CPUT has committed R2 million to the Khula project, a bold initiative aimed at developing young academics.

The initiative, whose title means 'to grow or develop' in Nguni languages, aims to address the skills gap universities face as a result of retiring academics.

The project was initially launched in 2007 following funding from the Department of Education. However, CPUT recently renewed its commitment by investing over R2m into the project.

The investment sees two candidates placed on a three-year work/study contract in each of CPUT’s six faculties. On completion of their Masters or MTech qualifications candidates are considered for permanent appointment in their respective departments.

Speaking at the re-launch, which took place at the Granger Bay campus, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Prof Anthony Staak, emphasized the importance of such a project.

“Although the programme is not new to CPUT, we still prioritise it in our planning for staff development. It supports the vision to replenish academic staff and helps us meet our equity targets in a progressive way,” said Prof Staak.

He further alluded to the need to pay greater attention to issues of transformation and diversity, and challenged faculty representatives to mentor Khula candidates.

GROWING A FUTURE: Guests at the re-launch of the Khula project, which supports the development of young academics.

Transformation Unit head, George Mvalo, who is spearheading the project, said this is ‘an exciting initiative which proves that CPUT is serious about the advancement of young academics’.

Mvalo said following a review of the programme in 2009, a number of recommendations by the Steering Committee were adopted, including expanding the programme from two years to three and reducing the departmental workload of Khula candidates in order for them to focus on their research.

The audience heard a personal reflection of a Khula candidate, Jacob Moroe, a Sports Management lecturer and an MTech student.

 “Some of the greatest challenges I faced were finding balance between all my responsibilities and initially having no lecturing experience, even though I came from industry and had the support of my department,” said Moroe.

Head of the Biomedical Sciences Department, Prof Johan Esterhuyse, gave an account of his experiences as a mentor, saying that the programme works well when candidates have good support and mentorship.

“This is one initiative where we can really congratulate ourselves for being forerunners; it’s a wonderful project when instituted properly”, said Prof Esterhuyse.

By: Thando J. Moiloa

Photos by Clive Galant (Fundani: CHED)

Written by CPUT News
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A generous donation of over R2 million will ensure that Chemical Engineering and Chemistry students secure internships within the industry.

With the current economic situation, many companies have been unable to carry the financial cost of student internship positions.

As a result, many students have been battling to find internships, which are a key component of all courses at CPUT.

But thanks to the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA), students are now assured of internships.

Manager of Co-operative Education, Fundiswa Nofemela, says the funds will allow CPUT to place students in the workplace, as well as cover the cost of their monthly stipends.

“The companies have always been willing to take students, but could not pay them. Out of this funding, we will cover the placement of 70 students,” she says.

Nofemela, who worked closely with the various departments in securing the funding, says this is a huge boost for the Work Integrated Learning programme, as a portion of the funds will be used to roll out a customized training programme for industry mentors.

“We identified a need to train industry supervisors who work closely with students. The training will equip them to be more effective in mentoring our students. We need to be sure of the training our students are getting in the workplace,” she says.

The training is a first for CPUT and will also play a major role in helping CPUT to strengthen ties with the industry.

Head of the Chemistry Department, Dr Bhekumusa Ximba also welcomed the funding.

Dr Ximba says students are required to spend a year in industry, during which they must complete a number of tasks, including a research project.

He says the funding will go a long way to ensure that students meet the requirements of their course.

By: Candes Keating

Written by CPUT News
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