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

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

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

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

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

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

Written by CPUT News
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Recently, educators gathered at the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre for the Institutional Teaching Development Programme (TDP) ceremony 2024.

This event highlighted the unwavering dedication of academic staff to excellence in education. The TDP at CPUT resonates with key national and institutional priorities, including the National Framework for Enhancing Academics as University Teachers, the National University Teaching Awards (NUTA), and CPUT’s Vision 2030. The programme is designed to empower transformative university teachers who are equipped to face challenges, embrace inclusive teaching practices, and ultimately support student success.

The TDP curriculum thoughtfully addresses vital themes such as decolonising the curriculum, multilingual pedagogies, and the thoughtful integration of technology in teaching. By focusing on Oneness and Smartness, it aims to prepare educators for the unique challenges present in a university of technology context. The ceremony celebrated not just the completion of this developmental journey but also the incredible contributions that participating academics have made toward nurturing educational excellence at CPUT.

Head of Department for Academic Staff Development in Fundani CHED, Faiq Waghid, said: “This achievement serves as a reminder of the collective effort required to build an innovative and inclusive educational environment that ensures student success and contributes meaningfully to society.”

The atmosphere during the event was one of joy and fulfillment, featuring three inspiring speakers. Dr Xena Cupido shared insights on the TDP's impact at CPUT, while Waghid reflected on the programme’s evolution since its launch earlier this year. Dr Ntando Sindane from the University of the Western Cape served as the keynote speaker. Two TDP candidates also courageously shared their personal experiences, allowing the guests to connect deeply with their journeys. As candidates received their certificates, the room was filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment, celebrating their hard work and commitment.

The TDP is more than just a programme; it equips educators with the tools to create meaningful and inclusive educational experiences, ultimately benefiting students who will go on to make a positive impact in society. Within the departments, it encourages collaboration and embracing innovative teaching practices, enhancing the quality of education they provide. On an institutional level, the TDP strengthens its reputation as the leader in educational excellence, in harmony with its Vision 2030 goals.

Many candidates expressed that the programme was transformative, helping them grow into inclusive university teachers, even in the absence of a formal educational background. They emphasised the significance of incorporating student and peer feedback, which they are eager to weave into their teaching practices. Candidates reflected on how the TDP has shaped them into more thoughtful practitioners, better prepared to support both underprepared and exceptional students.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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