Excellence will take centre stage at CPUT’s Autumn Graduation series, where 22 doctoral degrees will be conferred.

The Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment boasts the highest number of doctoral graduands (7) followed by the Faculty of Informatics and Design and the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences with five each, the Faculty of Applied Sciences (3) and the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences and the Faculty of Education with one each.

The graduands per faculty are:

Applied Sciences – Louella Daries and Aupaki Melato (PhD in Environmental) Health) and Valmary van Breda (Doctor of Food Science and Technology)

Business and Management Sciences – Arther Kadakure, Tseliso Leshoro, Winnifred Moleko, Stanley Sayers and Thembelani Tyhotyholo (Doctor of Public Administration).

Education – Shah Singh (Doctor of Education)

Engineering and the Built Environment - Sandro César and Godwill Kasongo (Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering), Thomas Makosso, Litha Mbangeni, Makhetsi Mojela, Abuyile Mpaka, Ahmed Zentani (Doctor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering).

Health and Wellness Sciences – Gerhardus Koch (Doctor of Radiography)

Informatics and Design – Peneria George and Bongiwe Kolisi (Doctor of Applied Arts in Design) Hedvig Mendonca, Nomputumo Ngesimani and Chantal Settley (Doctor of Philosophy in Informatics).

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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As more than 9 000 graduates take to the stage this Autumn Graduation, the CPUT Convocation has extended its congratulations, celebrating a milestone that reflects years of dedication and determination.

In a message issued by Convocation President Issa Mapukata, the Convocation stated: “Today marks a significant milestone in your relationship with CPUT and we honour the dedication, discipline, and resilience that brought you to this moment. While you may be completing your formal studies, you are not leaving the CPUT family. In fact, you are joining a wider, dynamic, and growing community of CPUT alumni who are making an impact across South Africa, the continent, and the world.”

The message continued:

“The university is immensely proud of you, and we welcome you warmly into our alumni fold. CPUT will always be your home.

Your journey of learning does not end here. The world is changing rapidly, and lifelong learning is one of the most powerful tools you can invest in. We encourage you to return to CPUT for postgraduate studies, professional development programmes, and research opportunities. CPUT is committed to growing as a university of technology that produces graduates capable of driving innovation, solving real-world problems, and contributing meaningfully to national development. By continuing your academic journey with us, you deepen your expertise while strengthening the reputation and capacity of the institution that helped shape you.

The Convocation exists to ensure that the voice of alumni remains central to the life of the university. We represent the collective interests, wisdom, and experience of all graduates, and we ensure that alumni perspectives influence CPUT’s direction and governance.

As we welcome you in our alumni fold, we also invite you to support CPUT Convocation through participation in our convocation events, industry partnerships, fundraising efforts, updating details in the alumni database and simply being active CPUT ambassadors wherever you go. Your success reflects our shared success.”

*Graduates can purchase convocation blazers by contacting any convocation executive committee member.

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CPUT’s Autumn Graduation series kicked off this morning with a celebration of graduates from the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences.

The new graduates are from Emergency Medical Care, Nursing and Opticianry and are among 681 students from the Faculty who will graduate over the next few days.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo congratulated the graduates and welcomed them to the “joyous occasion”.

“This is a very special day for all of you, representing the culmination of years of study, hard work and sacrifice. This ceremony celebrates the collective effort of all who contributed to your achievement.”

The ceremony was extra special for Hlologelo Shai who was announced as the Dean’s Medal Recipient for the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences.

In 2023, she registered for the three-year Bachelor of Health Science in Opticianry and obtained 16 distinctions out of 24 subjects across the three years, with an average of 78%.

She is currently enrolled in a Community Eye Health course (for strengthening public health services) and is a volunteer internship programme incumbent at the University of Cape Town.

More than 9 000 graduates will graduate over 20 ceremonies from 9 April to 17 April 2026.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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CPUT will proudly celebrate the achievements of 9 225 graduands during the Autumn Graduation ceremonies this week.

A total of 20 ceremonies will be held from Thursday, 9 April to Friday, 17 April 2026, with an average of three ceremonies per day.

The final ceremony will be particularly significant, as CPUT will confer an Honorary Doctorate on the outgoing Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), Edward Kieswetter. A distinguished alumnus, Kieswetters remarkable career reflects the impact and possibilities of a CPUT education.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo congratulated the graduands, noting that their hard work, determination and resilience have been rewarded.

"It takes discipline, grit and a steadfast commitment to your dreams. From the moment you earned your place at CPUT- a university that receives more than half a million applications each year. You have demonstrated that you have what it takes to succeed. However, this achievement is not yours alone; it is shared with your family, friends, spouses and children. They have cheered you on, supported you through late nights and early mornings, and never stopped believing in your potential," he said.

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Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) has been described as the country’s “second pandemic” by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who has reaffirmed government’s commitment to combating the crisis.

In response, the Transformation and Social Cohesion Forum (TSCF) in the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences (FBMS), with the support of the Dean, Prof Mercy Makhitha, recently partnered with the Department of Retail Business Management (RBM), the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA) and Inclusive and Affirming Ministries (IAM) to host an inclusive and collaborative engagement.

Themed “Silent Voices Matter”, the event brought together faculty staff and representatives from the Western Cape Government’s Department of Health and Wellness at the Cape Town Hotel School in Granger Bay.

Event organisers and TSCF members, Mandie Richards, Senior Lecturer and Chairperson of the forum, and Taryn Kroukamp, Lecturer in the Human Resource Management Department, emphasised that the dialogue aimed to address the often-unheard voices of both women and men. They highlighted that fear, harassment, intimidation and the risk of losing employment frequently silence individuals, underscoring the urgent need for meaningful cultural change within organisations and society.

In her welcoming address, Richards indicated that she was pleased at the positive response of the male colleagues attending, as challenges women face cannot exclude having men at the table to engage critically. She further stated that Institutions of Higher Learning are part of communities and have a responsibility to address GBVF and empower students, and that in the fifteen departments in the faculty, GBVF is a mandatory module for all first-year students.

Richards shared: “Violence seems to be the norm in many of our daily lives, and I do not only refer to physical violence, as the various microaggressions have lasting cumulative impacts. The increase in GBV statistics daily in South Africa is alarming and each day I feel a sense of helplessness, as another murder, another shooting, another suicide, and another too many.”

“A few weeks ago, on my way to work, the news reader on Cape Talk indicated that a 58-year-old woman in Loganberry Street in Bonteheuwel was shot and killed. In the seventies, my family and I were forcibly removed from District Six and moved to Bonteheuwel on the Cape Flats. I lived in Loganberry Street in Bonteheuwel, and I was overcome with a sense of sadness, loss, and grief, as that could have been me, I could have been a statistic.”

Attendees engaged in a World Café facilitated by Thuli Mjwara, Strategic Advocacy Coordinator and Maureen Majola, Facilitator from (IAM). The Café focused on the profound cultural changes required within organisations and society to combat violence. The conversation examined the intersections of power, community values and care, and the need to move from safe spaces to brave spaces. The urgency of the conversation was underscored by statistics from the 2024 Human Science Research Council report, which indicates that 33% of South African women experience violence.

Western Cape on Wellness (WOW) Champions, Salaama Abrahams and Uzebenathi Ngxamile shared the work that they do with youth in Bonteheuwel and Delft respectively, to combat GBV, and a request to collaborate with the FBMS moving forward as the institution is viewed as part of communities.

Siseko Mtetwa, Research Postgraduate Administrator, stated that as a man he wanted to be part of the solution and contribute to the change required to eradicate GBV; whilst Nicolene Pasquallie, a Faculty Office Administrator shared the work she does with youth in her community in Eerste Rivier and was open to learning how to address the challenges encountered.

Dr Faeda Mohsam, Acting Head of the BIA department, shared her experience at a conference she attended in Thailand earlier in the year. “I was paired with participants from Italy and Kazakhstan and requested to discuss a pressing issue prevalent in the country. I immediately raised the issue of Gender Based Violence, as it is a problem throughout the world. The participants in my team indicated that it was a problem which existed in their countries, however people in their countries did not speak openly about GBV.”

Staff shared honestly as to the role GBV played in their lives and communities openly raised their concerns.

Mjwara reminded staff of CPUT’s position statement on GBV and urged staff to reach out and seek support through internal counselling services or external bodies such as the Women’s Legal Centre.

Dr Terence Hermanus, Acting Head of the RBM Department, stated: “We need to take the call for an end to GBV beyond this project and ensure that we work towards contributing to change.”

Richards stated that as the TSCF, they would continue to advocate for the silent voices to be heard as Silent Voices Matter, and it was important that staff and students felt empowered to speak out, so that their voices are heard, and their concerns addressed.

Kroukamp concluded with the following: "As we leave today, let us not leave these conversations behind. Let us take the 'Community of Care' we discussed and put it into practice by reporting violence, seeking help, and supporting one another".

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A select group of Postgraduate Diploma in Internal Auditing students was recently invited to attend the Woolworths Open Day.

This event was held in collaboration with Woolworths and several institutions, including the University of Cape Town, Nelson Mandela University, Stellenbosch University, University of Pretoria, University of the Western Cape, University of the Free State, and the South African College of Business. The event took place at Woolworths' Head Office on Longmarket Street in Cape Town.

The students received a behind-the-scenes look at how strategic decision-making, risk intelligence, and effective governance contribute to the success of a leading brand. This experience also allowed them to engage with industry professionals through keynote talks, panel discussions, insights on personal branding, and essential corporate skills.

These students were accompanied by two lecturers in Internal Auditing, Mvelo Siyaya and Inga Sityata. Tsakani Makhubela, Group Governance Academy Manager, Woolworths Holdings, said: “The Governance, Risk, Compliance (GRC) Open Day is a strategic initiative designed to introduce final year students to the critical role of Governance, Risk, Compliance, Legal, Stakeholder relations and communications in modern organisations.

“By showcasing real world applications and career opportunities, the event helps build a pipeline of future ready talent who can strengthen ethical leadership and responsible business. It also positions the organisation as a forward thinking employer committed to developing the next generation of GRC professionals.”

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Final-year Opticianry students recently stepped beyond the classroom to make a difference in communities and gain valuable hands-on experience during two outreach efforts

In early March a group of six students from the Department of Ophthalmic Sciences participated in the UWC IPEU outreach in Klipheuwel, outside Durbanville, supporting their South African Optometric Association (SAOA) optometry partners.

The students assisted the optometry team with vision screenings for community members.

Later in March a group of six students travelled to Robertson to join the SAOA optometry partners to support the Langeberg Start Well INReach initiative. The initiative was facilitated by Stellenbosch University in collaboration with the Western Cape Government Departments of Health and Wellness and Education, as well as several NGOs.

Over three days, the optometry team – accompanied by an ophthalmologist – screened more than 260 community members, including more than 200 learners from 11 schools in the district. Spectacles were prescribed for more than 80% of those tested and some were referred for pathology management.

Ntombi Zitha, Co-Chair of the SAOA Public Health Committee and Chairperson of the World Council for Optometry Public Health Committee, said: “During the outreaches, the students realised their understanding of optometry and their own potential in ophthalmic science. The one thing they said was that they saw the textbook coming to real life.”

Final-year student Xilaveko Khazamula said: “This experience was more than practice – it was a powerful reminder of purpose. It brought the theory to life, and in many ways, it brought life back to me.”

Angelique Walbrugh, lecturer in the Ophthalmic Sciences Department said: “It is evident that through these outreach activities, our students get to understand the value of their professional duties within the eye care team and the importance of their contribution towards eye and visual health in our communities.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Professorial Inaugural Lectures are an important academic tradition that celebrate the achievements of newly appointed professors, serving as a formal introduction to the university community.

This week, two leading researchers from CPUT delivered their inaugural professorial lectures at the Lagoon Beach Hotel. These public lectures represent the official recognition of the professors and showcase their academic journeys, research interests, and the impact of their work on society. This event reflects CPUT's commitment to academic excellence and to advancing knowledge in South Africa and beyond.

Prof Bongani Ncube is leading the SARChI Research Chair in Governance and Economics for Water and Sanitation Sector Institutions.

Prof Rodney Duffet was one of the founding members of the Brand and Digital Research (BDR) Hub, which is in line with CPUT’s 2030 strategic imperative to build One Smart CPUT.

Ncube's address was titled, ‘Agriculture and Water Research for Sustainable Livelihoods, while Duffet's address was titled: Navigating the Digital Marketing Landscape. Both academics are leaders in their respective fields and have made a huge contribution to education and research at CPUT. Speaking at the event, Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo highlighted the importance of the event in the calendar of this institution. Nhlapo said: “I must say that at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, the Professorial Inaugural Lecture is a significant academic tradition that celebrates the achievements of the newly appointed full professors, and serves as a formal introduction to the university community, to the community of scholars, to the collaborative network of academics…”

Duffet’s also said that early in his teaching career, he noticed something interesting in his classes: students were no longer communicating in the ways they expected. Instead of talking to one another, they were looking down at their phones - messages were flying across platforms like MXit and Blackberry Messenger (BBM). At the time, these platforms seemed almost insignificant – tools for chatting and entertainment, as well as distracting student from their work. “But what struck me was how deeply these technologies were shaping how young people communicated and interacted, shared information, and even made decisions. This raised a question that would eventually shape my research career.

Duffet added that digital marketing has evolved dramatically over the past 15 years. My research journey has progressed from studying:

• MXit and Facebook.
• Social media marketing communication.
• Mobile commerce and search marketing.
• AI chatbots, virtual assistants, recommender systems, GEO.

“Understanding these technologies will remain essential for researchers, practitioners, and educators navigating the digital future.”

A responder, Marketing Senior Lecturer, Dr Pieter Steenkamp, said: “It is a privilege and a joy to respond to Professor Duffett’s professorial address. I would like to acknowledge his outstanding scholarly presentation, entitled “Navigating the Digital Marketing Landscape.

“We have been working together in the Marketing Department for almost 19 years, and it shows in my hair, but it has not affected him much.”

Steenkamp continued: “Prof Duffett’s address was not just a lecture. It was a moment of intellectual consolidation—a moment when a scholar stepped forward, not only to share what he has studied, but what he has come to understand about his discipline and his contribution to it.”

Dean: Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, Prof Suresh Ramsuroop described Ncube as a scholar of distinction, a leader of impact, and a professor whose work continues to transform lives and communities. Ncube talked about her early years, smallholder farming in semi-arid regions in Zimbabwe, which she is known for: “I actually thought I should be a smallholder myself”.

Amongst other things that she talked about were:

• Integrated Water Resource Management for Improved Rural Livelihoods- Limpopo Basin.
• Sand Dams for Climate Change Adaptation in Kenya.
• Agricultural Water Management in South Africa.
• Drought Impacts on Agriculture.
• Current Research: Water Governance and Economics.
• The Future- New Ideas.

The responder, Maxwell Mudhara, Professor of Agricultural Economics, University of KwaZulu-Natal, said the lecture was eloquently presented, exposing the guests to intellectual scholarship that is grounded in relevance to contemporary challenges. “Throughout her presentation, she has been looking at contemporary issues, issues that are affecting people that we are leaving with, or that we relate to.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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CPUT marked Human Rights Month with its first-ever South African Sign Language (SASL) training, a week-long programme that took place at the Bellville Campus and Sanlam.

The programme was hosted in partnership between the Centre for Diversity, Inclusivity and Social Change (CDISC), the Language Unit, FUNDANI, and the Pan South African Language Board (Pan SALB).

According to Brightness Mangolothi, Director of CDISC, the event, which started at Bellville Campus, was later moved to Sanlam. “Their [Sanlam] support ensured the programme continued seamlessly and concluded successfully.”

Valmarie Cornelius, CDISC Office Coordinator, indicated that the sign language course was both a rewarding and eye-opening experience. She highlighted that beyond learning how to sign, the course placed strong emphasis on developing sensitivity and inclusivity towards the Deaf community.

She noted that the training was facilitated by two Deaf presenters, supported by a hearing interpreter. “It was inspiring to observe how seamlessly they worked together, creating a comfortable and engaging learning environment for all participants.”

Cornelius explained that the course covered foundational elements such as the alphabet, basic verbs, signing names, and introducing oneself through a short biography.

“Overall, it taught us empathy and respect while gaining practical skills, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for inclusive communication.”

Mangolothi said: “For CDISC, partnering on SASL training was a natural extension of our mandate to embed diversity, inclusivity, and social change into the daily life of the university,” Mangolothi explained. “We engaged with the Language Unit to drive this initiative, and the invitation was embraced with enthusiasm and a shared commitment to advancing language inclusion. It is worth noting that the Language Unit was also preparing to host a SASL intervention. The partnership enabled us to pool resources and strengthen the impact.”

Prof Hay-Swemmer, Executive Director: Office of the Vice-Chancellor, was instrumental in the success of the training. Her support provided crucial institutional backing, reinforcing CPUT’s commitment to transformation and ensuring that the initiative was embedded within the broader vision of inclusivity and accessibility.

Dr Kabelo Sebolai, Institutional Language Coordinator and Head of the Language Unit, said: “The staff training in South African Sign Language is essential at CPUT because it directly supports the institution’s commitment to multilingualism and inclusivity. Our language policy explicitly recognises SASL as one of the four regional languages with equal constitutional status, meaning staff must be equipped to use it in academic, administrative, symbolic, and ceremonial contexts.

Sebolai said the training ensures that deaf and hard-of-hearing students and staff have equitable access to communication, services, and learning opportunities, thereby fulfilling the principle of reasonable accommodation outlined in the policy. “It also strengthens social cohesion by affirming linguistic diversity and protection against discrimination in communication spaces. By learning SASL, staff embody the values of respect and inclusivity, while also contributing to the decolonisation of knowledge through broader language representation. This training enhances service delivery, as staff can engage more effectively with diverse communities. Moreover, it empowers staff to uphold the university’s vision of transformation and social justice by removing barriers to participation. Ultimately, sign language training is not just a skill but a strategic tool for building a welcoming, accessible, and equitable environment at CPUT.”

The training was attended by both support and academic staff, including faculty language coordinators. Guided by Pan SALB’s Basic SASL Workshop framework, participants were immersed in the fundamentals of sign language. They were introduced to deaf culture and respectful engagement, learned the SASL alphabet and fingerspelling, and practised everyday conversations on topics such as self-introduction, family, occupations, places, languages, food, animals, colours, weather, and days of the week. The sessions also highlighted the importance of facial expressions, storytelling, and non-verbal cues in communication, while encouraging active listening and discouraging reliance on spoken language or translation.

The training was led by Olga Blose, Chief Language Practitioner at Pan SALB and founder of the South African Deaf Women Association, who has long advocated for the rights, leadership, and visibility of Deaf women. Alongside her was Annette Humphries, a fourth-generation Deaf leader and author, who founded the Attaché SignLanguage(s) Project. Supporting them was Rebaone Maqandela, a skilled Sign Language Interpreter, who ensured seamless communication throughout the sessions.

Reflecting on the event, Mangolothi said: “The training forced us to introspect, put ourselves in the shoes of those who daily use the language. The discomfort of not being able to verbalise our questions and answers was a constant reminder that language has no meaning if it cannot be shared. Learning Sign Language humbles you. It reveals one's own vulnerabilities and privileges. This training is a reawakening of responsibility… ensuring that no voice, spoken or signed, is ever silenced.”

Tumiso Mfisa, CDISC Stream Coordinator: Gender Equality, Diversity & Inclusivity, described the experience as both humbling and transformative. He reflected on the initial uncertainty within the group, where participants struggled to communicate and express themselves, creating a shared vulnerability. “It felt like we were all learning from the same starting point, much like children learning to communicate for the first time,” he said. in diverse spaces.”

Mangolothi said they also received positive feedback from the participants, which underscored the impact of the programme. The certification ceremony at the end of the week celebrated not only the successful completion of the course but also the collective commitment to inclusivity.

Mangolothi conveyed her gratitude to the different partners for ensuring that the training became a success. “Most importantly, the participants who have taken it upon themselves to commit to the programme. Our collective experience of the training has been so impactful and has inspired the cohort to write research articles reflecting on their journey of learning SASL, capturing both the challenges and the transformative insights gained through the process. The inaugural SASL training at CPUT reminded the university community that inclusion is not symbolic, but a daily practice, and that communication must always make space for every voice.”

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The Sustainable Heritage Research Unit at CPUT successfully hosted a two-day intensive training programme on “Advanced Strategies in Heritage Site Conservation: Integrating Innovative Knowledge and Practices” recently at the Bellville Campus.

The programme brought together professionals and representatives from the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) to engage with challenges and innovative solutions in heritage conservation. Coordinated by Prof Kumar Pallav and Dr Maphole Loke from the Department of Civil Engineering & Geomatics, the training aimed to strengthen capacity in sustainable heritage conservation through a blend of theoretical knowledge, practical applications, and interactive learning.

The first day focused on the foundations of modern heritage conservation, covering key areas such as international standards, advanced techniques for structural integrity, geospatial technologies, and heritage risk management and disaster preparedness.

The second day highlighted innovative and forward-looking approaches, including sustainable conservation practices, climate-induced damage assessment using machine learning, and advanced testing techniques. A key feature of the programme was a hands-on workshop that provided participants with practical exposure to non-destructive testing, digital documentation, and the development of Conservation Management Plans.

The participants actively engaged in discussions, group exercises, and knowledge-sharing sessions, making the programme both interactive and impactful. Pallav and Loke noted that such initiatives are critical to addressing the growing need for sustainable, resilient heritage conservation practices, particularly in the face of climate change and urban development pressures.

The Sustainable Heritage Research Unit will expand this programme by offering customised training for municipalities, provincial authorities, and other organisations, supporting broader capacity-building in the heritage sector. This successful initiative reinforces CPUT’s commitment to research-led teaching, community engagement, and professional development in heritage conservation.

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In preparation for her inaugural lecture, Prof Bongani Ncube, a dedicated researcher and the winner of the 2024/2025 NSTF-South32 Awards – NSTF-Water Research Commission Award, reflects on the privilege of reaching this milestone in her career. She is leading the SARChI Research Chair in Governance and Economics for Water and Sanitation Sector Institutions, where they focus on navigating the complex challenges posed by drought and climate change on water and agricultural systems.

“It has been a long and winding journey. Many valleys, many obstacles and detours, but also many mountains and joyful moments. This is the peak of my career; a colleague reminded me recently that this is the highest point on the academic ladder.” - Prof Bongani Ncube

As you prepare to deliver your inaugural professorial lecture, what does this milestone represent for you personally and professionally?

It is a privilege to reach this level in my career. I have experienced a lot of grace and compassion in my journey. I am grateful to God and to every person who has played a role in my life, big and small. I appreciate my family for believing in the girl child and giving me the opportunity to go to school through sacrifice and guidance.

I am filled with gratitude when I reflect on all the institutions that I passed through. From primary school to PhD, there was always someone who saw me. My Grade 5 teacher, who saw my potential in mathematics; the headmaster, who made sure I was enrolled in a good high school; and the high school teachers who guided me towards the sciences. I was one of the few pioneer soil scientists in Zimbabwe. We were given tools to thrive. At the Master's [degree], I was funded by the Belgian Embassy. During my PhD, I received a scholarship through the assistance of my work supervisor, the late Dr Steve Twomlow and Prof Ken Giller. But many others also assisted in various ways. I am grateful to say that the institution (CPUT) also created space for growth, even under difficult conditions.

In the last few months, I have won awards at the national and institutional levels. It is a reflection of the importance of our week. I am writing this just after World Water Week, which had a befitting theme of "Water and Gender," with the campaign slogan "Where water flows, equality grows”. The National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) wrote an article recognising our contribution. It is an honour and a privilege to receive such accolades.

As you gear up to deliver your very first professorial lecture, take a moment to reflect on what this incredible milestone means to you, both on a personal level and in your professional journey.

I never planned to go this far. I was fine as a researcher in my little corner. However, the potential to impact society, especially the underprivileged, encouraged me to keep going. The work that we do empowers communities to navigate complex water and agricultural systems impacted by drought and climate change. We have built relationships that seemed impossible when we started in 2014. None of my students comes with funding for their studies. Every time a student says they have no funding for their studies, I always remember that I also did not have it, but through the help of others, I managed. I am grateful to the National Research Foundation and the Water Research Commission, who are helping us through both research and scholarship funding.

I am privileged to have research partners who support our work. Through the SARChI Research Chair, we continue to build relationships both locally and internationally.

Your career has been shaped by a dedication to advancing Agriculture and Water Research for Sustainable Livelihoods. What initially sparked your passion for this field?

I was born in a village where farming was a way of life. Chasing butterflies in the fields brought me a lot of excitement; I still smile when I see them. Curiosity and a love for nature drove me into agriculture. I studied soil science first, then water. The combination of water and agriculture is critical, especially in South Africa, where so many people still lack access to productive water. I have worked at the basin level in Southern Africa, but our research advocates for bottom-up approaches that give voice to local communities. Our research aims to achieve societal impact and change lives. There are excellent water policies in South Africa, but implementation and funding remain limited.

In your view, why is Agriculture and Water Research for Sustainable Livelihoods such a critical area of focus in today’s world?

Water is a basic human right; equitable access and good water governance are essential for a water-scarce country like South Africa. Agriculture is the largest consumer of water, accounting for about 60% of water allocation. Therefore, there must be a balance in priorities, as reliable water access is a foundation of food security, while agriculture is the main rural economic activity, creating employment. Our work is transdisciplinary, encompassing engineering, natural sciences, economics and indigenous knowledge. We research water governance and economics, as well as the impact of climate-related disasters on smallholder farming systems. I am also still very much involved in soil fertility management and indigenous knowledge…

What message do you hope to convey through your inaugural lecture?

The lecture will convey multiple messages. First of all, perseverance eventually pays off, although it can come at a huge cost. One can be vulnerable, but staying authentic and leading with integrity cultivates trust in the younger generation. The lecture will also demonstrate how research can solve local societal problems at the implementation and policy levels. Doing transdisciplinary research is complex; it requires relationships built on trust and shared objectives. We are beginning to reap the benefits of this in our research.

What experiences have most influenced your approach to Agriculture and Water Research for Sustainable Livelihoods and leadership?

I never planned to be an academic. I stumbled on it, then I discovered that I could be both an academic and a researcher. It has been a lot of fun, but there have been a lot of tears, too. In my early career, I followed the footsteps of those who led us. At the International Crops Research Institution, we were led by the late Dr Steve Twomlow, who taught us how to work together and support each other as a team. I try to implement that with my students. It's not perfect, but we are getting there. I think what holds us together, at the end of the day, is the passion and authenticity we each carry.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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As he prepares to deliver his inaugural professorial lecture, Prof Rodney Duffet reflects on a journey defined not only by academic achievement, but by the people who made it meaningful. From research and teaching to mentorship and collaboration, he shares his milestones, his passion for marketing and the legacy he hopes to leave. Ilse Fredericks spoke to him ahead of this milestone moment.

“I hope that I have contributed to developing hard-working, competent, and ethical marketing professionals and scholars. I strive to make learning practical and industry-relevant so that students can succeed in real-world environments and become lifelong learners.” - Prof Rodney Duffett

As you prepare to deliver your inaugural professorial address, what does this milestone represent to you personally and professionally?

Professionally, the inaugural professorial address represents over two decades of teaching, research, mentorship and collaboration within the university, the wider academic community and the marketing/advertising industry. It is an opportunity to reflect on how my work has evolved alongside the rapid and continuous digital marketing transformation, from early social media platforms to the current artificial intelligence and generative technologies.

Personally, I wish to thank my supportive colleagues, dedicated students and institution for the encouragement and for being part of my journey. However, observing many of my students grow in confidence, contribute to knowledge and succeed in their careers has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my academic career. This milestone not only celebrates my personal achievements, but also those who have walked alongside me and made noteworthy contributions to this journey.

What is the message you hope to convey with your inaugural address?

The main message of my inaugural professorial address is that the digital marketing landscape is continually evolving, and teachers, lecturers, researchers and practitioners must evolve with it. Over the years, my research has explored how young consumers engage with social media, online advertising, mobile commerce, influencers and, more recently, AI-driven marketing tools.

I hope to emphasise the importance of equipping students with analytical, practical and ethical skills to navigate this changing environment. Digital marketing should not only advance knowledge and support organisations but also contribute positively to society. Ultimately, our collective responsibility is to deepen understanding, reduce risk, support smaller organisations and enhance meaningful, ethical consumer engagement.

What attracted you to the field of marketing?

Marketing offers a unique blend of creativity, strategy, analytics and real-world application. My passion for marketing, especially advertising and integrated marketing communication, developed early in my academic career when my students engaged with advertising agencies through job shadowing. This small project resulted in numerous work-integrated learning projects, which provided my students with real work experience, internships, employment opportunities and many other opportunities. The practical connection between theory and industry has been a constant source of motivation, which has remained central to my teaching and research ever since. I have always been interested in how marketing communication influences consumer attitudes, and how digital media advancement impacts behavioural responses.

What have been your main career highlights?

Each Ad Hominem promotion was a highlight, viz. senior lecturer (2012), associate professor (2018), and full professor (2025). Receiving an NRF C2 research rating in 2024 was another highlight.

Other scholarly highlights include: winner of the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences (FBMS) (2008, 2014, & 2023) and CPUT (2015) teaching excellence awards; winner of the Business Faculty departmental community engagement non-funded award (2012); winner of CPUT Silver (2015 & 2024) and bronze (2018) research award for publications; winner of the FBMS researcher of the year (2021 & 2023) and department of the year (2021 & 2024); completing my doctorate (2015); Emerald Literati awards for highly commended papers (2015 & 2018) and outstanding reviewer (2022), and serving as a mentor and on the organising committee of the Sisonke Supervision Mentorship Programme (2022–2025). These recognitions reflect my long-term commitment to innovative and practical teaching approaches, as well as to research and developing emerging researchers.

One of my publications has received over a thousand citations, and a number of others have received hundreds, which demonstrates the global relevance of this work. Equally important has been building strong industry partnerships that have resulted in many internships, bursaries and employment opportunities for students, which is our ultimate goal as educators, especially when some of these graduates pay it forward by sending me opportunities to pass on to my current students and alumni.

What legacy do you hope to leave through your teaching, mentorship, and research contributions?

I hope that I have contributed to developing hard-working, competent, and ethical marketing professionals and scholars. I strive to make learning practical and industry-relevant so that students can succeed in real-world environments and become lifelong learners.

I aim to continue growing postgraduate supervision, strengthening research output and mentoring the next generation of academics. Ultimately, my legacy should be measured by the success of my students and graduates. It brings me immense joy to see former students thriving locally and internationally and knowing that I played a small role in their journey.

Written by CPUT News
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The CPUT Campus Health Clinics offer a broad range of primary health care services to all registered students, from treating colds to providing family planning services.

Our clinics are staffed by qualified health professionals, ensuring that students receive professional and discreet medical care. While our primary focus is on promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing illness, we also extend limited services to CPUT staff. Our health care services adhere to World Health Organization practices and guidelines and operate on an appointment-based system.

The Campus clinics’ mission is to uphold medical practice according to our code of ethics, ensuring confidentiality at all times and promoting health as outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO). In alignment with the WHO, the clinics take a holistic approach to treating students, addressing their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Through this comprehensive care, the staff members aim to empower the students to achieve total wellness.

The Campus Clinics offer the following services to registered students:

• General medical consultations plus the issue of basic medication.
• Attending to minor ailments: eg, colds, sore throats, diarrhoea
• Reproductive health methods (prevention), including the morning-after pill
• HIV counselling and testing (VCT).
• Nutritional and counselling support for HIV-positive students.
• Treatment of sexually transmitted infections.
• TB-DOTS supervision.
• Wound dressings and assistance with minor injuries.
• Wealth education programmes.

For more information, please contact the clinic office on your campus:

Bellville Campus

021 959 6403
New Library Extension, Ground Floor
Consultation hours: 08:00 – 16:30

District Six Campus

021 460 3405
Administration Building, Level 2, Room 2.900
Consultation hours: 08:00 – 16:30

Mowbray Campus

021 680 1555
Administration Building, Ground Floor
Consultation hours: 08:00 – 16:00

Wellington Campus

021 864 5522
Administration Building, Ground floor, Room A29
Consultation hours: 07:30 – 15:30

Written by CPUT News
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Guided by passion and perseverance, Noleen Miller’s inspiring career highlights how continuous development and resilience can open doors to new possibilities.

Noleen’s journey with CPUT started as an administrative assistant and about two decades later she stepped into a new role – lecturer in the Department of Business and Information Administration.

She faced many hurdles along the way but her commitment to personal and professional growth drove her to success.

In August 2001 she started her career as an Administrative Assistant in the Science Faculty at Cape Technikon. In 2006 she was promoted to Departmental Secretary and joined the Wellness Sciences Department in the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences.

“My career journey has been driven by continuous learning and a commitment to professional growth. After completing my National Diploma and BTech in Business Administration, I built a strong foundation for a career in administration. I later pursued a Master’s in Business Administration, which I completed in 2014, accompanied by two published research articles.”

In 2020, she was presented with an exciting opportunity.

“I began part-time lecturing in the Business and Information Administration Department. This marked the start of my academic career, and the experience I gained eventually led me to apply for a permanent lecturing position. The combination of academic qualifications, experience and determination shaped the path to my current role.”

Her path was not without obstacles, yet she remained determined to succeed.

“One of the most significant challenges I faced was completing my Master’s qualification while working full-time as administrative and support staff typically do not receive dedicated research time. Much of my research and writing took place outside standard working hours, all whilst juggling parenthood, which also required my undivided attention.

“I also had to prove my worth in the face of multiple rejections for lecturing positions. However, as the saying goes, "what missed you is not meant for you." I believe that these delays and setbacks were part of God’s hand of protection, and that patience was necessary for me to receive the opportunities He had planned. Additionally, transitioning from an administrative to an academic role required me to consistently demonstrate my capabilities and potential in a new professional environment.”

She says her administrative background has been extremely beneficial in her lecturing role.

“The organisational skills I developed, including managing schedules, coordinating activities, and handling administrative processes, support the effective planning and delivery of lectures. Strong communication skills enhance my ability to engage students and convey complex information clearly. My familiarity with institutional policies and academic administration has also helped me navigate academic processes with confidence. Overall, the competencies gained as a departmental secretary continue to strengthen my effectiveness as a lecturer.”

Miller grew up in Grassy Park and says the community played an important role in shaping her values, morals, and overall identity.

“My upbringing taught me that a person’s worth is not defined by where they live or the school they attended, but by the principles they uphold and the character they demonstrate.

“I am married and a mother of two teenage daughters, and my family continues to be my greatest source of support. I also believe it is essential to cultivate interests outside of work. Having personal passions contributes to balance, creativity, and emotional wellbeing, ensuring that life is not centred solely around professional responsibilities. Meaningful interests bring fulfilment, broaden one’s perspective, and offer a healthy outlet for expression and relaxation.”

Her interests include blogging, lifestyle and food content creation, as well as food photography. “These creative pursuits not only allow me to express myself, but it also opened doors to engaging with people and organisations beyond my work environment. Through these activities, I have been able to network, collaborate, and build meaningful connections with individuals and communities who share similar passions. These interactions continue to enrich both my personal and professional life.”

She credits Dr Zelda Vergotine, former Head of the Wellness Sciences Department, for playing an instrumental role in her career development.

“Her commitment to my professional development provided me with valuable opportunities to contribute to key projects and initiatives. Through her mentorship, support, and encouragement, I was able to build confidence, expand my skill set, and prepare for greater responsibilities. Her guidance not only shaped my professional capabilities but also significantly contributed to my successful transition into academia.”

Her advice to other administrative support staff members who would like to pursue a career in academia is as follows: “Continuous upskilling, along with intentional personal development, is essential to advancing your career. Embrace new opportunities as they arise, even when they fall outside your job description. Taking on additional responsibilities may require extra effort, but it builds valuable experience and strengthens your skill set. Achieving your goals requires sacrifice, commitment, and resilience.”

She continues: “I have been fortunate to be inspired by many former administrative staff members who became academics, including Prof Rozenda Hendrickse (my Master’s supervisor), Dr Faeda Mohsam, Dr Courtney Pharoah, and Mr Douglas Dyers. Their journeys reaffirm that growth is always possible when you remain dedicated and proactive.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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*One of Us is a new monthly feature that celebrates the people who bring CPUT’s values to life. Each edition will spotlight a staff member whose work and everyday actions exemplify our shared commitment to oneness and smartness.

To promote Franco-South African relations for cultural and scientific cooperation, the Bellville Campus hosted the annual CPUT French-South African Institute of Technology (FSATI) 2nd International Workshop.

Prof Innocent Davidson, the Director of the Africa Space Innovation Centre (ASIC), noted that F’SATI is an institute that also offers degrees jointly developed by France and South Africa. Davidson said the International Workshop reflects CPUT F’SATI’s ongoing commitment to fostering international collaboration in engineering and technology, particularly within the space engineering domain.

“The workshop was established as a platform to bring together international experts, researchers, and students to exchange knowledge, share research developments, and strengthen partnerships between South Africa and international institutions, particularly with France through FSATI. The core aim of the workshop is to advance capacity building in space systems engineering, promote innovation in satellite systems and subsystems technologies, and create opportunities for student development and academic collaboration.”

The organisers aim to position CPUT and F’SATI as key contributors to Africa’s growing space science and technology ecosystem, while strengthening global research networks. One of the key highlights of the workshop was the keynote address by Prof Laurent Dusseau from Montpellier University, France, which was titled: A Journey of Excellence in Space Engineering.

“His presentation offered deep insights into the evolution of CubeSats and space technologies and the role of international collaboration in advancing the field,” Davidson reflected.

“Another standout moment was the opportunity for postgraduate students to engage directly with a global expert, particularly during discussions and the masterclass session on Radiations Effects on CubeSats. These interactions provided practical perspectives and inspiration for students pursuing careers in space engineering.”

Reflecting on the event, Davidson said it was highly successful and well-structured, with a strong balance between technical depth and accessibility. “The programme was engaging and informative for both physically present and online participants, providing valuable insights into current developments in space engineering and satellite systems, with case-study project examples in Africa.

“Participant engagement was particularly encouraging, with active interaction from students, industry practitioners, researchers, and academic staff.” He added that the guest speaker and international expert for this occasion, Dusseau, who is a Director, Fondation Van Allen, Centre Spatial Universitaire de Montpellier, Montpellier University, “added significant value, creating an environment that encouraged knowledge exchange and meaningful discussions”.

Davidson noted that the frontier of space is open to all, and CPUT F’SATI is taking its strides into the space arena. This workshop highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning in addressing complex global challenges through engineering and technology.

“For the CPUT community, it reinforces the value of engaging in international partnerships and interdisciplinary research, particularly in emerging fields such as Space Engineering and Technology, Satellite Systems Engineering. Opportunities like this not only enhance academic knowledge but also prepare students and researchers to contribute meaningfully to Africa’s role in the global space sector.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences recently rolled out the red carpet for its newest students during a vibrant first-year welcome event held at the Bellville Sports Field.

Under the theme “Step into Success,” the event brought together first-year students and staff from across the faculty for a morning of engagement, encouragement and fun.

Assistant Dean of the Faculty, Dr Lloyd Christopher, welcomed the students and encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity to study at CPUT.

“This is really the start of your journey here at CPUT. Just the fact that you are here this morning, it means that you are one of the few selected. You've been given an opportunity – an opportunity not only to change and influence your life, but the lives of those around you, those that care for you, those that love you, your family back home. Those are the people who are important, they are rooting for you, they are supporting you. So it's important that you take your studies here seriously.”

Students were also introduced to key academic and support leaders in the faculty, including Heads of Departments and Faculty Coordinators, helping to familiarise them with the individuals and services that will play an important role in supporting their academic success.

The day’s activities also included a Battle of the Departments competition for the Spirit Cup, which gave first-years from the various departments the opportunity to show their team spirit. The team from the Department of Emergency Medical Sciences made quite the impression and walked away with the winning trophy.

The event formed part of the faculty’s broader efforts to ensure that first-year students feel welcomed, supported and inspired as they begin their studies at CPUT.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Wellington Campus, in collaboration with the Breytenbach Centre, recently hosted Sit Stories 2026, a cultural event that connected students with the Wellington community through storytelling, performance, music, and dance. The event was organised by Dr Kobie Meiring, Christel Oosthuizen, and Dr Adrienne van As.

Committed to fostering a sense of oneness, the university strives to be inclusive, innovative, and values-driven. The event aimed to celebrate local heritage and creativity while reflecting critically on education, memory, identity, and lived experience.

The programme included student performances, poetry, panel discussions, exhibitions, ceremonial storytelling, live music, Wellington Minstrels, and the unveiling of the Amabali Wepali: If poles could speak project, where the well-known South African artists Andile and Alexis Dyalvane led a traditional ceremony together with the campus’s praise singers dance group, Ibutho lengqangi, in the Murray Gardens.

“This project allows students to let their own stories live visually in the campus's public space,” noted Prof Anna Dippenaar, Assistant Dean: Faculty of Education.

Dr Amanda Swart facilitated a conversation between Prof Michael Le Cordeur and Theo Kemp, which reflected critically on schooling as a formative space shaped by power, memory, and identity, drawing on themes from author Theo Kemp’s book, Skool. Through personal narratives, Dr Marlene le Roux and Rev Laurie Gaum discussed how schooling in the same town can lead to vastly different educational experiences and perspectives.

Prof Andile Mji, Dean, Faculty of Education, said: “A university should never be an ivory tower; it should be part of the community, it should make sure that what happens in society is known in the university, and what happens in the university translates to what the community is about. So, this function we have today about our poles also depicts that it removes that unnecessary barrier that people tend to think should exist between the university and the community.” Mji noted that his faculty was very conscious of the society that their students come from. “We are training our students to be change makers, to be community leaders…” Prof Dippenaar said they aim to embrace diversity, transform spaces, and empower every student and staff member to feel seen, heard, and valued.

“Sit Stories is an example of that vision in action.”

Reflecting on the event, Dippenaar said: “It was a privilege to listen to our esteemed guest speakers and to collaborate with the Breytenbach Centre and ATKV. We value their commitment to CPUT. The unveiling of the Amabali Wepali project, with artists Andile and Alexis Dyalvane, followed by the Wellington Minstrels, were highlights to the event, enjoyed by all. Overall, a beautiful event of reconciliation and redress in the spirit of One Smart CPUT.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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