Thousands of first year students were urged to make a success of their studies in order to play a vital role in South Africa’s economy.

Addressing first year students during a Welcome Ceremony at the Bellville campus on 20 January 2010, Vice-Chancellor Prof Vuyisa Mazwi-Tanga said: “You are the building blocks of our country’s democracy and economy. This means that those who make a success of the time spent at universities and centres of learning will become valuable assets to South Africa, your communities and your families.”

This Welcome Ceremony, which was also attended by parents, was one of three welcoming events that took place during Orientation Week. The first was held on Cape Town Campus on 18 January 2010, followed by a ceremony at the Wellington Campus on 19 January 2010.

Referring to first years as “valued members” of the CPUT community, the Vice-Chancellor assured them and their parents, that they had chosen a wonderful place of learning.

“All our activities, including our extra-mural activities, are designed to help our students to achieve academic success and to develop into mature and well-balanced individuals who can confidently take their rightful place in the world of work and in general,” she said.

With CPUT boasting a list of prominent persons who were former students of the institution, she said many of the first years will too “become captains of industry and A-rated researchers.”

However, Prof Mazwi-Tanga said success can only be achieved if students make a commitment to their studies.

Although the students will be supported by CPUT staff members and will have access to support facilities, the Vice-Chancellor said it is students’ willingness to work hard that will yield success.

She also drew the audience’s attention to the threat of HIV/AIDS and encouraged the first years to make use of support systems and participate in programmes that are in place at CPUT.

Prof Mazwi-Tanga pointed out the importance of participation in extra-mural activities and involvement in student structures.

She also appealed to those who will become involved in student leadership to use these platforms responsibly.

“This level of maturity will enable us to work together in a spirit of trust, respect and uBuntu,” she said.

“I am hopeful that each one of you will make Ubuntu one of the fundamental values that will govern your behavior while you are part of CPUT’s community and beyond your stay on this campus.”

By Candes Keating

Written by CPUT News
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On 2 April 2009, CPUT hosted a high profile delegation of Vice-Chancellors, Presidents and Registrars from a group of 19 leading German institutions including universities, technical colleges and universities of technology.

The visit was organised by the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) and co-funded by the “Stifterverband” (the business community’s innovation agency for the German science system) and the participating German universities.

The purpose of the event, which took place at CPUT’s Bellville Campus, was to share crucial information on the African higher education and academic landscape and showcase the institution’s most notable achievements.

The German group met their counterparts at the institution, represented by members of the Executive Management, Faculty Deans and Heads of Departments/ Research Units.

The morning began with a formal welcome and introduction from CPUT Vice-Chancellor Prof Vuyisa Mazwi-Tanga, who then went on to present an address on ‘CPUT as a University of Technology (UOT) in Transformation in SA’.

Prof Mazwi-Tanga described the pre-1993 academic landscape in South Africa, detailing the challenges of the previous binary system of education at was offered on a tertiary level.

She then highlighted the positive changes that were implemented with the advent of the 2002 amendment to the Higher Education Act, resulting in the present-day unitary system.

Although there was always room for improvement, Prof Mazwi-Tanga expressed that, “As an institution offering quality tertiary and higher education, CPUT focused strongly on career education to prepare graduates for the proper application of skills in the workplace”.

In terms of addressing the issue of transformation, she added that CPUT deliberately creates opportunities for female students, especially in the non-traditional fields of science and technology, through offering scholarships and bursaries based on academic performance.

Policies, structures and models of university management, curriculum development, research profiles, exchange programmes and strategies of internationalisation were reflected upon during the addresses by Prof Anthony Staak, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC): Academic and Dr Chris Nhlapo, DVC: Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships respectively.

One representative from the RWTH Aachen University, Germany Mr. Manfred Nettekoven also delivered an interesting presentation on the structure and output figures from their institution.

The visitors were treated to a tour of the one of CPUT’s finest achievements in the form of the Adaptronics Advanced Manufacturing Technology Laboratory (AMTL). The laboratory is located within the Centre for Research and Applied Technology (CERATech) under the institution’s Faculty of Engineering. It conducts research into a technology that integrates sensor and actuator functions into materials and components in order for the materials to react to environmental stimuli thus rendering them intelligent.

The visit gave the German guests an insight into the South African academic system, with an emphasis on the process of transformation it has undergone since the historical turning point of democracy, as well as on present and future challenges.

By providing a platform for networking, it is hoped that the visit will encourage new exchange and cooperation projects between academic institutions in the two countries.

During their week-long visit to the country, the DAAD group also met their counterparts at the University of Pretoria, Wits University (Johannesburg), as well as the Universities of Cape Town, Stellenbosch and the Western Cape.

Every second year, DAAD selects one country for an information visit by German university leaders and the trip to South Africa this year was met with a resoundingly positive response.

By: Thami Nkwanyane and Thando J. Moiloa

Written by CPUT News
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Minister of Finance and Cape Peninsula University of Technology alumnus Dr Trevor Manuel has been elected as the first Chancellor of the University. This was announced by the University’s Vice-Chancellor Prof Vuyisa Mazwi-Tanga and members of the Council at a press conference held on the University’s Cape Town Campus on Tuesday 6 May 2008.

Referring to the election of the Chancellor as a “great moment for the University,” the Vice-Chancellor introduced Dr Manuel and invited him to respond to questions from the floor.

Dr Manuel has had an association with the University since 1975 when he studied Civil and Structural Engineering at the Peninsula Technikon. He was awarded an honorary doctorate by this institution in 2002. Peninsula Technikon later merged with the Cape Technikon to form the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.

“It is a distinct honour to have been elected through this process partly since I am an alumnus,” Dr Manuel said.

Commenting on his long-standing relationship with the University, Dr Manuel remarked that the association could “be in my DNA.” He spoke of a distinct passion for the kind of education offered by Universities of Technology and the importance of supporting such institutions in order to address South Africa ’s skills deficiency. “We are painfully aware of the skills shortage in our country. We need to generate far more skills in this economy. The contribution of this university can make a difference,” said Dr Manuel.

Responding to a question about how he sees the Cape Peninsula University of Technology maintaining its current financial soundness without marginalising students with few financial resources, Dr Manuel stated that he had discussed the matter with other Government Ministers, including Naledi Pandor. Norms need to be set for fees, but allowances need to be made so that students with high academic potential remain in the education system. Dr Manuel and Professor Mazwi-Tanga both emphasised their support of using academic incentives to reduce student debt.

Dr Manuel indicated his happiness with the fact that as an institution CPUT goes out of its way to encourage cooperative education through corporate partnerships. “An institution that places its student for absorption is preparing them for the economy,” he said. Dr Manuel indicated that he will play a role in helping Council to raise funds for the University.

As Chancellor, the Minister will become the titular head of the University with the primary responsibility of conferring all degrees and awarding all diplomas and certificates in the University's name. Remarking on misconceptions about the role of a Chancellor, Dr Manuel said, with characteristic good humour, that if people think he will only appear twice a year at graduation ceremonies, “they will have a few surprises.”

The University plans to officially inaugurate the new Chancellor before the Spring Graduation.

By Ilana Abratt

Photograph: Left to right: Chairperson of the CPUT Council Dr Lionel Louw, Minister of Finance and Chancellor-Elect Dr Trevor Manuel, Deputy Chairperson of the CPUT Council Justice Siraj Desai and CPUT Vice-Chancellor Professor Vuyisa Mazwi-Tanga

Written by CPUT News
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The Irish Deputy Prime-Minister and Minister for Health, Ms Mary Harney, visited the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) to hold discussions with Vice-Chancellor Prof Vuyisa Mazwi-Tanga and meet some beneficiaries of their bursary programme.

Apart from the discussions with Prof Mazwi-Tanga, who is also chairperson of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) NSFAS, Ms Harney’s five-day visit to South Africa also included the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day with Irish communities in Pretoria and Cape Town.

She also participated in other events linked to trade, investment and tourism. While in Cape Town, she visited a number of projects funded through Irish Aid’s development programme in South Africa. Needy students at the CPUT and other institutions of higher learning have benefited from the Irish Aid-funded bursary support programme administered by the NSFAS.

Addressing students and staff during her visit, Ms Harney said education was a passport to decent living. She mentioned that her government has already sponsored 2650 needy students.

Prof Mazwi-Tanga accompanied Ms Harney to the Dome of Remembrance and explained to her that it is a place where on an annual basis a ceremony is held for those students and staff that have passed on. She said the families of those who have passed on get invited for the ceremony. “It has a particular signifi cance to us as a family at CPUT,” said Prof Mazwi-Tanga.

Mr Luvo Makhasi, an attorney at Hofmeyer Attorneys, appreciated the support they have received as students from the programme. He said the funding and book allowance they received made studying easy for them.

Meliza Abrahams, a second year medical student thanked Ms Harvey for what her government has done for them. “In matric you always worry about how you are going to further your studies, but after getting the bursary I received all the support I needed. “They give you all the advice and assistance. If I need a stethoscope or book I can just call them,” said Meliza.

Written by CPUT News
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Seven recipients of this year’s Vice Chancellor’s (VC) Prestigious Achievers Award Programme have reason to celebrate - the VC and the awards committee recently recognised two Master’s and five PhD students.

The Programme is in its second year of implementation. The Literacy Research Unit director and awards committee chairperson, Prof Janet Condy said they assessed the 2019 recipients and budget to make a decision to continue to support the current two Masters students (each receive R100,000 per annum) and five Doctoral students (R120 000 per annum).

“The committee decided that due to limited funds we will not open the call for applications, but will open it again in 2021,” Condy explains.

The committee attempted to be sensitive towards balancing gender, supporting the neighbouring countries, and being inclusive of Master’s and Doctoral students. Amongst the recipients, are two male and five female recipients. They consist of two South Africans, two Nigerians, one Cameroonian and two Zimbabweans. 

Sivenathi Jayiya, a Master’s student in Public Relations, whose research focuses predominantly on Corporate Social Responsibility said: “Thank you so much to the Vice-Chancellor’s Committee for contributing towards our academic success, none of us would be where we are if it wasn’t for your generosity.”

PhD candidate in Chemical Engineering, Ruvimbo Mukandi, felt honoured to be recognised for the awards. “It’s good to see that hard work has been recognised by the faculty and the University.”

The award has contributed towards meeting the costs for tuition fees, accommodation expenses and logistics associated with her experimental work.  “This recognition will open research doors for me in future. Generally, very few students get this level of recognition, therefore it will be a testament to my academic and professional credibility in future,” Ruvimbo asserts.  

She has some words of encouragement to students who are dreaming of receiving the award. “It is not where you come from that determines your future but what you do with the opportunities presented to you. So never look at your background or play small because you are too scared to be big and impactful. Not even the sky should be your limit...

“I want to encourage particularly the black girl child to work hard and be committed to her studies as she too can achieve this.”

PhD candidate in Civil Engineering and Survey, Bimpe Alabi said: “This is a great honour and a privilege... I'm so honoured and grateful to be the recipient of this award.”

Bimpe says this will relieve her financially: “This will allow me to focus more on the most important aspect of my research. This will also make me to be closer to the achievement of my goal and definitely, it will motivate me for the rest of my future undertakings… My advice to students is to never give up on their dreams... It’s not over unless they want it to be ... I am certain that your hard work will definitely one day give you all the rewarding results and it will enhance your life.”

Executive Director in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Driekie Hay-Swemmer said postgraduate students are the academics and professors of the future and that their development should be prioritised. Hay-Swemmer added that universities were acknowledged for the quality of their doctoral education programmes. She argued that the supervisors play a pivotal role in the scholarship development of doctoral students and should view it as a privilege to shape the mind of a scholar.

“The topics chosen by CPUT’s doctoral students are relevant and attempt to address issues of food security, housing and global warming - our focus is research with impact.”

Furthermore, Condy applauded Advocate Dianna Yach, who is the Chair of the Mauerberger Foundation for her kind donation to make the awards programme possible.   “The Vice-Chancellor and the committee members would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the Mauerberger Foundation Board of Trustees for considering CPUT as a beneficiary and for the continued support we have received.”  

Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chris Nhlapo conveyed his gratitude to the donor and expressed the importance of transforming academia in South Africa as that will showcase black excellence and scholarship. “[This will help in] developing [the] next generation of scholars that will be inspiring, and [become] role models for young people and aspirant academics.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The Executive Director in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Driekie Hay-Swemmer, distinguishes herself as a servant leader.

One of her biggest wishes is to assist colleagues in becoming the best they can be. “I want to plough back my knowledge and experiences and [I] want to see CPUT being a leading university of technology, known for excellence and ethical leadership,” Hay-Swemmer declares. The Cape Town-born academic studied at Stellenbosch University, after matriculating from Grabouw High School.

Both her parents left school when they were 16 years old.  Because of this, she grew up “poor” and had to work during school and university holidays.  “I was a first-generation student and the only one of my siblings to attend university,” she says.

“My parents were salt of the earth people and taught me the value of hard work, honesty, perseverance, loyalty and to never give up.”

The youngest of four girls, Hay-Swemmer’s first job was that of an isiXhosa teacher and she spent most of her career in Bloemfontein at the University of the Free State.  She joined CPUT in December 2019 from the BA ISAGO University in Gaborone Botswana where she was the Vice-Chancellor since July 2018. She adds that she has faced many challenges to get to where she is today. “It was certainly not easy.  I raised three children as a single mother, [while] on the other hand trying to build my career while being the best mother I could be,” she says.

“I hardly ever took holidays, worked over weekends and worked 18 hours per day.  Fortunately, I love my discipline and my job – work is easier if you are passionate about it.” 

Hay-Swemmer had to learn to be assertive in ‘a man’s world’ as she was often the only female or one of two females on an executive team.  “I had to break down the stereotyping of female leaders in senior positions and [I] was always mindful that I must be a role model for all my female colleagues – especially those younger than me.”

She says her love for knowledge and lifelong learning, to work on her weaknesses, to stand up when she falls, to turn a challenge into an opportunity and to have a sense of humour, keeps her going when things get tough and help her to see the bright side of life.

Obtaining a PhD was certainly a big highlight for her – especially being the first and only one to obtain a PhD in her family.  Becoming a full professor was another big milestone for her.  “All the hard work paid off, all the long and lonely nights doing my research and writing articles came to fruition.  I was proud when I was appointed a DVC Academic.”

However, she feels that women are still underrepresented in senior management positions in higher education.  “I believe more needs to be done to create growth opportunities for women.  They should be more supported and affirmed.  Successful female leaders in higher education should not underestimate their role to mentor upcoming leaders.  Sadly, everyone talks about mentorship but we do not see much of it in real life.”

In her position at CPUT, she supports the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chris Nhlapo, in his very challenging role.  Apart from that, the following divisions report to her: Quality Assurance, Academic Planning and Institutional Research, Advancement, Marketing and Communication, Transformation and Internal Audit and Risk management.

The ‘very straightforward’ person who cares for people advises young women, “to be comfortable with yourself, who you are and never allow those titles and success to get to your head”. Hay-Swemmer believes that CPUT is playing a leading role in sensitising staff, students and the broader CPUT community on the important role of women in society. However, she says: “There is more to be done to empower women in higher education.  More mentorship programmes are necessary and maybe we should seriously consider an academy for female leaders in higher education.”

*For the duration of Women’s Month, we will be profiling several high profile CPUT women whose achievements and activities help us to become One SMART CPUT.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The Chairperson of the CPUT Council, Ms Nogolide Nojozi, has announced the appointment of Dr Chris Nhlapo as the new Vice-Chancellor of CPUT. 

The university embarked on an extensive and robust selection process, which was transparent, inclusive and credible, in order to guarantee a fair outcome. This process included the appointment of an external executive recruitment specialist, a public presentation by the shortlisted candidates to the university community and an intensive interview conducted by a diverse panel representing stakeholders from various constituencies at the institution.

On conclusion of the above processes, the Search and Selection Committee for Senior Appointments thoroughly debated the appointability of the candidates as well as the merits of the appointment. Ultimately, the committee recommended the appointment of Dr Nhlapo on a 5-year fixed term contract.

The CPUT Council is confident that the Process for the Appointment of Senior Management was conducted in a fair and transparent manner, having due regard to the relevant and applicable prescripts, hence the recommendation was unanimously endorsed at Senate and also unanimously accepted by Council.

“Council unanimously supported Dr Nhlapo’s appointment and looks forward to working with him to implement the CPUT Vision 2030. I also call on all university stakeholders to give Nhlapo the necessary support during his tenure as Vice Chancellor,” said Nojozi.

Dr Nhlapo has been serving as acting Vice-Chancellor since August 2017.

“As Acting Vice-Chancellor Dr Nhlapo did an excellent job stabilising campuses and ensuring the continuation of the academic programme under very trying conditions in 2017,” said Nojozi.
He previously held the position of the first ever Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships at CPUT. During that tenure he authored the Research, Technology and Innovation Blueprint for the institution that underpins the university’s Vision 2020. This blueprint is based on 7 focus areas based on the university’s strengths which are bio-economy and biotechnology, space science and technology, energy, climate change and environment, human and social dynamics (including issues related to service delivery), economic growth and international competitiveness and design for sustainability.

Dr Nhlapo has occupied a number of senior positions at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Science Councils. He was the Head of Chemistry at the Universities of the North and the Free State before joining the National Research Foundation (NRF). One of his many highlights whilst employed by the NRF was the development of various strategic documents and guidelines on strengthening the HEIs Management and Leadership Capabilities in establishing research collaborations support and sustaining existing research collaborations.

“I am thrilled and humbled to be appointed as the third Vice-Chancellor of CPUT. The task I face is complex. During my acting period, I started with the conceptual underpinning of Vision 2030 for the institution. I am looking forward to completing this plan and rolling it out to enable the institution to respond to the challenges such as the 4th Industrial revolution, known as Industry 4.0, sustainable development and South Africa’s National Development Plan,” said Dr Nhlapo.

Written by CPUT News
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CPUT celebrated the recipients of the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards during a recent ceremony held at the Bellville Campus.

The purpose of the awards is to provide financial support to CPUT students on their journey to completing their Master’s or Doctoral studies. It is aimed at student who have achieved excellent results throughout their academic studies and who show a potential to contribute to society.

The 2023 recipients each received a certificate during the ceremony and were given the opportunity to present their research topics. Graduates of the programme were also given an opportunity to share their stories.

They 2023 recipients are:

Oritonda Muribwathoho (Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering) - Research title: Development of metal matrix composites suitable for hulls and ship decks

Murendeni Nethengwe (Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Sciences) - Research title: Evaluation of antioxidant potential and mechanism of action of phenolic compounds from South African indigenous plants used in the management of diabetes-related male infertility

Shaun Mgoma (Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering) - Research title: Recovery of valuable compounds from agricultural food using green technologies: Process design and Techno-economic analysis

Bongisiwe Zozo (Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry) - Research title: Purification and characterisation of the native black soldier fly larva Protein

Mzoxolo Ntabeni (Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering) - Research title: The influence of academic and industry-specific project management qualifications on the effectiveness of project managers in the construction industry

Nontle Mbana (Doctor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering) - Research title: Development of an optimal fabrication procedure for producing aluminium based surface composites

Sindisiwe Ntsondwa (Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering) - Research title: Development of catalysts for enhancement of H2 sorption kinetics for intermetallic hydride storage application

Mfundo Radebe (Master of PR & Communication Management) - Research title - An Assessment of the integration of social media in news production in selected community radio stations in Gqeberha

The awardees all thanked the donors and the committee for the investment in their education.

Murendeni said not only had the award helped her to focus on her studies without worrying about finances but it has also boosted her confidence.  

She said she would continue to strive to make a difference in her community.

Prof Joseph Kioko, chairperson of the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards Committee, said that since the programme started in 2018, a total of 21 students have been awarded and of these, 13 have completed their degrees, with 10 having graduated.

He thanked the programme’s donor, the Mauerberger Foundation Fund, under the leadership of Adv. Dianna Yach.

“The impact of the Foundation’s generosity and support for our students will ripple across many generations in many communities.”

Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo said the awards are bestowed annually to deserving students who have shown academic excellence and an embodiment of the CPUT graduate attributes.

“This afternoon, we are celebrating people who think they can, we are celebrating people who have demonstrated the power of choice.”

Yach said the awardees had already shown that nothing would deter them from reaching their dreams.

“I want to congratulate you all on your outstanding academic achievement. But I also want to stress.. it’s not so much the theories and the ideas that we gather through reading and knowledge seeking, it’s the human factor that makes the difference.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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More than 400 graduants from the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences will be capped this morning, including the recipient of the Vice-Chancellor’s medal.

Elzane Bishop, who will be awarded a BSc in Diagnostic Radiography cum laude (86%), said it is a great honour to have been selected for the Vice-Chancellor's medal.

She said the secret to her success is consistent hard work “after hours, weekends and even holidays”.

“I set myself a goal at the beginning of the four years of studying and was determined to reach that 80% average goal of mine”.

She is doing her community service year as a diagnostic radiographer at Karl Bremer Hospital.

Community work and upliftment are a passion for her, and she hopes to use her training and skills to better other people's lives. “

Elzane is grateful for the guidance from her Lord and Saviour and for the support of her family and fellow classmates who participated in her journey. She thanks her lecturers and CPUT for providing her with the opportunity to be rewarded for her hard work.

Head of the Department (HOD) of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences (MITS), Dr Merlisa Kemp, said: “As HOD, I am very proud of Elzane and her achievement. She has made me proud, as well as all the MITS staff who walked the BSc journey with her.”

The recipient of the Dean’s medal will also be announced during this morning’s ceremony.

The recipient is Fadzisai Makonyonga, who passed her BTech in Nursing with an average of 82.6%.

She is a Zimbabwean with formal refugee status in South Africa

Makonyonga matriculated at the St Francis of Assisi High School in Zimbabwe in 1998 with eight distinctions out of ten subjects. In 2014, she obtained a Master’s Degree in Research Psychology from the University of the Western Cape, but it was a career in Nursing, which was her ultimate calling and dream.

Makonyonga has three young children and often has to accompany her minor son to the hospital during the winter months, as he suffers from severe asthma. Despite all these stumbling blocks, she diligently applied herself to her studies and patients.

She is a registered nurse in the surgical ward at Vincent Pallotti Hospital.

Another highlight of this morning’s ceremony will be the awarding of a PhD in Biomedical Science to Jumoke Aboyewa, supervised by Prof Oluwafemi O. Oguntibeju, with Prof Mervin Meyer.

The thesis title is The Role of Gold Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Extracts of Cyclopia Intermedia in the Anticancer Efficacy of Cyclopia Intermedia in the Anticancer Efficacy of Doxorubicin.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Three new Master’s and four returning PhD students are the proud recipients of this year’s Vice-Chancellor’s (VC) Prestigious Achievers Award.

Their names were announced at a virtual award ceremony held recently. The grateful students who received the awards are: Bimpe Omolara Alabi (Doctor of Engineering in Civil Engineering), Justine Angadam (Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Health), Zamavangeli Mdletshe (Doctor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering), Melody Ruvimbo Mukandi (Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering), Namhla Matwa (Master of Sport Management),  Anza Ramatsia (Master of Sports Management) and Nontsikelelo Noxolo Tafu (Master of Food Science and Technology). 

The VC Prestigious Achievers Awards committee chairperson, Prof Janet Condy said at the end of a very critical review of all the applicants, “we selected three new Master’s students... Despite being mindful of transformation issues, trying to balance gender and race, in the end we had three females, all three from South Africa,” Condy continues.

“So, to all the students who have been awardees,  your hard work, commitment and achievements are inspirational to all of us and you are a shining beacon to all the staff and students at CPUT.”

The Doctoral students are awarded R120,000.00 per year for three years, depending on the receipt of good progress reports. Master’s students are awarded R100,000.00 for two years, also depending on the receipt of good progress reports.

The Vice-Chancellor, via the VC Prestigious Achievers Awards CPUT website, receives abundant applications from academically performing students to fund their education. The aim of this award is to financially assist CPUT students in completing their Master’s or Doctoral studies, who have achieved excellent results throughout their academic studies and who show a potential contribution to our society.

This award which was started in 2019 is conferred every year to deserving students who have shown academic excellence and an embodiment of the CPUT graduate attributes. Speaking at the event, Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chris Nhlapo said the CPUT management aimed to build future academics who will contribute to the transformation of the higher education sector. “This is a momentous occasion on the calendar of CPUT,” Nhlapo enthused.

“We must celebrate excellence and make sure we support the excelling students.”

Prof Janet Condy said they assessed the 2020 recipients and budget to make a decision to continue to support the current four Doctoral students (R120 000 per annum) and three new Master’s students (each receive R100,000 per annum).

Alabi, one of the recipients, said: “Many thanks for this opportunity, I will always be grateful.” Ramatsia, another recipient, said: “I would like to extend my gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor and the donors. I hope this initiative continues its impact on students.”

Condy added that the person who has made “this experience possible is Advocate Dianne Yach, who is the Chairperson of the Mauerberg Foundation Fund, but unfortunately she is ill so will not be with us today”.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo recently hosted Dr Moncef Meddeb and Vincent Perrier, a delegation from the Embassy of France in South Africa, at the Cape Town Hotel School.

Nhlapo said the purpose of the visit was to strengthen CPUT’s current collaboration partnerships with the French, “taking the lessons learnt from the successful F’SATI (French South African Institute of Technology) and expanding to the North and West of France”.  The Vice-Chancellor said: “We want to strengthen staff and student exchanges… How CPUT will participate in the one-week in-person event in France dedicated to promoting the South African higher education and research landscapes.”

The Embassy of France in South Africa is organising the efforts with all French and South African stakeholders to arrange a one-week in-person event in France devoted to advancing the South African higher education and research landscapes between all involved Higher Education Institutions in France.  “The participation of the South African universities is key for a successful week and to achieve the objective of expanding the bilateral scientific and academic cooperation. All South African universities are invited to express their interests and participate in this week-long event in France, to be held between 27 June 2022 and 2 July 2022,” the French Embassy statement read.

The event will include presentations and discussions to showcase the South African academic landscape and current partnerships and “discuss the existing instruments and some relevant ideas and avenues for future partnerships. All French Higher Education Institutions are invited to attend and contribute to the discussions”.

During the event at the hotel school, Prof Veruscha Fester, Assistant Dean: Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships, Dr Bongani Ncube and Prof Oscar Philander gave presentations and gave an overview of the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment. Meanwhile, Prof Joseph Kioko, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, with Prof Jessy Van Wyk, Dr Sune Henning, and Prof Maretha Opperman, provided presentations and an overview of the Faculty of Applied Sciences.

Reflecting on the outcomes of the event, Nhlapo said: “It was an excellent meeting with great ideas and possibilities being that of including Applied Sciences (Agrifood Technology Station, Chocolate making etc) and Water Research, especially the newly acquired Research Chair by Dr Ncube from Engineering,” he continued.

“As we normally say, ‘collaborate or collapse, we believe in collapsing the boundaries to collaboration’. It means increasing our footprint in France and consolidating the successful partnership we already have with the French. It also means strengthening and monitoring our current programme with the French.”

After a closed meeting, Nhlapo also revealed some of his agreements with the delegation: "We agreed on several initiatives to strengthen and sustain our relations. We agreed on staff and student exchanges. We also agreed with them assisting us in our recruitment drive for a Research Chair in Nano-Satellite”.

Nhlapo also revealed that the University aims to expand the hotel school, “They [French] are also known for the art of French Gastronomy”. “Ferrandi, at the heart of Paris, is known worldwide in culinary arts and hospitality management. It is, therefore, our intention to strengthen this area for our Hotel School.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce

Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chris Nhlapo is humbled and excited at the same time but ready for the challenge ahead after he was appointed as Deputy Chairperson of Technological Higher Education Network South Africa (THENSA), a non-profit company, at the THENSA Board meeting held recently.

THENSA, formerly South African Technology Network (SATN) was established in 2006 by five South African Universities of Technology (UoTs), namely, CPUT, Durban University of Technology, Central University of Technology, Tshwane University of Technology and the Vaal University of Technology, and resulted in the registration of the SATN trust in August 2008. The SATN became the collective voice of UoTs to provide a common platform for discussion on matters pertaining to higher education and to share leverage existing competencies of the member institutions. The change of name in 2019 to THENSA) was an outcome of the change in its membership to include all technology focussed institutions, the teaching, learning, research, and innovation agendas that it set itself. 

Following the resignation with immediate effect of former THENSA’s Deputy Chair, Prof Henk de Jager, a vacancy arose at the THENSA. At the  Board meeting it was agreed that the voting for Deputy Chairperson of THENSA will ensue, Nhlapo was nominated and he accepted the nomination as one of  three nominees and he was fittingly appointed as the Deputy Chairperson of THENSA from January 2022.

Reflecting on his appointment, Nhlapo said: “I am sure the confidence and trust that my fellow Vice-Chancellors have in me and the contribution made having been part of formerly SATN and now THENSA did not go unnoticed. This vote of confidence is not taken for granted as it is a major responsibility and an enormous task to champion the cause of UoT in South Africa and the globe.” He said his appointment gives him a platform to reposition and make a strong value proposition for Universities of Technology in the South African National System of Innovation (SANSI). “It gives one a platform to reignite the debate about the role and place of Universities of Technology in the context of the South African higher education landscape,” Nhlapo continued.

“It also gives us, as a collective, an opportunity to reflect deeply about our unique strength in Applied space especially within Fourth Industrial Revolution, Society 5.0 and WIL that really speaks to our DNA as a sector. As CPUT, we believe in the UoTs and our DNA is very clear - hence One Smart CPUT or the dream of being MIT of Africa.”

Nhlapo added: “THENSA is new but I think driving strong collaboration and not unnecessary competition amongst UoTs will take us somewhere. We just need to identify joint projects, joint supervision, joint moderation, and the sky will be the limit. Some of these activities are already happening. Lastly, supporting and learning from the chair and current fellow vice-chancellors.”

He attributed his success to “hard work, respecting one's career and constantly learning from”. “Never stop learning because life never stop teaching.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chris Nhlapo, recently delivered his state of the university address to hundreds of staff members at the Bellville Sports Fields.

Nhlapo welcomed the staff members, who were dressed in blue and white, and travelled from the various campuses to attend the event and said that while the institution had had its teething problems, CPUT was now a young adult at the precipice of great opportunity.

The Vice-Chancellor highlighted some of the progress made in 2022 and how it aligns to the institution’s Vision 2030 aspirations.

These successes included:

CPUT played a pivotal role in launching Africa’s first constellation of satellites. These satellites ensure that South Africa’s marine and coastal resources are secured and puts CPUT at the forefront of Africa’s space ambitions.

CPUT has partnered with Eskom to play its part in solving the country’s crippling energy crisis. Our South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre is working with Eskom to reskill its workers from decommissioned power stations to be retrained in critical renewable energy sectors.

CPUT was the first institution, through our Faculty of Education, to develop the Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education which is scheduled for application in the year 2024.

The institution has also rolled out a suite of new qualifications, like the Postgraduate Diploma in Mathematical Sciences, which has a strong foundation in Data Science.

Nhlapo said CPUT is the university of choice for the people of South Africa, The university has space for 18 500 students in campus accommodation with a plethora of alternatives like accredited and unaccredited options.

“No other university can boast housing 43% of its student body in residence the way we can. And while it may not be perfect, I believe our student-centric approach to housing has been a game changer. Today I commend the staff members who are at the coalface of this challenge, the ones who work late into the night and through weekends to vet and place these walk-ins. We see your hard work and we appreciate it.”

He added that CPUT received over 450 000 applications for study in 2023.

“My reflections on 2022 were done so that we can see the value of planning appropriately and sowing seeds today, that can reap benefits later. It is said that effective people do not start with their tasks, they start with their time available, and plan accordingly.

There is always a choice on how to best to use our limited time, I hope I have sparked an idea in you on what your future self can look like when we meet here again in 2024.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Abenathi Ntelezi, who has been named the Vice-Chancellor’s Medal recipient, has no doubt that she deserves this award; “the effort put in is well worth the results, and I am grateful that the university recognises all of our hard work we put into our studies”.

The Vice-Chancellor’s medal is awarded to the “top” Advanced Diploma student who graduates at the graduation ceremony.

For the Advanced Diploma student, the highest average mark is calculated for all subjects over all four years of study at the institution. The student must have passed all courses at the first attempt and have completed the “four-year” qualification in the minimum time permissible.

The Vice-Chancellor is presented with a list of approximately five “top” students at the institution based on the average marks obtained for all subjects. The Vice-Chancellor has the discretion to invoke other criteria in determining which of these students should be awarded the medal, such as leadership qualities, contribution to society and/ or student development, strength of character, and so forth.

Abenathi, who graduated with her Advanced Diploma in Tourism Management, says: “My path to this accomplishment is similar to that of those who have received the award in previous years. The only difference, in my opinion, is knowing and trusting God.” The bubbly A student started this journey with few resources to help make it easier, and it was far from easy. In her first year, she remembers travelling from her home, Khayelitsha, to campus every day, arriving early for class and leaving late at night because the environment at home was not conducive to learning.

When the Covid-19 pandemic broke out in 2020, it made matters worse for her. Abenathi, who is the only child with matric in a family of four children doesn’t recall receiving a grade below 80%, working tirelessly and with determination. Losing her father, who passed away when she was still in high school and being raised by a single parent, “a very strong and prayerful woman”, who works as a domestic worker didn’t deter Abenathi’s dream to “greatness”.

However, this top achiever has never imagined herself in this field; in high school, she studied Maths and Science, and Abenathi always assumed that was where her destiny was. She discovered and fell in love with Tourism while attending Northlink College in 2018, where she graduated as the top achiever in Utilities and General Studies, earning trophies and certificates for this category, and obtaining six distinctions out of seven in her final year, with an average of 86%. After finishing the course, “I knew I wanted to study at CPUT the following year”.

In 2019, she enrolled for the Diploma in Tourism Management programme at CPUT and graduated in 2021 with an average of 87% and a Summa cum laude status. It didn't stop there; in 2022, she enrolled in the Advanced Diploma in Tourism Management, passing all of her subjects with distinctions, with the highest mark being 96% and the lowest being 86%, with a Summa cum laude status and being the top achiever in the entire university, with an average of 92,5%.

In her second year at CPUT, through academic excellence, Abenathi was selected for the exchange programme at two universities in Germany, Worms University of Applied Sciences and Osnabrück University.

“Reaching this incredible accomplishment was not without its challenges, which I believe pushed me to [be] where I am today.”

She also acknowledged the support she receives from her lecturers from her first year; “they have all outperformed their roles and gone above and beyond to help me”. “They’re not only the driving forces behind this award, but they have always pushed me to reach my full potential. I have never seen anyone who was marked critically as I was on my papers; I would complain at times about how many papers were marked in comparison to the other students, but I realised that they knew my potential and were unlocking it by doing so.”

Abenathi says one of the best comments her lecturers would make was about her academic writing, how she articulates in speaking and writing, and how she reasons and analyses complex concepts. “They pushed me to achieve all of these qualifications, and some of them have even requested to be my supervisors when I do my master’s next year.

“This one is dedicated to my department, the Tourism and Events Management Department, because it would not have been possible without their assistance… Simply being intelligent is insufficient; without discipline and sacrifice, you may not amount to anything. This speaks to having the discipline to commit and the discipline to recognise that anything worthwhile requires some level of sacrifice. One of my guiding principles is that I know I am destined for greatness, Psalms 46:5 ‘God is within her, she will not fall’.”

Prof Paul Green, Dean: Faculty of Business & Management Sciences, said Facult: "I am extremely proud of Abenathi’s excellent academic performance." Green said Abenathi's academic excellence is a testament of her conscientious and disciplined approach to her studies. She is indeed a role model to other students within the Faculty and we will observe her academic trajectory with great interest."

Head of Department: Tourism and Events Management, Mandisa Silo, says they are excited about Abenathi being awarded the Vice-Chancellor’s Medal. “This is testimony to her hard work and intentional pursuit of academic excellence.” Silo also reveals that Abenathi has displayed exceptional leadership potential throughout her studies and that the department has appointed her as [a] tutor, mentor and most recently, Teacher's Assistant.

“Indeed, this is well deserving, and the department congratulates Abenathi on this prestigious award.”

In her acceptance message in the graduation book, Abenathi said: “Thank you for considering me for the VC’s Merit Award. This is the greatest opportunity I have ever had, and I have always believed that it would come to pass one day, as everything is possible with God.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Five exceptional postgraduate students have been announced as the recipients of the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards for 2024.

The programme supports postgraduate students who have shown academic excellence and embody the University’s graduate attributes.

This year a record of 38 applications were received from postgraduate students hailing from across the continent.

The five outstanding candidates selected were celebrated during a recent ceremony at the Bellville Campus, where they also had the opportunity to do a short presentation on their research areas or topics.

They are:

Nomnqophiso Zantanta (Doctor of Horticulture) - Research title: The feasibility of soilless cultivation of selected indigenous legumes as fodder crops for small scale livestock farming in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa

Kudzai Mugejo (Doctor of Engineering in Civil Engineering) - Research title: Infrastructure performance and water governance for climate change adaptation in smallholder farming systems in the Western Cape, South Africa.

Rentia van Heerden (Doctor of Business and Management Sciences in Business and Information Administration) - Research title: Navigating the consequences of occupational health and safety Influences for flexible work practices in a public health sector.

Rinae Ndou (Master of Food Science and Technology) - Research title: Physicochemical, nutritional, and sensory properties of gluten-free conventional and steamed bread from Bambara Groundnut, Sorghum, Cassava and Cocoyam flour composites.

Phakama Ngwane (Master of Business Management: Hospitality Management) - Research title: The effect of sustainable practices on hotel performance in Cape Town.

Prof Joseph Kioko, chairperson of the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards Committee, said it was an immeasurable honour to chair the awards.

He said all of the recipients were cum laude students and embody the CPUT graduate attributes.

Since the inception of the programme, 26 awards have been made and 11 recipients have already graduated.

“I implore all the recipients, to make your own contribution, in your own way, to the success of others,” he said.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo said his key message to the recipients was “to always transform your daily grind into a source of daily joy.”

“You must always strive to get better at getting better, improving at improving. And define your identity in terms of values, not opinions.”

He expressed the university’s gratitude to the Mauerberger Foundation Fund (MFF) and its chairperson, Advocate Dianna Yach, for making the programme possible.

In her message to the achievers, Yach stated that the MFF’s support for the programme stems from their longstanding commitment to growing future leaders who are devoted to serving society in diverse ways through advancing social justice, ethics, good governance and human rights.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Journalist, author and proud CPUT alumna, Dr Candice Bailey, was the guest speaker at the Vice-Chancellor’s annual media mingle, recently held at the CPUT Business Lounge.

The event was attended by journalists from media houses across the city, including Deputy Press Ombudsman Tyrone August and former Press Ombudsman, Pippa Green.

Bailey is one of the authors of the recently published book, We Were Always Here – Stories of Black Inventors across the African Diaspora, which celebrates the pioneering roles played by Africans and their inventions.

The conversation centred around African innovation and finding inspiration in the ordinary.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo said he was proud that Bailey was an alumna from one of CPUT’s heritage institution’s, Peninsula Technikon, and very pleased with the topic she had chosen – African innovation.

He said the institution boasted a number of technologies and innovations and had filed a number of patents, while the university would be launching its next satellite mission next year.

“We are really happy about where we are going as an institution,” said Nhlapo.

He said it was a privilege to welcome so many journalists to the event, which was also an opportunity to showcase the Business Lounge, which is situated inside the Hanover Residence on the District Six campus. Nhlapo said he was happy that many of the journalists were CPUT alumni.

Bailey shared some of the stories included in the book, including the inspirational tale of Richard Turere, inventor of the Lion Lights system, which deters lions from attacking livestock.

She said the book catalogues the stories of 40 African innovators who found solutions to everyday problems.

Bailey who started her career at the Cape Argus in 2003, said she “never thought that as a young brown girl from the gang-infested Kensington, that she’d have the power to inform the narrative”.

“I didn’t believe that my limited life experience could inform the news of the day and I didn’t think that one day I’d be part of the two percent of the country’s women that are bestowed doctoral degrees,” she said.

She left the audience with the following thought: “How are you going to contribute to encouraging black and brown girls and boys to find inspiration in the ordinary?”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Coming from a family which is deeply ingrained in the values of unity, shared experiences, and collective resilience has shaped the academic success and personal growth of Melody Mukandi, a recipient of the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Award , who graduated with her Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering this afternoon.

The elated Zimbabwean-born graduate said: “Every family harbours a unique essence that propels its members through life’s daily demands. For me, it was a maternal figure, having endured the loss of her mother at a tender age, my mother took it upon herself to display unwavering support to her children without restrictions, instilling in me an intrinsic drive, free from the need for external validation, and nurtured by unwavering support.”

Mukandi enrolled for a Diploma in Biotechnology in CPUT in 2011. Graduating in 2014, she furthered her studies with a BTech in Biomedical Technology, followed by a Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering, passing both cum laude. She embarked on a Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering, publishing several manuscripts in Q1/Q2 scientific journals. Her journey to where she is today required resilience against financial and social challenges, coupled with “unwavering support from my supervisors, Prof Karabo Ntwampe and Prof Mushe Basitere, as well as from my family and friends”.

“My mother serves as my primary inspiration and role model, always prioritising my well-being and having my interests at heart, hence, her contributions are loudly noticeable.” She also acknowledges that her journey has been a roller coaster ride. “Covid-19 posed significant challenges, delaying my project due to equipment delivery issues. Financial and social struggles also threatened my academic journey at times to the point that I almost walked away from everything.

“Nonetheless, being one of the first recipients of the Mwalimu Nyerere African Union Scholarship grant at CPUT and also receiving the CPUT’s Vice-Chancellor Prestigious Achiever’s award were notable highlights.”

Currently, Mukandi is seeking employment or a fellowship. “The Vice-Chancellor Prestigious Achievers Award provided critical financial relief during a challenging period, enabling me to persevere and complete my studies. I am forever grateful to the Vice-Chancellor and his team.”

She adds that life has its challenges in general and towards the end of her studies when she was overwhelmed and contemplated giving up, the award was instrumental in overcoming the challenges, providing accommodation and financial support that allowed her to focus on completing her research.

Mukandi also acknlowdges the support from CPUT staff , stating that “their guidance and technical assistance was invaluable, particularly Mrs Hannelene Small, Mr Alwyn Bester, and the Biotechnology team. “This includes the supervisors who patiently guided me through the doctoral study. The Bioresource Engineering Research group at CPUT, became a home, and a nourishing environment to conduct high level research, thus instrumental in my academic success.” The academic, who considers herself as proactive finds solace in nature and enjoy going for walks during her free time. The hardworking individual who is driven by results, believes that if she can achieve her goals, anyone can. “To aspiring students, particularly young women, I encourage you not to be confined by societal norms; you are capable of achieving greatness.

“If I address the younger me I would tell her that it is okay to be unique and not to try to fit in. Embrace your uniqueness and strive for excellence. Our African context presents unique challenges, but with passion and determination, you can redefine your narrative and make a meaningful impact. Navigating through life is demanding, take it one step at a time, the point is to survive not to be consumed.”

Mukandi also extends “my heartfelt gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chris Nhlapo, and the awards committee for their invaluable financial support during challenging times”. “I hope that future initiatives will consider integrating award recipients into the workforce to maximise the socio-economic contributions of young talents. Additionally, a structured support system for students pursuing a thesis by publication would be beneficial, enhancing the University's publication profile.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chris Nhlapo, with his Executive Management recently held an exclusive strategic engagement session to discuss key issues that affect postgraduate students (master’s and PhD), researchers, and postdoctoral fellows.

The session was aimed at bolstering a culture of academic excellence, producing highly renowned graduates who excel in their fields of study. In his welcome address, Dr David Phaho, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Technology Innovation, and Partnerships, said these stakeholder engagements are of critical importance to “us as an engaged institution”. “Our acclaimed Strategy, V2030 puts a particular emphasis on engagement, focusing on amongst others, Smart student engagement and learning experiences.

Phaho added that Focus Area 3 of the strategy clearly articulates “our strategic intent for Smart Research Technology Innovation and Partnerships Agenda that is relevant and excellent in its knowledge production”. “Without an enabling environment for postgraduate students to succeed and strive, this and other elements of the Strategy will not be achieved.”

He said they have indicated to all the stakeholders to double the number of postgraduate students at Master’s and Doctoral levels by 2030 from “our 2022 baseline”. “Unfortunately, if you look at our current postgraduate enrolment, we are currently not on track to achieve that without specific interventions. Rather than admiring the problem, The Centre for Postgraduate Studies under the leadership of Prof [Izak] Van Zyl and the Research Development Directorate under Prof Dina Burger have set in motion initiatives to address this burning platform,” Phaho remarked.

In his keynote address, Nhlapo said: “Postgraduate students I salute you all on this auspicious occasion of the annual Vice-Chancellor's Postgraduate Engagement. What a special community you are. You’re special in the sense that you are a community that you wanted to build as Dr Phaho said we are struggling to ramp up the numbers, so you are special.”

He said it was important for the office of the Vice-Chancellor to make an open opportunity to engage about the future of the Institution and the future of the postgraduate education at CPUT. “I must also say that postgraduate engagement can positively impact the students learning communities. It can promote a sense of belonging and it can also increase positive peer communities.” Nhlapo also shared significant insights into current challenges and available support for postgraduate education, as well as highlighting the Institution’s commitment to research excellence.

Nhlapo also availed himself for the engagement session with postgraduate students which involved comments, questions and answers that were facilitated by Prof Izak van Zyl.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce

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His Excellency David Martinon, the new Ambassador of France to South Africa, Lesotho and Malawi, recently led a delegation on a visit to CPUT, where they were welcomed by Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Chris Nhlapo.

Nhlapo was accompanied by Dr David Phaho: Deputy Vice-Chancellor – Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships; Prof Judy Peter: Director: Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships; Prof Joseph Kioko: Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences; Prof Jessy Van Wyk: Indigenous Knowledge Systems Documentation Centre Project Manager in the Department of Food Science and Technology; Dr George Charimba: Acting Head of Department of Food Science and Technology; Prof Suresh Ramsuroop: Dean: Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment amongst others.

The visitors included Sophie Bel, Consul General of France in Cape Town, Aurelien Leynet, Attache for science and technology and Dr Paul Cavalier, Attache for cooperation and cultural programme. The objective of the meeting was to have a good vision of the current cooperation between CPUT and French counterparts, as well as the teams in charge of each programme. There are long-standing partnerships in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment and the Department of Food Science and Technology in the Faculty of Applied Sciences.

In his opening, Nhlapo said the relationship between South Africa and France goes a long way, “And is one of the long-standing relationships, not only at a country or national level but at institutions as well, in terms of exchanges and capacity building”.

Nhlapo said there was something special about the relationships that “we have” with a number of universities in France. “It has a tendency of lasting long because the commitment from both sides is unbelievable.”

In his response, Martinon said: “I want to thank you professor and all of you for welcoming us today…I [want] to figure out how things are going between our partnerships and get to know the French expats who are around…”

Before a tour of Food Science labs/ and Agri-Food Technology Station, Van Wyk provided a brief overview of the Department of Food Science and Technology. This was followed by a tour of the French South African Institute of Technology (FSATI) labs, French South African Schneider Electric Education Centre (FSASEC) Labs and Product Lifecycle Management Competency Center (PLMCC) labs.

Reflecting on the events of the day, Dr Tasmeera Singh: Manager: International Relations, said the meeting was highly successful as the main objective of the meeting was met. “CPUT has long-entrenched historical relationships with French institutions and the French Consulate. One of the objectives of the meeting with the new ambassador was to provide an overview of the engagements CPUT has with French institutions.”

For Singh, the highlight of the day, was the visit to the Food Science and Technology labs and the three Engineering labs, where research in action was showcased and discussed. “We continue to welcome the French Ambassador's visits to CPUT to strengthen our partnerships with France and deepen our engagement with the French Embassy and Consul General.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce

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Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chris Nhlapo, with his Executive Management have reaffirmed their support for the CPUT Ladies Soccer Team through several valuable contributions and commitments, the most important being the handover of a football kit and renewed efforts to boost the development of promising young women soccer stars.

The new kit was a confidence jab for the ladies when they participated in the ongoing Varsity Shield Cup. The team is up against formidable sides such as Central University of Technology, North-West University (Potchefstroom), Wits University, The University of the Western Cape, University of Johannesburg, Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), and the University of Pretoria-Tuks from 26 to 29 July with the final showdown taking place on 9 August. All games are played at TUT.

“I am really thrilled that today we are here to hand over jerseys to the female football team and you know recently we have awarded an honorary doctorate to the Banyana Banyana coach,” said Nhlapo.

He continued: “I am actually impressed that our ladies are actually understanding that this is not only terrain [football] exclusively for men, it’s a sport that we must as the institution profile to the highest level.” Nhlapo said the history and biography of the world are made by the people. “So, our role as the institution is very easy, to create an environment where you can be a better version of yourselves and create history. That is actually in your hands, anything that you want to be, if you want to travel the world, if you want to be a top athlete, it’s in your hands, it’s in your mind. And my role as vice-chancellor is very simple, how can I ensure that the environment is conducive for you to realise your potential. I have seen a number of trophies that you have attained, and I am saying the timing is right for CPUT to make a maximum impact.”

On behalf of students, Central SRC General Secretary, Luthando Mngqundaniso, said: “It is a privilege to stand before you today as we celebrate a significant milestone in our university's journey—the unveiling of the new kit for our ladies' soccer team. This moment is not just about the new attire; it symbolises our collective pride, unity, and unwavering support for our athletes.”

Luthando emphasised that the new kit represents more than just a uniform, saying it symbolised the university's spirit, resilience, and commitment to gender equality in sports. “Wearing it, you carry not only your personal dreams and aspirations but also the hopes and support of the entire university community.”

He also acknowledged the work of the Office of the Vice-Chancellor: “To our Vice-Chancellor and the Executive Management, thank you for your steadfast commitment to promoting sports and recognising the importance of athletics in our university. Your support plays a crucial role in the development and success of our teams, and we are immensely grateful.”

In his appreciation speech, Manager: Sports, Arts and Culture Department, Frans Mpho Mamabolo said: “Thank you VC for your support and agreeing to be here for the ladies.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce

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