CPUT academic staff members Dr Shaheed Hartley and Prof Oluwole Makinde, were recently honoured at the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) awards ceremony.

The annual awards celebrate South Africans who have made outstanding contributions to Science, Engineering, Technology and Innovation (SETI) in South Africa.

This year’s event took place on 26 May 2009 at Emperor’s Palace, Gauteng , where the winners and finalist in the categories for mentors, science communicators and black researchers were commemorated for their achievements in SETI.

Dr Hartley, Director of the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education, received the prestigious “Science Communicator for Public Awareness” award for promoting science and technology as a career in rural schools in the Breederiver-Overberg region of the Western Cape .

Dr Hartley, who holds a Doctoral qualification in Science Education from Curtin University of Technology, Perth, Australia, has a long history of involvement in community capacity building projects.

He started his career as a Science Teacher at Westridge Senior Secondary School in Mitchells Plain , where he was later appointed to head up the Science Department.

While driving the science agenda at the school, he also taught Adult Education classes and was involved in a number of community activities.

He then took a post as Manager and later Director of the Research Development Division at the University of Stellenbosch .

During his tenure at the university he completed his doctoral studies, which were directed at the evaluation of outreach projects in science and mathematics education in peri-urban and rural schools.

His exemplary work received many accolades over the years, including the University of Stellenbosch Rector’s Award for exemplary service.

Dr Hartley said he was elated “at having received such an auspicious recognition from colleagues in the industry.”

“It is always good to receive recognition by peers in your field and that they acknowledge that you are making a difference,” he said.

“I would encourage graduates that there is a future in education, both as practitioners and as researchers to improve the education system”, he said.

Prof Oluwole Makinde, Senior Professor and Chair of Postgraduate Studies in the Faculty of Engineering, was nominated for his vigorous promotion of SETI and careers in SETI to black students.

Prof Makinde has taught, supervised and served as an external examiner and promoted several students at undergraduate and postgraduate level at universities both locally and internationally.

His main area of research is in Computational and Mathematical Modelling of Engineering and Biological Systems.

He has co-authored several textbooks and monographs on a variety of subjects in Applied Mathematics and has had his research articles appear in numerous reputable Scientific and Engineering journals and conference proceedings.

He has received several academic and research excellence awards, honours and grants, and was an associate member of the National Institute for Theoretical Physics (NITheP), an editorial board member and a regular reviewer of numerous international academic journals. Prof Makinde said this achievement has given his research niche area a boost in the right direction.

“My research work will definitely move to a new level of productiveness and I will continue to provide much needed mentorship and support that is necessary for the development of essential research skills,” he said.

By the Marketing and Communication Department

Photo: (left) Dr Shaheed Hartley, Director of the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education (right) Prof Oluwole Makinde, Senior Professor and Chair of Postgraduate Studies in the Faculty of Engineering.

Written by CPUT News
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Outstanding contributions towards science, engineering, innovation and technology were acknowledged at the twelfth National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) Awards.

The winners of the 2009/10 NSTF Awards were announced at the annual Gala Dinner that took place on 4 May 2010 at Emperors Palace, Gauteng.

The Minister of Science and Technology, Ms Naledi Pandor presented the fourteen category awards on the evening.

The NSTF Awards affords an opportunity for recognition to all practising scientists, engineers, technologists and innovators across the system of innovation.

Teachers, schools and students who excelled in the mathematics, science, and technology field were also acknowledged.

The Awards represent a collaborative effort by the SET community of South Africa, made possible by the participation and sponsorship of a variety of stakeholders.

CPUT’s Prof Oluwole Daniel Makinde received recognition for his success in research in mathematical modelling and computation as well as research capacity development in challenging environments.

The NRF Sponsored T W Kambule Award to a 'senior black male researcher over the last five to ten years' was made to Prof Makinde, who is currently a Senior Professor and Chair of Postgraduate Studies in the Faculty of Engineering.

In 2009, Prof Makinde received an NSTF finalist award for outstanding contribution to science, engineering, technology and innovation.

This year, he was nominated by Dr S M Tshehla, Deputy Dean Military Science at the University of Stellenbosch.

Prof Makinde’s involvement in the NSTF is mainly through capacity development in the area of computational and mathematical sciences among previously disadvantaged communities in South Africa and beyond, as well as his contributions in the area of Computational Mathematics and Mathematical Modeling.

Over the past ten years his research work has contributed to the upliftment of students through supervision and training at Honours, Masters, PhD and post-doctoral levels.

“This achievement has given my research niche area a boost. Computational and mathematical modeling of engineering and biological systems provide a cost effective means of investigating the inherent complex dynamics embedded in them”, said Prof Makinde.

The main objective of his research work is to use mathematical theories and methodologies to gain insight into the dynamics of various engineering & biological systems which are of industrial, environmental and social interest.

“The NSTF provides a good platform for our academic staff and students to embark of quality research activities. We are here to provide adequate mentorship in order to make their dreams a reality. Research excellence is achievable and we can all contribute to the advancement of Science/Technological Innovation/New Knowledge in South Africa and Africa in general”, said Prof Makinde.

Presently, he is serving as the Secretary General of the African Mathematical Union and an Associate member of National Institute of Physics in South Africa (NIThep).

He has co-authored two textbooks, two monographs and published numerous research articles in journals and conference proceedings and has received several academic and research excellent awards, honours and grants within and outside South Africa.

He added: “I will continue to provide much needed mentorship and support that are necessary for the development of essential research skills for both academic staff and students at CPUT, other South African institutions and Africa continent in general”.

For more information and a gallery of photographs from the event visit the NSTF website at www.nstfawards.org.za.

By Thando Moiloa

Written by CPUT News
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The Fundani Centre for Higher Education Development (CHED) recently launched the Institution’s Science, Technology and Mathematics (STEM) Club at the Bellville campus.

Mathematics Support Lead and STEM Coordinator, Dr Frikkie George, said the purpose of the establishment of the STEM Club was to contribute to the two dimensions of CPUT’s V2030 – Oneness: creating a community of STEM students with Ubuntu principles, and Smartness: advancing the conceptions of technology.

STEM Club Chairperson Sarah Tshabangu said the purpose of the club was to magnify the Maths and science experiences of the students and to support them by bringing together all the STEM students and providing them with learning spaces such as boot camps.

Her deputy, Mano Tshebeletso, said their aim was to improve the quality of education through involvement in learning spaces, research projects, as well as competitions. “And also [to] invite fields professionals that are STEM related for discussions to promote general awareness and encourage networking. Furthermore, we shall interact, engage, and cooperate with other student support structures at CPUT,” Mano remarked. Fundani CHED University Capacity Development Grant Project Team member, David Haarhoff, said the student support for student success is the key focus of the Fundani CHED at CPUT. Haarhoff said the Student Learning Unit (SLU) located in Fundani CHED houses the STEM Sector, providing Mathematics and Science support for students in different departments at CPUT. The Fundani CHED STEM Club was established in April 2022 to assist with STEM support and to meet one of the imperatives of the UCDG STEM Research Project at CPUT.  “The vision and mission of the STEM Club is to build an inclusive STEM student community, fostering affinity for STEM disciplines, and lowering the STEM attrition rate – especially among students from disadvantaged background,” he said.

George said the launch signals the creation of a safe, fun and brave space for students to express themselves and improve the development of their critical thinking skills of the science and maths concepts they learn in lectures.

The launch included beautiful renditions by the CPUT choir, scientific demonstrations by the students, input from academics from University of the Western Cape, CPUT as well as the Cape Town Science Centre.

“I’m ecstatic with the positive feedback and happy that the day was successful. In terms of our broader goal, this has been a stepping stone in respect of dispelling the notion or stigma attached to STEM subjects. All external partners and internal partners are on board in helping us achieve our goal,” enthused Haarhoff.

Speaking at the event, Fundani CHED Director, Dr Xena Cupido, highlighted the importance of working towards CPUT’s Vision 2030 and STEM pedagogies supporting student success. Cupido’s address also focused on the following topics:

• Move away from student deficit approach
• Toward dialogic approach which engages students and academics in the stem sector
• Processes of co-creating curriculum can be seen as a way of promoting democratic values in higher education
• Drawing upon a democratic approach
• Emphasise that learning is closely connected to the participation, subjectification, and negotiation of meanings.
• Focus on the transference of power, authority and voice to the students in a decolonising university space - working in partnership.

“Student needs access to high-quality STEM learning experiences that affirm their identities as important members of the STEM community who are working to make the world a better place,” said Cupido.

George said the STEM Club will play a very important role in the eventual establishment of STEM Centres at the various campuses of CPUT.  He added that the launch will make the CPUT community aware of the existence of the STEM Club and the opportunity to establish partnerships and networks with external partners.

Haarhoff added that they managed to forge partnerships with stakeholders who committed to “ensuring that they are on board in terms of supporting us to ensure that our goal is achieved”. “This has opened many doors for the STEM Club, and we look forward to working together.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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CPUT will host the provincial leg of the Minquiz this year.

Minquiz is a science and mathematics quiz hosted every year by Mintek (the research and development organisation specialising in all aspects of mineral processing, extractive metallurgy and related technology).

The quiz is open to Grade 12 learners attending South African schools and tests their knowledge in physical science, mathematics and general knowledge in science, engineering and technology.

Dr Buntu Godongwana of the Department of Chemical Engineering says Minquiz is meant to invoke interest in science, engineering and technology with specific focus on mineral technology, chemistry, physics and geology.

“The competition provides an ideal platform for CPUT to market itself to prospective students by showcasing the different academic offerings and infrastructure available at the University,” Godongwana explained.

The provincial semi-finals are rotated amongst tertiary institutions and this year the Western Cape quiz will take place on May 17 at the Department of Chemical Engineering’s Science Building on CPUT’s Bellville campus.

“For the students, the Minquiz provides an opportunity to compete for honours and recognition at the national level. It also presents an exposure to minerals technology, in a customised open-day environment with chemical engineering staff from CPUT and engineers from Mintek.

“During the Minquiz academic staff and representatives from industry will be available to interact with students and answer broad questions on available opportunities for prospective chemical engineers and minerals processing technologists,” said Godongwana.

The quiz will start at 9am and finish at 2pm.

Schools are encouraged to register their team of 3 learners – check https://wcminq2018.wixsite.com/home for the rules.

Winning teams and individuals win prizes and the top two learners in two different categories proceed to the finals which will be held at Mintek headquarters in Joburg on July 19 to 20.

Written by Theresa Smith
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Provides coverage for the Applied Sciences and Engineering Faculties and the Wellington Campus.

The learners of Hangklip Primary may not realise how privileged they are after this Dean’s Medallist chose to return to her old school in Queenstown to teach.

Marche Jordaan was the top achieving student in the Education Faculty. She received the coveted Dean’s medal during the Education graduation on Friday morning for her consistent average of 85% during her studies.

With a national shortage of Mathematics, Technology and Science teachers, Jordaan could have had the pick of positions to choose from after graduation, however she says she was motivated to return home and give back.

“Teaching at my old school is a huge privilege because I always wanted to give back to the community, and I feel like this is a good way of doing that,” she says.

“I believe that is how I can make the biggest difference in children’s lives, and I know that not everyone is as advantaged as I was, so I would like to be there for those learners whose parents are perhaps not fortunate enough to be able to assist them as much as they need.”

Jordaan says her recipe for academic success was never missing an on-campus class, no matter how insignificant the lesson may have seemed.

“I also completed my assignments to the best of my ability, asked for help and learned from others.”

Written by Lauren Kansley

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Liaises with the media and writes press releases about interesting developments at CPUT.

A Complicated pregnancy and a son who was born prematurely at 30 weeks, weighing only 739g, couldn’t deter CPUT alumna Christynn Jacobs’ plan of becoming the first black female jam manufacturer in South Africa and building a legacy for “our children and the generations to come”.

The Hermanus-born businesswoman grew up in a beautiful, small fishing village called Hawston, where she attended the local primary school. She matriculated at Hermanus High School in 2003. In 2004, Jacobs enrolled for a Bachelor’s degree in Science at Stellenbosch University, but she dropped out as “I was still unsure of what career path I wanted to follow”. She took a gap year before deciding to pursue a career in food, so she enrolled at CPUT in 2006, where she completed her BTech in Food Technology in 2009.

After her studies, Jacobs worked very hard at building a successful career.  “I worked in the food industry for about 10 years. I focussed on gaining as much experience as possible to ultimately work for myself, which meant making sacrifices and working hard, long and after hours. I managed to build a very comfortable life and decided to risk it all to start my own business.”

Her humble beginnings in Hawston, which is a very close-knit community, and where people look out for each other has nurtured Jacobs to “stay humble and always remember where I come from”.

 “I was very fortunate to grow up in a large, loving family that was always supportive.  I learned a lot from them.  People are very dear to my heart, so I need to give back to my community,” she enthuses.

The hardworking, tenacious 35-year-old entrepreneur who sets very high standards for herself and others and her husband, Nigel, also her business partner, registered their Jacobs Jam Company in 2019.  Shortly after, the couple learned that they were expecting their firstborn child. During this time, they were busy setting up the business, which included writing the business plan, sourcing finance, developing products, sourcing and designing the equipment and processes, etc. “I had a complicated pregnancy, and our son was born prematurely at 30 weeks, weighing only 739 grams. He was in the Intensive Care Unit for 72 days. This meant the family room at the hospital became our office and boardroom. It was a very challenging time, but we managed to push through and make it work.”

Their “very first commercial production run was on 6 November 2020, and almost exactly a year later, on the 26th of November 2021, we obtained the titles of Entrepreneurs of the Year 2021, Best Emerging Business and Best Overall Business at the Western Cape Entrepreneurial Awards. This was an extremely proud moment”.

“Starting this business has given me independence and the creative freedom to apply my skills and knowledge to make decisions crucial to the business's success. I get to work in the field, and that is my passion. Most importantly, I wanted to be more flexible and spend more time with my family. By starting this business, I’ve achieved that, and there’s nothing more rewarding,” Jacobs continues.

“It is important to work hard to make a comfortable living, but working yourself to death and not enjoying the fruits of your labour is pointless.” 

Up until now their business focus has been on manufacturing jam and mainly for the Western Cape, however they would like to grow the business, expand into other regions, and increase their product lines.  “I’m currently working on developing other products, such as juices, sauces and bompies (ice lollies), which will launch later this year. The fundamentals, mentorship, and support that I received not only from the university but also from my partner Nigel, who is also an alumnus of CPUT, is pivotal.  It enabled us to start a business from scratch and make it the success it is today.”

She attributes her success to hard work, perseverance and sacrifice. “For me, it’s essential to build a solid foundation for my children and give them opportunities I didn’t necessarily have.

“The next mega food group must still be born, and we’re determined to be it.”  The couple has worked for big companies and climbed the corporate ladder to the top. “I, being a food technologist, and his background as a fast-moving consumer goods marketer is a rare find. It just made sense to combine our expertise and knowledge of the industry to start our own business within the food industry.”

Reflecting on juggling work and family, Jacobs says: “We’re always jamming at Jacobs household. When I am not at work, I spend quality time with my family, whether doing activities at home or going out and enjoying what our beautiful region offers.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce

Department of Biotechnology and Consumer Science lecturers Theloshni Govender and Enid Hinrichsen-Swart recently collaborated with Germany’s FH Münster University of Applied Sciences, Department of Food Nutrition Facilities.

This collaboration aims to create a global partnership and foster relationships with FH Münster University to attract international students. Govender and Hinrichsen-Swart, who is now retired, made their presentation during a five-day online seminar. The seminar was presented to 48 German students completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Home Economics and Nutrition Science.

The topic presented was food science and nutritional perspective on functional foods like South African maize flour.

The seminar consisted of nine modules and four food practicals incorporating maize meals in South African/German cuisine, presented by Govender and Hinrichsen-Swart.

“This opportunity allowed us to share our expertise in Food Science and Nutrition with an international audience… Our end goal is to build a long-lasting relationship with FH Munster University, thus creating future social interactions and educational opportunities for CPUT staff and students,” Govender continues.

“This international collaboration allowed me to showcase my knowledge and passion for South African maize meal and its nutritional and culinary versatility… I was very impressed with the enthusiasm and commitment showed by the German students to learn about the South African maize meal and culture.”

Hinrichsen-Swart says: “This international collaboration allowed me to showcase my knowledge and experience with the process of recipe development, sensory evaluation principles and the application of a food safety management system… I was very impressed with the positive attitude the German students showed towards learning about something new to them, such as the adaptation of recipes to include South African maize meal with the addition of a functional ingredient.”

Govender also reveals that there will be a rotation between lectures within the Department of Biotechnology and Consumer Science to participate in this project to ensure everyone has an opportunity to share their expertise. “Our students will also be able to learn from this international collaboration. These opportunities will allow the CPUT community to share their expertise and passion with a global audience,” Govender enthused.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce

“Make your well-being a priority and feed your body healthy food as this is your first wealth.”

This is the message from Department of Biotechnology and Consumer Science lecturer Theloshni Govender, who offers wellness tips, which serve as an educational tool to assist students in making informed and healthier food choices.  “There are many opportunities for students to make an informed healthier decision when it comes to food choices. The wellness tips provided is a start in the right direction,” Govender explains.

She offers the following tips:

• Make fruit and vegetables part of every meal.
• Try a new fruit and vegetable weekly.
• Focus on whole foods and reduce convenience foods
• Reduce portion sizes by using a smaller plate during mealtime.
• Drink at least six glasses of water daily.
• Have a vegan or vegetarian meal at least twice a week.
• Include more sustainable fish in your meal.
• Consume legumes and lentils at least three times a week.
• Have your favourite meals in moderation.
• Limit salt and sugary foods.
• Use herbs and spices to add flavour to your food.
• Plan your meals weekly, as this will eliminate your indulging in unhealthy foods.
• Prioritise sleep - at least eight hours a day.
• Exercise for 30 minutes a day.

Govender adds that obesity is a global pandemic and a public health problem in South Africa, which is illustrated by the national health survey results, which show an increase in obesity in young adults.  “The main drivers for the increase in obesity include poor eating habits, the marketing of processed foods which are high in fat, and sugar-rich beverages, insufficient physical activity and buying unhealthy food.”

She says according to the World Health Organisation, obesity greatly increases the risk of developing chronic diseases, such as type two diabetes, high blood pressure and some cancers. “Also, there are recent studies which showed that the obese COVID-19 patients get more complications and they take longer to recover.”

Her favourite quote is by Heather Morgan: “Every time you eat or drink, you are either feeding disease or fighting it” For more wellness tips, please contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce