CPUT is thrilled to welcome graduates, their families, and friends to the Bellville Campus for the summer graduation ceremony. This will celebrate the outstanding achievements of the Class of 2025 on 11 December 2025, at the Major Sports Hall, Bellville Campus.

Graduates will receive their qualifications across several faculties: Applied Sciences, Business and Management Sciences, Education, Engineering and the Built Environment, Health and Wellness Sciences, and Informatics and Design.

It is anticipated that thousands of parents, guardians, spouses, partners, and other supporters will attend the ceremonies. CPUT has over 100,000 alumni from its historic institutions, and the Class of 2025 will join this esteemed network. This Summer Graduation season marks the final graduation event of the year, following the Autumn Graduation held in April.

Prof Chris Nhlapo said: "This is a moment to celebrate our students' accomplishments — the outcome of many years of hard work and resilience. It also presents a chance to look towards a future full of opportunities. We will acknowledge the remarkable efforts of our students, the commitment of our staff who have guided them to this point, and the support of their families and friends."

The first ceremony will be held at 9:30, and the second at 1 pm; both are closed events. Graduands and guests are kindly encouraged to arrive at least one hour before the start of the ceremony to allow sufficient time for seating. Both ceremonies will be livestreamed via the CPUT YouTube channel.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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CPUT’s new Chancellor Prof Brian Figaji sees his new role as one of enhancing the vision for the institution and supporting the leadership as the university enters its third decade.

Figaji is an opinionated voice in the Higher Education sector, and he has spoken publicly on the quality of leadership and its impact on post-school education. With 25 years of experience at the former Peninsula Technikon, and countless more serving on the boards of fellow universities and in the business world, Figaji’s opinions carry considerable weight.

He says his role as Chancellor is to observe and speak directly to the Vice-Chancellor and Chair of Council if he sees room for improvement.

“While it is a ceremonial role I am not likely to be silent. However if I want to raise things I will do it directly with the VC and Chair and Council,” he says.

“I think Prof Nhlapo is quite focused and has done a lot to building CPUT and healing divisions which was caused by the merger.”

Speaking ahead of his official installation on Wednesday, Figaji said it was heartwarming to see the seeds of projects sown during his tenure now fully in bloom at CPUT.

One such project is the connection to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the US. The idea was first touted by Figaji during his term as Peninsula Technikon Rector and over the decades many useful linkages like funding initiatives and staff exchanges happened with the US based university renowned for its engineering and science programmes. Figaji credited Nhlapo for seeing the benefit of this and maturing the initiative into new directions.

Figaji is CPUT’s third Chancellor. He was the Rector of Peninsula Technikon for 10 years of the 25 he spent at the legacy institution.

The installation ceremony will be livestreamed via the YouTube channel.

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

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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CPUT, through its Centre for Business Innovation and Incubation (BiiC), recently celebrated the official launch of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with African Bank.

The ceremony, hosted at the District Six Campus, aligned closely with CPUT’s Vision 2030 of building One Smart CPUT and the university’s MIT of Africa strategy, which positions CPUT as Africa’s leading technology-driven institution advancing innovation at scale.

Executive Director in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Driekie Hay-Swemmer, emphasised the strategic significance of the partnership in strengthening student development, entrepreneurship, research, and innovation. Michael Twum-Darko, Head of BiiC, said the African Bank leadership reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to empowering communities, youth, small and medium enterprises (SME's), and innovators - echoing its own Pitch Cred mandate, which positions African Bank as a champion of inclusive growth, digital transformation, and sustainable development.

A joint presentation by CPUT and African Bank teams showcased the roadmap for collaboration, including immediate and long-term initiatives across student innovation, financial literacy, youth and women empowerment, and solutions that advance the financial sector.

“At the heart of the partnership is BiiC, which is strategically positioned as African Bank’s innovation partner - leveraging CPUT’s applied research, student talent, multidisciplinary expertise, and incubation capacity. Through BiiC, CPUT will co-develop digital solutions, AI-enabled learning and reskilling systems, and community-centred financial inclusion innovations that respond directly to African Bank’s national priorities,” noted Twum-Darko.

He stated that before the end of the academic year, CPUT and African Bank will convene a high-level workshop with relevant stakeholders to design and prioritise three transformative flagship projects:

• Youth development and financial literacy programmes that prepare young people for economic participation.
• Young women empowerment and graduate internship pathways that strengthen employability and leadership.
• Student innovation and market-access partnerships enabling CPUT-developed solutions to reach industry, communities, and markets - creating shared commercial value for CPUT/BiiC and African Bank.

The partnership is expected to deliver meaningful impact through mentorship, work-based learning opportunities, access to professionals, technology development support, and financial inclusion projects designed to uplift underserved communities. Twum-Darko said the collaboration also positions African Bank as a progressive industry partner investing in future-focused skills development and innovation-driven social transformation.

“As CPUT continues its pathway to becoming the MIT of Africa, this MoU embodies a powerful alignment between academia, industry, and society - showcasing how collaborative innovation can unlock new opportunities for South Africa’s youth and economy.”

Written by CPUT News
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CPUT and the South African Biogas Industry Association (SABIA) recently held the first SABIA-CPUT Agro-Industrial Biogas Training Seminar and Study Tour to strengthen capacity-building within South Africa’s growing biogas sector.

Associate Professor and Head of Research in the Department of Biotechnology, Vincent Okudoh, saw it fit to bring the training to CPUT to bridge the knowledge gap between theory, policy, and practical implementation by bringing together experts, practitioners, researchers, and industry stakeholders.

The core purpose of the three-day event, which was held at the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre, was to provide a comprehensive introduction to agro-industrial biogas technology from sector development trends, digester biology and engineering to substrate management, operational monitoring, environmental legislation, and best practices within the South African context.

The workshop fostered a highly interactive learning environment during presentations, discussions, and the practical site visits. Reflecting on the event, Okudoh said: “What stood out most was the diversity of attendees, from academia and research institutions to industry players and emerging biogas practitioners. This mix created rich, insightful conversations and a strong spirit of collaboration. The facilitators delivered complex topics in an accessible manner, and participants were eager to ask questions, share experiences, and explore practical solutions relevant to their work.”

He also noted that the end goal was to equip participants with practical, evidence-based insights that will support the development, optimisation, and future scaling of biogas projects across the country. “Ultimately, the organisers hoped to cultivate a knowledgeable community of practitioners who can drive innovation, support national sustainability goals, and contribute to a more resilient renewable energy sector.”

The seminar featured presentations on the status quo of the biogas sector in South Africa and the way forward for sector development, “which were particularly powerful, as they contextualised the challenges and opportunities facing the industry”. There were also technical sessions, some focusing on digester biology, substrate suitability, process monitoring, and engineering parameters, which were highly informative and provided participants with practical tools applicable to real-world systems.

The event also featured a study tour to the Cape Town Biogas Plant in Athlone and the CPUT Winery Waste Biogas Unit at the Agricultural Research Council, Stellenbosch. “Seeing operational systems firsthand helped bridge the gap between theory and practice, giving participants invaluable exposure to real operational challenges and innovations. Networking moments throughout the seminar were also extremely meaningful, allowing participants to forge new professional connections that may support future collaborations and project development,” Okudoh remarked.

He added that the workshop demonstrated that biogas is more than a technical solution; “it is a strategic opportunity for sustainable development, waste management, energy security, and innovation in South Africa”. The insights gained highlight the importance of interfaculty programmes such as Applied Science and Engineering and interdisciplinary collaboration and continuous capacity-building as the sector evolves. He said this is in line with the Vision 2030 Framework for One Smart CPUT, Focus Area 6: Smart Engagement and strong links with quintuple helix partners.

Okudoh also urged the CPUT community to remain engaged with renewable energy research and industry developments, as platforms like this training seminar play a crucial role in shaping the future of the green economy. He also extended appreciation to the industry and institutional partners: SABIA, Bio2Watt, Cape Town Biogas, Global Energy, ARC, Vaal University of Technology, and Stellenbosch University for contributing to the success of the 2025 Biogas Training Workshop.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Recently, hundreds of staff members united at Bellville Campus for a joyous cake and tea on the lawn with the vice-chancellor, to honour 20 Years of Growing from Greats. The event featured a poignant moment of silence to remember and stand in solidarity against gender-based violence (GBV).

Staff members from all campuses united in a display of camaraderie, forming a "CPUT 20" on the lawn, symbolising collective strength and spirit before the inspiring moment of the official cake cutting.

In her opening speech, Brightness Mangolothi, Director: Centre for Diversity, Inclusion and Social Cohesion (CDISC), said that twenty years ago, CPUT was imagined as a place where transformation would not be a slogan but a lived reality. “Where inclusivity would not be optional but foundational. Where knowledge would not only inform but also inspire”.

“We stand today on the shoulders of giants — the pioneers who dared to dream of an institution that would break barriers and build bridges. Their courage gave us roots; their vision gave us wings. And because of them, we are here — not just surviving, but thriving,” Mangolothi beamed.

She said for 20 years, CPUT has grown from greats. “We have turned challenges. Today, as we gather on this lawn with cake and tea, we are celebrating a chapter of bold vision, renewed purpose, and unstoppable growth.”

As part of the 20-year celebration, Nhlapo took a moment and reflected on Dr Franklin Sonn, who passed on recently. As a former Rector of Peninsula Technikon, Sonn guided the academic trajectory of what CPUT would later become. Nhlapo mentioned Sonn’s. “Without a shadow of doubt, he rooted us in greatness, and we will always be grateful for his leadership and guidance, which continue long after he left the institution. His keen interest in what is going on in this institution is something that will never be forgotten…” He also mentioned the late Prof Malusi Balintulo as one of the greats who will always be remembered for their immense contribution to the institution. “These greats always reminded us to be the best we can be as universities of technology, both professionally and personally. These greats always reminded us about how to build a values-based organisation. These greats nurtured numerous young talents and kept pace with the times.” Nhlapo said the celebrations have their roots in some of the strategies that were envisioned by these greats.

The day coincided with the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign “that reminds people that ending GBV is not just a moral imperative, it is a shared responsibility,” Mangolothi remarked. “As we reflect on growth, we must also confront the realities that threaten it. One such reality is Gender-Based Violence, a scourge that undermines safety, equality, and human rights.

“At CPUT, we go beyond 16 days. We embrace 365 Days of Action because zero tolerance for GBV is not negotiable. Our commitment is championed under the Institutional Gender-Based Violence Committee (IGBVC), housed in the CDISC Office, ensuring that our policies, programs, and interventions are aligned with national and global best practices.”

In addition to what Mangolothi said, Nhlapo made it clear that CPUT's position on GBV is to maintain “zero tolerance. “We frown upon gender-based violence… It is very important that we must be able to speak up, we must be able to call out some of these tendencies.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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CPUT recently celebrated the launch of the Academic Staff Quality Desk (ASQD), a key initiative designed to elevate quality assurance, amplify staff voices, and foster a transformative quality culture across the institution.

The ASQD will serve as a strategic platform that empowers academic staff to actively engage in quality assurance processes, promotes continuous improvement, and advances excellence in teaching, learning, research and community engagement at CPUT.

During the event, which was held at the Premier Hotel in Sea Point, guests were welcomed by Prof Rashieda Toefy, Assistant Dean in the Faculty of Applied Sciences, who emphasised that “all aspects of what we are doing are governed by quality management”.

The Quality Management Directorate’s Ernestina Ansen, who outlined the purpose of the ASQD, said: “We realised that there were some key voices that were lacking, key voices that were not heard. We also realise that we need to partner with the staff because staff and students are the key role players in our institution when it comes to the core academic business.

“We want academic staff to critically engage in our institutional quality reviews …and we want to also strengthen the academic integrity across all faculties. We also want our academic staff to be actively involved in all quality management systems within the institution.”

Prof Rishidaw Balkaran, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Learning and Teaching, delivered a word of support and noted the importance of the ASQD.

“It creates the opportunity for us to integrate the way in which we see quality within the university.”

Chairperson of the ASQD executive committee, Althea Whitaker, reflected on the journey this fair and introduced the members of the committee, which is made up of Whitaker, Naeem Seedat, Angelique Walbrugh and Ashley de Jager.

Dr Siyanda Makaula, Director of the Quality Management Directorate, said the ASQD was conceptualised to create a platform for academic staff to be able to engage in quality matters.

He thanked the executive committee for their work thus far before officially launching the ASQD.

Messages of support were delivered by representatives from the various faculties and the Student Quality Desk.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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In a momentous stride towards empowerment, CPUT has signed a historic Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Sanlam, formalising a collaboration for shared goals and success towards advancing the financial empowerment of the CPUT Community.

Brightness Mangolothi, Director: Centre for Diversity, Inclusion Social Cohesion (CDISC), said this strategic partnership is focused on empowering the university community with financial literacy and aligns with CPUT’s Vision 2030, which also advances redress. “Sanlam’s’ commitment to transformation is informed by the universal insight that everyone deserves an equal chance and opportunity to live a better life.”

Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo, who signed the MoA, stated that CPUT has developed a strong relationship with Sanlam over the years. He further highlighted how CPUT has utilised Sanlam's expertise in investments, such as retirement fund and creative projects that also involve students. “You were always behind us.”

Nhlapo continued: “The key today is around the whole question of financial education and financial literacy. It's so important, it's apt, it is coming at the right time for both staff and students…Quite frankly, the wisdom around money is so important, around wealth generation, sometimes to break a poverty circle, it’s so important, so that we can actually also talk about generational wealth as a people, it’s so important, and I am looking forward to that capacitation of our people.”

Mangolothi said that financial literacy is a critical enabler of equity and inclusion because it empowers individuals to navigate economic systems confidently and sustainably. “Advancing financial literacy is not just an economic intervention; it is a social justice imperative that strengthens diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging while supporting the university’s sustainability agenda. Importantly, financial support initiatives help break poverty cycles and achieve financial stability.”

She added that CPUT has more than 30 000 students and that over 70% of CPUT students depend on National Student Financial Aid Scheme funding. Mangolothi noted that the Western Cape and Eastern Cape are the university’s main recruitment regions and have the highest proportion of Quantile 1–3 students. “This highlights the need for sustained financial aid strategies to ensure equitable participation and student success.”

Zikhona Plaatjie, the CDISC Stream Coordinator, Monitoring and Evaluation, noted that this partnership marks the dawn of a transformative journey dedicated to enriching financial inclusion and literacy within the university community. The partnership does more than create opportunities; it inspires a future where every individual has the knowledge and resources to succeed. This collaboration lights the way to financial empowerment, cultivating a generation ready to shape their financial futures. The initiative also supports multiple global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

“By embedding financial literacy within the broader empowerment agenda, the partnership contributes to long-term economic resilience for students and employees alike,” Plaatjie said.

Tumiso Mfisa, Stream Coordinator: Gender Equality, Diversity & Inclusivity, said this partnership reflects CPUT's commitment to growing its own talent and demonstrating practical pathways for upward mobility. Mfisa noted that Sanlam has shown incredible patience and dedication throughout this process. “Their generous support highlights their genuine commitment to making this collaboration a success. We are deeply honoured and grateful to Sanlam for their partnership. Under the leadership of our Vice-Chancellor, we have indeed become an attractive university for meaningful collaborations like this.”

He also highlighted Sanlam’s commitment to delivering tailored, high-quality financial education programmes, and “we recognise the important role CPUT will play in enabling, promoting, and jointly evaluating these initiatives to ensure their lasting impact”. 

Reflecting on the collaboration, Nhlapo said: “I hope this partnership will grow in leaps and bounds because of what we are doing; we are formalising something that we have been doing with Sanlam for years. We are now putting it on paper to ensure that we communicate and commit.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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In collaboration with the Technological Higher Education Network South Africa (THENSA), CPUT, along with Stellenbosch University (SU), hosted a transformative training workshop as part of the University-Industry Co-Creation (UNIICo-create) project, funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union.

This week-long event was held at Stellenbosch University and at CPUT, culminating at the Granger Bay Campus and was aimed at building entrepreneurial universities in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region by promoting collaboration and co-creation of a unique, broad-scope entrepreneurial curriculum, drawing on knowledge and expertise from academia, industry, and government.

It promised to be, and delivered on, an insightful journey into shaping the future of education and innovation creation across the SADC.

Prof Muhammad Nakhooda, co-lead of the project, stated that the UNIICo-create workshop aimed to promote this entrepreneurial university vision by providing institutions in the SADC region with the necessary tools—both physical resources and knowledge — to develop entrepreneurship-focused curricula for all undergraduate students. Nakhooda said the workshop aimed to look at ways to integrate co-creation units within Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) and strengthen innovation ecosystems to address unemployment and enhance regional competitiveness.

He noted that effective collaboration between universities and government institutions will create an environment conducive to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives. “Within UNIICo-create, this partnership allows academics to translate research into societal solutions, while policymakers align national frameworks to institutional contexts and realities. Through such shared workshops, the relevant ministries of the participating institutions and countries will gain a view into academic processes, and universities will be able to access platforms for policy dialogue and resource mobilisation, to create universities that are engines of regional innovation and entrepreneurship”.

The event included panel discussions with a variety of industry and government guests, among them being Karen Eksteen, Founder and CEO of Innocircle; Brandon Paschal, Deputy Director of Spinout Companies and Funds at INNOVUS; Sheena Paulus, Owner of Tri-Toad Nursery; and Antonie van der Hoek, Partner at BDO. Dr Makhapa Makhafola, CFO of the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), along with Prof Karin Jacobs from Stellenbosch University and Founder and CEO of Sporatec, chaired the discussion.

Reflecting on the event, Project Lead of the Erasmus+ THENSA UNIICO Entrepreneurship Project at CPUT, Prof Lalini Reddy, said the feedback from workshop partners and invited industry partners was unanimous about the significance and urgency in promoting entrepreneurship in the undergraduate curriculum. “This strengthened our zeal to spread this enthusiasm to the university at large.”

Going forward, Reddy said the faculty workshops and other networking events are planned with academics and industry partners to integrate entrepreneurship into the undergraduate curriculum as well as provide training for academics to be effective entrepreneurship educators.

“A Co-Creation Unit and a University Industry Government Advisory Board is planned as part of this project to serve as a focal point of interaction amongst academics, students, community, funders, and industry partners,” Reddy noted.

“I look forward to the collaborative spirit that defines UNIICo-create: the opportunity to contribute to shaping future-ready curricula, strengthen regional partnerships, and translate innovation into tangible impact for students, communities, and industries alike. We want to grow the economies in our regions, and universities-industry-government partnerships represent the most meaningful way to achieve this.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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An impactful community engagement initiative by the Department of Biomedical Sciences, in partnership with Ikamva Youth, continues to empower matric learners in Nyanga.

The service-learning project, which is organised and run by the Department’s Anelisa Motaung and Nkosikho Sogwagwa, pairs Biomedical Sciences students with Grade 12 learners in Nyanga, with the students serving as mentors to the matric learners.

Launched in 2021, the programme aims to support the learners in planning for higher education by guiding them through the university application process. Each mentor assists their assigned mentee in exploring tertiary education options, completing three university applications, and with applying for financial aid resources.

Motaung said this year 40 CPUT students served as mentors.

Throughout the academic year, students and mentees engaged in various structured activities.

Some of this year’s highlights include:

• More than 100 university applications completed
• More than 200 hours of service invested by the CPUT mentors
• Learners received career guidance, academic and psycho-social support

The year concluded with an awards celebration for the mentors and mentees at the Bellville Campus.

Prof Glenda Davison, Head of the Biomedical Sciences Department, said: “As I listened to the reflections by both the students and matrics, I saw the future of South Africa, and it was a good feeling.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The inaugural three-day postgraduate conference hosted by the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) Research Chair in Governance and Economics for Water and Sanitation Sector Institutions was recently held at the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre (SARETEC), marking a significant milestone in the University’s journey towards impactful research and innovation.

The conference was held in collaboration with partners from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), the University of the Western Cape (UWC), the University of Pretoria (UP), and CPUT supervisors. The Research Chair is hosted at the CPUT Centre for Water and Sanitation Research (CWSR). The Centre is part of the Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment (FEBE) at the Bellville Campus. The conference is designed to foster a "safe space" where postgraduate students aligned with the SARChI Research Chair in Governance and Economics for Water and Sanitation Sector Institutions can confidently present their research to both supervisors and their fellow postgraduate peers.

Prof Bongani Ncube, the SARChI Research Chair, said the conference was for postgraduate students to present their work progress and seek guidance. Ncube also stated that it was a platform for the students to share ideas and challenges. It was also a space for them to assess their progress as individuals and to network with others.

In her opening and welcome remarks, Prof. Veruscha Fester, Assistant Dean of Research, Technology, Innovation & Partnerships at FEBE, expressed her excitement and anticipation to hear about all the inspiring work. Fester reminded attendees that it was also a pioneering research chair: "We have done lots of water-based technologies, but they said what we really need with engineering and technologies is understanding governance in the sector and providing solutions, starting with the government and local governments, etc." "So, the work that you are doing is very important; it feeds directly into policies. Nowadays, they can also track in terms of references, how much of our work is translating into policies."

The first day focused on Doctorates, while the second was dedicated to the Master's students. The first day was facilitated by Prof Mbulisi Sibanda (UWC), while Dr Evans Shoko (CPUT) facilitated the second day. Presentations were divided into three sessions each day. At the end of each session, a feedback discussion was held, consisting of questions to gain further insight into the research and provide clarification where required. During the feedback, students received advice from both supervisors and peers, as well as suggestions to improve their research proposals, theses, or research papers.

"We wanted to hear from students with respect to how they are doing and how their postgraduate study journey has been thus far," Ncube noted. "The students were well prepared and communicated their research well. I was impressed by the participants' engagement, and I noted that the students realised that the point of the conference was not to critique their work but to facilitate conversation, with constructive advice given to improve the research. The students were more open to discussing their work and the incorporation of suggestions."

Dr Alfred Apio (UP) and Dr Bramley Lemine (UWC) shared their experiences of their PhD journeys. They discussed the struggles they faced, providing valuable insights into the PhD experience. By sharing their challenges and triumphs, they humanised the PhD journey, making it relatable for the postgraduate students. Additionally, these academics offered advice, tips, and tricks on how to maintain focus and successfully navigate the PhD journey, which Ncube found very informative.

Prof. Maxwell Mudhara (UKZN) provided guidance on research challenges and how students can approach journal selection and publish their research. Dr Sandra Williams (CPUT) reflected on the conference, offering suggestions for subject area groups to facilitate future student engagements.

The conference culminated in visits to Theewaterskloof Dam and Lakeview Farm in Villiersdorp. The group met with Amoré Viljoen, the manager of Lakeview Farm, and a subsequent farm tour was very informative. The students gained insights into a farm facing water challenges and observed the innovative solutions being implemented to address these issues.

"The objectives were fulfilled, and we look forward to a bigger conference next year, where the students will share their research results," Ncube enthused.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Dr Rueben Chibvongodze, the Director of Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery responsible for enterprise resilience and sustainability services at the university, has earned the prestigious Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) designation from the Information Systems Audit and Control Association in the United States of America (USA).

This achievement follows his recent graduation with his PhD in Financial Risk Management from the Department of Finance, Risk Management, and Banking at the University of South Africa. “In the contemporary age of unprecedented technological advancement filled with both challenges and opportunities, the CISA certification capacitates and empowers professionals to enhance technologically focused enterprise resilience and sustainability programmes to help institutions to effectively navigate the increasingly volatile and complex global operating environment,” Chibvongodze notes.

The requirements for CISA certification include a degree level or higher education in information systems, IT security, enterprise or financial risk management, enterprise resilience, and related disciplines. The candidate must pass a technically difficult four-hour examination. A minimum of five years of professional experience in IS, IT security and assurance, enterprise or financial risk management, technical enterprise resilience and sustainability is required to meet the stringent certification requirements.

“The areas tested in the CISA exam are information systems auditing process, governance and management of IT, information systems acquisition, development and implementation, information systems operations and business resilience, and protection of information assets.”

Chibvongodze now joins an elite group of specialised services experts globally who continue to contribute towards enterprise resilience and sustainability. He also holds the Certified Internal Auditor and the Certification in Risk Management Assurance designations from the Institute of Internal Auditors Global, USA.

He is also a Certified Fraud Examiner, certified by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, USA. Chibvongodze is also certified by the Business Continuity Institute from the United Kingdom.

He is grateful to the university “for providing an enabling climate conducive to continuing professional development”.

Written by CPUT News
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Two PhD students from the Faculty of Education have each been awarded a six-month scholarship to attend a postgraduate programme at one of Germany’s top universities.

Genevieve Lentz and Anastasia Gordon are recipients of the Baden-Württemberg Scholarship to attend the Postgraduate Programme at the Heidelberg Graduate School for the Humanities and Social Sciences (HGGS) at Heidelberg University, Germany

Lentz, who is also a lecturer in the Faculty of Education, said she was “deeply grateful” for the opportunity.

“I never imagined that I would be selected for such a prestigious programme. It represents both recognition and encouragement to continue striving for excellence. Academically, this scholarship provides invaluable opportunities for international collaboration and intellectual exchange with scholars from around the world.

“As the programme includes participants from 30 developing countries, it fosters intercultural dialogue and global academic networking. Moreover, it enables me to dedicate my full attention to completing my PhD, thereby strengthening the quality and impact of my research.”

She said she was particularly impressed by the enthusiasm and openness of the academics at Heidelberg University in sharing their knowledge and expertise.

“What stands out most is the wide range of monthly workshops and seminars designed to enhance scholars’ academic and professional skills. This commitment to supporting postgraduate development reflects the university’s dedication to academic excellence and innovation.”

Her dissertation is titled: "Framework for the Development of a Transformative Pedagogy to Integrate Africanisation in Higher Education English Curriculum."

Lentz was raised in Bonteheuwel, “the eldest of three daughters to a single mom”.

“I taught high school for 15 years until I was accepted into The New Generation of Academics Programme, funded by DHET. Generally, the entry requirement to this programme is a Master’s but DHET allowed me to come on the programme with my Honours. This meant I had to work twice as hard as other scholars as I only had six years in which to complete two degrees. In 2021, I graduated with my Master’s (summa cum laude) and immediately enrolled for my PhD. God willing, I should graduate at the Autumn Graduation next year.”

She was also the first female deputy referee in Africa to officiate at the Olympics Games for table tennis. 

Lentz expressed her thanks to her co-supervisor, A/Prof Zayd Waghid, Dr Andrew Wambua, and the Global Institute for Teacher Education and Society for their invaluable guidance and support in making this opportunity possible.

“I am also grateful to CPUT for granting me the privilege to pursue this academic endeavour, and to my family for their unwavering encouragement and support throughout this journey.”

Gordon said she was very grateful to be one of the first students nominated for the Programme.

“Academically, this scholarship allows me the time and access to world-class resources to complete my doctoral thesis at a renowned university. Personally, I’m deeply grateful for the chance to once again be a full-time student, to pause, reflect, and grow in my craft as an educator and academic.

Her doctoral research explores how communities of practice can influence the use of critical teaching pedagogies through ICT.

She was a high school mathematics teacher for 11 years.

“I study because I’m a teacher. I truly believe in lifelong learning, and it has transformed how I teach. Beyond academics, I’m passionate about karate. I compete internationally in kumite and kata events, which has given me the privilege of traveling and representing my country

“I would like to thank Prof Zayd Waghid, Dr Andrew Wambua, and Dr Astrid Wind for making this opportunity a reality and the Baden-Württemberg Foundation for awarding me this scholarship. My sincere appreciation also goes to Mr Marsh and Mrs Butler at my workplace for their support. To my fellow scholarship recipient, Genevieve Lentz, I feel truly blessed to share this life changing experience with someone as inspiring and grounded as you. And to my family and friends, thank you for your endless prayers, encouragement, and belief in me.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Being elected President of the South African Chemical Institute (SACI) is both an honour and a responsibility for Nikoletta Bathori, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, who says her recent election “represents the trust of my peers and the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of chemistry in South Africa and beyond”.

SACI, formally established in 1912, is the professional body that represents all chemists across South Africa, with a history of over a century of promoting chemistry education, research, and public understanding. The president serves a two-year term and is responsible for providing strategic direction, strengthening partnerships, and supporting the professional growth of members.

The dependable academic, who values integrity and lifelong learning, intends to advance SACI’s ongoing evolution in response to the opportunities and challenges of the digital era. “Our focus will be on renewal, sustainability, recognition, representation, and international collaboration, ensuring that SACI continues to serve as a strong and relevant voice for the chemistry community.”

Bathori, who likes to take initiative, stay organised, and follow through on commitments, notes that the institute has already embarked on a comprehensive rebranding initiative aimed at modernising the Institute’s image and strengthening its connection with members and the public. “A key priority of my term will be ensuring the long-term sustainability of the South African Journal of Chemistry, which has proudly served our scientific community since 1918. We are committed to maintaining our accessibility to members while enhancing our international competitiveness. Preserving this important journal is not only about tradition but about safeguarding a cornerstone of South African scientific excellence.”

The institute will introduce two new SACI awards to celebrate excellence within its community and to recognise the outstanding contributions of its members. She says they will continue to strengthen SACI’s international footprint across the African continent by extending memoranda of understanding with other chemical societies and fostering deeper partnerships that promote collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the advancement of chemistry in Africa.

“Through these initiatives, my goal is to ensure that SACI remains a vibrant, forward-looking organisation — one that honours its legacy while embracing innovation, partnership, and inclusivity in the service of chemistry and society.”

The Hungarian-born scholar, who moved to South Africa for a postdoctoral fellowship about 20 years ago, has advanced through various leadership positions within SACI, gaining a broad understanding of its structure and culture. “This role is a wonderful opportunity to practice and refine my leadership skills while applying my knowledge of business management in a scientific context. I see this as a rare gift — a chance to give back to a community that has given me so much and to help guide its future direction.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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CPUT recently hosted a vibrant celebration themed “Weaving Heritage into Future Innovation” – an event which honoured the past while looking boldly toward the future.

The event formed part of the University’s 20 Years of Growing from Greats celebrations and took place at the District Six Campus – an especially meaningful venue given its deep historical significance.

The celebration opened with a powerful dance performance by the Figure of 8 Dance Theatre, which transported guests into the future.

In her opening remarks Mandie Richards, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Business and Information Administration and one of the organisers of the event, highlighted the collective spirit that defines CPUT.

“I think we all contribute to the greatness together. The important thing we need to remember is that we cannot do this on our own. Whichever department you're sitting in, whichever status you have, together we work,” said Richards, who serves as the Transformation Forum Chairperson in the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences.

In his welcoming address Prof Rishi Balkaran, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Learning and Teaching, said the gathering was not merely to mark the passing of time, but to honour a journey – “one shaped by resilience, innovation, transformation, and the unwavering belief that universities are custodians of heritage and engines of future possibility”.

He said CPUT's story is grounded in a rich complexity of history.

“Over the past two decades, we have navigated identity, embraced diversity, advanced transformation, and forged a unified institutional culture built on excellence, access, and social justice. Today's event honours that journey.”

Chrischené Julius, Executive Director of the District Museum, delivered the keynote address and spoke about the history of District Six and the history of the Museum, which opened in 1994.

“It (District Six) was a hive of activity, filled with shopkeepers in Hanover Street, primary and high schools filled with children, and churches filled with people pursuing their different religions, including mosques. It was a political home for the Communist Party and others seeking the right of representation in a system that barely recognised them. It was a place of Cape Jazz and Klopse, a place of poets, writers, and artists.”

“Their neighbourhood was demolished and erased, and they were forced to move away from this place to the townships on the Cape Flats. The desire is always to return home.”

She placed a focus future and the role of technology.

“With partners like CPUT and others, we have witnessed the endless possibilities of GIS mapping, gaming technology, and 3D scanning and linked to the global environment. In this move towards the digital humanities, technology empowers communities to shape and direct their own stories, ensuring that the legacies of communities such as District 6 remain intact.”

The programme included a thought provoking panel discussion, which touched on subjects including the groundbreaking rooibos research being done at CPUT’s Applied Microbial and Health Biotechnology Institute (AMHBI), putting African philosophies at the heart of learning, weaving heritage into the curriculum and how African innovation ecosystems can avoid copying silicone valley and instead build models rooted in local heritage and local patterns of value creation. The discussion was moderated by CPUT media liaison, Lauren Kansley and the panel members were Dr Mariska Lilly, Senior Researcher at AMHBI, Mandy Sanger, Head of Education at the District Six Museum, Dr Faiq Waghid, Head of the Department for Academic Staff Development at the Fundani Centre for Higher Education Development and Prof Michael Twum-Darko, the founder and head of the Centre for Business Innovation and Incubation at CPUT.

Prof Anthony Staak, former Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning at CPUT, who retired in 2018, highlighted some of the projects the university embarked on over the years to assist with the integration of the campus into the community of District 6.

“These projects tended to foreground the rich heritage of District 6 and helped to promote memorialisation of the area and also created a general awareness of past injustices. It's also important to note that these projects were not decided upon unilaterally.

This included the renaming project (Cape Town campus to District Six).

He concluded: “The fact that heritage is the theme of one of the CPUT’s 20-year celebration events tells me that heritage still features prominently on the agenda of this institution. And I believe that I'm confident that with proper commitment, proper support and effective collaboration with community stakeholders, particularly the District 6 Museum, you will be able to take integration of heritage into the academic program to the next level.”

Taryn Kroukamp, Acting Head of the Human Resource Management Department in the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences, and one of the organisers, thanked all the roleplayers for their contributions.

“Today we did not just look back at two decades of institutional history, we looked deeper into the soil of District Six, and forward to the innovations of the future.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Two academics have been honoured at the prestigious National University Teaching Awards (NUTA), which recognise innovation and excellence in university teaching across South Africa.

In the 2024 awards round, Senior Lecturer: Department of Clothing and Textile Technology, Prof Sweta Patnaik, received a commendation for her outstanding contribution to teaching and learning. The commendation acknowledges her innovative curriculum design, student-centred pedagogy, and sustained commitment to student success.

For the 2025 cohort, Senior Lecturer: Department of Food Science and Technology, Dr Vusi Mshayisa was named one of the national winners in the Experienced Teacher category, placing him among the country’s leading university teachers. A total of 50 applications were received from 20 universities. 

The award recognises his consistently high-quality teaching, creative use of technology and assessment, and his ability to create an inclusive, engaging learning environment for diverse student groups.

CPUT has welcomed the recognition as an affirmation of the university’s commitment to teaching excellence and its Vision 2030 focus on student success and transformative learning. “These awards signal that the work our academics are doing in lecture rooms, laboratories, and online spaces is having a national impact. Prof Patnaik and Dr Mshayisa exemplify the kind of reflective, innovative, and caring teaching that changes students’ lives,” said Dr Xena Cupido, Director: Fundani CHED.

Cupido said both academics will continue to contribute to institutional projects that strengthen curriculum renewal, assessment practices, and the scholarship of teaching and learning at CPUT. Their achievements also provide powerful role models for colleagues and students, demonstrating that teaching excellence is central to the university’s mission. With two NUTA recognitions in successive years, CPUT is consolidating its reputation as a sector leader in high-quality, socially responsive higher education.

Written by CPUT News
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In a commitment to empowering students for their future careers, the Department of Biotechnology and Consumer Science organised a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Poster Presentation at District Six Campus, enhancing employability by helping students cultivate a portfolio of real-world projects and experiences to share with future employers.

The event is typically part of the Diploma in Consumer Science in Food and Nutrition, aimed at providing students with an opportunity to present their applied research, projects, or insights within the field of Consumer Science. Theloshni Govender, the Food and Nutrition WIL Coordinator, explained that the Consumer Science WIL Poster Presentation offers students in fields like Consumer Science, Retail, and Food Science a platform to showcase their research and practical findings, connecting academic learning with industry experience.

“The core purpose of the event is to provide students with a structured and supportive environment where they can present their work, receive feedback from peers, professors, and industry experts, and develop key professional skills. It also serves as an opportunity for students to:

• Demonstrate expertise: Present their research findings, case studies, or design projects in consumer science areas, such as food production, nutrient data compilation, consumer behaviour, or sustainable product development.
• Showcase collaboration: Highlight teamwork or partnerships with industry organisations, showcasing the practical application of their academic work.”

In her welcome address, Dr Vanessa Jackson, the head of the department, encouraged the students to showcase what they had learned in their time at CPUT. Jackson also acknowledged the work of the supervisors, saying, “Thank you for so diligently giving your time and expertise, and please take pride in your input and the contribution to the growth of the students.”

She continued: “Your impact will be forever etched in the threads of their future and the paths they will forge.” Jackson also reminded the students they’re the product of that programme, department, the Faculty of Applied Sciences, “You carry the responsibility of representation wherever you go.”

Jackson also urged the students to let their presence in their sphere of influence reflect that CPUT students are filled with the spirit of Ubuntu and integrity, “paving a way for future student inclusion and consideration”.

In her message, Jean Matsimela, the Finished Goods Quality Control Specialist at Deli Spices (Pty) Ltd, expressed the department's gratitude to the host organisations for welcoming the WIL students into their workplaces, “for sharing your expertise, and for trusting them with real responsibilities”. “Your mentorship will have left a lasting impact on their careers and character.”

Reflecting on the students’ journey, Govender said: “I’m reminded of a mosaic art piece. At first glance, a mosaic looks like a collection of scattered, broken fragments different in shape, size, and colour. But when placed together with care, intention, and vision, those fragments form something truly beautiful, meaningful, and whole.”

She also added that the Consumer Science WIL Poster Presentation showcased “not only the academic strength of our students but also the transformative power of applied learning”. “This event demonstrated how deeply our students can think when given the space to connect theory with real-world challenges, and it highlighted the relevance of Consumer Science in addressing issues that affect households, communities, and industries every day.”

Govender continued: “Whether you are a student, lecturer, staff member, or food industry partner, your presence and participation have helped strengthen the culture of innovation and collaboration that CPUT strives for. By supporting initiatives like Consumer Science WIL programme, we continue to build a community where knowledge is shared, ideas are explored, and students are empowered to thrive beyond university walls.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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