CPUT students are changing communities for the good, one Service- Learning Project at a time.

From running gender violence awareness programmes to building sustainable houses, this year, students and academic staff participated in numerous Service-Learning projects across all faculties along with government departments, industry partners and community organisations.

The success of these projects was showcased at the Service-Learning Open Day and Awards held on the Bellville Campus.

TEAMWORK: Members of the Samora Machel community attended the event, along with representatives from the City of Cape Town

Through these projects, students are given an opportunity to experience learning outside of the classroom setting whilst using their skills to address a need in a community.

And the impact of these projects is far-reaching.

This year Environmental Health students educated 400 households in the Samora Machel community through a door-to-door Environmental Awareness Campaign they developed for the City of Cape Town.

DESIGN: Surface Design students created canvasses based on their experiences at Robben Island as part of a Service-Learning Project.

Zanele Figlan, a representative of the City of Cape Town says without CPUT’s assistance they would never have reached so many households.

Human Resource students made their mark on several communities by lending a hand to non-profit organisations, while Emergency Medical Science students embarked on projects with the South Africa Police Services and the Cape Town Drug Counselling Centre.

In Khayeltisha students are working on a multidisciplinary sustainable housing project that will continue into next year. This project is a collaboration between the Construction Management and Quantity Surveying, Architecture, Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering Departments.

DOING GOOD: Human Resource students exhibited their array of projects

Manager of the Service- Learning Unit, Jacqueline Scheepers commended students, staff and the various partners for participating in these projects, which teaches students about the importance of giving to others, whilst strengthening and reinforcing their disciplinary knowledge.

Scheepers says they are looking forward to strengthening ties with government departments and communities as they embark on several new projects in 2014.

The following Service- Learning Projects received awards:

Most innovative project – Multidisciplinary Sustainable Housing Project (Tony Florence: Envirochoice Project Management and lecturers- Desmond Jackson: Architectural Technology and Eric Simpeh: Construction Management and Quantity Surveying)

Most Effective partnership – City of Cape Town: Environmental Health (Lecturer: Louella Daries)

Most outstanding project – Human Resource Department (Lecturer: Mandy Mavuso)

Written by Candes Keating
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Provides coverage for the Engineering and Applied Sciences Faculties; the Bellville and Wellington Campuses, and research and innovation news.

The Department of Civil Engineering and Surveying (Cape Town campus) held its annual awards ceremony on 14 May 2008. Prizes were given to deserving students for their achievements in 2007.

Bongiwe Ciya was awarded the prize for best CPUT first-year student in Surveying. She also received the South African Geomatics Institute (SAGI) trophy for the best first-year Surveying student in South Africa.

The trophy for best Geographic Information Systems (GIS) student was awarded to Dieter Greeff. Tania le Roux received the trophy for the Best student in the Surveying Diploma. Daniel Pretorius received the SAGI prize for best student in Surveyng 1 and 2 in South Africa. The award was presented by Charleen Allen, a representative of SmartTech, who sponsored the prize.

In the Civil Engineering category, Jacob Scholtz and Marius van den Heever shared the award for best first year student. It was presented to them by Carmen Lawrence from Bergstan.

Taryn Jones received the SAICE award for best third year student. She also received the trophy for the best Civil Designer project as well as the best student in all three years of the National Diploma: Civil Engineering.

Nomusa Makhanya received the trophy for the best first year Allycad project. Paul Mills was awarded the prize for the best BTech dissertation and Dewald Engelbrecht received the prize as best student in Project Management.

Gavin Lloyd, president of SAGI was the guest speaker at the awards ceremony.

By Raubie Raubenheimer and David Evans, Engineering Faculty

Written by CPUT News
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A hardworking Human Resource Management (HRM) student recently won first prize in the Marius Meyer South African Board for People Practices (SABPP) Excellence Awards.

Third-year student Andiswa Vili outshone students from higher education institutions around the country to scoop the award.

An excited Andiswa said lecturers had to nominate top-performing students for the award.

“We were instructed to propose in a five-minute pre-recorded presentation how an African HR Practitioner could upskill oneself on self-management and working with people in any one of the SABPP standards,” she said. 

During her studies, she has achieved distinctions in well over 70% of her modules and was selected as one of the recipients of the EJ Lombardi Trust Bursary and the Western Cape Local Government SETA Bursary. Andiswa also managed to secure an internship with Deutsche Telekom’s T-Systems International (a Fortune 500 Multinational IT company) where she was offered a permanent position as a Junior HR Business Partner at the end of the programme.

The SABPP, through the National HRM Student Excellence awards, rewards exceling students in the Human Resources and related fields.

This serves as recognition of their outstanding performance in the field at accredited universities in South Africa; and recognition of outstanding performance by SABPP registered student members.

Head of the Human Resource Department, Dr Liiza Gie, said the purpose of the awards is to encourage and empower top performing, deserving students to keep the profession’s flag flying high.

The awarding of the prizes was administered by the SA Human Resource Universities Forum (SAHRUF). The 2022 theme for the SAHRUF is: Managing Talent in an African Hybrid World of Work.

Andiswa said her first reaction after hearing that she had won “to scream with my inner voice”.

“ I was extremely happy because the topic was one very close to my heart and my presentation touched on a lot of intricacies regarding the role to be played by the HR field in the advancement of technology and 4IR as we move more towards working online/virtually. I felt reassured, and my thoughts and ideas were validated after winning first prize.”

The young HR entrepreneur said it was also an honour to be invited to the SABPP 40th Anniversary Celebration and Awards Ceremony, where the award was presented to her.

Andiswa thanked her lecturers and family for their support.

“I have nothing but love and gratitude for all my lecturers, especially Mr (Sihlangene) Mgudlwa - he saw something in me that many had either not seen or ignored, a passion for the field of HR and a pursuit of excellence that I had forgotten I had in me.”

“I would not have been able to achieve half the milestones I achieved this year, without my family. I am truly grateful to everyone who has supported me in everything I pursued in my journey,” she added.

She plans to relocate to the United Kingdom to expand her business and embark on her postgraduate studies.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Department of Entrepreneurship and Business Management recently hosted an awards ceremony to acknowledge students who excelled in their first-year studies in 2018.

The top 10 students in the mainstream programme were: Nzengo Lutumba (76%), Karl Abrahams (73%), Nolitha Gcado (70%), Qhamani Vena (70%), Nosiphiwo Gabuza (69%), Zandile Mbane (69%), Unathi Mpande (69%), Sibabalo Mdingi (68%), Mputhumi Nikelo (68%) and Sulaiman Roberts (68%).

In the Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP) the following students came up in the top five: Karabo Namanyane (65%), Lelethu Nobete (64%), Mava Nomnga (64%), Noluvo Mpatha (62%) and Sisipho Tsheke (62%).
The students who were top of the mainstream class per subject were Issufo Junior (Business Computer Applications), Nkosikhona Mbane (Communication), Shakur Canham (Financial Management), Unathi Mpande and Nzengo Lutumba (Marketing) and Nzengo Lutumba for Entrepreneurship.

The top students per subject in the ECP were Lelethu Nobete (Business Computer Applications), Mava Nomga (Communication) and Karabo Namanyane for Entrepreneurship.

Alumnus Prominent Choto, an MTech graduate in Business Administration in Entrepreneurship, said the course does not only prepare one to start one’s own business but can also expand one’s career opportunities.

Prominent added that while she started working in the health sector, she found herself later delving into project management. “But now I’m in IT, others think that you should study IT in order to be in it.”

She encouraged the students not to wait until the last day before they work on their assignments. “Choose your study buddies carefully so as to prevent marks going to people who didn’t do the work,” said the former tutor.

Daniel King, who obtained a BTech in Management in Entrepreneurship from CPUT, said he learnt a lot during his first year in the Entrepreneurship course. Daniel now owns a food truck company which he recently started.

The department’s head, Prof Robertson Tengeh, congratulated the students who earned gifts and certificates.

Written by Kwanele Butana

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The Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Fasset) has donated R14.6m in student bursaries to the Graduate Centre for Management (GCM) this year.

Not fewer than 125 deserving Accounting students, from second-year upwards, benefitted from the allocation received from the Fasset’s PIVOTAL Bursary Scheme with Academic Support. The successful applicants had to prove that their annual household income was not more than R600 000, the so-called “Missing Middle” grouping.

GCM’s Arnelle Meyer said CPUT and Fasset have been working in partnership for years. Meyer said besides tuition fees the bursaries cover textbooks, transport and accommodation expenses.

“They have access to a tutor on a weekly basis. Fasset is trying to address the financial burden weighing down the students from completing their studies.” She added that the students will also attend lectures during university holidays.

The award includes the provision of soft skills training which covers the following:

• Communication (reading/ observing; business writing; study skills, speaking skills); 
• Interpersonal skills (teamwork; networking);
• Decision-making skills (problem-solving, critical thinking);
• Life skills (stress management, time management, ethics, job search strategies, interview skills)

Dean of Business and Management Sciences, Prof Paul Green, said he was extremely excited about the project and commended GCM for the initiative which he referred to as a strategic project.

“You are very privileged to get the opportunity to study,” Green told the successful students. He added that research shows that universities have a high dropout rate.

“The university wants to help deserving students who are needy to complete their studies. Make yourselves and the faculty proud, work hard.”

Written by Kwanele Butana

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The inventor of the Omega Caro-E food supplement has been recognised by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) as the top Intellectual Property (IP) creator at CPUT.

Prof Maretha Opperman, who co-invented the Omega Caro-E food supplement with the late Prof Spinney Benade among other products, has gained the university’s Technology Transfer Office (TTO) R605 000 by scooping the award.
Opperman, who heads the Functional Foods Unit at CPUT, says the recognition came at the time when she did not expect it.

The awards ceremony was held in Pretoria recently where Science and Technology minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane handed over a Certificate of Acknowledgement to Opperman for her passion in ensuring that her research has practical application and “seeks to result in an innovation which can be of benefit to the people of the Republic.”

Opperman acknowledges Benade’s contribution in the invention of the food supplements. “The reward goes to both of us,” she says.

Omega Caro-E is a unique combination of fish oil containing different carotenes and forms of Vitamin E. It can assist with reducing the risk of cancer and other non-communicable diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

While the CANSA-endorsed food supplement is on sale in South Africa, Opperman is looking at ways to improve the commercialization of the product.

She says the accompanying R605 000 prize received by the TTO from DST’s National Intellectual Property Management Office will be used for the development of new projects.

“I am looking forward to the opportunities lying ahead. I hope it sets the scene for young people to step forward.”

Written by Kwanele Butana
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A talented third-year Graphic Design student recently took first place in the Functional Foods Research Unit’s (FFRU) first-ever student design competition awards.

The unit in the Department of Biotechnology and Consumer Science developed a milk drink fortified with omega-3 fatty acids and carotenes aimed at pre-school children to supplement the diets of this age group.

CPUT students were challenged to design the food label.

“This group is vulnerable to malnutrition and we are facing big challenges in South Africa with omega-3 fatty acid and vitamin A-deficiencies. The carotenes can be converted to vitamin A as the body needs it” says Prof Maretha Opperman, head of the FFRU.

Third-year Graphic Design student Tirrell Jones was the first place winner and walked away with R20 000. The runners-up were Blessed Mhungu and Lisa Ingram.

Opperman said it was difficult to select the winner as the adjudicators were thoroughly impressed by the 75 entries received. An initial top 10 were chosen before the final three were selected as winners.

The purpose of the competition was to give students the opportunity to be exposed to commercial food label design and showcase their talent. Students representing a variety of courses entered the competition and were challenged to be innovative in visually portraying the products value proposition. FFRU is delighted by the outcome of this initiative and aims to collaborate similarly with the Design Department in future.

Written by CPUT News

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Growing up Dr Stanton Hector showed a passion for science and loved growing plants from seeds.

His inquisitive nature led him to pursue his undergraduate studies in biochemistry and microbiology at UWC before moving to Stellenbosch University where he completed his Honours and Master’s degrees and eventually a PhD in biotechnology.

His passion has now landed him a National Research Foundation Competitive Support for Unrated Researchers grant.

Hector said the grant was awarded for research he’s been working on in CPUT’s Biomedical Sciences department, in conjunction with Prof Tandi Matsha, and was mainly focused on diabetes.

He explained that for many newly diagnosed diabetics the first line of treatment was the medication Metformin.

“Different people react differently to medications because of their genetics. Some metabolise certain medications faster than others and this is reliant on genetic factors. A lot of work has been done on specific mutations in the genes that are responsible for the way Metformin is metabolised. What we wanted to look at is what happens at epigenetic level, said Hector.

“We know than Metformin, in addition to being able to treat diabetes, has effects on the levels of methylation of DNA. So we are looking at the specific DNA methylation changes in the genes that transport Metformin and how the levels of methylation effect on the switching on and switching off of those genes.”

Hector is a senior lecturer in the Biomedical Sciences Department.

Written by Ilse Fredericks

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Two rising researchers in the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences have been awarded Thuthuka grants for 2019. 

The recipients are the Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences Department’s Merlisa Kemp, a lecturer in Diagnostic Ultrasound and Lizel Hudson, Work-Integrated Learning and Language Coordinator in the faculty.

Both are doctoral candidates.

Kemp said she applied for funding for her work on Ultrasound investigation of risk factors for extracranial vascular pathology in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). A multidisciplinary team with specialised skills are working together on the research project.

“We are doing genetic testing on patients to see if some of the patients have the gene associated with MS and we’re looking at various biochemical markers, such as vitamin D, iron etc. We are trying to establish an association between those biochemical markers and ultrasound variables obtained from the extracranial vascular ultrasound studies,” said Kemp.

“We are also looking at the expanded disability status of the patient and trying to establish an association between that and the ultrasound variables, genetics and biochemistry.”

If extracranial vascular pathology, abnormal biochemical parameters, genetic and lifestyle risks can be demonstrated by ultrasound in conjunction with laboratory tests, then preventative measures can be taken by advising lifestyle changes that will not only improve quality of life but also slow down disability progression in persons with MS.

Hudson said her study centred on health professions education, particularly the Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy.

“I’m looking at the whole curriculum, specifically the radiation physics curriculum, across the four years of study. I’m looking at what concepts students are battling with and, when they go into practice, how they transfer those concepts or if it is just lost in translation. I’m using a computer-simulated learning environment called the VERT, which was designed in the UK to assist radiation therapy students in the acquisition of pre-clinical skills. I want to see if it can be used to assist in the transfer and application of radiation physics concepts from the classroom to the clinical setting.”

The Thuthuka Funding Instrument is a key intervention of the National Research Foundation (NRF) aimed at supporting emerging researchers.

AWARDED: Merlisa Kemp

Written by Ilse Fredericks

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CPUT has been awarded more than R3 million in research grants after 20 researchers successfully applied for Thuthuka grants from the National Research Foundation (NRF). 

Fifteen of the recipients are new Thuthuka grant holders while the remaining five have previously received grants that have now been continued.

The 15 new grant holders are: Dr Mahabubur Chowdury, Dr Stanton Hector, Dr Anthony Obilana, Innocentia Erdogan, Lizel Hudson, Merlisa Kemp, Thubalakhe Masango, Neo Motang, Makiwe Nkohla, Dr Moses Basitere, Sune Henning, Dr Velaphi Msomi, Dr Thandikile Mthethwa, Dr Zayd Waghid, and Dr Merrill Wicht.

The continuation grant holders are Dr Kessie Govender, Dr Oluwaseun Oyekola, Shameema Raja, Ncediwe Tsolekile and Dr Oscar Koopman.
The Thuthuka Funding Instrument is aimed at supporting emerging researchers.

“As a University of Technology CPUT comprises by and large as an early-career researcher base, hence the support of up and coming researchers is key to the mandate of the Research Directorate – a key entity in the portfolio of the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research Technology Innovation and Partnerships. To this end, Prof Dina Burger, Director: Research, provided clear instruction in 2018 that the number of Thuthuka grants obtained from the NRF by CPUT researchers must be increased. We are therefore extremely proud of the achievement, in that of the 26 applications submitted to NRF by CPUT 20 were approved and awarded. This totalled over R3 million during the last Thuthuka call, said Research Grants Manager, Tania Holmes-Watts.

She said the increase in grants was a team effort which took due diligence with the quality control process executed ahead of the submissions.

She acknowledged the Research Grants Management Unit team members in the Research Directorate for the support provided to applicants.

“This surely demonstrates that CPUT has great research potential and if we take hands and work together, supported through effective leadership, we are on a very good research support trajectory towards service excellence.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks

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An occupational health practitioner with a passion for the profession has done CPUT proud by scooping a national award.

Sr Yolanda Koorzen, who completed her BTech in Occupational Health Nursing at CPUT in 2017, recently received the Ian Webster Silver Medal Award.

Koorzen and another graduate from the Nursing Science Department, Sr Helene Mausling, scored the highest marks in the country for the course. Mausling received her award during the SA Society of Occupational Health Nursing Practitioners (SASOHN) national conference.

The award was presented to Koorzen at a recent function hosted by the Western Cape committee of SASOHN.
“I am very thankful for the award,” said Koorzen, who works as an occupational health practitioner at Indusmed, where she also manages a clinic.

The mother of two said she initially chose the occupation because she thought it would allow her to spend more time with her family.

“Once I started working I realised it was my passion. Before I chose occupational health I had worked in trauma and seeing what people do to each other really broke me. Occupational health restored my faith in humanity. My patients are people who work to build this country, they are good people.”

• Each year training institutions across South Africa, who offer a post-basic degree programme in Occupational Health Nursing, are invited to submit the names of students who achieved 75% or above to SASOHN to assess eligibility for the Ian Webster Silver Medal Award.

The SASOHN National Educational Representative and the SASOHN National Executive Members then review all the submissions for the highest mark attained amongst those submitted. Recipients have to hold SASOHN Membership.

This award was donated to SASOHN by Prof Ian Webster on his retirement from the National Research Institute for Occupational Diseases in 1998 and is awarded annually.

Written by Ilse Fredericks

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It shall forever be known that the Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) function at CPUT was acknowledged by the Institute of Risk Management SA (IRMSA) as they were runners up to Unisa at the 2022 IRMSA Annual Awards in the category of Education.

In a letter signed by IRMSA’s president, Thabile Nyaba and Chief Executive Officer Mokgaetji Pat Semenya, it is stated that the initiatives outlined in CPUT’s nomination were highly commended and CPUT should be proud of these achievements. “Please accept our warmest congratulations on your organisation being a finalist and our thanks for the outstanding contribution to elevating risk management.”

The IRMSA is the professional body for risk management professionals and is registered with the South African Qualifications Authority. IRMSA’s purpose is to advance the risk management profession through sharing leading next practices to assist organisations in achieving their strategic, tactical and operational objectives. The IRMSA Industry Awards are an annual initiative designed to nominate and celebrate organisations (institutions) that have excelled in the risk management profession. Enterprise Risk Manager at CPUT, Rueben Chibvongodze, says the awards ceremony is thus aimed at encouraging leading practices and bolstering networking opportunities across a melange of industries.

Chibvongodze says the IRMSA Awards initiative is presided over by the IRMSA Nominations Committee, “which provides a rigorous structure and platform for an objective, auditable, and independent nominations process”.

Reflecting on this milestone, he says: “CPUT has invested immensely in risk management over the past two and half years. The Vice Chancellor and Principal, Prof Chris Nhlapo, has always provided guidance, support, acknowledgement, and inspiration to progressively improve ERM at CPUT, including support from all executives and members of the Management Committee (ManCom).”

Chibvongodze says the ERM function reports to the Executive Director in the Office of the Vice- Chancellor, Prof Driekie Hay-Swemmer, who was in fact the nominee on behalf of CPUT for this “prestigious recognition at a national level”. “The Enterprise Risk Manager reports administratively (operationally) to the Office of the VC, and functionally to the Chairperson of the Audit and Risk Oversight Committee (AROC) of Council. Moreover, the Enterprise Risk Manager is also a part of the following Council Committees, thus, Quality Assurance and Risk Management Committee (QARM) chaired by the VC, AROC, Information Technology Governance Committee (ITGC), Finance Committee (FinCom), Investments subcommittee of FinCom, Governance and Ethics Committee (GEC), and the Skills Development Committee,” says Chibvongodze.

He continues: “I am privileged and honoured that CPUT’s ERM Initiative is a finalist for the year 2022 in the Education Category. This means that IRMSA has evaluated CPUT’s ERM framework and methodology, principles and process and rated it as one of the top and leading performing institutions from an ERM governance and management perspective. In another light, CPUT’s institutional governance and combined assurance arrangements are acknowledged as being leading and exemplary.”

Chibvongodze dedicated this achievement to God “for His insight and wisdom for enabling CPUT’s ERM function to facilitate and lead the development and implementation of integrated (institutional) risk management at the University”. “The fact that CPUT is a finalist for 2022 is in fact evidence that the University is acknowledged at a national level and throughout the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region as a leading light in the ERM (risk) space.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce

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The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), the world’s largest anti-fraud organization and leading provider of anti-fraud training and education, is pleased to award Rueben Chibvongodze, of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa, the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) credential. In order to become a CFE, Chibvongodze has met a stringent set of criteria and passed a rigorous exam administered by the ACFE.

Chibvongodze has successfully met the ACFE’s character, experience, and education requirements for the CFE credential, and has demonstrated knowledge in four areas critical to the fight against fraud: Fraudulent Financial Transactions, Fraud Prevention and Deterrence, Legal Elements of Fraud and Fraud Investigation.

Chibvongodze joins the ranks of business and government professionals worldwide who have also earned the CFE certification. Chibvongodze is currently Enterprise Risk Manager for the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) in Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa.

CFEs have the ability to: examine data and records to detect and trace fraudulent transactions; interview suspects to obtain information and confessions; write investigation reports; advise clients as to their findings; testify at trial; understand the law as it relates to fraud and fraud investigations; and identify the underlying factors that motivate individuals to commit fraud. CFEs on six continents have investigated millions of suspected cases of civil and criminal fraud. 

Globally preferred by employers, the CFE credential denotes proven expertise in fraud prevention, detection, deterrence and investigation.

About the ACFE
The ACFE is the world’s largest anti-fraud organization and premier provider of anti-fraud training and education. Together with nearly 90,000 members, the ACFE is reducing business fraud worldwide and inspiring public confidence in the integrity and objectivity within the profession. For more information about the ACFE visit ACFE.com.

Written by CPUT News

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The Department of Urban and Regional Planning’s Dr Belinda Verster has been awarded a prestigious grant from the Swedish Research Council for a project that will see her collaborating with researchers at Stockholm University and the University of the Western Cape.

The project is titled: A Research Agenda for Advancing Education for Sustainable-Smart Development (ESsD) in Marginalised Communities: A North-South Learning Perspective.

The grant is to the amount of R 660 000 over two years. Only four grants are awarded every two years for international partnerships.

Verster, a senior lecturer and researcher in the department, said she was very excited to start working on this meaningful project, with the first step being the ethical clearance process.

“But I also feel a huge sense of responsibility to do the project justice as understanding and responding to communities’ vulnerabilities is one of the major challenges of our time. Here I am referring to vulnerabilities such as socio-ecological (life-threatening weather phenomena and climate change), socio-political (unrest and wars) and socio-economical (unemployment and slow economic growth) issues.

“Too many sectors of society are voiceless, equating to being disempowered to solve their own challenges. With this research agenda, we hope to shift the focus from research being the domain of universities and root it in both communities and relevant partners.”

The project proposes an inclusive approach that involves the socially marginalised groups to be involved throughout the research process. By directly collaborating with researchers in both countries, these communities will be able to shape their own fit-for-purpose research agenda and methodologies. The project's specific purpose is to scope, plan and execute initiatives to advance ESsD through the above-mentioned inclusive approach in marginalised communities within Sweden and South Africa.

The research is framed within the wider context of UNESCO’s Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), specifically focusing on sustainable-smart developments. The project will involve interdisciplinary collaboration between marginalised community members, academics, students, NGOs and other community stakeholders in both countries.

The objective is to develop a research agenda that addresses systemic and structural barriers that prevent marginalised groups from actively engaging in ESsD and foster a sense of collective ownership that promotes equitable and sustainable outcomes for all.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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 In a strategic initiative aimed at contributing towards increasing research output within CPUT, the Directorate Research Development brought together academics from numerous disciplines and other stakeholders for a week of celebrating research excellence at the Institutional Research Festival 2024.

Day one of the conference focused on integrating work-focused research and the world of business while day two focused on ethics in research. The third day marked the start of a two-day conference centred around CPUT’s Research Focus Areas.

This event marked a defining moment in the institution's commitment to groundbreaking research and academic excellence as Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo, put it in his welcoming address: “The concept of excellence in higher education is very elusive strangely misunderstood, sometimes charged politicised. Excellence is an art won by training and habituation. The University’s raison d’atre is to create a stimulating, challenging and rewarding environment. Therefore, thank you to CPUT for Investing in excellence. Let us always accept where we are and agree where we want to be in 2030!”

Nhlapo also emphasised the importance of good governance in the institution.

Prof Stephanie Burton from Advancing Early Career Researchers and Scholars (AECRS) urged the academics to avail themselves as mentors to emerging academics as she outlined capacity development platforms in the AECRS programmes.

Amongst the speakers was Deputy Mayor of Cape Town, Alderman Eddie Andrews, who decisively addressed the conference on: Relevant, Responsive and Focused Research and the need to tackle urban governance challenges. Andrews asserted the urgent need to confront urban governance challenges. He firmly stated that collaboration between the City and the private sector is essential to effectively tackle social issues and drive significant progress in our communities.

The Research Festival concluded with the awarding of certificates and awards to National Research Foundation-rated researchers as well as for research excellence. The following awards for excellence in research activities were made:

Research Publication – 2021 publications

• Platinum - Prof Vipin Balyan (Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment)
• Gold - Dr Velaphi Msomi (Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment)
• Silver - Prof Robertson Tengeh (Faculty of Business & Management Sciences)
• Silver - Prof Oluwafemi Oguntibeju (Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences)
• Bronze - Prof Tiko Iyamu (Faculty of Informatics & Design)

Postgraduate Supervision – December 2021 and April 2022 graduations

• Platinum - Dr Larry Jowah (Faculty of Business & Management Sciences)
• Gold - Prof Tiko Iyamu (Faculty of Informatics & Design)
• Silver - Prof Johannes Cronje (Faculty of Informatics & Design)
• Bronze - Prof Vipin Balyan (Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment)
• Bronze - Prof Charles Laubscher (Faculty of Applied Sciences)
• Bronze - Dr Velaphi Msomi (Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment)

Research Publication – 2022 publications

• Platinum - Prof Tiko Iyamu (Faculty of Informatics & Design)
• Gold - Prof Victoria Jideani (Faculty of Applied Sciences)
• Silver - Prof Rodney Duffett (Faculty of Business & Management Sciences)
• Bronze - Prof Vipin Balyan (Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment)

Postgraduate Supervision – December 2022 & April 2023 graduations

• Platinum - Dr Larry Jowah (Faculty of Business & Management Sciences)
• Gold - Prof Robertson Tengeh (Faculty of Business & Management Sciences)
• Silver - Prof Atanda Raji (Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment)
• Bronze - Prof Justine Daramola (Faculty of Informatics & Design)
• Bronze - Prof Andre de la Harpe (Faculty of Business & Management Sciences)

Postgraduate Supervision – December 2023 & April 2024 graduations

• Platinum - Prof Mohamed Kahn (Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment)
• Gold - Prof Andre de la Harpe (Faculty of Business & Management Sciences)
• Silver - Prof Atanda Raji (Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment)
• Silver - Prof Michael Twum-Darko (Faculty of Business & Management Sciences)
• Bronze - Prof Tiko Iyamu (Faculty of Informatics & Design)

External Funding – For 2023

• Platinum - Dr Conrad Sparks (Faculty of Applied Sciences)
• Gold - Prof Tandi Matsha (Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences)
• Silver - Prof Tunde Ojumu (Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment)
• Bronze - Dr Kessie Govender (Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment)
• Bronze - Dr Pamela Welz (Applied Microbial & Health Biotechnology Institute)

The outstanding achievements of more than 100 students were acknowledged and celebrated during the recent Faculty of Informatics and Design Student Awards.

Prof Tembisa Ngqondi, Dean of the Faculty, said the awards acknowledged excellence and were informed by the CPUT graduate attributes.

The guest speaker was Dean of Student Affairs, Nonkosi Tyolwana, who encouraged students to always have a spirit of gratitude and to always remember those who had supported them along the way. She thanked the lecturers for their contribution to the students’ success.

Awards were made in several categories ranging from best student volunteer to student ambassador in the media space while several students who had excelled in competitions were also acknowledged.

The ceremony culminated with the announcement of the five trophy winners. The awards and winners were as follow:

Resilience, Determination, and Achiever Award – Christelle Dreyer (Applied Design Department) - For managing to continue her Master’s studies in the face of multiple health challenges.

Entrepreneurial and Innovation Award – Ryan Shafer (Applied Design Department) - The Product Design Advanced Diploma students ran a coffee stall in the Design building, which in the absence of a cafeteria, has provided great joy to the staff and students. Ryan is a trained barista and the students raised a considerable amount of money towards their end-of-year exhibition.

Academic Achievement – Phumelela Mkapeni (Architectural Technology and Interior Design) - The student faced many adversities this year and still managed to achieve “more than well in all subjects”.

Innovation and Community Engagement Award – Goentse Mmekwa (Media and Communication Department) - Goentse has served as a student volunteer for the NGO, Village of Hope, and uses his skills as a student filmmaker to write social media content and scripts and produces and directs videos for the organisation for publicity, promotions and fundraising.

Design Innovation & FID Ambassador Award - Logan Daniels (Applied Design) - In recognition of the extracurricular activities that have contributed to the promotion of the Department of Applied Design, Fashion programme brand. He was a top 10 finalist in the All Fashion-Source Africa competition.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Excellence was at the heart of the recent Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences (FHWS) Teaching and Learning Awards, which also celebrated oneness and smartness.

The event, held at the Cape Town Hotel School, was attended by academic, administrative and clinical staff and was a testament to the high standard of learning, teaching and assessment in the faculty.

The following awards were made:

Departmental Teaching Excellence Awards 2023 - Dr Stanton Hector and Dr Samantha Meyer (Biomedical Sciences Department)

Recognition for Outstanding Secretary Award: Sanet Nothnagel (Biomedical Sciences)

Recognition for Outstanding Technician/ Clinical Instructor - Vera Baiden (Dental Sciences)

Recognition for Innovation in Teaching with Technology - Benjamin De Waal (Emergency Medical Sciences)

The faculty also recognised retiree Bridget Wyrley-Birch from the Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences Department.

The keynote address was delivered by Prof Penelope Engel-Hills, who spoke on the topic: Embracing Innovation: Transforming Health Sciences Education in South Africa. She encouraged colleagues “to reflect on our own innovative teaching and learning practices” and to “embrace innovation”.

The event was arranged by Faculty Teaching and Learning Coordinator Anthea Pinto-Prins, and members of the Faculty Teaching and Learning Committee.

“We as the FHWS wish to extend our gratitude to Dr Xena Cupido and the team at Fundani: CHED for allowing us to make this special occasion possible through the UCDP,” said Pinto.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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 The winners of the Sports, Arts and Culture Awards were announced during a glittering ceremony recently held at the Auditorium, Bellville Campus.

The guest speaker at the event, which was presented by the Division of Student Affairs’ Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, was Banyana Banyana coach and CPUT Honorary Doctorate recipient, Dr Desiree Ellis.

In her opening remarks, Dean of Student Affairs, Nonkosi Tyolwana, congratulated all the finalists and said it was a privilege to acknowledge “the achievements of our brilliant students”.

Ellis encouraged students to “know your worth and know your value”.

“It doesn’t matter what anyone else says about you. Know your worth – know who you are and where you’re going to.”

The winners were:

Visual Artist of the Year - Alane Khoza

Performing Artist of the Year – Lilitha Hiliza

Arts and Culture Administrator of The Year - Tumisang Matlala: Cheerleading/Dance; Thandokuhle Mbatha: Music and Afika Manjati: Poetry

Most-Well Developed Arts and Culture Society - Titans: CPUT Cheerleaders and CPUT Choir

Honours Awards – Arts and Culture (awarded to arts and culture students who have achieved at the highest level nationally and internationally) - Thandekile Ndlovu: Debate; Wongalethu Huwule: Choir and Phumla Mabena: Drama

Best Student Administrator of The Year For Sport - Shelyn Kennedy: Rugby; Simamkele Sobuza: Football; Anathi Mashiqa:Men’s netball; Hallington Mufunwaini: Boxing; Liqhawe Pepeta: Table Tennis; Zimkitha Cuku: Softball; Wendy Mphoswa: Handball; Sibongiseni Matshipi Cricket; Kamohelo Sibanda: Basketball and Sarah Mawelela: Student Sports Council

Full Colours (Awarded to an exceptional first team member who has represented one of, or the equivalent of, the following or meets the club’s criteria as approved by the Sports Awards Colours Committee: Provincial Senior ‘A’ Team, National U21 ‘A’ Team, National Student Team)

Athletics: Jordan Burgess; Athletics: Ubayd Samuels: Athletics; Asakhe Masebeni: Men’s football: Zakhele Msimango:Men’s netball; Ziyanda Mwezo Netball; Anande Kuse; Table tennis: Everard Isaacs: Table tennis and Ntuthuzelo Lusithi: Table Tennis

Honours Awards – (This award is generally made only to those who have been selected for South African national senior teams. Clubs are expected to present a very thorough motivation for the award)

Oyisa Gxekani: Boxing; Lwazi Selepi : Chess and Zakhele Msimango: Men’s netball

Best First-Year – Jordan Burgess: Athletics

Team of the Year - Ladies Football

Sportswoman of the Year - Anande Kuse: Table tennis

Sportsman of the year – Nthuthuzelo Lusithi: Table tennis

Written by Ilse Fredericks
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.