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Born in an industrial area in Russia, into a family deeply rooted in engineering; both her parents and grandparents being engineers, growing up in such an environment, Dr Ekaterina Rzyankina never considered any profession other than engineering.

This background instilled in Rzyankina a strong technical foundation and a passion for problem-solving. As such she was both “surprised and deeply honoured” when she heard about her nomination for the Emerging Young Women Leaders (academic) Award in the 2024 HERS-SA Higher Education Women Leaders Awards.

“It took years of dedication, consistent effort, and a commitment to excellence in my academic pursuits to be considered for this award. Being nominated is a testament to the hard work, support from mentors and colleagues, and the impact of my research and academic contributions,” Rzyankina reflects on her journey.

After completing her BSc in Mechanical Engineering at Ural State Technical University in Ekaterinburg, Russia, and having gained six years of industry experience, the dedicated, resilient, and passionate lecturer at the Department of Maritime Studies enrolled in the master's program at CPUT. This was fully funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) to build skills. Her research work took her to Poland, where she completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education Teaching and Learning (PGDip HETL).

“This experience profoundly changed me as an educator, enhancing my teaching skills and broadening my perspective on education.”

Reflecting on her nomination, Rzyankina said: “I feel incredibly honoured and grateful to be nominated for the Emerging Young Women Leaders (academic) Award. It is a recognition of the hard work and dedication I have invested in my academic career. This nomination also motivates me to continue striving for excellence and to contribute positively to my field.”

Coming from a close-knit family and a supportive community where education was highly valued and, in an environment, where mutual respect and hard work were emphasised has had a great influence on her character and work ethic. “My family’s encouragement to pursue higher education and my community’s belief in collective success have instilled in me a sense of responsibility and a drive to contribute meaningfully to society.”

Her glittering career includes publishing research, receiving grants, and contributing to meaningful projects, “being nominated for the Emerging Young Women Leaders (academic) Award is certainly a highlight as well”. Along the way, though she found it difficult balancing multiple responsibilities, overcoming occasional self-doubt, and navigating the complexities of academic life.

“However, each challenge has provided valuable learning experiences and opportunities for growth.”

Rzyankina’s success can be attributed to a combination of perseverance, a strong support system, and a passion for continuous learning. Her family, close friends, students, and colleagues have been a constant source of inspiration and support. The desire to make a positive impact in her field and the encouragement from “those around me keep me motivated”. Witnessing the achievements of other successful women in academia serves as a powerful inspiration for her.

She advises the younger generation to believe in their potential and pursue their dreams with determination, saying that education is a powerful tool, and with hard work and perseverance, they can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. “It is important to seek out opportunities, stay curious, and never hesitate to ask for help and guidance.”

Rzyankina, who enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, and engaging in outdoor activities says the support from CPUT staff has been instrumental in her success. “From administrative assistance to mentorship and collaborative opportunities, the staff at CPUT provide a nurturing and empowering environment. Their encouragement and resources have enabled me to focus on my academic and research goals.”

She also says balancing family and work requires careful planning and prioritisation. “I make sure to allocate quality time for family, set clear boundaries, and stay organised.”

Although she does not personally know her colleague, Dr Gunjan Gupta, who is among the top 5 finalists for the Emerging Young Women Leaders (academic) Award, Rzyankina thinks “it is wonderful that two strong candidates from CPUT have been selected. May the strongest candidate win!

Monday, 19 August 2024

Drumming Event Unites CPUT women

CPUT Sheroes connected in unity through the rhythmic sounds of the drums during a recent Women’s Month celebration held at the Granger Bay Campus.

Under the theme Heart Beat - The beat of her drum, the event served as a unique opportunity for women staff members from across campuses to come together and enjoy a shared experience.

Various drumming sessions, which were facilitated by an instructor, were held throughout the day, and rhythmic beats echoed through the air.

In addition to drumming, the celebration of women also included poetry and dancing.

The Marketing and Communication Department's Cathy Cloete said the event was a wonderful way to see women from all departments and faculties unite in a carefree experience.

“Most of the attendees have never experienced drumming before so it was a lovely morning of doing something different while bonding with your colleagues,” she said.

“Drumming is a destressing activity that leaves you feeling invigorated and happy.”

Being in the top 5 finalists for the Emerging Young Women Leaders (academic) category in the prestigious 2024 HERS-SA Higher Education Women Leaders Awards is a significant honour for Senior Lecturer: Department of Electrical, Electronics and Computer Engineering which is associated with French South African Institute of Technology (F'SATI).

The thrilled Dr Gunjan Gupta, who has been nominated for the Emerging Young Women Leaders (academic) Award, says: “For me, it reflects recognition of my hard work, dedication, and contributions in the academic field. Such an acknowledgment is motivating and will open new doors of opportunities for me. It will encourage me for further achievements and will inspire others”.

The Indian-born academic from Delhi has her parents to thank for making every possible effort to make her a better person and an engineer. Gupta has always wanted to become a doctor but never thought of becoming an engineer, but her father asked her to keep mathematics as a side subject. She prepared for the Combined Pre-Medical Test. But she was 20 days too young and couldn’t sit for the examination. “I was very depressed as I needed to drop that whole year to sit for the examination, but her father supported her and asked her to choose Engineering. That is how her journey started. She says, “My father is very proud and calls me Dr Gunjan Gupta.”

The 38-year-old academic holds a BTech (Electronics and Telecommunication) and MTech (Very Large-Scale Integration) degrees from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University. Her academic experience spans over 17 years. She obtained her DEng in Renewable Energy from CPUT in 2018.

Gupta has published numerous technical papers in accredited journals, peer-reviewed conference proceedings, and book chapters. Her research focuses on LoRa Networks (Reliability and accuracy), LPWAN Technologies, LoRa-based Air quality IoT devices, LoRa WAN in satellite communication (CubeSats), and Satellite systems mission and design. Her current research activities include the Integration of LoRaWAN and 5G for IoT, LoRa Direct-to-Satellites, and IoT ground stations.

Gupta who always maintains a positive attitude fervently reminisces that sundown when she received an email from HERS-SA informing her that she was among the top five finalists. “I was in Paris for the research visit (F’SATI). I was so happy that I first called my husband to tell him this news. I called my mentor, Prof Innocent Davidson, who nominated me for this award. Then I emailed all the people who supported my application and helped me in this journey. It really means a lot to me.”

She “owes all my success to my husband”. His unconditional support and encouragement have been the cornerstone of my achievements. Whether it's been offering valuable advice, being a sounding board for my ideas, or simply providing emotional support during challenging times, he has always been there for me. His belief in my abilities has fuelled my drive and determination, and I truly couldn't have reached this point without him by my side. There is a famous saying ‘Behind every successful man, there is always a woman’ but in my case, it is not true. my husband is behind all my success.” Juggling between family and her busy work schedule is very difficult sometimes but her husband is her “greatest support”.

Her hobbies include baking apart from dancing and reading books. She bakes different SA recipes and try to do some fusion in Indian and SA traditional recipes.

Being nominated alongside her colleague, Dr. Ekaterina Rzyankina, is a wonderful experience. She says “It’s a testament to our collaborative efforts and shared dedication to our respective fields and areas of expertise. It feels rewarding to be recognised together and it’s a pride for CPUT. I am excited to meet her at the award function.”

Gupta says, “The support from the CPUT staff is incredibly valuable”. She conveyed her appreciation to Davidson who nominated her for this award. Davidson provides guidance, resources, and encouragement that are essential for her academic and professional development. “His dedication and willingness to help foster a collaborative and nurturing environment.” She says Davidson is truly a good person and she is lucky to have him as her “boss”.

She thanked Dr Marco Adonis, Prof Atanda Raji and Prof Mohamed Tariq Kahn for supporting her in this journey. “Without their support, I won’t be able to achieve this. I would like to say thanks to Prof Verushka Fester, Prof Suresh Ramsuroop, and Prof Dina Burger for their continuous encouragement and belief in me. I am very lucky as I am surrounded by extremely supportive people at my workplace.”

To the younger generation coming from a similar background as hers, Gupta says: "Never underestimate the power of your dreams and the strength within you to achieve them. Your background does not define your future, your determination and hard work do. Embrace your uniqueness and let it be your driving force.”

Wednesday, 14 August 2024

Campus cats play their part

Cats continue to play an important role at CPUT and staff and students can play their part to care for these feline friends.

Roxanne Maritz, a lecturer in the Emergency Medical Sciences (EMS) Department, says there are 165 cats on the Bellville campus, adding that the feral cats contribute significantly to the control of rodent populations and help with the control of snakes and cockroaches as well.

By preying on mice and rats, they help mitigate the risks of disease transmission on campus.

The EMS Department has a service-learning project focusing on the cats that has been running since 2021.

Maritz said the cats are taken care of by a non-profit organisation called Aid4Paws and most of the campus cats are sterilised, vaccinated, and receive deflea and deworming treatment.

“If our furry friends are sick, they are taken to the vet for health care and those that are tame enough are rehomed off campus by the NPO,” said Maritz.

She continued: “Eating, drinking, relieving themselves and mating take up only 5% of a cat’s time. The vast majority of the rest of it is spent sleeping or just sitting around. So, if you let them be, they will let you be.

“Please do not feed, touch, or harm the campus cats. Animals, like humans, experience pain, fear, and distress, and subjecting them to cruelty violates their basic welfare needs. Anyone found guilty of acts which cause an animal to suffer under Section 2 of the Animal Protection Act 1962 is liable to a fine and/or imprisonment for up to a year.”

Please contact Maritz via maritzr@cput.ac.za if:

  • you are interested in joining the campus cat service-learning project
  • you see injured or ill cats (take a photo and send the exact location)
  • any kittens are spotted, please do not touch or move them (take a photograph and send exact location)
  • you witness abuse to the campus cats, please report the animal abuse.

CPUT is delighted to announce the successful application and approval of a grant from The Kresge Foundation.

Dr Xena Cupido: Director: Fundani Centre for Higher Education Development (CHED), said this partnership will support the "Siyaphumelela 3.0 ("We Succeed"): A national networked approach to improving postsecondary student success in South Africa" project, marking a milestone in CPUT's commitment to enhancing student outcomes.

“The grant, totalling $240,000, will be disbursed over a three-year period starting from 1 June 2024, and concluding on 30 June 2027. The funding aims to bolster the university's efforts in advancing student success through strategic initiatives and collaborative learning,” said Cupido.

She said the project will focus on several key objectives, including enhancing data-driven decision-making, promoting innovative teaching and learning practices, and fostering a supportive academic environment. “As part of the grant agreement, CPUT will submit periodic reports to The Kresge Foundation, detailing the project's progress, challenges, and successes.”

Cupido encourages the University community to stay informed about the developments and achievements of the Siyaphumelela project. “Updates will be shared through the University's communication channels, highlighting the transformative impact of this initiative on student success.”

A certificate of membership was handed over to CPUT at the annual Siyaphumlelela Conference which took place at the Wanderers Conference Centre.

For more information about The Kresge Foundation and its mission, visit the Kresge Foundation.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships, Dr David Phaho, has revealed that the University Management is “socialising” the need for a Third-Stream Income Strategy across the University, considering the decline in government funding for Higher Education through grants and subsidies.

Phaho said an important component of that is closer collaboration with Industry. He was speaking at the Technology and Human Resources for Industry Programme (THRIP) Interactive Session on New and Active projects. “Throughout its long and storied history, the THRIP programme has been a catalyst to bring universities and industry to pursue relevant research and drive innovation and competitiveness over and above human development outputs such as master’s and doctoral graduates.

“It also pivots university academics to do research and innovation which is relevant to industry,” Phaho remarked. The event was also attended by the representatives from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) - who provided a thorough understanding of the THRIP programme, including its objectives and the KIPP programme for grassroots innovators.

This industry engagement workshop was organised by the Technology Transfer Office (TTO) to strengthen the relationship between CPUT and the DTIC, “specifically focusing on the THRIP”. “The primary objective was to showcase the THRIP programme to CPUT researchers and industry partners, illustrating the benefits and opportunities it offers, funding for collaborative research, access to advanced research facilities and expertise, skills development and human resource training, commercialisation of research outcomes,” said Jayde Barends, Senior Technology Transfer Officer.

The workshop also aimed to provide attendees with insights into successful projects funded by THRIP, highlight challenges and non-fundable aspects, and outline the application process. CPUT in collaboration with industry partners, presented four potential projects for THRIP funding, demonstrating the range of opportunities for collaboration. “The ultimate goal was to equip participants with an understanding of the THRIP program, encouraging more robust and higher-quality and relevant applications from industry partners seeking collaboration with universities such as CPUT,” Barends stated.

She added that the event was well-received, achieving its purpose of providing a comprehensive overview of the THRIP programme and the presentations and discussions effectively communicated the programme's objectives and the opportunities it presents for industry-academic collaboration. “The workshop successfully raised awareness about the THRIP programme and its benefits, likely leading to increased interest and participation in future applications.”

Monday, 12 August 2024

ATID aids city flood victims

The Department of Architectural Technology and Interior Design has made a significant contribution to flood relief efforts in the city by preparing and donating food parcels. The recent severe storms in the Western Cape left hundreds of Capetonians displaced and caused extensive damage to homes.

In response, the department's generous donation was delivered to the Roeland Street Fire Station, a key drop-off point for aid.

Rayner Moodley, Head of the Department, noted that the initiative was spearheaded by academic staff member Tasleema Mohamed. Moodley emphasised the importance of community engagement and the role of academic institutions in mobilising support for those in need.

The station commander expressed deep gratitude for the department’s contribution. Moodley added: "This effort underscores the value of giving back to the community and demonstrates how involving students and academic staff in charitable activities can significantly impact those less fortunate."