourie. She also shared the toll-free number - 0800 222777, which is open 24/7 and 365 days a year, and encouraged students to save the number and to report anything suspicious with regards to the red flags identified in the conversation. She further advised students of the job vetting service offered by A21, should it be required.

Students engaged interactively in the sessions and shared many questions and comments.

Tshepo Ngwane voiced the question many students enquired about: “What signs or indicators should we look for to help identify potential trafficking situations?” Sibabalwe Hlazo commented: “The high unemployment rate and lack of resources is the key contributing factor to human trafficking”, whilst Luzette Tobias, stated: “I never knew that human trafficking was a big thing in South Africa until now. I always thought it just happens overseas”.

Fourie further cautioned students: “Be careful as to your online presence and understand that there are many fake profiles and traffickers online who want to reach and deceive vulnerable people, so do not post any personal information, which can be used to track you and blackmail you.”

Richards stated: “This cohort of second-year and Advanced Diploma students also completed a social media module: What every University Student needs to Know, and accredited by the Digital Law Academy, to prepare them to not only take precautions whilst online, but also to the various online scams in enticing young people seeking employment to various trafficking organisations.”

Students engaged in a silent protest against human trafficking at the Piazza on the District Six campus and created awareness through their digital storytelling videos and displaying their posters, which formed part of the project, in the Commerce Building. Students also joined Richards in the Walk For Freedom, which is an annual day of global awareness organised by A21, as the local action in the fight against human trafficking.

The students indicated that they gained many insights into the topic and that they were unaware of the gravity of Human Trafficking and would be able to share their knowledge in their communities to create further awareness.

Richards further emphasised that the curriculum cannot be taught in silos and that educators have the responsibility to engage young people on the realities of life and encourage them to add their voices to the conversations and share information and empower communities.

Written by CPUT News

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Mvemve Mdingi’s journey is a testament to resilience and determination. Having been born in a squatter camp in Gqeberha, he faced considerable challenges from a young age. During his primary schooling, he sold sweets, chicken heads, and chicken feet just to afford a school uniform. Despite these obstacles, his unwavering spirit has led him to receive a Doctoral degree in Education today.

Growing up in the township of Mdantsane and a rural village in Qoboqobo, Eastern Cape, Mdingi experienced the realities of both worlds. His educational journey was deeply influenced by his mother, a remarkable woman, known in her village for her intelligence, yet she never had the opportunity to pursue further studies due to financial constraints. This legacy of unfulfilled potential motivated Mdingi to prioritise education above all else.

From an early age, he chose not to focus on the material possessions that many children valued. “My focus and pride were always my academic performance and being at the top of my grade,” he reflects. This determination and dedication have now become a beacon of hope for countless children and students who look up to him as a role model.

Mdingi understands that the path to a doctoral degree is paved with sacrifices and challenges. He encourages aspiring PhD candidates to persevere and not to take feedback from supervisors personally. “While it may be difficult to understand their comments, they ultimately serve to improve your writing skills,” he shares, emphasising the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.

His research focuses on “A Framework for the Integration of Computerized Accounting into the High School Accounting Curriculum,” aiming to help the accounting profession embrace technology. He hopes to inspire more learners to consider accounting as a viable career path, recognising that the subject is losing popularity among high school students.

Mdingi completed his undergraduate qualification at the Central University of Technology in Free State, followed by his master’s and doctoral studies at CPUT. Arriving at CPUT in 2009 at the Wellington Campus in the Business Faculty, he later transitioned to the Education Faculty in 2016. Training pre-service teachers is something he cherishes deeply, stating, “Nothing is more fulfilling than seeing someone's life change for the better.” His role as boxing team manager has enriched his experience, allowing him to share his passion for sports with his students.

Boxing and sports hold a special place in his heart, and he approaches his contributions to their development with great enthusiasm. His efforts have led to four CPUT students representing South Africa in the World University Games in Turkey—an unforgettable experience that they will carry with them forever. Through his dedication, Mdingi has also helped elevate the CPUT brand, garnering positive attention in local and national media.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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