Professionals from various sectors recently came together at Bellville Campus for the Employee Wellness Summit, exploring how inclusive workplaces can unleash innovation, enhance employee wellbeing, and propel organisational success.

Organised by the CPUT Lifestyle and Wellness Office, under the leadership of Joyce-Lyn Esterhuizen, in partnership with the Employee Assistance Professionals Association (EAPA) South Africa (SA), and under the theme “Building Inclusive Futures,” the event underscored the vital importance of seeing employees as whole individuals rather than just workers.

In her opening remarks, Rozelda Elliot, Chapter Chairperson of EAPA-SA in the Western Cape, said that every day, they help organisations navigate complexity while helping individuals find hope, resilience and purpose. Elliot stated: “Today is more than another conference/summit on our calendar. Today represents a collective commitment to shaping workplaces that are healthier, more compassionate, more inclusive, and more human.

Our theme, "Inclusive Futures," challenges us to think beyond compliance, beyond policies, and beyond good intentions.”

She continued: “That responsibility has never been greater than it is today. We live in a world where many people arrive at work carrying invisible burdens, mental health challenges, financial pressures, trauma, caregiving responsibilities, disability, loss, and uncertainty. People don't leave these experiences at the office door. They bring their whole selves to work.”

Elliot noted that true inclusion is not about making space for someone after the building has been designed. She said it’s about designing the building so that everyone belongs from the very beginning.

In her keynote address: The Paradigm Shift Transforming EAPs: From Crisis Management to Strategic Organisational Engine, Vuyokazi Dwane, Senior Director, Human Capital, mentioned the following outcomes:

• Understand the need to shift from reactive to transformational EAP design.
• Identify critical success factors for EAP positioning and ROI demonstration.
• Become aware of collaboration opportunities within the Human Resource Department to optimise employee wellness.

Reflecting on this momentous gathering, Lucina Reddy, Employment Equity Specialist at CPUT, noted that discussions centred on creating workplace environments that recognise and respond to employees' diverse social, emotional, psychological, and professional needs. Reddy said the summit provided a valuable platform for knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and networking among employee wellbeing practitioners, human resources professionals, academics, and organisational leaders. “Participants exchanged best practices, discussed emerging workplace trends, and explored innovative solutions to strengthen Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) and broader employee wellbeing initiatives.”

She said employees spend a significant portion of their lives at work. As a result, organisations that invest in understanding and supporting their people are more likely to attract and retain talent, foster a culture of belonging, and create conditions where innovation can thrive.

“Delegates were encouraged to rethink traditional approaches to employee wellbeing and embrace more holistic and inclusive strategies.”

Reddy added that the partnership between CPUT and EAPA Western Cape demonstrated a shared commitment to advancing thought leadership and meaningful dialogue on issues affecting the modern workforce. “By bringing together expertise from academia and industry, the event fostered important conversations about the future of work and the role that inclusive, people-centred workplaces play in organisational success.”

She continued: “As workplace expectations continue to evolve, EAPA Western Cape remains dedicated to equipping its members with fresh perspectives and practical insights, while CPUT continues to provide a platform for engagement on critical social and workplace issues. Together, they are helping to shape healthier, more inclusive, and more productive workplaces where both employees and organisations can thrive.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Senior Lecturer Walter Kohlhofer began his impactful journey three decades ago at the then Peninsula Technikon (Pentech), now CPUT Bellville Campus, after answering a lunchtime call that opened the door to his future and led him to the classroom just hours later.

After years of dedication and commitment, Kohlhofer has been honoured with a Long Service Award at a recent ceremony held at Bellville Campus. “I was given four separate subjects. However, classes were smaller and more manageable. We had a more collegial atmosphere, partly due to the much smaller staff complement,” he said about his early days at the institution.

Born 60 years ago in Pinelands, Cape Town, after his parents’ move from Europe a few years before his birth, Kohlhofer attended Pinelands High School and then studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Cape Town (UCT), where he completed his bachelor's and master's degrees.

He attended a shortlisting interview at John Thompson, which was located across the road from Pentech. Four candidates were competing for the position. It was the days before mobile phones, and after the interview, Kohlhofer drove home only to be informed that Pentech had reached out regarding a position he had applied for. He then drove back and was interviewed by the Dean, the Head of Department, and the Human Resources manager.

Having previously worked as a tutor at UCT and then in the industry at Metal Box/Nampak, he felt that the academic world suited him better. During the interview, he mentioned the offer he had received from John Thompson. This occurred on a Friday afternoon. On Monday, he received a call informing him that his request had been approved and that he should start that afternoon. This marked the beginning of his journey at Pentech and later at CPUT.

Initially, academic staff spent nearly all their time on teaching-related activities. As time progressed, more and more administrative work became part of the workload. The Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) related demands and increased educational criteria have become the norm.

He has met many different characters and personalities along the journey. “I believe that interpersonal skills are more important than some academic qualifications in order to become a leader or manager. Keith Jacobs, our former acting HOD and Dean, was instrumental in creating a close-knit unit in our department. You could not always fathom his next move; however, it always benefited the department as a whole. That being said, there are many others along this journey who have made my life better, be it with work or emotional support.”

The hardest challenge he faced along the way was when his wife was retrenched shortly after they bought their house; “things became tough financially”. He says former Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof Anthony Staak in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment was instrumental in releasing money from his accumulated leave. “It was possible in the past to cover the shortfall for a few months, which saved the family.”

The flexible working hours and academic calendar have also given him holidays that are similar to his daughter’s school holidays. “The flexibility allowed me to attend nearly all her school events, sports days, concerts, etc.”

The biggest secret to staying happy and motivated in the same job for so long is that although sometimes he feels tired and unmotivated with all the extras but seeing different students and watching them change and grow and come back years later or connect on social media, wherever they are in the world, “makes it a happy place to work”.

“We don’t produce a product; we are part of the change in people, and that makes the difference.”

The former Acting Engineering Faculty WIL Coordinator says: “In general, the staff in the department and the service departments has been supportive and good. Having spent much time at the institution, one gets to know the people personally, and this helps in the daily tasks.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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A decade ago, Sipokazi Siyazi sought a transformative shift from the corporate realm to a public institution, leading her to CPUT. Her dedication and perseverance have recently been celebrated with a Long Service Award at a ceremony held at Bellville Campus.

“I have learned so many things, and for my understanding, it is not easy to change jobs, especially if there's nothing that makes you change the workplace. I love working at CPUT; it is one of those things that make me stay for this long.”

Born in Ntlalontle Village, Lady Frere, in the Eastern Cape, she attended Ntlalontle Junior Secondary before going to Mathew Goniwe Senior School.

When she arrived at CPUT, the youngest of two siblings and a mother of two sons was warmly welcomed by the staff members from the Human Capital Department. "I felt welcomed from the very first day I started," she shared. Since beginning her work here, Siyazi has not noticed any differences. "It's still the same for me, but even better because I've learned a lot and have engaged very well with my colleagues, working as a team."

Her daily routine as a kitchen assistant involves ensuring that she completes her duties efficiently, maintains a complaint-free record, delivers quality service on time, and is consistently punctual to avoid any issues. “My daily routine at work is to make sure that I fullfil my responsibilities effectively, keep complaints to a minimum, provide good service on time, and always be punctual to prevent any problems.”

Siyazi acknowledged the Public Relations and Events Coordinator, Catherine Cloete, “as the most interesting person I met on the first day when I came for an interview; she smiled at me, and even [after] all these years, I cannot fault or say anything bad about her because she never changed to me; she is still the person I met before, and the other colleagues of mine that I worked with on the sixth floor at District Six Campus, I never had any bad experience with them since then.”

She also had a word of advice for new staff members. “It's important to bring a positive attitude to work and to leave any personal problems you may be facing at home, outside of the workplace. Your attitude toward others also plays a significant role in creating a supportive environment. This positive mindset is what has allowed me to have a long and fulfilling experience working at CPUT.”

“…You just need to focus more on the workplace so that you survive and do your job; no need to be micromanaged. I have a lot of support from my colleagues.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Catharina Buckle, the Manager of the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, recently received a Long Service Award in recognition of her 35 years of dedicated service at CPUT.

She is proud to serve both the students and faculty, cherishing the opportunity to work alongside “brilliant and kind colleagues”.

Buckle was raised on a farm on the West Coast with four siblings. They were in a hostel from Grade 1 because the farm was too far from the school to fetch them every day. “[I] grew up in a small community with fond memories of sport events, dances, church fairs.” Buckle studied at Stellenbosch University to become a language teacher but changed her mind and started working at one of the heritage institutions, Cape Technikon, in January 1991. She has been happily married for 31 years and has a daughter who is a physiotherapist and a son studying BCom Mathematical Sciences at Stellenbosch University.

Reflecting on her very first day and how different the workplace is today, she says: “I was very nervous on my first day, but luckily there were several new employees who started on that day, which helped. The workplace was totally different, might be unrecognisable for many young people. We used fax machines; computers were something new to get used to, and most things were paper based.”

Buckle came to the Cape Technikon when she saw it as an opportunity to work in the beautiful Mother City. “The working environment was healthy, and the colleagues were great; we remained friends although most of the colleagues are not even in Cape Town anymore.”

While working at Cape Technikon on the current District Six Campus, she had to travel every morning from the Stellenberg area, which wasn't ideal. However, in 2006, Buckle moved to the Bellville Campus, much closer to home, “a huge bonus”. She has been in student administration for the biggest part of her career, from 1991 to 2006. From 2006 to 2014, she worked in the Registrar's Division, and then returned to student administration.

Buckle described the late Prof Thandi Matsha-Erasmus, a distinguished former staff member of CPUT and the former Vice-Chancellor of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, as the most interesting person she met and worked with during her career.

“She changed the way I looked at leaders; she was a strong, funny, firm, passionate, kind leader.”

She notes: “I am proud to serve the students and faculty and to work with brilliant, kind colleagues. The funniest memory I cannot reveal.” Instead of focusing on the challenge, she tries to find a solution. However, the unrest was always difficult for her, as well as COVID, because “we had to change the way we do things, but we also learnt a lot from it”. She always tries her best to balance her career and family time. “I am always trying to give my best and be present, although this proved to be difficult at times, wherever I am, whether at home or at work.”

Her biggest secret to staying happy and motivated in the same job for so long has been her connection with students and colleagues. She advised new staff members to appreciate the opportunity and to give their best. Buckle has only one word to describe the support from her colleagues: “ incredible”.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Whether supporting institutional events, engaging with prospective students, or representing the university in various communities, Kurt Mitchel always strives to make a meaningful contribution.

Mitchell, who works in the Marketing and Communication Department, was recently awarded a Long Service Award after 15 years of dedicated service to CPUT and first joined the institution as a Technical Assistant within the Division of Student Affairs. His role included supporting the student radio station, providing sound engineering services for institutional and departmental events, managing CPUT's social media platforms and assisting various departments across the university.

“My current job title is still Technical Assistant. However, I have up until recently been seconded to the role of a Student Recruitment Officer for the past year. This has allowed me the opportunity to make a direct impact with prospective students, visiting various schools and engaging and partnering with various government entities on a provincial and national level. I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to be the person I wanted when I was at high school, to be the person to show them the opportunities available to them, to help them create their futures.”

Reflecting on his journey at CPUT, he credits much of his growth to the support and encouragement of his colleagues.

"What I enjoy most are my colleagues. The guidance, trust and responsibility I have been given, together with the belief others have shown in me, have inspired me to keep improving, do more and continually strive to grow both personally and professionally."

Among the many memorable moments during his career, one experience stands out above the rest. He recently represented CPUT at the Department of Higher Education and Training's Overberg District event, where he addressed a large audience of prospective students for the first time.

"It was the first time I presented to so many young people from a stage," he said. "After the presentation, many learners came to speak to me at the exhibition stand. Knowing that I had sparked their curiosity about CPUT and their future made the experience incredibly rewarding."

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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"Respect your colleagues and respect yourself."

These simple yet powerful words have guided Masonwabi Fini throughout his career at CPUT. Having joined the institution in 1995, he was recently recognised with a Long Service Award in honour of his 30 years of dedicated service.

Fini began his journey at the then Peninsula Technikon as a gardener before being promoted to work in irrigation, a career milestone he describes as one of the highlights of his time at the university.

Over the years, he has also appreciated the many opportunities CPUT has provided, including the privilege of seeing one of his children study at the university.

Today, his responsibilities include the campus swimming pools and the iconic fountain on the Bellville Campus, helping to ensure that the university's facilities remain functional and welcoming.

Reflecting on three decades of service, Fini encourages younger colleagues to approach their work with integrity and commitment.

"Focus on your job, be ethical and responsible, and always treat your colleagues and yourself with respect," he said.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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After more than three decades of dedicated service, Librarian Cavall Barends continues to play a vital role in supporting student success and academic excellence.

Having joined the library at the former Cape Technikon in 1990 as a Library Assistant at the circulation desk, she has witnessed the institution's transformation while growing alongside it. Today, she serves as the Librarian for the Faculty of Informatics and Design.

“My role involves supporting teaching, learning and research through various capacities such as information literacy instruction, collection development and research support. I am also involved in projects and initiatives that promote student success, lifelong learning and being effective in the use of library services and new technologies.”

Reflecting on her years at CPUT, she said one of the most rewarding aspects of her career has been witnessing the positive difference the library makes in students' academic journeys.

"One of the highlights of my career is seeing the positive impact that library services have on students throughout their studies," she said. "Quite often, we welcome students back as older adults who return to further their education. This reflects not only their personal growth but also their belief in CPUT as a place of learning."

She added that it has been especially fulfilling to watch students develop confidence in their research abilities and achieve their academic goals.

Beyond working with students, she has also treasured the relationships built with colleagues over the years.

"I have valued the opportunity to work with wonderful colleagues who have all contributed to the growth and transformation of the institution."

Drawing on more than three decades of experience, she encouraged younger colleagues to embrace lifelong learning and remain committed to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

"A meaningful career is built through adaptability, continuous learning and a commitment to serving others," she said. "Success is not only measured by promotions and accolades, but by the impact you have on the lives of those you touch along the way."

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”

This is the message from Donovan Lategan as he celebrates a remarkable milestone – a Long Service Award for four decades of service at CPUT.

He first joined the institution on 6 January 1986 as a Laboratory Assistant in the Department of Dental Technology, which was based in the Foretrust Building on the Foreshore, Cape Town.

Today, he continues to serve as a Laboratory Assistant in the Department of Dental Sciences, a job he is as committed to as the first day he started.

“My day-to-day job is preparing the labs for practical sessions. I switch on certain equipment before the students arrive. I’m responsible for the first- and second-year students’ labs. I have about 40 students altogether and I must prepare their working models.

“I prepare the models which the students work on, and the lecturer gives me the instructions. I must also see that all the materials are filled up in the machines needed. I repair certain equipment, when needed. If I can’t repair it, I send it to dental suppliers. I invigilate during practical exams and supervise during class practicals.”

Reflecting on his four decades at CPUT, he has many positive memories.

“There are so many memories working with students and helping them where I can. I was always prepared to listen to students who had personal problems in their lives. You can say I was like a father figure to them when they needed advice. Every day, from the first day I started, has been good memories. I will miss CPUT; it was awesome working for them.”

He has the following words of wisdom for younger staff members:

“First thing – always be on time for work. Go the extra mile even if that is not your responsibility – get the job done. Be helpful to colleagues where you can and to students. Take the opportunities that CPUT gives you. Stay focused on the task at hand and always be thankful for the job you have at CPUT."

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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CPUT recently celebrated the unwavering commitment and dedication of 175 staff members during its annual Long Service Awards ceremony, recognising employees whose years of service have helped shape the institution's growth and success.

Among the recipients were Donovan Lategan and Desiree Jansen, who were each recognised for an exceptional 40 years of service.

Addressing the awardees, Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo praised their loyalty, commitment and the invaluable contribution they have made to the university over many years.

“As we celebrate this remarkable journey of service, let us recommit ourselves to the values of excellence, integrity and collaboration that define us as CPUT,” he said.

“Today we celebrate those who do not see CPUT as merely a workplace, but as a home.”

Nhlapo said the purpose of the annual ceremony has always been to provide university management with an opportunity to recognise and reward loyalty, dedication and hard work.

“It is a platform to pay respect, honour and acknowledge your contribution. Most importantly, it is a platform to say thank you.”

He encouraged long-serving staff members to preserve the knowledge and experience they have accumulated over the years for the benefit of future generations.

"The fact that you are Long Service Award recipients means many of you have seen and experienced it all during your time at CPUT. You possess a wealth of institutional knowledge. Let us write it down for future generations because institutional memory is critical to the efficient functioning of any organisation."

Nhlapo noted that long-term service has become increasingly uncommon.

“We live in a culture where spending just a few years in a job is often considered long service. Over the years, many of you may have received attractive offers elsewhere, yet you chose to remain at CPUT. For that loyalty, we are deeply grateful."

Prof Driekie Hay-Swemmer, Executive Director in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Operations, echoed these sentiments, describing each award as a celebration of far more than years of employment.

“Each award presented here today represents far more than the passage of time," she said. “It reflects years of dedication, perseverance, resilience and commitment. It represents challenges overcome, opportunities embraced, knowledge shared, friendships formed and countless contributions that have helped shape this university and its future."

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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The Centre for Diversity, Inclusivity and Social Change (CDISC), in collaboration with Sanlam, recently hosted a Men’s Wellness Webinar.

The webinar brought together staff, students and industry experts to explore the interconnected dimensions of men’s wellbeing. It focused on financial and health wellness, and long-term security. This initiative forms part of an ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where conversations around men’s holistic wellbeing are actively encouraged.

The webinar was facilitated by the Cape Town Hotel School’s Luchulumanco Nanto. CDISC Stream Coordinator for Gender Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity, Tumiso Mfisa, welcomed participants and underscored the importance of creating safe spaces where men can openly engage on issues affecting their personal and professional lives. He noted that while wellness discussions often prioritise physical and mental health, financial wellbeing is equally critical in ensuring a balanced and secure future. The webinar aligned with CPUT’s vision of developing people-centred, lifelong learning opportunities through meaningful industry collaboration.

Central SRC representative Lutho Mphithi provided a message of support, emphasising the importance of addressing men’s mental health and breaking the culture of silence that often prevents men from seeking support. He encouraged students to take advantage of opportunities that promote personal growth, financial literacy and overall wellbeing.

Natasha Petersen (Sanlam, Savings Specialist), delivered a talk titled “Navigating Your Retirement”, and unpacked key retirement realities facing South Africans and highlighted the importance of early financial planning.

A central theme of Petersen’s presentation was the power of compound interest and the importance of starting early. She also addressed the challenges faced by the “sandwich generation” – individuals who support both younger and older family members and stressed that taking action, regardless of age, is key to achieving financial stability.

Blaine Swarts (Sanlam, Risk Specialist), focused on men’s health, risk planning and financial protection. His talk, titled “What men Want”, encouraged participants to reflect on their wellbeing, responsibilities and long-term security.

An interactive question-and-answer session provided attendees with an opportunity to engage directly with the presenters on topics such as retirement planning, budgeting, life insurance, debt management and financial habits for students.

in his closing remarks Ayabonga Mxunyelwa from CDISC, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to creating platforms that support holistic development and meaningful dialogue. He highlighted that men’s wellbeing encompasses far more than physical health, extending to financial security, emotional wellbeing, relationships and the confidence to navigate life’s transitions successfully.

According to Brightness Mangolothi, Director of CDISC, the webinar was championed by our Mfisa and Mxunyelwa who sought to open a space that affirms the often-unspoken truth that Men’s Wellness is vital.

Written by CPUT News
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As part of preparing Diagnostic Ultrasound students for professional practice, the Diagnostic Ultrasound Programme continues to collaborate with clinical specialists and industry partners to enhance student learning.

Earlier this month the Diagnostic Ultrasound programme in collaboration with LOGIQ Experts Academy (LEAD), hosted a free Sonoelastography workshop in the Ultrasound Skills Laboratory in the Medical Imaging and Therapeutical Sciences Department for final-year Ultrasound students and some clinical staff.

The training was presented by LOGIQ Experts Academy (LEAD), the education platform of General Imaging Solutions, and included lectures and hands-on demonstrations for students and staff.

“I am grateful to LEAD General Imaging Solutions for their generous support and value the ongoing collaboration in advancing ultrasound education and professional development. We look forward to strengthening this partnership through future training opportunities,” said Dr Maria Hartnick, Lecturer: Diagnostic Ultrasound.

She noted that such collaborations form an important part of the programme's commitment to producing graduates who are well prepared for professional practice. By engaging with industry experts, students gain valuable insights into emerging technologies and current clinical applications that complement their academic studies.

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Despite the inclement weather, the Newly Qualified Teachers' (NQT) Winter School project emerged as an exhilarating triumph. This vibrant collaboration between CPUT and the University of Cape Town (UCT) brought together passionate educators for an unforgettable experience that truly showcased the power of teamwork and innovation.

The NQT Winter School 2026 took place recently at UCT, attracting nearly 200 teachers and offering 35 workshops across various teaching phases and specialisations over the course of two days. The NQT was established in 2016 by UCT, and in 2020, CPUT’s Faculty of Education joined the project.

Teacher Education Research and Development Consultant Melanie Sadeck said the project is a pedagogical, professional, and psycho-social intervention to support new professionals in their first year of teaching. “It addresses the significant attrition rates among first-year teachers, to improve their professional resilience and to build a professional learning community of excellent teachers who reflect and collaborate in order to build a shared community of practice,” Sadeck reflected.

The CPUT and UCT staff were also joined by the Western Cape Education Department, Maskew Miller Learning, National Professional Teachers' Organisation of South Africa, Common Good, Schools Improvement Initiative, Disability Included, Numeric and Equal Education.

Seven publishers showcased their educational materials and offered prizes for the four lucky draws held over the two days. They also provided a variety of giveaways for participants.

“The Deep Rest for Teachers session, which includes an introduction to mindfulness, showed teachers how to balance the demands on them with taking care of their mental health. This session is always a favourite as teachers come out feeling rejuvenated.”

Participants included final-year student teachers, newly qualified teachers and teachers with many years of teaching experience. Dr Rosemary Brien, Lecturer: Foundation Phase Mathematics at CPUT, made a presentation: Teaching Multiplicative Thinking in Foundation Phase: Making space for conceptual understanding to drive understanding.

The aims of her session were to:

• Understand what multiplicative thinking is and why it matters
• Explore local research on effective ways to teach multiplication and division
• Experience practical strategies and representations that develop conceptual understanding.
• Consider how to strengthen learners' multiplicative reasoning in Foundation Phase classrooms.

Reflecting on the project, Brien said: “I am passionate about this programme (NQT) and feel that the fact that past students of mine attend tell me that we have much to learn by meeting together regularly to discuss the latest trends.”

Nicole Michaels, English Lecturer at CPUT, also shared her presentation: A systematic approach to setting up and marking question papers. Michaels, who lectures in the Foundation Phase Department, specifically Diploma in Grade R and the new course, Early Childhood Care and Education, said: “Most of my students are in-service teachers who would greatly benefit from participating in the NQT Project. The topics covered would not only equip them with practical skills but also broaden their perspectives, deepen their understanding, and support their growth as more informed, reflective educators.”

Sadeck added that organising the annual Winter School is hard work, “but it is worth it”. “We see and hear the absolute buzz of discussions and networks being made. Hearing the positive feedback from teachers on the individual sessions and their overall impressions of the two-day programme is heartwarming. So many teachers said they had just learnt so much.” She noted that the funders attended and “were very happy” with the turnout and the quality of the presentations.

“So we will keep on doing what we are doing by getting the best presenters to present workshops on topics that are relevant and interesting to teachers.”

She continued: “The NQT Project is committed to confronting the challenges of the South African education system at an individual, school, and systemic level. NQTs are supported in securing posts and dealing with challenges in their first year of teaching through regular one- on – one mentoring sessions, writing termly reflections and attending professional development workshops.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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The Nursing Science Department recently joined hands with the Department of Wellness Sciences to arrange a special wellness day for volunteers from the CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa.

CHOC is a non-profit organisation that advocates for the health and well-being of children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer or life-threatening blood disorders and their families and the event was held at the CHOC House in Sybrand Park.

Dr Barenisse Arries from the Nursing Science Department said the event formed part of their Mandela Day programme and Oncology Nursing students helped to put the day together.

“The CHOC volunteers do so much for others, even on their weekends, so we wanted to do something for them.”

CHOC volunteers were treated to manicures and pedicures by Somatology students and blood pressure and other screenings were conducted by nursing staff and students. The Department of Nursing Science’s Natalie Copeling delivered a talk on back care while student nurse Nokubonga Hoyo gave an insightful talk on the signs and symptoms of different types of cancers.

Volunteers were also treated to delicious snacks and treats and received a gift.

CHOC regional manager Lynette Muthuray thanked the Nursing Science Department for organising the event and all CPUT staff and students who made the day special.

“As CHOC we can’t do it without our volunteers and staff. So today is all about them being spoiled and being reminded that they also have to take care of themselves. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of the CHOC staff and volunteers.”

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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Dr Babatunde Oladipo of the Department of Chemical Engineering proudly shares two remarkable professional milestones that underscore CPUT's excellence. He has received a National Research Foundation (NRF) Y2 rating and has recently been appointed to the Early Career Editorial Board of Process Safety and Environmental Protection (PSEP).

A Y2 rating recognises an early-career researcher as having demonstrated the potential, through recent high-quality research outputs, to establish themselves as a researcher of recognised standing. The Nigerian-born academic says: “It is an important acknowledgement of research quality and future potential and contributes to strengthening CPUT's national and international research profile.”

Oladipo, who developed a strong appreciation for education, hard work, and perseverance from an early age, notes that the PSEP is a leading Elsevier journal in the fields of process safety, environmental protection, and sustainable engineering. He says this appointment recognises emerging researchers who can contribute to the journal's scientific quality and shape its future through editorial and peer-review work. “Beyond being a personal milestone, it enhances CPUT's international visibility and representation within the global research community.”

Coming from a supportive family that emphasised integrity, discipline, and service to society, those values continue to shape his approach to research and professional life, and his academic journey eventually brought him to South Africa, where he completed his doctoral studies at CPUT, and he has continued as a researcher.

“The diverse experiences of studying and working across different environments have strengthened my resilience, broadened my perspective, and reinforced my commitment to conducting research that addresses real-world environmental and engineering challenges.”

The rating boosts Oladipo’s research profile, enhancing opportunities for international collaboration, competitive funding, and leadership in multidisciplinary initiatives. It also increases responsibility to produce high-quality research, co-supervise students, and

address pressing environmental and industrial challenges, ultimately boosting the societal and scientific impact of his work.

“Professionally, the rating serves as an important milestone that validates my research trajectory and motivates me to pursue increasingly ambitious scientific goals. It encourages me to broaden my expertise, strengthen my international research network, develop independent research leadership, and continually improve as both a researcher and mentor. I believe it will also enhance my ability to contribute meaningfully to scientific advancement while supporting the development of future researchers.”

The Research Fellow in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment who enjoys spending quality time with his family, reading, mentoring students, and participating in professional development activities also says his appointment as an Early Career Editorial Board Member of PSEP recognises his expertise and growing contributions to the field. “I will support the journal’s editorial activities by assisting with peer review, promoting scientific quality, and contributing to initiatives that help shape the future direction of the journal.

“It also reflects the increasing international visibility of both my research and CPUT.”

The disciplined, resilient, curious, and collaborative academic who enjoys solving complex engineering problems says meaningful achievements rarely happen overnight; “they are built through consistent effort, resilience, and a willingness to learn from both successes and setbacks”.

“Seek out mentors, collaborate widely, embrace constructive feedback, and always strive to conduct research that creates genuine value for society. Recognition is rewarding, but making a positive impact through your work is even more fulfilling.”

Reflecting on reaching these two milestones in his career, Oladipo notes: “I feel deeply honoured and grateful. While these milestones are personally rewarding, they also remind me that research is a collaborative endeavour. I have benefited greatly from excellent mentors, colleagues, students, collaborators, and institutional support throughout my journey. Rather than viewing these achievements as an endpoint, I see them as motivation to continue striving for excellence and making meaningful contributions through research.”

He has been fortunate to learn from many outstanding academics, but Prof Tunde Ojumu has been his greatest professional inspiration. Ojumu supervised his PhD and currently serves as the Principal Investigator of the SATREPS research project, under which Oladipo conducts his research, among others.

Oladipo says CPUT has provided an excellent environment for research, collaboration, and professional development.

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
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Recently retired Director of Libraries, Prof Elisha Chiware, has been honoured with the Leadership Achievement Award from the Technological Higher Education Network South Africa (THENSA).

The THENSA Leadership Achievement Award seeks to recognise and honour individuals whose exemplary leadership, sustained contributions, and enduring legacy have made a significant impact on the advancement of Technology-Focused Higher Education in South Africa, Namibia, and beyond.

“This recognition validates a lifelong commitment to advancing technology-focused higher education, not just in South Africa, but across the wider region, including Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe. It reflects the value of collaborative, forward-looking leadership in reshaping academic libraries into modern enablers of learning, research, innovation, and digital scholarship. To be acknowledged by my peers through THENSA is a deeply humbling capstone to my career,” said Chiware.

Before joining CPUT in 2009 as Director of Libraries, he served as the founding University Librarian at Chinhoyi University of Technology in Zimbabwe, where he established the institution's library services from the ground up.

“Since 2013, I have initiated and led the development of CPUT’s Research Data Infrastructure, culminating in the institutional repository eSango earning CoreTrustSeal certification as a Trusted Data Repository and gaining World Data System membership. In 2015, I initiated and led the National Higher Education Library Statistics Database in South Africa, creating a vital platform for evidence-based planning and accountability across the sector.”

He served as Lead Technical Architect and Chairperson of the Research Data Management and Open Science Working Group for the ILIFU Data Intensive Research Project and as Secretary General and Executive Board Member of the International Association of Scientific and Technological University Libraries (IATUL) from 2012 to 2018, hosting its annual conference in Cape Town in 2013.

Chiware completed a Bachelor of Arts in Economic History and Political Science at the University of Zimbabwe. Recognising the transformative role of information and technology in development, he pursued a Master of Library Science at Indiana University in the United States before later earning a PhD in Information Science from the University of Pretoria.

As he enters retirement, Chiware leaves behind a lasting legacy.

“My enduring legacy is leaving behind a resilient, digitally enabled ecosystem where academic libraries are active strategic partners in the research enterprise, rather than just traditional service centres. At CPUT, this is embodied in sustainable

systems like eSango, which positions the university among a select cohort of African institutions with internationally recognised research data repositories.

“Regionally and nationally, my legacy lives on through the frameworks established via the ILIFU project, the National Library Statistics Database, and the national Open Science policy contributions. Furthermore, through part-time lecturing and postgraduate supervision at the University of the Western Cape, I have dedicated myself to training the next generation of data stewards and library leaders to ensure the sustainability of these systems.”

Although he is retiring from an institutional role at CPUT, Chiware is looking forward to transitioning into professional consulting.

“While I am retiring from my institutional role at CPUT, I am looking forward to transitioning into professional consulting. Through Yodanalytics Digital Services based in Cape Town and Harare, I plan to continue supporting organisations across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and the wider SADC region. “

Looking back on his career, Chiware hopes to be remembered as a visionary yet pragmatic leader who effectively bridged the gap between academic theory and real-world implementation.

“I hope my colleagues remember me as a collaborative partner, a dedicated mentor and a strategist who worked to ensure African universities possess the robust cyberinfrastructure and open-access frameworks required to compete globally."

Chiware was nominated for the Award by Prof Marshall Sheldon, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships.

Written by Ilse Fredericks
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