The Centre for Diversity, Inclusivity and Social Change (CDSIC), in collaboration with the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), recently hosted the first Crucial Conversation of the year, under the theme “Human Rights in Action: Building an Inclusive CPUT Community.”

The session brought together staff, students, community leaders, the SAHRC, the Department of Higher Education and Training, and various stakeholders for a reflective and courageous dialogue about what human rights mean within the university space today. The Programme Director, Lolwethu Luthuli, Information Technology Coordinator, Faculty of Business Management Sciences (FBMS), opened the engagement by reflecting on the preamble of the South African Constitution, reminding attendees that the Constitution remains both a historical marker and a living roadmap for equality, dignity and justice. Her opening grounded the audience in the collective responsibility to build an institution where human rights are not symbolic but experienced in everyday campus life.

In her welcoming address, Brightness Mangolothi, Director of CDISC, encouraged heightened openness and participation, emphasising that human rights must be woven into the fabric of teaching, learning, governance, research, and institutional culture. She noted that transformation is not an event but a daily commitment, and that every participant shares responsibility for creating a more humane, just and inclusive CPUT.

Representing the student body, Central SRC member Noxolo Khupe Jele, Education and Transformation Officer, reminded the audience that despite celebrating 30 years of the South African Constitution, many students still experience exclusion, discrimination, gender based violence, hunger and other barriers that undermine their dignity. She emphasised that human rights must be lived, not theorised, and that an inclusive university is one where every student, including LGBTQIA+ students, feels seen, safe and respected.

The keynote address by Advocate Tammy Carter, Advocacy and Research Consultant of the SAHRC, examined the human rights landscape in South Africa with honesty and depth. She noted that human dignity is the foundation upon which all other rights rest, and that the psychological, cultural and linguistic wounds of apartheid continue to shape present-day behaviour, opportunities and inequalities. Carter emphasised that rights come with responsibilities, and that institutions require active citizenship from both staff and students to ensure accountability, fairness and inclusion.

Throughout the session, participants enriched the dialogue through reflections shared in the chat box. Some noted that “we seem to be missing a piece of the puzzle,” expressing concern that the basics of dignity and justice have been neglected to the point where the community has “lost the way back.” Another theme that emerged was the tension between individual rights and collective responsibility.

Respondent Prof Rozenda Hendrickse, Head of Department: Department of Public Administration and Governance, FBMS, offered a student-centred lens, highlighting governance strengths and gaps. She emphasised the need for consistent application of policies, stronger accountability structures, and more inclusive approaches to decision-making. She also noted that the lived experiences of students should remain central to transformation conversations, and that policies without implementation amount to missed opportunities for real change.

From the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), Sesi Mahlobogoane, Director: Social Inclusion and Equity, reinforced that human rights and social inclusion are constitutional and ethical obligations. She highlighted the importance of leadership that acts with compassion and integrity, stressing that safety, dignity and equality are non negotiable in higher education.

In response to many of the concerns raised Mangolothi confirmed that CPUT is strengthening its commitment to human rights work through plans to formalise collaboration with the South African Human Rights Commission via an MOU, conduct campus-wide roadshows, and enhance monitoring and evaluation systems. These initiatives aim to ensure that transformation becomes measurable, sustained and meaningful across all campuses.

Tumiso Mfisa, Stream Co Ordinator: Gender Equality, Diversity & Inclusivity, CDISC, stated that this engagement serves as a reminder that human rights are upheld not only through policies and dialogues such as these, but through daily actions, empathy, and a collective commitment to treating one another with dignity.

According to Mangolothi, the Crucial Conversation was the culmination of a series of interventions commemorating Human Rights Month. On 18 March 2026, the CDISC hosted the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) in collaboration with the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) under the campaign “Language as a Human Right.” The session explored the implications of South African Sign Language (SASL) being recognised as an official language, linking this milestone to the mandates of both the SAHRC and the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE).

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

In a concerted effort to ensure that no student’s academic journey is hindered by socio-economic barriers, Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo recently handed over female student dignity packs to the Division of Student Affairs. The initiative falls under the Vice-Chancellor’s flagship projects, which include the Female Student Dignity Project and the Student Hunger Relief Initiative.

Administered and managed by the Division of Student Affairs, these programmes serve as a vital safety net for female students at CPUT, directly advancing SDG 1: No Poverty by mitigating the daily financial burdens faced by the most vulnerable students.

The Female Student Dignity Project has been a cornerstone of the Vice-Chancellor’s office for several years. This initiative was established to ensure that no female student’s education is compromised by a lack of basic hygiene products. By distributing dignity packs to all female residents, the university actively champions SDG 5: Gender Equality, ensuring that biological cycles never become a barrier to academic attendance or performance.

By removing the distraction of hunger and the stress of period poverty, these programmes collectively uphold SDG 4: Quality Education, ensuring that students are physically and mentally equipped to succeed in their studies.

These life-changing interventions are made possible through the generosity of external partners, reflecting the spirit of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. The Vice-Chancellor expressed profound gratitude to the Chairperson of the Mauerberger Foundation Fund, Advocate Dianna Yach, noting that without its significant donations, projects of this magnitude would not be possible.

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

In a major boost for research excellence and innovation, CPUT has been awarded three of the newly launched National Research Foundation (NRF) Decadal Plan Aligned Research Chairs. Announced at a prestigious event held at the NRF last week, the initiative forms part of the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) and represents a significant investment in strengthening research capacity across Historically Disadvantaged Institutions, Universities of Technology, and Emerging Universities.

A total of 41 new research chairs were announced and were selected through a competitive application process following a call that closed on 14 February 2025.

Established in 2006 by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and the NRF, SARChI was designed to attract and retain excellence in research and innovation at South African public universities through the establishment of Research Chairs with a long-term investment trajectory of up to 15 years.

The three CPUT Research Chairs are:

Prof Jennifer Case – (Research Chair in Engineering Education)

Case will commence her appointment from August 2026. She began her academic career in the Department of Chemical Engineering at UCT and was a founder member and served twice as Director of the Centre for Research in Engineering Education (CREE) at UCT. After 21 years at UCT she moved to Virginia Tech in the USA where she served as Head of the Department of Engineering Education. She is an NRF B1-rated researcher and has received both the Mandela-Mellon fellowship from Harvard and the fellowship from the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study as well as several awards.

Prof Tiko Iyamu (ICT for Development: Innovation for Smart and Sustainable Development)

Iyamu is a Professor in the Department of Information Technology at CPUT. He worked for Nedcor Invest Bank and Metropolitan and was the Chief Architect of the City of Cape Town and Enterprise Architect at Old Mutual. He served as Head of IT Strategy and Governance at Mweb before joining the academic sector. Iyamu was the head of the Department of Informatics at Tshwane University of Technology and a Director at the School of Informatics, Namibia University of Science and Technology. He has authored eight books, edited five books and authored more than 200 peer-reviewed research articles. He has received several excellence awards for research and supervision of postgraduate students.

Prof Zayd Waghid – (Education, Social Justice and Society)

Waghid is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Education at CPUT. He is a NRF C-rated researcher, and the co-author of 36 DHET-accredited journal articles, 19 book chapters, five monographs and an edited volume. He was the Interim NRF (SARChI) Chair (Teacher Education) from 2023 to 2025 and Acting Director of the Global Institute for Teacher Education and Society at CPUT. Waghid is a recipient of multiple teaching excellence awards, a DHET Future Professors Fellow and was a Fulbright Visiting Scholar at Cornell University.

Underscoring the importance of this milestone in advancing the university’s ambitions, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chris Nhlapo, said: “CPUT is on a consistent upward trajectory as a leading University of Technology and achieving our goal of becoming the MIT of Africa. Our focus remains on 'creating futures and growing greats' and ensuring that our Smartness and Oneness is reflected in the continued success of these chairs.”

Prof Marshall Sheldon, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships, expressed her pride: "This achievement is a validation of our institutional journey toward Vision 2030, supporting our strategic goal of research and innovation that respond to real-world problems and have an impact on society. Central to our vision is our commitment towards a multi-; inter-; and trans-disciplinary approach. As we move toward our V2030, we remain committed to creating an environment where research and innovation thrive. Congratulations to Professors Case, Iyamu, and Waghid - this is a proud moment for all of us.”

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

The Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Directorate, in collaboration with the Centre for Postgraduate Studies, recently hosted the Research Uptake: Doctoral Graduands Seminar. Under the theme “Relevance, Utilisation and Impact”, the seminar served as a platform for doctoral graduands to showcase their research and the impact it has/could have on society.

The group of 22 graduated during CPUT’s recent Autumn Graduation series.

According to Prof Izak van Zyl, Director of the Centre for Postgraduate Studies, the theme reflects the growing expectation that doctoral research must not only generate new knowledge but also translate into meaningful societal value.

“The studies represented here engage directly with some of the most pressing issues of our time – from strengthening healthcare systems and public sector governance, to advancing environmental sustainability and water security, optimising energy and engineering systems, and exploring the transformative role of digital technologies across education, industry and society. Together, they demonstrate how our doctoral graduates are shaping solutions across multiple sectors and disciplines.”

He congratulated the group of 22 and encouraged them to celebrate the occasion.

Manager, Research Uptake in the Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Directorate, Dr Nelisiwe Maleka, said it was encouraging to see 19 of the 22 doctoral graduands participating, signaling a strong culture of engagement across faculties.

“The work presented highlighted the depth of knowledge and innovation, with each contribution aligned with CPUT Research Focus Areas and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It reinforces the role of the university as an active contributor to societal progress,” she said.

“In our collective efforts to strengthen research visibility, deepen collaboration, and ensure that the knowledge produced is taken up and applied, the seminar brought together doctoral graduands, supervisors, CPUT community and external stakeholders.”

*The doctoral graduates were celebrated during a Doctorandi Dinner, which was held at the end of the Autumn Graduation Series.

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

South African Revenue Service Commissioner Edward Kieswetter described receiving an Honorary Doctorate from his alma mater as a full circle moment.

Kieswetter says CPUT is the university that shaped him and thanked the past and present management for changing not only his life, but also that of other young people who look to education to change the trajectory of their lives.

“I started here as a young man trying to get his start in life. It is ironic that it is the impact of the work that I have done over these past decades which brings me back now.

“I came to Peninsula Technikon as an apprentice in 1978. That turned out to be one of the greatest gifts in my life because this institution taught me that theory must connect to application. I walked these grounds back then with remarkable people who expanded my sense of what was possible,” he says.

“I receive this Honorary Doctorate on behalf of all the other young people on the Cape Flats and beyond who have had limits set on their lives,” he told the audience of the final graduation ceremony in the Autumn Grad Series.

Kieswetter had another very special person in the audience, his high school principal Victor Ritchie. Ritchie was a formidable figure in Kieswetter’s life and he credits the former principal of Harold Cressey high for seeing his potential and nurturing it.

Kieswetter was also supported in the audience by his proud family and members of the SARS staff, including the incoming SARS Commissioner Dr Johnstone Makhuba and other senior ranking members of the tax authority.

“The best leaders work themselves out of a job. I am proud to hand over an institution which is better today than when I received it,” he says.

“My legacy is the ethical and disciplined staff who will take it forward.”

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

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

April and May 2026 will be the pinnacle of years of perseverance for Mfundo Radebe, who will celebrate the completion of three qualifications from three tertiary institutions – an extraordinary testament to discipline and dedication.

The recipient of the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Award graduated with a Master of Public Relations and Communication Management during this morning’s graduation ceremony for the Faculty of Informatics and Design.

While pursuing his Master’s degree, he enrolled for the Postgraduate Diploma in Research Supervision at the University of Johannesburg and is scheduled to graduate next month.

“In addition, I will be awarded a certificate upon completing the Early Career Academic Advancement Programme (ECAAP), a professional development programme designed to strengthen the capacity and calibre of emerging academics at Nelson Mandela University.”

Radebe’s journey traces back uMzimkhulu in KwaZulu-Natal, where he grew up in KwaNjunga. As a young child, there were concerns about his ability to socialise.

“In 1997, my mother, Nosisa Radebe, enrolled me in a pre-school because I was not speaking to others, and there were concerns about my antisocial behaviour. It was there that Ms Sosibo played a pivotal role in my development, helping me find my voice and learn how to socialise with others.”

He said that despite attending under-resourced schools this period of his education helped him develop a strong sense of confidence and resilience.

His dedication to his work paid off when he completed his Master’s coursework with a 75% average and was announced as one of the recipients of the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Award, which covered his tuition fees.

His Master’s journey also provided opportunities to present his research at three international conferences.

“In 2024, I presented my research progress titled The Appropriation of Social Media into News Production Processes in Selected Community Radio Stations in Gqeberha at the U6+ Consortium International Conference, which was held at the District Six Campus.”

In 2025, he travelled to Bangkok to present a paper derived from my master’s research titled Appropriation of TikTok into News Production Processes in Selected Community Radio Stations in Gqeberha at the 10th World Conference on Media and Mass Communication.

“Furthermore, in November 2025, I presented another paper, which is currently in the pipeline for publication, in Kyoto at the 16th Asian Conference on Media, Communication and Film (MediAsia2025).”

Radebe said he was grateful to his supervisor, Assoc Prof Blessing Makwambeni, for his influence, guidance, and unwavering support.

“I also acknowledge the lecturers at CPUT who believed in and supported me: Dr Joseph Adebayo, Dr Trust Matsilele, former co-supervisor now at Birmingham City University (UK), Dr Helena Van Wyk, Dean of Postgraduate Studies, and Research at IMM Graduate School, and Dr Hermon Ogbamichael.”

He also acknowledged his colleagues at Nelson Mandela University for their support as well as this friends who supported and encouraged him throughout his journey.

“I dedicate this achievement to my parents, Kaizer Lington and Nosisa Radebe. Although my father did not have the opportunity to be formally educated, he ensured that we attended school and valued learning. He named me Mfundo—a name that reflects his deep belief in the importance of education, a value I continue to live by.

“My mother played an equally significant role in my academic journey, consistently supporting and guiding me. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to my uncle, Mlulamisi Nkomo Ayifaswa Mjoli, whose encouragement to pursue education was deeply rooted in his own experience of not being able to attend university due to financial constraints in our family.”

Makwambeni described Radebe as an enthusiastic and diligent student who excelled in his studies.

“It is rare for a Master’s student to have published a conference proceeding and have a book chapter in print before graduation. He has a very bright future as a scholar”.

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

The Vice-Chancellor’s Medal recipient earned her Advanced Diploma in Horticulture summa cum laude – scoring an average of 89% over the four-year period.

Hillary van Turha had the audience on their feet when she was awarded this prestigious honour during this morning’s ceremony for the Faculty of Applied Sciences.

“I feel very overwhelmed, but most of all grateful. It’s really been a long journey – I couldn’t have done it without God and my family’s support,” she said.

She matriculated from The Settlers High School in 2011. Living in the vicinity of the Campus, she grew up driving past CPUT often, but little did she know that she would end up at the Institution. Her sister is also an alumnus.

She comes from humble beginnings, with both her parents having no formal university education, and acknowledges them as her role models. They did everything they could to afford their children the best opportunities available.

At first, her attempt at access to the University did not go as planned. However, she persisted and eventually gained access. Hillary graduated her Diploma summa cum laude and also achieved her Advanced Diploma summa cum laude. In the four years leading to her Diploma and Advanced Diploma, Hillary took 31 subjects and attained distinctions in every one of them.

She is currently pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Horticulture.

Six Dean’s Medals are also awarded during Autum Graduation 2026.

The recipients per Faculty are:

Applied Sciences – Khanyile Hendry
Business and Management Sciences - Hanno Stephanus Botes
Education – Shirene Alexander
Engineering and the Built Environment - Tebogo Diraditsile
Health and Wellness Sciences - Hlologelo Shai
Informatics and Design – Chiree Bosman

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

As a child Sifiso Mawila spent hours dismantling and assembling mobile phones in his father’s repair shop – an experience that planted the seeds for a lifelong passion for technology and problem-solving.

This passion has culminated in a Postgraduate Diploma in Information and Communication Technology, which was awarded during this morning’s graduation ceremony for the Faculty of Informatics and Design and top honours in a prestigious innovation challenge.

His journey started in Soweto where his father introduced him to technology in his small phone and computer repair business.

“From a very young age, I learned how to dismantle and assemble phones. This sparked a curiosity in me to understand how different components work together to make up a complete device. That curiosity eventually led me to discover software development and how it can be used as a tool to solve real-world problems.”

He moved to Cape Town in 2024 to pursue an Advanced Diploma in ICT at CPUT and excelled.

“Through dedication and hard work, I graduated summa cum laude, marking a major milestone in my academic journey and my family's history. In 2025, I completed my Postgraduate Diploma in ICT, with electives in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, becoming the first in my immediate family to reach this academic level, all while balancing both work and academic responsibilities.”

While completing his postgraduate diploma he represented CPUT at the 2025 SATNAC Innovation Challenge, where his team won first place in the Openserve Category. The competition brings together students from universities across South Africa to solve industry-driven problems from major organisations

“My team and I worked on Openserve’s challenge, which focused on transitioning their fleet to electric vehicles. We developed a platform powered by a machine learning model that analysed operational data to identify and classify sites suitable for Openserve to deploy electric vehicle charging infrastructure. This enabled more informed decision-making and helped avoid unnecessary costs by prioritising high-viability locations.

“Winning the challenge still feels unreal. Competing against over 100 talented students with innovative ideas made the experience even more meaningful, and it was incredibly rewarding to see our hard work recognised at that level. What made it even more special was that I was balancing the competition with my exams at the time, so winning felt like a double achievement, knowing that I had successfully completed my studies while also being part of a winning team.”

The team later presented their solution at the 2025 SATNAC Conference, where they shared their work with industry leaders and guests from around the world.

During his studies, he dedicated time to tutoring undergraduate students, helping them to simplify complex programming concepts and supporting their transition into the world of software development while encouraging them to build strong portfolios.

“Driven by my passion for Machine Learning and Biometrics, I developed a Facial Recognition System as part of my research, with the goal to improve the student verification process at CPUT exam centres using biometrics.”

Sifiso now works as a Junior Analyst Developer.

“I chose Information Technology because of its power to turn ideas into real solutions that can improve people’s lives. My goal is to build technology solutions that leverage artificial intelligence to improve usability, accessibility, and inclusivity. Through my work, I hope to contribute to innovative technology while also inspiring and supporting other students entering the field.”

At the heart of his journey is a powerful influence – his father.

“My father is my role model. He has always pushed me to go beyond my limits and strive for more in everything I do. His work ethic and determination to make things happen, regardless of the challenges he faces, have had a big influence on me.

“What inspires me most is his commitment to learning. Even though he did not have the opportunity to pursue formal education, he has never used that as an excuse to stop growing. He continuously seeks knowledge and improvement, and that mindset has shaped how I approach both my studies and my career.”

He also expressed his gratitude to the academic staff, and his supervisor, Zukile Ndyalivana, whose guidance and support played a crucial role in shaping his academic journey.

“Mr Ndyalivana’s extensive background in Computer Science, along with his mentorship, challenged me to think deeper and refine my research into a solution with real-world impact.”

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

In between completing her Advanced Diploma in Film Production and raking in the medals in table tennis, graduand Anande Kuse managed to add another impressive feat to her story – performing stunts in an upcoming Hollywood film.

Today an excited Anande was among graduates who celebrated their success during CPUT’s Autumn Graduation series.

She grew up in Nyanga and fell in love with the sport of table tennis while attending an after-school programme in primary school.

In her first year at CPUT she was selected to represent South Africa at the International Table Tennis Federation African Youth, Junior and Cadet Championships in Tunisia.

In December she represented CPUT at the USSA Table Tennis Championships in Kimberley where she won bronze in in the women’s doubles and another bronze in the mixed doubles.

In March last year she marked a milestone moment when she was given the opportunity to combine her love of film and her athletic abilities while working as a stuntwoman for Hollywood film, Children of Blood and Bone.

The film, whose cast includes Damson Idris, Regina King, Viola Davis and Idris Alba was filmed in Cape Town.

“They were looking for people who were playing sport. The experience was fun and as a film student I learned a lot.”

Anande’s talents have been recognised at CPUT on more than one occasion. In 2024 she scooped the Sportswoman of the Year Award during the Sports, Arts and Culture Awards and last year she won a prize for excellence in extracurricular professional activities during the Faculty of Informatics and Design’s Annual Student Awards.

She is currently completing her Honours in Media Leadership and Innovation at CPUT.

Looking ahead Anande hopes to work as a table tennis coach one day.

“I also want to do something where I combine my love for sport and film and content creation.”

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

On having a varied career spanning engineering, finance, power generation and government. What do you tell the graduates of CPUT, both past and present, on how to navigate a life with so much career variety?

“I never set out to have a varied career, I learned early in life, from my parents, that our purpose in life is to be a blessing to the world. One of the things I learned about myself is that I was fascinated by how complex things worked. I then set out to solve problems that mattered. What I discovered is that the skills required to turn around a struggling power station are not fundamentally different from those required to turn around a bank, fix a struggling financial services company, or rebuild a revenue authority - especially not, if you focused on doing the right thing instead of that which was most convenient.

In every institution, you are dealing with people, systems, culture, and the stubborn gap between what an organisation says it will do and what it actually delivers. My advice to graduates is this: “Institutions matter. Become a student of institutions, not just of your discipline. Your degree gives you a credential, what you do with curiosity, courage and commitment gives you a career. Never let a job title define the ceiling of your contribution.”

On the immediate plans for the month of May, in this new season of post-retirement

The month of May marks the beginning of a new chapter rather than a retirement. South Africa still has many problems that require fixing. Deep institutional rebuilding. This, by the way, is true for both the public and private sector. I have founded a company to do just that. Help companies and government build deep institutional integrity. I am establishing a Solutions Laboratory, whose central purpose is helping organisations close the gap between strategic intent and operational delivery. In the age of agentic AI, the asymmetry between the rate of change of technological development and organisational change will become exaggerated. I call this the Execution Gap.

And I am finally going to do some writing and complete my doctoral studies - something I’ve put off twice due to work pressures. This gives me the opportunity to formalise four decades of leadership experience into something that can genuinely contribute to knowledge. It is, in every sense, the most intellectually alive I have felt.”

On leadership insights and advice - building confidence and public trust

Although individual leaders matter, Leadership at the institutional level is not about a single personality. We set out to build a Leadership System that can endure beyond one’s tenure.

One has to be clear about Leadership Purpose - there can be no other purpose to leadership but to Serve. In this regard, Leaders must set out to serve the greatest good, and not their narrow self-interest. I call this Stewardship. Stewards are the guardians of others’ interest and well-being. When people feel that and experience that, you earn credibility and their trust.

People do not expect leaders to be perfect, but to be authentic. Authenticity is about saying what you mean and meaning what you say. Show vulnerability. Say I don’t know when necessary.

When I returned to SARS in 2019, the institution had been deeply damaged by state capture. What restored public confidence was not a communications campaign. It was consistent, verifiable delivery — month after month, year after year.

Three things I would offer to aspiring leaders:

• First, tell the truth, even when it is uncomfortable — people can handle honesty far better than they can handle being misled.
• Second, build institutions that are bigger than any individual, including yourself.
• Third, never confuse being in charge with actually leading. Leadership is measured not by the authority you hold, but by the change you leave behind.
• Lastly, Leaders must take their work seriously instead of taking themselves seriously

On his time at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (then PenTech)

I was disappointed that my parents could not afford to send me to university and instead I had to find work. I started an apprenticeship and eventually ended up at PenTech as a Technician. This turned out to be a blessing because it suited my flair to solve real world problems, fix broken things and make stuff. Learning how things worked theoretically kept me intellectually challenged, but seeing things work in practice is what really brought me joy.

This grounding in practical orientation to knowledge is a philosophy embedded in the “technikon tradition” that theory must connect to application, and that has never left me.

What I took from those years was not just a qualification; it was a disposition — the habit of asking not only what but how, and not only how but so what. That disposition has served me in every role I have held.

And of course, then rubbing shoulders with intellectual giants and personalities like Prof Franklin Sonn, Prof Brian Figaji and Prof Anthony Stark was an exceptional treat only surpassed by the endless games of “klawerjas” we played - even in those cold winter days when we had classes in the prefabricated classrooms and received lectures from an overhead projector.

On his early life

I grew up in Kensington. After we were forcibly removed from Maitland, we moved into a single room - five siblings with our dad, Edward, and mom, Jocelyn. My parents would have loved to share this proud moment of receiving this Honorary Doctorate. We later moved into a three bedroom family home in Ventura Street, Kensington, which was only made possible because of my dad’s incredible discipline to “avoid debt, live within one’s means, and save for a rainy day,” a lesson I observe to this day.

It was in Kensington where we learnt some of our most valuable lessons and became socially conscious. It was here, along with growing up in the church and attending Harold Cressy, where the strong resolve not only to “fix things”, but to become a social activist and help “fix the social ills of inequality, injustice, and poverty,” was sharpened. This led me initially into teaching, priesthood, and eventually as a senior public servant. Driven by the incessant desire to make things better in an increasingly fractured and unequal world. This is a cause to which I remain committed for as long as I have breath.

Parting words to the Class of 2026

I encourage you to invest in yourself. Strive to be the best version of yourself. You do not owe this to the world, but to yourself. But do not live only for yourself. Find a cause much larger than you, look around, find something you love. Be the best at it. Use it to enrich the lives of those around you.

You are graduating into a South Africa that needs you desperately, not eventually, but now. This country’s promise is real but promises do not deliver themselves. Institutions do not reform themselves. Communities do not lift themselves without people who choose to show up, stay the course, and lead with integrity even when no one is watching.

Your qualification is a beginning, not a destination. The question that will define your life is not “what did you achieve for yourself?” it is “what did you build that will outlast you?”
Go and close the gap between what South Africa could be, and what it is.

Personally, when taking on the role of SARS Commissioner in 2019, we set out to serve, not to build a legacy. And yet, a legacy has been achieved, is embedded, and is enduring. It will not end when I leave and hand the leadership mantle to Dr Makhubu. Because the true legacy of SARS are its incredible people, to whom South Africa owes a debt of gratitude.
I am humbled that we bequeath an institution more valuable than what we inherited.

Thank you for the privilege to serve South Africans!

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

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

For Milka Bazeka her graduation ceremony represents more than a celebration of academic achievement — it is the culmination of years of resilience, courage and unwavering determination.

The 24-year-old, who was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease, doesn’t see her disability as a limitation.

“My motto in life is ‘to the best of my ability’. I always do everything to the best of my ability and whatever I’m able to do, I do it.

“I think of it as we all have disabilities, whether it's seen or unseen. There's something you can't do and there's something I cannot do. You shouldn’t put your whole life on hold just because you can't walk, you can't draw or you can't see clearly. So if you have an ambition, if you have goals to achieve, go for it and then every other thing will just fall into place.”

Originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Milka moved to South Africa at the age of six and was enrolled at the Eros School in Athlone.

She said her parents decided to send her to South Africa to ensure that she receives the best medical care and education.

“My parents are my role models. They invested what they had in me to get me to the best and the best that they could do was send me here and allow me to have the education that I have right now.”

After matriculating she enrolled for the Diploma in Human Resource Management at CPUT and followed the Extended Curriculum Programme. Inspired by her passion for inclusion and diversity, she saw human resources as a platform to make a meaningful impact.

She graduated during last night’s ceremony for the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences amid loud cheers from the audience.

Milka said the support she received from her lecturers and fellow students made a significant difference in her academic journey.

From recording lectures to assisting her before she received her electrical wheelchair, their willingness to adapt ensured she could fully participate in her studies.

“I also served as disability champion and participated in quality assurance programmes and I’ve been the class representative.”

Now, as she celebrates her graduation, the moment feels both surreal and deeply rewarding.

“I’m so excited because I didn’t really think it would be possible.”

She hopes to continue her studies and realise her next dream – becoming a lecturer.

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

Excellence will take centre stage at CPUT’s Autumn Graduation series, where 22 doctoral degrees will be conferred.

The Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment boasts the highest number of doctoral graduands (7) followed by the Faculty of Informatics and Design and the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences with five each, the Faculty of Applied Sciences (3) and the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences and the Faculty of Education with one each.

The graduands per faculty are:

Applied Sciences – Louella Daries and Aupaki Melato (PhD in Environmental) Health) and Valmary van Breda (Doctor of Food Science and Technology)

Business and Management Sciences – Arther Kadakure, Tseliso Leshoro, Winnifred Moleko, Stanley Sayers and Thembelani Tyhotyholo (Doctor of Public Administration).

Education – Shah Singh (Doctor of Education)

Engineering and the Built Environment - Sandro César and Godwill Kasongo (Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering), Thomas Makosso, Litha Mbangeni, Makhetsi Mojela, Abuyile Mpaka, Ahmed Zentani (Doctor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering).

Health and Wellness Sciences – Gerhardus Koch (Doctor of Radiography)

Informatics and Design – Peneria George and Bongiwe Kolisi (Doctor of Applied Arts in Design) Hedvig Mendonca, Nomputumo Ngesimani and Chantal Settley (Doctor of Philosophy in Informatics).

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

As more than 9 000 graduates take to the stage this Autumn Graduation, the CPUT Convocation has extended its congratulations, celebrating a milestone that reflects years of dedication and determination.

In a message issued by Convocation President Issa Mapukata, the Convocation stated: “Today marks a significant milestone in your relationship with CPUT and we honour the dedication, discipline, and resilience that brought you to this moment. While you may be completing your formal studies, you are not leaving the CPUT family. In fact, you are joining a wider, dynamic, and growing community of CPUT alumni who are making an impact across South Africa, the continent, and the world.”

The message continued:

“The university is immensely proud of you, and we welcome you warmly into our alumni fold. CPUT will always be your home.

Your journey of learning does not end here. The world is changing rapidly, and lifelong learning is one of the most powerful tools you can invest in. We encourage you to return to CPUT for postgraduate studies, professional development programmes, and research opportunities. CPUT is committed to growing as a university of technology that produces graduates capable of driving innovation, solving real-world problems, and contributing meaningfully to national development. By continuing your academic journey with us, you deepen your expertise while strengthening the reputation and capacity of the institution that helped shape you.

The Convocation exists to ensure that the voice of alumni remains central to the life of the university. We represent the collective interests, wisdom, and experience of all graduates, and we ensure that alumni perspectives influence CPUT’s direction and governance.

As we welcome you in our alumni fold, we also invite you to support CPUT Convocation through participation in our convocation events, industry partnerships, fundraising efforts, updating details in the alumni database and simply being active CPUT ambassadors wherever you go. Your success reflects our shared success.”

*Graduates can purchase convocation blazers by contacting any convocation executive committee member.

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

CPUT’s Autumn Graduation series kicked off this morning with a celebration of graduates from the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences.

The new graduates are from Emergency Medical Care, Nursing and Opticianry and are among 681 students from the Faculty who will graduate over the next few days.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo congratulated the graduates and welcomed them to the “joyous occasion”.

“This is a very special day for all of you, representing the culmination of years of study, hard work and sacrifice. This ceremony celebrates the collective effort of all who contributed to your achievement.”

The ceremony was extra special for Hlologelo Shai who was announced as the Dean’s Medal Recipient for the Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences.

In 2023, she registered for the three-year Bachelor of Health Science in Opticianry and obtained 16 distinctions out of 24 subjects across the three years, with an average of 78%.

She is currently enrolled in a Community Eye Health course (for strengthening public health services) and is a volunteer internship programme incumbent at the University of Cape Town.

More than 9 000 graduates will graduate over 20 ceremonies from 9 April to 17 April 2026.

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

CPUT will proudly celebrate the achievements of 9 225 graduands during the Autumn Graduation ceremonies this week.

A total of 20 ceremonies will be held from Thursday, 9 April to Friday, 17 April 2026, with an average of three ceremonies per day.

The final ceremony will be particularly significant, as CPUT will confer an Honorary Doctorate on the outgoing Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), Edward Kieswetter. A distinguished alumnus, Kieswetters remarkable career reflects the impact and possibilities of a CPUT education.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Chris Nhlapo congratulated the graduands, noting that their hard work, determination and resilience have been rewarded.

"It takes discipline, grit and a steadfast commitment to your dreams. From the moment you earned your place at CPUT- a university that receives more than half a million applications each year. You have demonstrated that you have what it takes to succeed. However, this achievement is not yours alone; it is shared with your family, friends, spouses and children. They have cheered you on, supported you through late nights and early mornings, and never stopped believing in your potential," he said.

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

Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) has been described as the country’s “second pandemic” by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who has reaffirmed government’s commitment to combating the crisis.

In response, the Transformation and Social Cohesion Forum (TSCF) in the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences (FBMS), with the support of the Dean, Prof Mercy Makhitha, recently partnered with the Department of Retail Business Management (RBM), the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA) and Inclusive and Affirming Ministries (IAM) to host an inclusive and collaborative engagement.

Themed “Silent Voices Matter”, the event brought together faculty staff and representatives from the Western Cape Government’s Department of Health and Wellness at the Cape Town Hotel School in Granger Bay.

Event organisers and TSCF members, Mandie Richards, Senior Lecturer and Chairperson of the forum, and Taryn Kroukamp, Lecturer in the Human Resource Management Department, emphasised that the dialogue aimed to address the often-unheard voices of both women and men. They highlighted that fear, harassment, intimidation and the risk of losing employment frequently silence individuals, underscoring the urgent need for meaningful cultural change within organisations and society.

In her welcoming address, Richards indicated that she was pleased at the positive response of the male colleagues attending, as challenges women face cannot exclude having men at the table to engage critically. She further stated that Institutions of Higher Learning are part of communities and have a responsibility to address GBVF and empower students, and that in the fifteen departments in the faculty, GBVF is a mandatory module for all first-year students.

Richards shared: “Violence seems to be the norm in many of our daily lives, and I do not only refer to physical violence, as the various microaggressions have lasting cumulative impacts. The increase in GBV statistics daily in South Africa is alarming and each day I feel a sense of helplessness, as another murder, another shooting, another suicide, and another too many.”

“A few weeks ago, on my way to work, the news reader on Cape Talk indicated that a 58-year-old woman in Loganberry Street in Bonteheuwel was shot and killed. In the seventies, my family and I were forcibly removed from District Six and moved to Bonteheuwel on the Cape Flats. I lived in Loganberry Street in Bonteheuwel, and I was overcome with a sense of sadness, loss, and grief, as that could have been me, I could have been a statistic.”

Attendees engaged in a World Café facilitated by Thuli Mjwara, Strategic Advocacy Coordinator and Maureen Majola, Facilitator from (IAM). The Café focused on the profound cultural changes required within organisations and society to combat violence. The conversation examined the intersections of power, community values and care, and the need to move from safe spaces to brave spaces. The urgency of the conversation was underscored by statistics from the 2024 Human Science Research Council report, which indicates that 33% of South African women experience violence.

Western Cape on Wellness (WOW) Champions, Salaama Abrahams and Uzebenathi Ngxamile shared the work that they do with youth in Bonteheuwel and Delft respectively, to combat GBV, and a request to collaborate with the FBMS moving forward as the institution is viewed as part of communities.

Siseko Mtetwa, Research Postgraduate Administrator, stated that as a man he wanted to be part of the solution and contribute to the change required to eradicate GBV; whilst Nicolene Pasquallie, a Faculty Office Administrator shared the work she does with youth in her community in Eerste Rivier and was open to learning how to address the challenges encountered.

Dr Faeda Mohsam, Acting Head of the BIA department, shared her experience at a conference she attended in Thailand earlier in the year. “I was paired with participants from Italy and Kazakhstan and requested to discuss a pressing issue prevalent in the country. I immediately raised the issue of Gender Based Violence, as it is a problem throughout the world. The participants in my team indicated that it was a problem which existed in their countries, however people in their countries did not speak openly about GBV.”

Staff shared honestly as to the role GBV played in their lives and communities openly raised their concerns.

Mjwara reminded staff of CPUT’s position statement on GBV and urged staff to reach out and seek support through internal counselling services or external bodies such as the Women’s Legal Centre.

Dr Terence Hermanus, Acting Head of the RBM Department, stated: “We need to take the call for an end to GBV beyond this project and ensure that we work towards contributing to change.”

Richards stated that as the TSCF, they would continue to advocate for the silent voices to be heard as Silent Voices Matter, and it was important that staff and students felt empowered to speak out, so that their voices are heard, and their concerns addressed.

Kroukamp concluded with the following: "As we leave today, let us not leave these conversations behind. Let us take the 'Community of Care' we discussed and put it into practice by reporting violence, seeking help, and supporting one another".

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

A select group of Postgraduate Diploma in Internal Auditing students was recently invited to attend the Woolworths Open Day.

This event was held in collaboration with Woolworths and several institutions, including the University of Cape Town, Nelson Mandela University, Stellenbosch University, University of Pretoria, University of the Western Cape, University of the Free State, and the South African College of Business. The event took place at Woolworths' Head Office on Longmarket Street in Cape Town.

The students received a behind-the-scenes look at how strategic decision-making, risk intelligence, and effective governance contribute to the success of a leading brand. This experience also allowed them to engage with industry professionals through keynote talks, panel discussions, insights on personal branding, and essential corporate skills.

These students were accompanied by two lecturers in Internal Auditing, Mvelo Siyaya and Inga Sityata. Tsakani Makhubela, Group Governance Academy Manager, Woolworths Holdings, said: “The Governance, Risk, Compliance (GRC) Open Day is a strategic initiative designed to introduce final year students to the critical role of Governance, Risk, Compliance, Legal, Stakeholder relations and communications in modern organisations.

“By showcasing real world applications and career opportunities, the event helps build a pipeline of future ready talent who can strengthen ethical leadership and responsible business. It also positions the organisation as a forward thinking employer committed to developing the next generation of GRC professionals.”

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