CPUT is playing a vital role in producing South Africa’s next generation of academics and researchers.

At the university’s Postgraduate Research Day, CPUT students showcased their research activities and proved that they have what it takes to become leading academics.

From case studies on the eradication of poverty to virtual vehicle designs, students presented research papers on a variety of topics. Each student had 15 minutes to present and also field questions from a panel of CPUT academics who assessed their research and presenting skills.

Director of Postgraduate Studies, Senior Prof Daniel Makinde commended the students for their efforts as well as research supervisors, who are key to the development of CPUT’s postgraduate class.

Makinde says such events are vital for the development of young academics.

“Research communication is an integral part of postgraduate training, and is a skill that needs to be mastered early by our postgraduate students in their academic careers. If the knowledge generated is not shared in forums that provide assessment, then it may be of little or no use to the public at large, policymakers or the research community,” says Makinde.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships, Dr Chris Nhlapo, says currently the research and innovation sector is driven by mature academics.

“I am encouraged to see young researchers coming to the fore," says Nhlapo.

The event, which took place at the Bellville campus, was a first for the university, but will become an annual feature on the CPUT calendar.

By Candes Keating

Written by CPUT News
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

If you are looking for funding or need some advice on all the administration processes linked to your Mtech or Doctoral studies, then a visit to the Centre for Postgraduate Studies is a must.

With branches at the Bellville and Cape Town campuses, this one-stop-shop caters for all CPUT postgraduate students who are in need of a helping hand.

Staffed by experts in various academic fields, the centre is renowned for going that extra mile to ensure the success of each and every postgraduate student.

Recently the centre held welcome and information sessions across the CPUT campuses, which was attended by large numbers of postgraduate students.

Director of the centre, Prof Daniel Makinde urged students to make use of their services and facilities.

Services include assistance with funding, administration, research guidance and mentoring for students and research supervisors. The centre also boasts a study hall for postgraduate students, where they have access to the Internet, various computer programmes and other resources.

“CPUT provides a good environment to study and obtain your qualification,” said Prof Makinde.

Deputy-Vice Chancellor Research, Technology, Innovation and Partnerships, Dr Chris Nhlapo also urged students to make a success of their postgraduate studies.

“This is an opportunity of a lifetime,” he said.

Currently, South Africa produces just over 1000 PhD graduates a year, a low number compared to other developing countries, producing far larger numbers. During the next few years, South Africa hopes to up the number and produce up to 6 000 PhD graduates a year.

Dr Nhlapo said CPUT will play a key role in upping the PhD figures.

“We must make sure more young researchers get into the system,” he said.

By Candes Keating

Written by CPUT News
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