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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CPUT recently welcomed Dr Fundiswa Nofemela as the new Director for Community Engagement and Work-Integrated Learning (CE&WIL).

Nofemela, who served as Director of Co-operative Education at the Mangosuthu University of Technology for the past ten years, is no stranger to CPUT.

“I started at CPUT as a Job Placement Officer and by the time I left in 2015 I was the Manager Co-operative Education, a position I had held for seven years.”

 Her first priorities as director will be building cohesion between all practitioners that implement Community Engagement and Work-Integrated Learning across the six faculties. 

“The role of CE&WIL is to support Teaching and Learning with respect to Service-Learning and Work-based Learning through programs that help students develop generic skills, values, graduate attributes and entrepreneurship attributes, particularly as the university prepares students for the future world of work. As a centre that is at the forefront of providing strategic direction and leadership for community and industry partnerships, I see the centre helping the university to develop and strengthen collaborations with external stakeholders, both nationally and internationally.” 

She also serves as General Secretary for the Southern African Society for Co-operative Education (SASCE) as well as the World Association for Co-operative Education (WACE) liaison for Africa. 

 She has the following message for the CPUT community: “Community Engagement and Work-Integrated Learning are not just educational programmes; they are also transformation imperatives as they help students to develop into well-rounded graduates with personal attributes towards the world of work, industry as well as society. Our Service-Learning and Civic Engagement projects are aligned with the Sustainable Development goals. Thus, it is critical for the university to strengthen these programmes and for all members of the university community to participate, especially in Service-Learning and Civic Engagement.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) practitioners from across the institution recently gathered in Bellville for the 2026 WIL Symposium.

The Centre for Community Engagement and Work-Integrated Learning hosted the event as a platform to share best practice and to foster cross-faculty collaborations.

“We want to provide a reflective overview of WIL achievements, challenges and strategic priorities across the faculties. We want to foster dialogue and knowledge amongst ourselves and to identify opportunities for enhancing WIL implementation coordination and impact,” said CCE&WIL Director Dr Fundiswa Nofemela.

The keynote address was delivered by Prof Rishidaw Balkaran, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Learning and Teaching, who emphasised the importance of reclaiming the WIL space.

He spoke about going back to basics, including the fundamental importance of industry partnerships, scholarship and ensuring that assessments are up to standard.

Luvoyo Kakaza, Manager: Cooperative Education Unit and Jacqui Scheepers-Searle, Manager: Service-Learning and Civic Engagement Unit, shared updates on the activities and programmes in their units and on upcoming plans.

The day included a session which allowed the practitioners to delve into challenges and possible solutions in terms of WIL implementation while each faculty were given the opportunity to present a Co-operative Education case and a Service-Learning case, highlighting the innovation and dedication of students and staff.

Nofemela said it was hoped that the symposium would become an annual event.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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About 100 final-year students sacrificed their September recess to spend time in lecture halls in preparation for life beyond graduation.

CPUT hosted a four-day Employment Readiness Conference during the recess that aimed to be more than just a series of workshops but a powerful investment in the future of students’ employability.

What started as a two-day workshop by the Co-operative Education Unit quickly grew into a full-scale initiative, thanks to collaboration with the Golden Key International Honour Society, student leader Afika Manjati, and support from the Student Counselling department and external partner ORTSA.

The workshop took place at the Chemical Engineering Auditorium and was conducted by ORTSA’s Wesley Pillay. Students started with foundational skills of CV writing, interview preparation, and strategies to manage job-hunting stress. Pillay then guided them through workplace integration, corporate culture, probation, performance management, and building resilience. Standard Bank concluded the programme with a session on financial literacy, teaching essential skills in saving, investing, and money management. Students were given an opportunity to submit their CVs for review and feedback.

“Programmes of this nature foster a high chance of employability, exposing students to essential skills required in industry. The dedication of students over the week was remarkable; despite the conference taking place during recess, they arrived eager, attentive, and fully engaged. Their responsiveness in discussions, exercises, and practical sessions highlighted not just interest, but a genuine commitment to preparing for the future” says David Haarhoff, Administrator in the Co-operative Education Unit.

The Employment Readiness Conference demonstrated the power of collaboration between university departments, student leaders, and external partners. It equipped students with practical knowledge, personal insight, and the confidence needed to step into the professional world.

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The Co-operative Education Unit at the Centre for Community Engagement and Work-Integrated Learning recently had the inspiring opportunity to connect and empower participants at the I Am Woman 2025 AEDF ORTSA Women’s Conference, themed “I Am Woman – Fueling Her Journey”.

The conference, which was held at Metropolitan Offices, Bellville, celebrated women of remarkable strength and resilience across various career landscapes in South Africa. David Haarhoff, team member within the Co-operative Education Unit, says: “I will cross any ocean if it means an opportunity to develop our students and impact on their professional journey. When we were invited to showcase some of the aspiring female fashion designers, we immediately reached out to the relevant department to put us in touch with students.

“We have an obligation, I believe, to connect and inspire our students; these experiences are essentially what sets our students apart from the rest of the pack. Students were also able to network with some very powerful businesswomen and industry executives.”  

The young designers, Matsatsi Raboroko, Sandiswa Mkhonto, and Dopsy Nkomo, together with their models, did not disappoint at all; they showed up.

Dr Maphole Loke, Principal Researcher at Sustainable Heritage Research Unit, graced the event with her presence. Loke shared her powerful story, breaking barriers within a male-dominating industry. Her resilient personality inspired so many women at the conference and encouraged them to push forward, irrespective of the challenges faced.

Rumarcques Olyn, Co-operative Education team member, says listening to the inspirational stories shared by the panellists was truly intriguing and deeply moving, adding that their journeys highlighted not only resilience and determination, but also the power of creating platforms where women’s voices can be heard and celebrated. “For me, it made all the behind-the-scenes effort of supporting the students and helping bring these opportunities to life incredibly fulfilling. Seeing our students connect with such role models reinforces why initiatives like these are so important for their growth and development.”

The unit acknowledged the collaborative opportunities of this nature and appreciated ORT SA and Astron Energy Development Fund for opening a door for the students.

Written by CPUT News
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The Centre for Community Engagement and Work-Integrated Learning’s Co-operative Education Unit recently collaborated with ORT SA and The Astron Energy Development Fund (AEDF) in hosting the Youth Venture Creation Programme with students across the university community.

The training programme is aimed at equipping young people with the necessary business skills required to start or to grow their businesses. The vigorous training programme commenced on 15 May 2025 and ended on 31 July 2025. During this period, students were exposed to “practical training” by Christopher Dickie from ORT SA, an experienced facilitator and mentor.

The programme included various aspects such as community needs analysis, designing a business model, sales, marketing, financial management and designing a business plan. Students were required to be actively involved by attending sessions and submitting various assignments aligned to the course offering.

“Collaborating with external partners for the benefit of students has become more prevalent in society today as there is a required need to do so to impact our socio-economic circumstances. Programmes of this nature also serve as an alternative to the normal work readiness initiatives offered.” says David Haarhoff, Project Lead from the Co-operative Education Unit.

The programme, which was made possible through the funder, The Astron Energy Development Fund, sought to impact small businesses across the South African landscape with meaningful change in mind, with particular focus on disadvantaged groups and enhancing business skills.

Haarhoff says “Both ORT SA and Astron Energy Development Fund have shown keen interest in the development of our students and enhancing their business skills during the course. The level of professionalism by both ORT SA and Astron Energy Development Fund is worth noting”

At the end of the programme, students were afforded an opportunity to take part in a business ideation pitch competition, which took place on 1 August 2025.

The winners were:

1. Mpho Magadla, 3^rd year Entrepreneurship and Business Management (R10 000)
2. Itumeleng Maganedisa, 3^rd year Medical Laboratory Science (R7000)
3. Nathan Gertse, 3^rd year Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Business Management (R3000)
4. Reitumetse Moholo, 3^rd year Diploma in Entrepreneurship and business Management (R3000)

“History has been made in that this was the biggest cohort two group who completed the programme, and we are immensely grateful for all the effort by ORT SA and The Astron Energy Fund Development Fund,” said Haarhoff.

“Seeing students not being afraid to take on more than just the daily challenges of completing their studies but being inspired to start businesses that can change not only their own lives and those of their families, but also positively impact the communities they wish to serve, was truly remarkable. It is encouraging to witness this kind of vision and courage at such an early stage in their journeys. My thanks goes to ORT SA and Astron for the meaningful work they are doing to create these opportunities for our students” says Rumarcques Olyn, Co-operative Education team member.

Luvuyo Kakaza, Manager: Co-operative Education says “The current economy in South Africa requires universities to reassess the purpose of education. Universities have, for many years, focused on training employees who are responsive to the needs of society. Entrepreneurship has been viewed as a less rewarding occupation, riddled with risk and uncertainty. Universities now need to recognise and emphasise that new jobs in the market will come from a thriving and vibrant entrepreneurship landscape, where universities are graduating job creators rather than job seekers”

The winner of the competition Mpho Magadla says “attending this highly insightful programme and competition left me with practical tools. The programme emphasised the importance of innovation, strategic planning and adapting to the current market changes. I learned valuable lessons about identifying customer needs, building strong networks and using digital platforms effectively to grow a business. One key takeaway was that success is not just about having a great idea, but about execution, consistency and resilience. Overall, the programme and competition provided clarity, new perspective and actionable steps I can apply to my own business journey”

Itumeleng Maganedisa, the runner-up of the competition says “Taking part in the competition has been such a humbling and empowering experience. Being able to stand alongside other incredible innovators reminded me why I started Eleanora and why I believe in my ideas so deeply. The process challenged me to think bigger, sharpen my vision, and step out of my comfort zone. This is the beginning where medical precision meets everyday self-care and confirmation that the pain I go through cannot be compared to the glory I’ll receive”

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Recently, the STEM Club welcomed students from three neighbouring schools and the College of Cape Town for the inspiring 3rd annual CPUT STEM Expo Competition, celebrating the extraordinary National Science Week (NSW) at the Bellville Campus.

The Bellville Campus was lively with the attendance of learners from Delft High School, Langa High School and Symphony High. Jacqueline Scheepers, Manager: Service-Learning and Civic Engagement Unit, highlighted that the annual CPUT NSW, which honours the importance and impact of science and technology in everyday life, is part of one of Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo’s distinguished STEM school initiatives. 

Dr Frikkie George, the CPUT STEM Support Lead, said the aim was to celebrate and increase the awareness of STEM at CPUT and neighbouring schools. In a message of support delivered by Jacqueline Scheepers: Manager of the Service-Learning and Civic Engagement units, Prof Rishidaw Balkaran, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Learning and Teaching, stated that this initiative embodies the university’s strategic dedication to excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. CPUT’s vision to influence futures through innovation is vividly demonstrated in this dynamic and motivational event.

“Through the combined efforts of students, educators, researchers, and strategic partners, we are building a vibrant STEM ecosystem,” Balkaran enthused.

He noted: “This Expo is not only a showcase of brilliance but also a bridge for learners to imagine bold futures in STEM fields. We applaud the dedication of Visionary Minds, the Student STEM Club, and the Fundani Centre for Higher Education Development for driving this important work. Your efforts in civic engagement and service-learning bring real value to our communities and the next generation of scholars.”

Dr Faiq Waghid, Head of Department: Academic Staff Development, together with Scheepers, developed and delivered an exciting and interactive STEM quiz where learners could win a variety of prizes. Abdullah Harris from the Sakhikamva Foundation, a partner of the Western Cape Education Department, delivered an informative and insightful presentation, followed by a drone presentation. Harris invited learners from the audience to fly the drone, which showed learners STEM in action. An informative keynote address was delivered by Abongile Mlanjeni, Analyst Programmer, AR/VR Content Creation – Sales and Marketing, University of the Western Cape, Innovation Hub, Immersive Zone and Development Studio.

Scheepers highlighted that the partnership among the CPUT units allowed for a varied group of attendees and participants, including university students, TVET students, school learners, researchers, educators, administrative staff, university leaders, and others. The speakers worked to present STEM concepts to learners in an enjoyable and engaging manner, illustrating the connection between STEM and everyday life. George mentioned that they successfully reached a larger number of school learners and CPUT students compared to the previous year, particularly through the event's livestreaming. The event also showcased a greater number of research project exhibits, and the feedback from learners was positive; George noted that the STEM team plans to expand NSW to involve more schools in the future.

Balkaran noted: “Your presence here today signals the importance of early engagement in STEM pathways and the potential to shape a better future. To our CPUT students, your innovation, creativity, and passion inspire hope and drive transformation. To our valued external partners – including CHEC universities, WCED, the CT Science Centre, and the TVET sector – thank you for your continued collaboration."

Throughout the years, CPUT has organised events in collaboration with different faculties, including a Hackathon, Youth conference, STEM initiatives at rural schools in Central Karoo, Garden Route, Saldanha Bay Municipalities, STEM demonstrations, workshops for students, Quizzes, STEM Career Education, and much more.

The winners of the Student STEM Expo are as follows:

In the Biology and Chemistry category:

• First place went to Amohelang Melato for EcoMycelia.
• The second spot was secured by Prince Shongwe and Mandlenkosi Sindane for their project on the human Capacitor.
• Third place was awarded to Morell Ndhlovu for recycling cigarette butts.

In the Engineering category:

• The winner was Kasongo Muntambwe and Obinna Amadi for their Smart Drain project.
• In second place, we have Simamkele Rala, Onelisa Goya, Siphesihle Koli, and Luyanda Duma for their Pressurised purification system.
• Third place went to Faiyaz Sallie for the Solar engine.

In the Computer and Mathematics category:

• First place was awarded to Dean Khuselo Silaule for a Security system.
• Second place was claimed by Kwanele Shezi and Gundo Tshamano with their Mathematics Learner Management Systems.
• Millicent Sibanda and Zest Luvha took third for their Food Preservation App.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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CPUT is significantly contributing to the fight against youth unemployment by allocating more than R1.7 million each month to assist students and recent graduates who are participating in Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and internship programmes.

More than 1 400 students and interns receive monthly stipends of R2 000 to R5 500 directly in their bank accounts. This financial support, provided by generous CPUT donors and state-owned enterprises, helps cover essential living costs like transport and meals, enabling them to participate fully in industry placements away from home.

“We can report that 64% of the beneficiaries are female students,” says Calvin Maseko, Director of the Advancement Department. “This is an encouraging step in advancing the country’s transformation agenda. We’re extremely grateful to our donor partners who are making this possible.”

In a country where youth unemployment exceeds 43%, work-based learning (WIL) is essential. According to Stats SA, students who complete WIL or internships are more likely to secure employment quickly, as these programmes help connect academic knowledge with real-world job market demands.

“We see these stipends as enabling more than just transport or meals; they are unlocking access to opportunity,” adds Maseko.

He says that this initiative contributes directly to South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP) by promoting youth employment and skills development and it also aligns with CPUT’s Vision 2030, which aims to produce socially responsive graduates equipped to thrive in a changing world.

“As a university, we’re committed to removing the financial barriers that prevent students from completing their work placements,” says Prof Driekie Hay-Swemmer, Executive Director: Office of the Vice-Chancellor. “That’s essential for transformation and national growth.”

In July 2024, CPUT launched a cloud-based system to manage and track stipend recipients. This system helps prevent duplicate applications, enhances auditing and reporting, and strengthens overall project management.

“We’re rolling out this system across all WIL and internship projects at CPUT,” explains Maseko. “It ensures every beneficiary is recorded, allowing for better transparency and impact measurement.

“For those students placed within the university and paid through our payroll system, we have been prefunding stipends while waiting for donor payments,” says Hay-Swemmer. “This ensures students can continue their placements without interruption, which is critical for their learning and career readiness.”

She also extended heartfelt appreciation to students who have shown patience during delays and encouraged donors to strengthen their disbursement processes.

CPUT’s stipend programme is not just about financial assistance; it is about creating a pipeline of skilled, employable graduates who are ready to contribute to the economy and society. “With our donors’ support and our students’ resilience, we are investing in a transformed, capable South Africa,” Hay-Swemmer remarks.

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Recently, CPUT had the opportunity to engage in a meaningful week-long workshop hosted by the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), in partnership with the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Community Engagement in the Southern Africa Region (CESAR).

It was a valuable experience that brought together individuals committed to fostering collaboration and community support in the region. Heike Heinen-Kritz, Senior Desk Officer for Higher Education Partnerships in Development Cooperation at DAAD, provided an overview of DAAD programmes in the Southern Africa region. Martin Kühn from FUAS led a session on transdisciplinary project feedback and interuniversity cooperation related to project deliverables. Delegates from NUST and Jacqui Scheepers, the CPUT CESAR project lead, shared their SDG Service-Learning projects and partnerships, which received positive feedback from DAAD.

CPUT builds on its existing partnerships with the City of Cape Town and the Robben Island Museum to implement Service-Learning projects across various academic disciplines. Toni Stringer, a CESAR team member and Head of the Department of Construction Management and Quantity Surveying, expressed that CESAR provides multiple opportunities for internationalisation and the establishment of sustainable partnerships for her department that extend beyond the project’s scope.

David Haarhoff, project support, said: “Our students will benefit from the experiential experiences of the CESAR Service-Learning projects. The holistic context provided by Heinen-Kritz of projects in the Southern Africa region and its impact shows DAAD’s commitment toward Southern Africa.”

Further engagements included the Ministry of Mines and Energy, which emphasised the importance of various projects and Namibia's commitment to providing support for the mining and energy sectors. The Directorate of Research, Innovation, and Partnerships (DRIP) at NUST, along with the Department of Co-operative Education, highlighted the critical need for international collaboration and discussed the impact of their respective directorates. Additionally, a World Café session on the dissemination of research outputs was facilitated by Jacques Korrubel, a member of the NUST team.

Project team member Prof. Marco Adonis, Head of the Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Computing Engineering, reflected on the project by highlighting the Khomanin Traditional Authority, where the youth council delivered a lively and emotive plan for their community interventions. The youth council presented plans for a poultry farm, a clinic, a police station, and a guest lodge. Adonis said the living labs implementation plan for Farm! Kharoxas was clear and practical, and the young voices were bold, affirmative, and empowering. Scheepers reflected that the inclusion of youth engagement and community voices in community projects is important for the sustainability and ownership of projects.

The engagement emphasized the crucial importance of community partnerships, and the role universities play in this context. The Khomanin Traditional Authority expressed their sincere gratitude for the work done by NUST through the current seed living lab focused on renewable energy and community development, which is helping to provide electrification to households.

Walter Kohlhofer, the Chief Executive and Work-Integrated Learning Faculty Coordinator for Engineering and the Built Environment, presented a model for establishing a FABLAB at CPUT. Scheepers and Paulus Shigwedha from NUST provided an overview of the Entrepreneurship Venture Builder (EVB), a grant awarded by the Technological Higher Education Network South Africa and CPUT to create a South African EVB. Both are trained mentors for the EVB at their respective institutions. The EVB, hosted by the Centre for Business Innovation and Incubation at CPUT, contributes to the broader tech ecosystem for universities of technology. Team member Prof. Dr Dirk Müller from FUAS shared lessons learnt about the impact of social entrepreneurship and the sustainable livelihood opportunities aligned with various projects.

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The Faculty of Education recently held the Sit-Story Culture Walk, a heartfelt collaboration with the Breytenbach Kultuursentrum. This initiative reflects the deep commitment of both the university and the Wellington community to come together, celebrate their shared stories, and foster understanding and connection among them.

This event proudly stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the Wellington Advisory Committee, which has successfully united key institutions, businesses, municipal representatives, and private stakeholders.

“At the heart of this initiative is a shared goal: to strengthen the relationship between CPUT and the community through meaningful partnerships. By working together—whether through formal agreements like MOUs or through projects like this cultural walk—we strive to make a real difference in the lives of all Wellington residents. This event is an example of how learning, culture, and heritage can unite people through shared experiences,” said Prof Anna Dippenaar, Assistant Dean: Faculty of Education.

The Executive Director in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Driekie Hay-Swemmer, also attended the event and commended the importance of such events, which bring people together as the university celebrates 20 Years of Growing from Greats.

Before the event, the second-year Education Art and History students had personal conversations with community members, listening to their stories and learning from their experiences. Inspired by these interactions, the students transformed discarded chairs into artistic expressions, with each painted chair serving as a visual and symbolic response to the conversation they had with a community member.

The row of red chairs was situated between the library and the Breytenbach Centre. At the Student Centre, students shared songs and dance performances, while at the Breytenbach Centre, learners from Mbekweni, CPUT students, and community poets presented their poetry, creating a space where words and creativity intersected across generations. In the Cloete Room at the Breytenbach Centre, a video showcased the work of first-year students, capturing moments of Wellington through the Photo Voices project.

“This evening is a testament to what is possible when a community comes together to share, learn, and celebrate its cultural heritage through the stories that remind us of the power of human connection.” Dippenaar remarked.

The event was also attended by Drakenstein Municipality representatives, the Wellington Museum, and many more special guests.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce

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The Digital Literacy Skills for the Future Project recently celebrated a momentous occasion at the BankSETA Digital Literacy Skills for Future Awards Ceremony, honouring the graduation of 51 matriculants who completed their digital literacy training in 2024.

This heartfelt ceremony took place at the Bellville Campus and symbolised a significant step in empowering young learners through the transformative power of technology and digital education.

The participants in this project hailed from Langa and Lotus High Schools. Many of these learners started with little to no digital literacy skills, often feeling unsure of themselves in the digital realm. However, with dedicated support from CPUT facilitators and the encouragement of their peers, the Advancement Department has witnessed remarkable growth in their technical abilities and self-confidence. Their journeys were not just about acquiring skills; they discovered a sense of belonging and possibility.

The learning areas explored throughout the project included:

• Introduction to Computer Hardware and Software
• Introduction to Microsoft Office Programs
• Cybersecurity and Digital Citizenship
• Internet and Email Usage
• Introduction to Information Technology (IT)
• Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Blockchain and Cryptocurrency
• Introduction to Programming Basics

Mandla Maseko, director of the Advancement Department, spoke from the heart about the importance of these skills as the learners prepare for their next steps in higher education. During the ceremony, the learners proudly demonstrated their new skills by building robots and competing in an exciting robot race. Lotus High School was celebrated as the winning school and received well-deserved prizes. Additionally, the learners were awarded certificates and gifted the tablets they used throughout their training—tools that will continue to support their education.

Waldon Hendricks, a compassionate lecturer in the Information Technology Department, emphasised the significance of integrating STEM—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—into their learning experiences. He shared an inspiring message: “As they move forward, these learners carry with them not just knowledge, but the confidence and courage to pursue whatever career path they choose.”

Inga Dlephu, a learner from Langa High School, expressed her heartfelt gratitude: “I would like to thank BankSETA and CPUT for believing in us and teaching us valuable skills. We’ve learned so much—from things we didn’t know much about to discovering new interests. This programme didn’t just teach us; it opened doors and created a community where we felt supported.”

Maseko concluded with words of appreciation for BankSETA's vital support, saying: “Thank you for standing by us. We hope to continue this meaningful journey together next year. And to all our incredible learners—thank you for your dedication and resilience, even when faced with challenges. Your hard work truly inspires change.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Emergency Medical Sciences students have helped to combat human trafficking by raising awareness on how to prevent falling victim to modern day slavery.

A group of students from the second-year Bachelor of Emergency Care class has partnered with anti-human trafficking organisation, A21, and conducted presentations at a number of events during the year.
To increase their reach, they also conducted an interview on Bok Radio.
The students undertook the project as part of the requirements for the subject of Primary Health Care.
The group consisted of Angelique Groenewald, Ed-Ruleen Kondowe, Guy Schiever, Jarred Brown, Ju-waldt Sieberhagen and Michael Watson,
“Presentations were always received well, with many people coming forward afterwards and asking questions or to schedule a follow up presentation. Information booths enabled us to connect more personally with people by engaging in one-on-one conversation. It was incredible to see how little people know about a crime that is so prevalent in their communities and even more so to be afforded the opportunity to educate them about the unseen dangers that face them,” Guy said.

For more information on A21, go to: https://www.a21.org/content/south-africa/gnr2js?permcode=gnr2js

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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First-year students in the Business and Information Administration (BIA) Department are part of the social entrepreneurship movement at CPUT and believe that active citizenship benefits all in society.

As part of their Business Administration subject, they raised R82 000 for the Red Cross Children’s Hospital Trust and Andrew Murray Children’s Home (AMCH)  in Wellington.

The District Six Campus students donated R70 000 to the trust while the Wellington Campus students, who are part of a multi-disciplinary service learning project on their campus, raised R12 000 for the AMCH.

The BIA students have since 2005 raised R500 000 for the Red Cross Children’s Hospital.

Lecturers Belinda Berman and Dr Lyn Kleinveldt together with the students recently celebrated this milestone by handing over the R70 000 cheque to the trust’s Fundraising and Bequest Relationship Officer, Pauline Solomons at the District Six Campus. The cheque was accompanied by donations from The Hadjidakis Group, Scent Pac, Shoprite, Clicks and Lewis Stores.

Last month, first-year Marketing students also handed over a R25 000 cheque to the trust as part of their contribution towards the hospital’s emergency centre upgrades.

The Wellington Campus students and their lecturer Mohamed Badat celebrated their fundraising achievement and the group facilitators handed the R12 000 cheque to AMCH’s Financial Manager, Raymond Driescher for the Bursary and Mentorship Tertiary Education Fund . The AMCH is a child and youth care centre which provides residential care for 150 children between the ages of one to 18, whilst integrating therapeutic and developmental programmes to assist them in reaching their potential.

The fundraising initiative is integrated into the Entrepreneurship unit in the subject, and students are not only taught about the financial aspects of raising funds but also teamwork, conflict management, communication and marketing.

Berman, who is also the subject’s co-ordinator, thanked the students for their efforts in making a difference and helping to save the lives of children.

HoD: BIA, Prof Visvanathan Naicker, emphasised the need for creating a caring society and praised the students for their spirit of giving and taking the time to care for needy children.

Written by Kwanele Butana
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BTech Public Relations (PR) students have managed to secure a large donation as well as thousands of rands in goods for a local non-profit organisation.

Deidre Porthen, senior lecturer and head of the PR programme, said the students exceeded expectations by raising more than R60 000 and garnering valuable publicity for the Carel Du Toit Centre.

The Parow-based centre is primarily for children suffering from bilateral hearing loss or who are considered deaf.

As part of their curriculum, the students were tasked with an assignment to secure funds for the centre as well as raise awareness.

Their campaign efforts included a Comedy Market Day where comedians including, Yaseen Baker, Ambrose Uren, and Arlene Petersen availed their services for free.

The students also organised a collection drive for three weeks at Checkers, Canal Walk. During the drive, the students approached shoppers to donate items on the Centre’s wish list of non-perishables and successfully secured over 500 wish list items.

The students’ call for donations managed to reach the Office of the Mayor and they managed to secure a R50 000 donation for the charity.

All the proceeds that were raised will positively impact young learners from the centre who suffer hearing loss.

Student Jill Baaitjies said the experience was “incredibly rewarding”.

“In the beginning, we were focused on marks but eventually it was all about the cause.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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CPUT students have donated a R25 000 cheque to assist with renovations and redesign of the Red Cross Children’s Hospital.

The first-year Marketing students raised the funds during the Department’s Market Day earlier this year, which saw them sell various types of foods and beverages on the District Six Campus.

The students were divided into groups to execute the project and the following groups excelled and were awarded certificates: The Red Cross Warriors group raised the most funds, the Utopia won the Best Creative Stall, while the Thrifts and Treats walked away with Creative Branding Concept and Sugar Babies the Best Creative Writing Skills.

Departmental Head Mandy Jones said the project is one of CPUT’s Community Engagement pillar as it provides the students with opportunities to collaborate with both the society and sponsors.

Jones congratulated the students for their contribution towards the aims of the Red Cross Children’s Hospital and emphasised the importance of their contribution to society.

Lecturer Tania Pietersen said that the Market Day Project was born out of the subject, Personal Selling, as an ideal opportunity for students to sell products.

Pietersen added that the initiative gave the students a chance to apply the knowledge obtained in class as they used social media to promote what they were selling and that knowledge acquired from quite a few subjects was integrated into the project.

During the Cheque Handover/Award Ceremony’s event recently held at District Campus, Pauline Solomons, Fundraising & Bequest Relationship Officer at the Red Cross Children’s Hospital Trust, conveyed “sincere appreciation” for the work done by the students in contributing towards the upgrade of the hospital’s Emergency Centre.

Solomons invited the students to visit the oldest children’s hospital in the country, which is situated near Rondebosch, since they were now its shareholders.

Lecturer and the Project’s co-ordinator, Lawrence Mandhlazi, advised the students that when hiring employers are not just looking for a brilliant student, but also consider students’ community engagement activities. He added that the students were awarded marks for their work in the project.    

Written by Kwanele Butana
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The Centre for Community Engagement and Work- Integrated Learning (WIL) recently hosted a 'Trans-disciplinary Service-Learning & Civic Engagement Partnership Summit World Café and Open Space Dialogue'.

The primary purpose of the occasion was to gather stakeholders including lecturers and students from various disciplines, government officials, community members and CPUT alumni to surface, explore and put forward inputs towards formulating guidelines for designing and implementing ‘Transdisciplinary Service Learning’.

Doug Reeler from Tamarind Tree Associates who facilitated the different sessions said: “In my view this was achieved. Each of the groups that met documented their findings and submitted these to [Service-Learning & Civic Engagement Units Manager], Jacqui Scheepers who will oversee the formulation of the said guidelines.”

The workshop’s theme was, “How can we work creatively across disciplines to enhance service and service engagement? What are we getting right and what do we need to get right?” Reeler said the event helped to strengthen relationships for future work in this important field. “People learned much from each other and I was told that several [people] made plans for working together.  I also saw people being honoured for their contribution over the past year,” he added.

Student, Mikayla Siljeur said the event was a great opportunity to network with academic staff and community partners outside of a formal setting. “The open space dialogue created an opportunity for me to develop some innovative ideas that would be beneficial for future students,” she remarked.

Another student, Jessica Martheze said: “This experience has allowed me to have better perspective of community service.”

Meanwhile CPUT alumnus, Mpendulo Gabayi recommended regular similar workshops. “It was very fruitful with people coming up with interesting opinions which can help the common goal which is integrated learning and how we can support the students and community at large,” Gabayi noted. Department of Applied Sciences lecturer and Work-Integrated Learning Co-ordinator, Dr Lalini Reddy said the event was a great and ‘very refreshing programme’.

Reddy said: “We found out how similar we are in terms of identifying a need for our society to collectively groom our youth to become our future leaders.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics, which is hosted by the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences, has been recognized by AOSIS Publishers for its outstanding contribution to Open Access Journal.

The conference, together with the faculty’s Journal of Business and Management Dynamics (JBMD), received recognition for contributing to Open Access Journal in South Africa.

The CPUT conference has since 2015 brought together researchers, business leaders and postgraduate students who present their research papers, conceptual papers, case studies and technical reports addressing contemporary and development issues in management, business, finance, tourism and information management, entrepreneurship and technology.

“This recognition is an endorsement of the achievement of my vision in establishing an international conference framework that brings together academic researchers and postgraduate students across African universities and beyond to share their research output, and to create sustainable conference proceedings that lead to a recognised and accredited journal for the faculty and the university,” says Dr Twum-Darko, Editor-in-Chief of JBMD.

“Professionally, it encourages me and the team to pursue this agenda and create a sustainable platform to deepen postgraduate research in the faculty and promote internationalisation and collaboration among African institutions of higher learning."

During the recent event, which was held at the University of Pretoria, editors of Open Access scholarly books and journals were recognised.

CPUT’s 2018 conference, which will take place in August will bring together academics and business leaders from across the world to share their thinking and research outcomes on the theme of managing business competitiveness in times of glocalisation, which refers to the practice of conducting business according to both local and global considerations.

AOSIS empowers Africa by publishing open access scholarly journals, books and conference proceedings.

Written by Kwanele Butana

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Town and Regional Planning students and their lecturers are using their skills to make a difference in a local community.

During the next few months, this CPUT group will come up with an improved layout of the Flamingo Crescent Informal Settlement, which is located in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town.

This bold initiative is part of a Service-Learning Project that will see the CPUT group work closely with the Informal Settlement Network (ISN) and Community Organisation Resource Centre (CORC).

These organisations aim to assist communities within informal settlements to achieve community-owned and driven development processes.

Lecturer, Nicholas Pinfold says the partnership aims to ensure a holistic approach that encourages community participation wherever possible.

Recently students and lecturers visited the Flamingo Crescent Informal Settlement and met with community members. Student also evaluated the site and developed a timetable for the initial mapping of the settlement.

The group will present an improved layout plan of the settlement later this year to the City of Cape Town.

By Nurahn Ryklief and Town and Regional Planning’s Nicholas Pinfold

Written by CPUT News

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A service learning project completed by second-year Architecture students will continue to give joy to learners at a remote primary school for years to come. Using mostly recycled and donated material the playground at St Michaels Primary School in Grabouw has had a complete facelift.

Students designed and built decking, a pergola (covered outside area), fireplace and painted a child-friendly wall to make the area more attractive.

Architecture lecturer Hermie Voulgarelis says students travelled to the school for a week and a half to complete the project.

“The school was selected for its involvement in our Multigrade Programme and its vicinity to Cape Town,” she says.

HELPING HAND: Architecture lecturer Hermie Voulgarelis helps a learner leave her handprint on the wall. 

Senior Architecture Lecturer Jolanda Morkel says a large part of the playground used to be practically unusable because a large container cut the area off, making it difficult for children to access a wooden play park.

“Now the outside area flows off of the classrooms creating a much larger play area,” she says.
“The pergola will also assist in keeping some of the wind and heat off the area.”

ALL TOGETHER NOW: St Michaels learners on the newly built decking which links classes to the playground.

St Michaels Principal Nicolas Davids says he had no idea a few simple changes could make such a huge difference.

“They opened our eyes to how the space could be used,” he says.

The next phase of the project, expected to role out next year, will revamp the entrance to the school.

As a reminder of the hard work put in students, learners, teachers and lecturers were all invited to leave a coloured hand print on the outside wall. 

HANDY HELP: Learners give Architecture students a big thank you for revamping their playground.

By: Lauren Kansley
Photos by: Shawn Uys

Written by CPUT News
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