Cape Peninsula University of Technology

The first cohort of the Bachelor of Paralegal Studies students graduated this morning, marking a significant achievement in their legal studies.

A thrilled Dr Noleen Leach: acting head of the Department of Applied Legal Studies, says following the graduation ceremony, the department will celebrate the event with various partners who have been responsible for funding the Community-based Paralegals (CBPs) for the four years they have studied.

Leach says that the community-based paralegals are justice workers in community-based advice offices on “the frontlines in rural and low socio-economic urban areas where they provide primary, quasi and socio-legal services to vulnerable and poor communities who will otherwise not have access to these services”.

“The support for these services often depends on donor funding from organisations from outside the country. Despite the crucial service that they render daily, there has been very little investment in their accredited formal learning in the past.”

Leach, who is also a Project Initiator/Coordinator for this course, says that many organisations such as SCAT, Black Sash, and North-West University invested in informal and non-formal learning as well as short courses to empower the CBPs to render socio-legal aid to those in need. The Bachelor of Paralegal Studies is the first degree in South Africa that specifically focuses on paralegal studies. The Department of Applied Legal Studies developed a pathway via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for access to the degree for the CBPs. The first four CBPs were admitted to the block release programme via RPL and completed the degree within the minimum time. This was done with the assistance of funding from the CS Mott Foundation and the Open Society Foundation of South Africa.

She says the graduates are currently employed as community-based paralegals (community justice workers) at community-advice offices in rural areas and low socio-economic areas. “Their advanced qualification will enable them to provide a wider range of services to these communities.”

Leach continued: “It is an incredible milestone for a sector that has been left behind following the transfer to a new democratic dispensation. These are the frontline workers for justice in our vulnerable communities and have been working for decades to advance the recognition and regulation of community-based paralegals in the country.”

In her message for the graduates, Leach says: “The formal qualification that you have obtained in minimum time is a testimony to your commitment to access to justice for the vulnerable and poor.

She also has a piece of advice for current and prospective students: “This degree has already pioneered unexpected pathways for advancement in the paralegal sector. It endeavours to develop agents who are responsive citizens and who would assist in the development of a capable. ethical and developmental state in South Africa.”

Thozama Dyantyi, a graduate, says: “This is an overwhelming experience to be part of this historic moment. This will change my life as a person. I have a degree, and as a paralegal in the advice office, I have advanced knowledge that will improve services offered by my office to the poor and marginalised communities.” Thozama says this degree will also add value to the work of paralegals in South Africa. She also acknowledged the CPUT staff, who fully supported them through the journey. “We started doing it online due to COVID-19, and it was not easy; everything felt impossible, but their support made it a reality. We did not feel alone; they did everything to make us succeed and graduate today. They were always there for us.”

As a graduate, Itumeleng Moeng is proud to be a part of this historic moment etched in time. “It’s awesome to graduate from the first cohort as a community-based Paralegal (CBP) in the Bachelor of Paralegal Studies at CPUT. For me, it’s special.” For Itumeleng, being cemented in the history of CBP legacy as the first graduates will forever be one of greatest the achievements and example of excellent to their Advice offices.

“It is important for personal and professional growth – self-worth and confidence - a strong academic background, like completing my studies, will contribute positively to my sense of self-worth and boost my confidence.” He says the course enhanced his knowledge and skills. “Studying this bachelor's degree increased my knowledge and specialisation skills in the legal profession or legal fraternity – now I’ve a clear understanding of how the magistrates, judges, prosecutors, and lawyers work and their different institutions that may include marriage and divorce.”

He says the CPUT staff was so supportive, empowering, and cultivating all simultaneously. “They ensured that we had all the necessary resources and tools to have autonomy over our studies and also foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.”

Growing up among the “green lands” of Limpopo sparked a curiosity about nature and its healing powers in Murendeni Nethengwe.

This spark culminated in a Doctor of Philosophy: Biomedical Science for Nethengwe, who graduated during this morning’s ceremony for the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences.

Her research is titled: An Evaluation of antioxidant potential, anti-inflammatory effect and the mechanisms of action of phenolic compounds from South African indigenous plants used in the management of diabetes-related male infertility.

Nethengwe, who is one of the recipients of the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards, said that although her decision to explore this topic was influenced by personal interest and scientific curiosity, it was mainly based on the urgent need to address the rising prevalence of diabetes-related male infertility.

“I grew up in the green lands of Limpopo, Venda, and what I have always known is that nature gives and takes. Adding on to that, my mother, who has always prepared and sold herbal products, ignited my interest in translating traditional medicine into a tested and trusted alternative therapeutic solution that is safe and easily accessible by all. I figured that this topic would address both the health concern, promote sustainability through cherishing nature, and feed my passion.”

Her objectives were to identify medicinal plants used in Limpopo to treat diabetes and male infertility and select the most reported plants to conduct a study on the extracts.

“After that, to screen for phenolic compounds, treat hyperglycaemic sperm cells, and assess the amelioration of sperm parameters before and after treatment. Another objective of the study was to assess the link between diabetes and male infertility.

“The findings of this study confirmed the association of diabetes to male infertility and revealed that the administration of both tested plant extracts led to the improvement of sperm parameters such as total motility, vitality, DNA fragmentation, capacitation, oxidative status, and mitochondrial membrane potential. It was also deduced from the study that the effect of the plant extracts was concentration dependent.”

She was supervised by Prof OO Oguntibeju, Dr K Okaiyeto and Dr CS Opuwari.

Nethengwe is a postdoctoral researcher with the South African Medical Research Council/University of Pretoria (SAMRC/UP).

She said being a recipient of the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Award made her believe that her dreams are valid.

“The VC Prestigious Achievers Award was never just about money to me. Financial strain is the biggest concern for every unemployed student. I am so grateful for an opportunity to reach for my dreams without having to worry about food, shelter, tuition fee or even having a nice time once in a while. But the idea of the whole committee believing that I deserve the award has built confidence in me and the need to pay back the trust by excelling and making[an] impact. This has pushed me to not only achieve my dreams but to exceed my own initial expectations. The fact that the VC recognised me made me wake up randomly at night and solve my research problems. It cut my fun times shorter and kept my brain in research.”

A life-altering diagnosis during her studies took nursing graduate Tracy Damons on a gruelling journey, including a mastectomy and several rounds of chemotherapy.

The 43-year-old oncology nurse refused to delay her studies after being diagnosed with breast cancer and, despite her daily struggles, completed her postgraduate diploma in oncology and palliative nursing.

This morning she graduated cum laude and says she is more committed than ever to provide the best possible care to her patients.

Last year, Damons, who hails from Gqeberha, took a year of study leave to pursue her studies at CPUT. But after discovering a lump in her left breast and seeking medical attention, she returned home during the second semester.

There, she underwent a biopsy and mastectomy.

“It was confirmed that I had stage 2 breast cancer. Everything happened so fast. There wasn’t really time to think or process everything. The doctors wanted me to stop the second semester of my training but I told them I wanted to finish it and see what I can do.”

She started chemotherapy soon after.

“During some cycles I would feel very sick and struggle with headaches and nausea. I tried to fit in my work on the days that I felt a bit better.”

“During this process I was also going through a divorce, which was recently finalised. So everything happened at the same time.”

Damons said she was overcome with emotion when she received her results from CPUT.

“I was overwhelmed. I cried. The second semester was a difficult time and I can’t believe that through everything I managed to pass.”

The mother of four said she is now more motivated to make a difference in her patients’ lives.

“Now I know what the patients are going through as I have been through it myself.”

After a short return to work at Livingstone Hospital earlier this year, she is currently on sick leave but hopes to return at the end of April.

Damons encourages students going through times to persevere.

“Don’t give up. Even in the hardest times, search for the light.”

She hopes her story will encourage other women to do self-examination and to see a doctor if they have any concerns.

“When you are sitting at home, just examine your breasts. It could save your life. The sooner breast cancer is detected, the better.”

A total of 16 doctorates will be conferred during the ongoing Autumn Graduation ceremonies at CPUT, which will see more than 7,500 graduands celebrate their success.

Amongst them is the thrilled Zukisani Gomomo, Doctor of Agriculture. Gomomo’s research focus is on: Climate Change and Sustainable Development. Due to the excitement, Gomomo, who will be graduating in this evening’s (Monday) session, can’t explain his joy over this achievement. “I don’t know how I feel, but I am very happy and excited. I am still in disbelief. It was not an easy journey at all; in fact, it was a long journey, and I thank God and my ancestors for everything they did for me as I managed to cross that bridge… Even now, it has not sunk in, I can’t believe it’s true. As a traditional healer, it was also not easy as there was too much pressure on me, but I managed to handle the pressure.” He also acknowledged the support of his family, friends and supervisors.

He continued: “Research has taught me everything, not just academic but it also developed me in life generally as I used to discuss a lot about research with my supervisors.”

Gomomo has made a significant contribution to the success of his (Agriculture) Department as a Retention Officer and Part-Time Lecture group over the past six years. His supervisor, Prof Morris Fanadzo says Gomomo has also played a key role in the Post-Harvest and Agro-Processing Technologies Division at the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Infruitec-Nietvoorbij, Stellenbosch, where he conducted his research.

“He is humble, respectful, and consistently displays a positive and collaborative attitude. Friendly, helpful, punctual, and honest, Zukisani has been a valued member of our research environment. He works exceptionally well independently and communicates effectively within a team. Throughout his time with us, he mentored many undergraduate students, offering them guidance and support far beyond what was expected,”

Fanadzo adds that Gomomo’s success is a true testament to his hard work, self-confidence, and determination. “What makes his journey particularly remarkable is that he began his Master’s studies without a strong background in Microbiology. Despite this, he adapted quickly—demonstrating resilience, a strong willingness to learn, and the ability to overcome challenges with grace. His excellent time management, effective communication skills, and capacity to multitask have all contributed to his achievements. Zukisani also built strong, respectful relationships with colleagues in the Department and at the ARC, leaving a lasting impression through both his professionalism and his warm, approachable nature.”

Fanadzo says Gomomo’s presence is “already deeply missed — a reminder that one often realises the true value of a person only after they’ve moved on.”

The list of 16 doctorates includes:

• Nyasha Musakuro, Doctor of Human Resource Management. Musakuro’s research focus is on Human, health and social dynamics, good health and well-being, decent work and economic growth.
• Ailsa Connelly, Doctor of Education. Connelly’s research focus is on Early childhood care and education.
• Elizabeth Fredericks, Doctor of Education. Fredericks’ research focus is on Human, health and social dynamics.
• Daniel Barnad, Doctor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering and his research focus is on: Smart Energy.
• Mlandeli Ligwa, Doctor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering. Ligwa’s research focus is on: Space Science, Engineering and Technology Wireless Communication, Satellite communication.
• Bhongolwethu Mabusela, Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering. His research focuses on: Bio-economy and Biotechnology, Research Focus Area 4: The Environment, Climate Change and Sustainability.
• Ashleen Marshall, Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering. His research focuses on Bio-economy and Biotechnology. Manduleli Mquqwana, Doctor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering. His research focuses on: The Digital Society.
• Vuyo Pana, Doctor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering. Pana’s research focuses on: Space Science, Engineering and TechnologyWireless Communication, Fog Computing.
• Ifechukwude Aboderin, PhD in Biomedical Science, Aboderin’s research focuses on: Sickle Cell Disease. Abiola Adekilekun, PhD in Biomedical Science. Adekilekun’s research focuses on Cardiovascular condition among aircrew members.
• Murendeni Nethengwe, PhD in Biomedical Science. Nethengwe research focuses on Medicinal Plants and Reproductive Health.
• Achasih Nkemzi, PhD in Biomedical Science. Nkemzi research focuses on: Medicinal Plants and Diabetes/Reproductive Health.
• Teurai Matekenya, Doctor of Information & Communication Technology, Matekenya’s research focuses on: Knowledge Management and IT.
• Lastly, it’s Nontobeko Mlambo, Doctor of Philosophy in Informatics. Mlambo’s research focuses on: IT Security and Artificial Intelligence (Detective Analytics and Robotics Process Automation)

On 9 April CPUT will be bestowing an Honorary Doctorate on its former Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof Anthony Staak in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment.

Staak retired in 2018 after dedicating 37 years of his career to advancing Higher Education in South Africa. He played a crucial role in integrating technology into the core operations of CPUT.

The sector has not been robbed of his immense talent though – the Minister of Higher Education recently sought Staak out to be an independent assessor at Mangosuthu University of Technology.

Staak states that today's higher education challenges are similar to those he encountered as DVC, and a leader on various boards and oversight bodies. He says much of the governance concerns at universities are a result of university Council’s not fulfilling their fiduciary responsibilities.

“Increased student enrolment in the face of funding constraints and infrastructure deficits, ongoing student protests along with declining throughput rates are not new issues. These challenges only appear to be much greater now,” he says.

But the seasoned academic says good work is being done and that there is much to be positive about.

The 69-year-old has overseen the graduation of thousands of students and encouraged young people not to consider this day as the end of their education journey but rather as one milestone in a lifetime of future goals and ambitions.

“The extent to which you will attain these goals and realise your ambitions, will depend crucially on the choices that you make. Your successes in life will be a product of those choices, as well as the conviction and hard work you are prepared to commit to those choices,” he says.

“Stay true to your morals and values that are aligned with your goals. You have the power to influence your life through the choices that you make.”

Staak’s legacy still looms large at CPUT. He joined the then Peninsula Technikon in 1982 when he assumed the position of Head of Department in Electrical Engineering. After serving a period as Dean of Engineering, he was appointed as Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, a position he held for 17 years until his retirement.

The Lansdowne-born Staak was always a remarkable student and academic, from his school career at South Peninsula High School where he received a top 10 position in the National Senior Certificate (Matric) examinations in 1973, to receiving a first-class honours with distinctions in Physics and Mathematics in his BSc Degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Cape Town.

Staak has been a recipient of both Rhodes and Fullbright Scholarships which saw him study at both Oxford University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

CPUT was among the hosts of the Workshop on Radiation Biology, which was recently held at the NRF iThemba Laboratories in Faure.
The main objective of the event was to bring together multi-disciplinary teams of professionals (scientists and clinicians) from the different radiation oncology and nuclear medicine facilities across the country to discuss the current state of radiation biology, and to pave a way forward to ensure that this very important discipline does not perish.
Neo Seane, lecturer in the Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences (MITS) Department, said the workshop was attended by 55 participants from the various institutions of higher learning and hospitals in Gauteng, Limpopo, North West and KwaZulu-Natal.
“The different challenges that impede the development of the discipline of Radiation Biology in SA were highlighted and suggestions to mitigate these challenges were discussed. The workshop was the first and is anticipated to be a yearly event.”
Seane, who specialises in Radiation Biology, initiated the workshop and played a key role in the organisation thereof.
The event was co-hosted by the MITS Department, SAINTS Division of NRF iThemba Laboratories and the Joint Institute of Nuclear Research from Russia.

The main takeaways of the event included:

• The need to develop a national curriculum for Radiation biology teaching for medical professionals specialising in Radiation oncology, Radiation Therapy and Nuclear Medicine.
• Building Radiation Biology capacity to support clinical departments.
• Increasing the number of HPCSA accredited Radiation Biologists in the country
• Possible areas of collaborations were identified.