The Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Directorate, in collaboration with the Centre for Postgraduate Studies, recently hosted the Research Uptake: Doctoral Graduands Seminar. Under the theme “Relevance, Utilisation and Impact”, the seminar served as a platform for doctoral graduands to showcase their research and the impact it has/could have on society.

The group of 22 graduated during CPUT’s recent Autumn Graduation series.

According to Prof Izak van Zyl, Director of the Centre for Postgraduate Studies, the theme reflects the growing expectation that doctoral research must not only generate new knowledge but also translate into meaningful societal value.

“The studies represented here engage directly with some of the most pressing issues of our time – from strengthening healthcare systems and public sector governance, to advancing environmental sustainability and water security, optimising energy and engineering systems, and exploring the transformative role of digital technologies across education, industry and society. Together, they demonstrate how our doctoral graduates are shaping solutions across multiple sectors and disciplines.”

He congratulated the group of 22 and encouraged them to celebrate the occasion.

Manager, Research Uptake in the Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Directorate, Dr Nelisiwe Maleka, said it was encouraging to see 19 of the 22 doctoral graduands participating, signaling a strong culture of engagement across faculties.

“The work presented highlighted the depth of knowledge and innovation, with each contribution aligned with CPUT Research Focus Areas and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It reinforces the role of the university as an active contributor to societal progress,” she said.

“In our collective efforts to strengthen research visibility, deepen collaboration, and ensure that the knowledge produced is taken up and applied, the seminar brought together doctoral graduands, supervisors, CPUT community and external stakeholders.”

*The doctoral graduates were celebrated during a Doctorandi Dinner, which was held at the end of the Autumn Graduation Series.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The new Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Director is committed to an approach to internationalisation that celebrates our shared humanity.

Dr Divinia Jithoo previously served as Manager of the International Education and Partnerships Directorate at Durban University of Technology and joined CPUT earlier this month.

“For me internationalisation of higher education is first and foremost a commitment to our shared humanity, rooted in Ubuntu, Satyagraha and Sumud, and expressed through practices that honour dignity, solidarity and justice in our universities. It is about creating spaces where diverse knowledges and identities are recognised and where South African and African voices shape global conversations, rather than simply echoing them.”

She says a key lesson from her previous role is that internationalisation must be intentionally designed to advance diversity, equity and inclusion, so that global engagement does not become a privilege for a few but an everyday possibility for many.

At CPUT her immediate priority is to co-create, with colleagues across the institution, a partnership and internationalisation agenda that is explicitly values-based and aligned with SMART Vision 2030, centring equity, innovation and human dignity.

“This includes mapping and consolidating a focused set of strategic partnerships that deepen African and Global South collaborations, and that create tangible opportunities for students and staff to engage in reciprocal, humane and socially responsive global initiatives.”

A second priority is to embed inclusive international and intercultural learning opportunities across the curriculum through initiatives such as COIL, virtual exchange and collaborative research, with a specific focus on pluralistic perspectives and decolonial approaches to knowledge.

“I am also prioritising internal engagement, to ensure that colleagues across faculties and professional services feel supported to integrate global perspectives that affirm Ubuntu and diversity into teaching, learning and community engagement.”

She studied journalism at Nelson Mandela University and began her career journey at the South African Broadcasting Corporation.

“Working in media sharpened my ability to listen deeply, tell stories responsibly and analyse how power, identity and representation play out in public discourse, all of which now inform how I think about internationalisation and the narratives we reproduce in higher education.”

The shift to international education came when she worked in the Office for International Education at Nelson Mandela University and moved from communication and marketing into short programmes and study abroad advising.

“It felt like a natural progression to move from telling stories about society to helping shape educational experiences that foster intercultural understanding, pluralistic perspectives and solidarity across borders. The skills from media communication, critical analysis, stakeholder engagement and public speaking are now central to how I advocate for inclusive, human-centred internationalisation that honours both global and local voices.”

Jithoo says every CPUT staff member and student plays a vital role in building a globally connected university that is firmly rooted in Ubuntu and committed to justice, inclusion and care.

“Internationalisation is not only about mobility or formal agreements, it is also about how we bring diverse perspectives into our classrooms, laboratories, residences and online spaces, and how we treat one another as members of a shared human community.”

She explained that staff contribute by designing curricula and research that reflect pluralistic perspectives, by engaging in ethical partnerships and by modelling intercultural humility and openness in their daily work. Students contribute by bringing their lived experiences into dialogue with global ideas, questioning dominant narratives and embracing opportunities, whether virtual or physical, that allow them to learn with and from peers across the world while staying grounded in their South African and African identities.

“Together we can ensure that CPUT’s global engagements are not extractive or symbolic, but transformative for our communities and partners alike.”

A key highlight of her career has been contributing to more inclusive and socially just models of internationalisation that aim to deliberately foreground African perspectives and respond to the lived realities of students and staff in the Global South.

“Through roles at other institutions, I have worked on strategy, partnerships and COIL initiatives that use digital tools to widen access to international learning, especially for those who may never travel physically yet deserve meaningful global engagement.”

Serving as Co-Chair of the South African UNESCO Chair on Intercultural Competence has been another important milestone, as it allows her to work with colleagues in South Africa and internationally on research, policy and practice that advance intercultural understanding grounded in Ubuntu and a commitment to fair cooperation.

“Completing my PhD on the structural dynamics of intra African collaborative research teams has also been deeply significant, as it aligns my scholarly work with my passion for African-led, human-centred international higher education.”

Jithoo grew up in the northern areas of Gqeberha.

“I find joy in reading and lifelong learning, advocating for those whose voices are often silenced, including animals, and spending quality time with my parents, siblings and husband, who always keep me grounded and resilient in all I do.”

Asked what motivates her, she responded: “…the possibility of building higher education spaces where every student and staff member, regardless of background, can see themselves as a legitimate knower and global citizen, whose voice matters in shaping the future of our continent and the world. I am particularly passionate about internationalisation that amplifies South African and African scholarship, and that centres the experiences of those who have historically been marginalised in academic and global conversations”.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Research Uptake - Doctoral Graduands Seminar, held at the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre, exemplifies CPUT’s commitment to sharing groundbreaking research beyond academic boundaries.

Organised by the Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Directorate (SIP) and the Centre for Postgraduate Studies, this event inspires a broader impact on society through knowledge dissemination. The seminar brought together doctoral graduands, supervisors, academics, government, and industry partners, ensuring that the research undertaken at CPUT is “visible, usable, and impactful”.

The doctoral graduands showcased the impact their research has or could have on broader society. Reflecting on the event, Bongisiwe Zozo, a PhD in Chemistry graduand, said: “Today really felt like the closing of a long chapter in my PhD journey. This was my final presentation before the main event, so it was quite special. It was also inspiring to hear what other doctoral candidates have been working on, and the engagement from the audience was truly meaningful. All roads now lead to the 11th of December, and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Althea Whitaker, a Doctoral degree in Public Administration graduand, who is also a lecturer in the Department of Public Administration and Governance, noted that the event was amazing, and she felt proud as a CPUT staff member when the institution opened a seminar to showcase the doctoral research of all candidates across the institution. “The fact that we were allowed to invite our industry partners is equally a necessary engagement aimed at ensuring that CPUT research is usable within the industry environment.”

Dr Nelisiwe Maleka, Manager: Research Uptake: SIP, said more than 20 doctoral graduands showcased the impact their research has or could have on broader society. Furthermore, they highlighted the alignment of their research with the CPUT Research Focus Areas and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. “The presentations by graduands were well-received and further prompted areas for future research topics, as alluded to by external stakeholders. This demonstrates CPUT’s commitment, as an engaging institution, to continue conducting relevant and responsive research,” Maleka noted.

In his observation, Walter Hendricks, Theewaterskloof Municipal Manager, said the seminar provided a rigorous and intellectually stimulating platform for advancing scholarly engagement on contemporary challenges in South African local government. “The presentations delivered by the doctoral candidates demonstrated a commendable depth of inquiry, methodological soundness, and a critical commitment to addressing systemic issues that continue to shape governance outcomes at the municipal level.

Of particular significance to Hendricks were the two research papers focused on local government, “each offering valuable analysis of the current conditions confronting South African municipalities”. The candidates provided a nuanced understanding of the persistent governance failures, capacity constraints, and institutional vulnerabilities that undermine effective service delivery. Their work highlighted the urgent need to strengthen administrative capability, clarify accountability mechanisms, and promote a culture of professionalism across municipal structures,” Hendricks noted.

Addressing the doctoral graduands, Prof Izak van Zyl, Director: Centre for Postgraduate Studies, said their research journeys required dedication, resilience, and a deep commitment to advancing knowledge that matters. Van Zyl noted that the work reflected both academic excellence and a readiness to contribute as leaders within the knowledge economy. “As you transition into the next stage of your careers – whether in academia, industry, the public sector, or entrepreneurial endeavours – may your research continue to influence and inspire... My sincere congratulations to each of you, and I wish you all the best with your future endeavours.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Dr Tasmeera Singh, the newly appointed Director of the Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships (SIP) Directorate, exemplifies a profound dedication to the dynamic and transformative field of international higher education.

Singh joined the SIP Directorate in December 2021 as the Manager: International Relations and was appointed as the Director in August 2025. Before her time at CPUT, she excelled as the Principal International Advisor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Singh passionately believes in her role, stating that she “significantly contributed to shaping international partnerships and supporting cross-border collaboration”.

Singh, a dedicated individual who enjoys shopping, dining, and cherishing moments with her family, serves as the Deputy President of the International Education Association of South Africa. Her long-standing commitment to its Management Council underscores her passion for advancing international higher education. In 2019, she earned her PhD, focusing on identity and transformation in South African higher education. Driven by a feminist perspective, her work powerfully advocates for equity and inclusion. As a proud HERS-SA alumna and a COMENSA credentialed coach, she embodies the spirit of leadership and empowerment.

Her leadership style demonstrates a commitment to guiding others through example and creating a supportive and enabling environment. If she could advise her younger self, she would emphasise the importance of being fearless in taking charge and ensuring her voice is heard. Embracing opportunities with confidence and assertiveness is vital for both personal and professional growth, she notes.

Throughout her life and career, she has drawn profound inspiration from her mother, her greatest supporter and a constant source of strength. The unwavering belief her late mother had in her potential and leadership qualities has profoundly shaped her approach to life. One of the most empowering pieces of advice she received from another woman was, "You are your only limitation, so change your lens and things will become clear”.

This intuition has been instrumental in empowering her to overcome challenges and maintain focus on her goals. Singh's journey has opened doors that were once closed to previous generations of women in her family, granting her the opportunity to travel extensively and explore new horizons. This freedom has enriched her perspective and deepened her gratitude for the opportunities that came her way. Her success is grounded in a disciplined, ethical, and patient approach to her work. She exemplifies leadership by embodying the belief in inspiring others through her own actions.

Her advice to young women starting their careers reflects a deep understanding of their journey: “Be brave and venture into new spaces with integrity, seeing each challenge as a valuable opportunity for growth”. For those managing multiple responsibilities, she recognises the struggle and emphasises the importance of mastering multitasking. Though it may feel overwhelming at first, she assures that with persistence and adaptability, success and a sense of routine will eventually follow.

“While it can be challenging at first, persistence and adaptability lead to eventual success and routine.”

Having started her journey in February 2000, international higher education has become an essential part of who she is. What inspires her most is the remarkable evolution of internationalisation itself. She is captivated by the diverse growth of international education, especially with the rise of technology and artificial intelligence, which are opening new doors for equitable and accessible opportunities to students. The recent focus on diversity, equality, and inclusivity fills her with pride, reflecting a transformative shift towards a more inclusive global educational landscape.

Her significant involvement in international higher education has granted her countless opportunities to attend conferences and network. These experiences have enabled her to connect with inspiring individuals, immerse herself in vibrant cultures and learning opportunities, and gain enlightening perspectives. Each journey has not only expanded her understanding but has also empowered her to share valuable knowledge within her professional community.

Her favourite motto is: "Patience is a virtue. Everything happens at the right time, as it should”. This belief in the natural timing of events and the significance of patience inspires her to pursue her goals. This wisdom fuels her professional endeavours and personal life, reminding her that every challenge and triumph is a vital part of a greater journey.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CPUT and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NCAT) stands as a powerful commitment to a strategic international partnership, inspiring collaborative research, academic exchange, and innovation across diverse fields of shared passion.

International Relations Officer: Strategic, Initiatives and Partnerships (SIP) Directorate, Dingaan Booi, said the MoU is rooted in the vision of enhancing global engagement through partnerships that are reciprocal and transformative.

The purpose of this MoU is to:

• Inspire the exchange of students and staff, fostering global connections.
• Ignite collaborative research projects aligned with the aspirations of global and African development.
• Empower co-teaching and innovative curriculum design to enhance the teaching and learning experience.
• Create impactful solutions that resonate with community needs and hold significance on a global scale.

“This partnership forms part of CPUT's broader goal to build stronger South-North university linkages, support capacity development, and drive internationalisation that is contextually relevant and socially responsive,” Booi expressed.

The meetings and engagements were very positive and aligned well to strengthen the relationship between the two institutions. The NCAT delegation brought a spirit of genuine collaboration, openness, and a long-term commitment to mutually beneficial outcomes. The NCAT’s presence at CPUT highlighted shared values and a willingness to co-create impactful programmes. The structured discussions with both faculties and support divisions indicated a strong foundation for operationalising the MoU.

Booi remarked that the official signing ceremony of the MoU was a historic moment for both institutions. The meeting included engaging sessions between NCAT and CPUT faculties, with a particular focus on areas such as Engineering, Applied Sciences, and Education and Student Affairs. These sessions were among the highlights of the event.

Additionally, the strategic dialogue with CPUT’s leadership and support divisions, including those for Research, Internationalisation, and Work-Integrated Learning (WIL), was impressive. The meeting also featured a tour of CPUT's facilities and innovation hubs, which helped align practical opportunities with the institutions' strengths. The NCAT team expressed strong interest in student mobility and collaborative research that is rooted in African development priorities.

“Individually, I found the engagements meaningful and visionary… the Directorate of Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships is encouraged by the outcomes and the depth of the conversations that took place. There is a strong sense of alignment between both institutions' missions, particularly around inclusive innovation, the internationalisation of curriculum, and skills development.”

He added that the engagement between CPUT and NCAT is a powerful example of what strategic, intentional partnerships can look like in the context of African institutions partnering with institutions in the Global North. “What makes this collaboration stand out is its commitment to equity, mutual growth, and sustainability.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The recent visit by a delegation from Indiana State University (ISU), which included lecturers and students, served as an introduction and knowledge exchange between Indiana State University and CPUT.

Dingaan Booi, the International Relations Officer for the Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships (SIP) Directorate, highlighted the emphasis on various areas, especially in educational leadership and student development. This includes exploring partnerships among faculty and institutions, while also striving to strengthen international collaboration and mutual understanding.

“The main objectives were to highlight CPUT’s academic and student development frameworks, create a platform for Indiana State University to present its institution and goals, discuss mutual interests in education, student affairs, and leadership, and explore potential opportunities for future collaboration, joint research, or academic visits.” 

The well-balanced meeting fostered a profound understanding of each other's institutional structures and strategic priorities, illuminating the synergy between CPUT’s Faculty of Education and Student Affairs Division, and ISU’s Department of Educational Leadership. Through open discussions, both parties explored shared challenges and unveiled promising opportunities in higher education.

 “The presence of a diverse delegation from ISU—spanning academic staff and students—underscored their commitment to building meaningful, long-term relationships,” Booi noted.

The strong institutional introductions through presentations by CPUT and ISU opened opportunities for discussion between the two counterparts on:

• Educational leadership development
• Student counselling and support services
• Opportunities for collaborative teaching, learning, and community engagement

Booi stated that the ISU’s objectives for the visit likely included exposure to leadership, engagement with global cultures, and collaboration in academia. The involvement of CPUT’s Student Affairs and Faculty of Education indicates a comprehensive and people-centred approach.

 “I found the engagement both enriching and affirming. The delegation was enthusiastic, open to collaboration, and genuinely interested in understanding CPUT's unique context. It reinforced the value of our internationalisation efforts, particularly through people-to-people academic diplomacy.”

He added that the SIP directorate felt that the visit opened a door for future academic exchanges, particularly in Education and Leadership Development, and validated SIP strategic approach of targeted and thematic international engagements. Booi noted that the meeting also highlighted the importance of involving Student Affairs Division and academic leadership in global partnerships.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Dr Tasmeera Singh, Manager of International Relations in the Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Directorate (SIP), raves about her recent meeting with senior representatives from universities, colleges, and polytechnics across Canada.

The Canadian delegation showcased the expertise of 17 senior-level representatives from 15 distinguished universities, colleges, and polytechnics across the country. Their presence highlighted Canada’s commitment to advancing education and fostering global partnerships that drive innovation and success.

The meeting aimed to gather senior stakeholders from the international education sectors of Canada and South Africa to explore ways to enhance collaboration in higher education. The mission included several objectives:

• To provide senior representatives from Canadian and South African post-secondary institutions with a comprehensive understanding of partnership opportunities between the two countries.
• To facilitate focused discussions on collaborative initiatives in education, research, and innovation.
• To expand networks among Canadian and South African stakeholders, promoting mutually beneficial academic and research partnerships that align with national and institutional priorities.

Reflecting on the meeting outcomes, Singh said: “It was a resounding success as there is a deep commitment to engage further once back home. The highlights were the strong synergies between the institutions, and the Work Integrated Learning component was of particular interest.

“It is always the mandate and objective of the Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Directorate to ensure that every visit is a success aligned to the objectives of the visit and CPUT's strategic focus areas.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships (SIP) Directorate, in collaboration with the Centre for Postgraduate Students, proudly hosted Research Uptake: Doctoral Graduates Seminar, an inspiring event for those who earned their doctoral qualifications during the Autumn Graduation Ceremony.

This platform allowed them to share their groundbreaking research findings and illustrate their significant impact on the broader society. Dr Nelisiwe Maleka, the Manager of Research Uptake: Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships (SIP), highlighted the vital role of disseminating research findings in enhancing the uptake and utilisation of research at CPUT. Maleka said this mission is deeply rooted in the spirit of collaboration and stakeholder engagement.

During the seminar, Prof Dina Burger, Director of the Directorate of Research Development, said: “This is very important, colleagues, that not just only our students but all our staff do two things. First of all, that they focus their research on our research focus areas, which are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as well as the National Development Plan and the Africa Agenda. It is very important that we do that. Everything that we do from the person who is at the security gates up to our most senior researchers that they are able to reflect and to be responsible for contributing to the research focus areas of our institution.”

She also emphasised the importance of selecting a research title. Burger stated that the title should not only be developed collaboratively between the supervisor and the student but should also be influenced by the needs of society. This includes input from private industry, the community, and government institutions. In other words, she said the research should be informed by various civil society groupings to remain relevant, make an impact, and address societal challenges. “This is what our research is all about, predominantly, and we would like to encourage every researcher that is here on the platform, whether you are a doctoral student, whether you are an aspiring scholar, or whether you are a scholar, already academic staff member, all of you that are undertaking research, those should be the two matters on top of mind when you embark on your research journey.”

The seminar’s theme, “Relevance, Utilisation, and Impact,” reflects CPUT's shared vision of transforming research into meaningful practice. “By inviting external stakeholders, we are taking important steps toward ensuring that the research conducted at CPUT creates a powerful and lasting impact,” Maleka remarked.

She said: “We acknowledge with gratitude the participation of external stakeholders, graduands, supervisors, and the CPUT community, as it has magnified the purpose of the seminar.”

The list of inspiring graduates who presented during the seminar included:

• Zukisani Gomomo from the Faculty of Applied Sciences (FAS)
• Rhodrick Nyasha Musakuro from the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences (FBMS)
• Ailsa Sally Connelly from the Faculty of Education
• Daniel Rudolph Barnard from the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE)
• Bongolwethu Professor Mabusela from FEBE
• Manduleli Alfred Mquqwana from FEBE
• Vuyo Sidwell Pana from FEBE
• Florence Ifechukwude Aboderin from the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences (FHWS)
• Abiola Mahroof Adekilekun from FHWS
• Murendeni Nethengwe from FHWS
• Achasih Quinta Nkemzi from FHWS

Prof Izak Van Zyl, Director of the Centre for Postgraduate Students added: “These remarkable individuals have embarked on a journey of achievement and excellence.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Research is an integral tool in transforming society - it should benefit and change people’s lives. As such, the Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships (SIP) Directorate and Centre for Sustainable Oceans recently hosted the CPUT-FEDRATI Research Uptake Seminar.

The event, themed: Enhancing Relevance and Research Impact, was held at Bellville Campus. Addressing the seminar, Dr Mark Botha, Executive Director of the Fisheries Economic Development Research Advisory and Training Institute (FEDRATI), said the strategic partnership between FEDRATI and CPUT was established to foster collaboration between the industry and academia. “The partnership exceeded our expectations,” Botha touted.

About 15 students who received bursaries from FEDRATI under the Centre for Sustainable Oceans delivered their presentations. Manager: Research Uptake: SIP, Dr Nelisiwe Maleka and Associate Professor at Horticultural Sciences Department, Felix Nchu welcomed the guests. Among the guests was Dr Nathalie Viljoen, Head of Research at the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, and supervisors of the presenters.

Maleka said as an engaged institution, CPUT is committed to conducting relevant and responsive research with impact to address socioeconomic priorities and challenges. Maleka stated that the seminar was part of Activity 4: Develop and facilitate activities and appropriate systems to promote and support research uptake under the University Capacity Development Grant Project 5 for Staff Development Research.

The purpose of the seminar was three-folded:

• To provide a platform for postgraduate students to showcase their research
• To enhance research uptake from the onset and during the research cycle.
• To encourage emerging researchers to understand the value of research uptake and impact.

Dr Conrad Sparks, Acting CPUT Research Chair: Oceans Economy, said The CPUT partnership with FEDRATI is an excellent example of research engagement with communities. “We have aligned our research activities and bursary allocations to that of FEDRATI. We are planning to engage more closely with communities to share the research done at CPUT and to assist in developing new research projects based on the needs of communities in Cape Town and the Western Cape.”

Sparks said the partnership benefits CPUT by providing students with bursaries and fostering collaboration across disciplines, departments and faculties. The partnership also benefits FEDRATI by providing new knowledge about the fisheries and related sectors in the Western Cape. “We, however, need to be more focused on the scope of research planned for the future by communicating the research to affected stakeholders, particularly coastal communities.”

Addressing the seminar, Botha talked about the importance of interdisciplinary research to address the developmental challenges within the fisheries and allied sectors. He also revealed that FEDRATI provides financial support to CPUT students with the assistance of Brimstone Investment Corporation and Sea Harvest Corporation. “Moreover, we facilitate greater engagement between industry and CPUT.”

Reflecting on the event, Botha said: “The event was well executed. The students articulated their research succinctly. The research presented definitely adds value to the maritime industry. Moreover, valuable networks have been established for future collaboration.”

Also reflecting on the event, Sparks said: “The event was a great success. The aim of the event was to create a platform for students to showcase their research to the industry as well as have a platform to practice public speaking. The feedback received from colleagues and Dr Botha is that we are conducting very high-quality research.”

Ms Gillian Mitchell has been appointed as the Director of the Department of Advancement. She took up her post on 1 June 2006.

Ms Mitchell applied for the position of the Advancement Director because: “The merger has created an exciting institution with the potential for moving forward into new territories in leaps and bounds.”

She is responsible for integrating the fundraising initiative at CPUT, the focus of which is to step away from a development model to an integrated advancement model. Her job requires her to be responsible for growing fundraising initiatives for the institution.

Her previous positions included Development Director for the University of Cape Town (UCT) in Cape Town as well as in New York, freelance development consultant for the past three years and most recently, the Director for Communication and Development at Spier Wine Estate in Stellenbosch.

Ms Mitchell said, “The most important objective for the Advancement Department is to ensure that the Kresge grant is stewarded efficiently and to leverage the confidence that has been placed in the CPUT by the grant to access further funding in South Africa and abroad.”

She believes that her greatest challenge is also her advantage in that she has been independent of both the previous technikons and therefore sees CPUT as a single institution with an exceptional vision for the future.

Written by CPUT News
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The Alliance for Global Sustainability (AGS), an international partnership of four universities; namely the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA, Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden and the University of Tokyo, hosted an Urban Futures Initiative workshop from 16 to 17 November 2008.

The seminar, themed ""Integrating sustainability into African urban growth"", took place at the Cape Town Campus. Attendees were treated to expert speakers and innovators in the industry of sustainable urban development.

The workshop was open to members of the alliance partner universities, industry representatives, students and members of the public and provided an African perspective on urban futures.

Spanning over two days, the seminar opened with a welcome reception, including a poster presentation by research students from local tertiary institutions.

The second day consisted of three panel discussions and an innovation exercise, with over ten speakers delivering presentations. This included the inspiring keynote address by anti-apartheid stalwart and former University of Cape Town Vice-Chancellor Dr Mamphela Ramphele, who represented Circle Capital Ventures, South Africa.

Guests received a warm welcome from CPUT Vice-Chancellor Prof Vuyisa Mazwi-Tanga, who explained how the seminar was jointly organised by CPUT, Chalmers University of Technology and the AGS, through the University’s Applied Sciences Faculty.

Prof Mazwi-Tanga expressed how the Faculty, Headed by Dean Prof Olalekan Fatoki, spearheaded the preparations for the workshop locally, with committee members representing Chalmers and the University of Cape Town.

The purpose for the day was outlined by Dr Sébastien Rauch, an Associate Professor, lecturer and post-graduate research supervisor at Chalmers – a Swedish university of technology in which research is conducted particularly in the fields of bioscience, IT, environmental science and nanotechnology.

He shared that the aim of the seminar was to discuss the triumphs and challenges of creating sustainable urban developments and to have the rare opportunity hear from a panel of local and international industry experts.

A highlight of the workshop was the keynote address delivered by Dr Mamphela Ramphele titled ‘Putting people first in the urban environment’.

Her address emphasised the importance of developers prioritising the ‘human factor’ when creating sustainable environments, within the modern urban setting.

She shared her thoughts on urban developments in general and spoke of the need to regularly revisit plans in order to properly manage the transformation of towns and cities; as a direct outcome of urbanisation.

In terms of the African perspective, Dr Ramphele’s address spoke to the socio-economic conditions underlying the exodus of rural people into the urban zones, creating ‘slum-living’, which is the present-day challenge that governments and developers alike.

Dr Ramphele wrapped up her address with suggestions that in the growing unstable political climate and with increasing migration figures leaning towards a majority of the population inhabiting urban areas, developers should take the African context into consideration when planning urban environments.

Dr Ramphele is a qualified Medical Doctor (UKZN). Her other qualifications include a PhD in Social Anthropology (UCT), a BComm in Administration (UNISA), as well as diplomas in Tropical Health and Hygiene and Public Health (WITS). She is a current trustee on the board of the Rockefeller Foundation in New York and is also a former fellow of the Bunting Institute.

Dr Ramphele has served on several boards including the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, the Institute for a Democratic Alternative for South Africa (IDASA), the Anglo-American Corporation and Transnet. She has received eighteen honorary degrees, numerous awards and has authored and edited numerous books.

By Thando J. Moiloa

Written by CPUT News
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It gives us great pleasure announce the Cisco South Africa Partner Career Day, to be held at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology on October 17th, 2008. Over the course of the day, top industry professionals will discuss trends in technology, the current market and Cisco's answer to reducing the skills shortage in the IT industry.

Date: 17th October 2008
Venue: Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Time: 09:30 to 15:30pm

We are able to accommodate students and former students based on the following criteria:

• The individual is NetAcad graduate or certified individual in CCNA4, CCNP, Wireless or Security qualifications
• The individual is ready for employment

Please note that students will be invited from a number of academies and numbers are limited. It is imperative that to register quickly.

To register and for more information please go to https://secure.partnertalentportal.com/emerging/events/capetown.

You will be asked to upload your CV and will be able to view available job openings shortly. Please note that partners will have access to your CV and make contact you prior to the event to arrange a formal interview time at the event.

To register for the Cisco Partner Talent Portal, please go to http://www.partnertalentportal.com/Emerging/login.asp.

The hosts for the day are Brooke Ellingworth, Cisco Partner Talent Manager – Africa and Alfie Hamid, Cisco Networking Academy Manager, Southern Africa. The team looks forward to welcoming offering a valuable experience.

Written by CPUT News
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The Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and Southern African Society for Co-operative Education (SASCE) hosted the Unitech Convention on Co-operative Education at Granger Bay.

It aimed to stimulate debate and explore partnerships with industry and the public sector to promote skills development and economic growth.

Mr Norman Jacobs, Dean of the Business Faculty expressed the need for universities of technology to be more responsible in addressing development needs in the modern economy and engage with potential partners regionally and nationally.

A survey conducted by Unitech (a body for Marketing and Communication practitioners) showed there is a decline in apprenticeship. The survey conveyed that 7% of graduates enter higher education institutions, 12% enter other forms of education institutions, 30% get jobs and 51% are unemployed. “The 51% leads to crime, drug abuse and so forth,” said key-note speaker, Mr Caleb Maqubela, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Unitech.

Mr Maqubela referred to the education and training deficit inherited from apartheid in 1994 and the malady of graduate unemployment. He also said there is a 30% unemployment rate. “To improve graduate employment is the nation’s imperative obligation, “said Mr Maqubela.

Another speaker, Dr Khehla Ndlovu from the Department of Education, said his department believes co-operative education has advantages for business sectors, industry, students and it contributes to attaining the human resources development strategy and economic growth objectives.

Mr Sedick Jappie from the Local Government Sector Education Training Association (LGSETA) expressed his concern about skills shortage in engineering and technician and artisan disciplines. Another issue raised by LGSETA was the lack of students placed in local communities.

Mr Jappie said students from rural communities should be encouraged to take their skills back to the community.

Written by CPUT News
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Associate Professor Judy Peter recently joined CPUT as the new Director: Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships.

Peter is an art historian, curator and the former Director: Academic Services at the University of Johannesburg.

She takes over the role from Prof Rene Pellissier who recently retired.  

Peter said her vision was “to promote CPUT’s Smart Internationalisation Strategy in teaching and learning, technology and innovation and in developing global and intercultural competencies for staff and students”.

She has published in the areas of gender studies, post-colonial studies and cultural studies in national and international journals and has presented academic papers both nationally and internationally in Brisbane, Massachusetts, Rijeka and New York. She has participated in various platforms, including South African Visual Arts Historians, College Art Association, Arts Council of the African Studies Association and the South African Jewellery Council.

Peter has facilitated outbound short learning programmes for students from the University of Johannesburg to Zagreb, New York, and Paris. She has also curated student jewellery exhibitions in South Africa, London, and New York.

With colleagues from Romania, she conceptualised the collaborative research project: Between democracies 1989-2014: Remembering, narrating and reimagining the past in Eastern and Central Europe and Southern Africa (EESA) for the period 2012 to 2018.

Peter participated in the Association of International Education Administrators (AIEA) Leadership programme in 2019, was a member of the AIEA Conference Committee 2020, served on the 2019-2020 Diversity Abroad Race and Ethnicity Task Force, has chaired numerous panels and presented at The Asia-Pacific Association for International Education.  

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The French Ministry of Education and Dassault Systèmes recently re-affirmed their continued commitment to the Product Lifecycle Management Competency Centre (PLMCC) at CPUT.

The partnership between the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE) with the world leader in 3D Design & Engineering Software, Dassault Systèmes and the ministry extends the commitment in sharing one of the most advanced software suites for teaching students in the PLMCC Lab – Dassault Systèmes. The collaboration has now been extended for the third time and for another three years since its inception in 2015.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Technology Innovation & Partnerships, Dr David Phaho who led the CPUT delegation during the recent meeting with the ministry and Dassault Systèmes says: “This gives our students access to world-class software that covers up to date practices and technologies. We also have access to a French expert, Laurent Marche, appointed by the French Ministry of Education who will make 40% of his time available to the CPUT PLMCC.” 

Marche will work in only two PLMC centres located in Africa, one at CPUT and the other at DUT, to introduce one of the most advanced software suites used in the world. He will be working with Prof Stephen Bosman in the PLMCC at Bellville Campus. Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Prof Marshall Sheldon stated that this arrangement was presented at the virtual World Engineering Education Forum and Global Engineering Dean’s Council held from 16 to 19 November 2020.

Bosman lauds the Dassault Systèmes software for bringing students an advanced 3D experience for product design that is used mainly in Engineering but can also be used in teaching design and modelling skills across disciplines in higher education.

“When students are building a satellite they will use these features to design all components of the satellite and be able to see graphically how all the parts fit together. They can also do 3D printing of selected components that they design,” says Bosman.

He explains that the design and modelling skills that CPUT students learn from Dassault Software are used by many large firms locally and internationally, and “will open doors for our students when job seeking”.

All students who have an engineering or product design requirement will benefit from this software. This includes engineering as well as design students. The software will be made available to 50 students initially, however, this can grow to up to 300 in the next year, depending on the alignment with the various curricula. Initially, five staff members will be started off on the new suite, but this number is expected to grow up to 15, who will use various levels of the functionality. 

“Using this software will enhance their knowledge because it's a new way to design, simulate and collaborate using the 3D experience,” says Phaho.

Furthermore, PLMCC can become a learning centre for the industry. The French expert will be there to train the lecturers and to assist them to train those in the industry. The goal of the PLMCC is to assist and prepare CPUT students in their 4IR journey.

Phaho urged the students to take the opportunity and learn as much as they can to become proficient in using the software to enable them to secure a place in the market.   “Becoming proficient in the software will also make themselves more marketable as graduates in their various spheres in the industry,” he remarks. 

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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CPUT’s Service-Learning and Civic Engagement Unit collaborated with the Robben Island Museum (RIM) as part of an initiative to celebrate Mandela Day.

The late President’s birthday, 18 July, was declared as Mandela Day by the United Nations in 2009 and encourages people to spend 67 minutes to support a charity or serve in their local community.

Jacqui Scheepers, Manager of the Service-Learning and Civic Engagement Unit (SLCE) at CPUT, said CPUT and RIM were invited to be part of the Mandela Bridges initiative by the global Ubuntu Leaders Academy, Instituto Pe Antonio Vieira (IPAV) in Portugal.

The initiative aimed to symbolically name 67 bridges around the world as “Mandela Bridges” for Mandela Day and was tested in Lisbon in 2016.

According to the Academy the gesture aimed “to signal one of the dimensions of Mandela's legacy which was his ability to build bridges, no matter how difficult it seemed to be”.

The CPUT and RIM collaboration selected the V & A Waterfront swing bridge near the boardwalk to the RIM ferry. A banner reading “Mandela Bridge (18-7.2020)” and another banner reading “Today’s the day to build bridges” were hung there on Mandela Day.

Scheepers said CPUT’s student Ubuntu Ambassadors were also asked to submit pictures of bridges in their hometowns to symbolise their commitment to ubuntu. The Service-Learning Civic Engagement Unit has been remotely coordinating the activities with students and partners leading to the Mandela Day celebrations.

The initiative coincided with a global E-Summit to promote “shared responsibility” and “global solidarity"” in the fight against Covid-19 given its health, economic, and social consequences. Several world personalities were invited to share their perspectives and proposals on how we can together overcome the impact of Covid-19. The E-Summit was co-chaired by Prof John Volmink, President of the Ubuntu Global Network and former acting Vice-Chancellor of CPUT, and José Ramos Horta, a 1994 Nobel laureate.

The 67 Mandela bridges were presented to the global audience at an on-line conference.  The contributions and reflections of the CPUT’s Student Ubuntu Ambassadors and RIM ambassadors were included in the conference contributions. 

Vuyo Mayongo, RIM’s Programmes officer in the Public Heritage Education Department, believes that “Mandela is a powerful symbol of political imprisonment and representation of those who struggle for freedom under oppressive regimes. RIM communicates Mandela’s ideals and values of freedom, the triumph of the human spirit, democracy, and the culture of human rights through building young ambassadors through nation-building programmes. During this pandemic, Mandela’s leadership still prevails to build our societies”.

Scheepers said she hoped that “students will build their leadership abilities and be encouraged to find ways to construct bridges across the cultural, economic, educational and social divides in our society. The building bridges metaphor resonates with our mission to contribute positively by building social citizenry, servant leadership and the spirit of Ubuntu”.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Faculty of Education, in collaboration with Belgian universities Ghent, Howest and Odisee recently hosted an international symposium in Stellenbosch to discuss the role of language in teaching.

The theme of the two-day symposium was: Language across the Curriculum: A disciplinary literacy approach to meeting the language and literacy needs of a diverse student population. The event was part of a bigger international collaboration between the Faculty and the Flemish Inter-university Council entitled: Training the Teachers of the Future: Language Policy and Literacy at CPUT.

“This project also supports three Masters’ students and one PHD student,” said Dr Candice Livingston, CPUT lecturer and Project leader for the South African team, about the international collaboration. Livingston, together with the organising committee, put together a programme with a variety of sub-themes that included Disciplinary Literacy; Translanguaging in the Curriculum; Teaching language across the curriculum with the use of technology and Language integration in the curriculum.

Prof Piet van Avermaet, the Flemish project leader, presented the opening talk while Dean of Faculty of Education, Prof Thobeka Mda, opened the proceedings. The keynote speakers, who were both from Stellenbosch University, were professors Mbulungeni Madiba, Dean of the Faculty of Education, and Cecilia Jacobs, a Higher Education Professor at the Centre for Health Professions Education.

The plenary speakers were An De Moor, a Belgian language expert in Higher Education at Odisee University of Applied Sciences and CPUT’s Biotechnology Professor, Muhammad Nakhooda.

Written by Kwanele Butana
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CPUT Dean of Students Cora Njoli Motale recently played host to visiting fellows of the American Council on Education (ACE) during a breakfast and round table discussion.

The function was hosted at Granger Bay Campus on 16 February 2010 and served as an information-sharing platform for each represented institution and an opportunity to bid farewell to the visitors.

The fellows were warmly welcomed by Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic Professor Anthony Staak, who thanked the representatives for their commitment to the programme and handed over to Motale to formally introduce her visiting ACE colleagues.

After breakfast, Director of International Affairs Merle McOmbring-Hodges showed the group an academic display of CPUT’s faculty publications, curriculum development and research programmes, and shared factual information with the fellows on the strides CPUT is making.

One of the highlights of the morning’s function was a series of presentations by the visiting fellows on the challenges faced by Higher Education from an international perspective, including that of highly acclaimed Food Science and Technology Professor Ken Lee of Ohio State University.

Dr Marcia Caton of Eastern Connecticut State University delivered a presentation that centered on the challenges of promoting education in disadvantaged communities, while Prof Joshua Powers of Indiana State University explained his four-point model on strategy implementation to successfully overcome barriers in an academic environment.

Other speakers included Dr Shelley Mishoe of the Medical College of Georgia who reinforced her passionate beliefs to uplift the lives of young people through higher education. Prof James Meernik of the University of North Texas spoke about the financial hardships faced by many students in his environment, which inhibits their commitment to complete their studies.

Also in attendance was the Central SRC President Vuyo Zita, who later thanked the ACE fellows for their visible commitment to the overall development of academic institutions.

To close the morning’s programme, George Mvalo, Manager of the Institutional Transformation and Diversity Forum, delivered a vote of thanks to the speakers and commended them on their investments to the academic world.

Since its establishment 45 years ago, the ACE Fellowship Programme offers its members an opportunity to advance their leadership and managerial skills through a forum that encourages cultural exchange and institutional policy debate.

The ACE programme provides higher education professionals with high-level leadership training as well as mentorship by a senior executive at an international University and places members within an influential network of higher education executives.

South Africa’s involvement with the Fellowship is supported by the Higher Education Leadership and Management (HELM) programme of Higher Education South Africa (HESA).

Motale is one of three South Africans selected to participate in the ACE Fellowship programme for 2009/2010, along with over 30 other academic professionals from across the globe.

The South African tour for the Fellows also included field trips to UWC and Stellenbosch University (SUN).

The ACE fellows were initially welcomed to the CPUT family by the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof Vuyisa Mazwi-Tanga, on 13 February 2010.

With their Cape Town stay concluded, the visiting American group will travel to the Eastern Cape where they will be hosted by the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) in Port Elizabeth, as well as the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) in Johannesburg before returning to their respective academic institutions in the United States of America.

By Thando J. Moiloa

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A Danish delegation, made up of school principals and teachers, recently paid CPUT’s Cape Town Campus a visit.

On 5 February 2010, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic Prof Anthony Staak, Dean of the Education and Social Sciences Faculty Prof Maureen Robinson, International Affairs Director Merle Hodges and other senior CPUT staff members welcomed the delegation to the Council Chambers.

The delegation already has partnerships with KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) schools and is now looking at expanding to other provinces.

It aims to establish programmes similar to the one currently running in KZN, through which Danish teachers come to South Africa to receive training and support in the methodologies used in English medium teaching.

The delegation also wanted to find out how institutions of higher learning and high schools can close the gap that currently exists between them.

Because the teachers are involved in Basic Adult Education and Training in their country, they also wanted to find out what CPUT is doing with adults who are currently working and want to further their studies.

The University of Cape Town was the first institution to be visited in the Western Cape. Prof Staak’s office was approached by a UCT staff member.

“In my talk with the professor from UCT, I gathered that they were interested more in the country’s education sector, so I decided to approach our Education Faculty to also be part of the meeting,” said Prof Staak.

Soren Ferslov Andersen, one of the principals from Denmark, said: “The area we are looking at is the transition from general education to higher education. We want to see how the gaps or problems are being solved between the two.

“This transition issue is a global problem because of the international market. Every country including South Africa will have to ensure that quite a lot of students will continue with higher education.”

Among the views that were shared in the meeting was “the real need for extended programmes in South Africa as schools don’t take back learners who didn’t do well in matric”.

Addressing the Danish Delegation, Prof Staak said: “As a university of technology, our programmes focus on technological training. We have a strong career focus and that binds all our programmes.”

He also mentioned that in South Africa, generally there’s a crisis regarding learners who are not ready for higher education.

CPUT is also working closely with communities and the Western Cape provincial government.

“We have been involved in a lot of research work with the Department of Education and the findings determined that there was a need for the extended curriculum programmes especially in the science and engineering departments,” said Prof Staak.

Currently, CPUT has extended curriculum programmes in some of the programmes offered in response to the national crisis.

The institution also has a centre for community development and has partnerships with 1700 companies, and that enables the students to do in-service training.

“That is what generally distinguishes our programmes from the traditional universities,” said Prof Staak.

CPUT recently received second prize internationally for excellent projects in rural areas as a result of student involvement in communities, with the help of partners from the Netherlands.

By Andiswa Dantile

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The Department of Student Affairs (DSA) hosted its first dialogue of a series of Restaurant Talks which allowed students and staff to engage around critical topics and issues on the Bellville Campus.

The DSA Restaurant Talk covered CPUT’s Vision, Mission, and Values. Dean of the Faculty of Informatics and Design, Prof Johannes Cronje, facilitated the relaxed and interactive talk which afforded maximum participation to about 100 students including Central SRC president, Sikhulule Mpetsheni.

The format was small group discussions around the table where students were encouraged to share their ideas back to the plenary. Cronje summarised and shared the points made by the groups with the rest of the audience. 

The audience included a mixture of SRC members, representatives of student structures, and general students. DSA Manager, Advocate Lionel Harper, said they will continue with the series of Restaurant Talks as they plan to hold the next session next month on the District Six Campus.

“It’s important for everyone to know what the values that we subscribe to as the institution are, student discipline is part of student affairs so it’s important for students to obey the values of the institution,” said Harper. “That’s why this afternoon we have to understand what our values and rules are; you won’t leave these premises hungry in terms of information.”

He added that it was important to work closely with the SRC and leaders of the various student structures. “We as staff need to know and live these values so that we can be able to remind the students that they need to understand and live CPUT values.

Mpetsheni said the Talk was “very informative with absolutely profound content”. “As a university, we should continue having programmes of this nature to allow student centered-ness,” he said.

Athlone Local SRC Communication Officer, Nosimphiwe Mbedla, said the information was educational and interesting. “It also taught us about the difference between the vision and the mission of the University.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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