Maieane earns master’s under former lecturer’s supervision – 17 years later
Eswatini unrest inspires master’s research on crisis communication
Positive attitude key to PhD success
Delihlazo’s study exposes laws in cookie-consent notices
How office chats led to a master’s degree
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Faculty of Informatics and Design (FID) graduates have once again highlighted how personal experiences can shape research during the autumn graduation.
Many graduates have used their challenges as a starting point to explore urgent social issues — from healthcare and crisis communication to disaster response and public engagement.
Their work reflects a growing shift in academia: research that is rooted in lived experience and aimed at solving real life problems. Instead of focusing only on theory, FID graduates responded to gaps in systems and services, showing how universities can contribute directly to community needs.
This year’s graduates remind us that academic work can be both rigorous and personal. And that meaningful research often begins not in textbooks, but in life itself.
Jim Mohlala News Editor
FID BACKS CPUT’S VISION TO BECOME AFRICA’S MIT GRADUATES DRAW ON LIFE EXPERIENCE TO SHAPE RESEARCH
By Philani Nombembe
Professor Tembisa Ngqondi, Dean of the Faculty of Informatics and Design (FID), believes the faculty is well placed to support the Cape Peninsula University of Technology’s ambition to become MIT of Africa. She said FID’s postgraduate research, like that of its US counterpart, is increasingly focused on practical innovation. The two PhD graduates at the autumn ceremony, like those who graduated in the summer, tackled real-world problems in their research.
“In pursuit of expanding its footprint and supporting the university’s vision, the faculty aims to work more closely with industry through action research that delivers practical solutions, improves lives, and supports economic growth,” said Ngqondi.
“Our faculty is positioned to be a hub for design and technology solutions and a space that upholds ethical journalism and public relations. This is not just a dream — it’s achievable through the work of committed, forward-thinking academics.”
Ngqondi said the faculty is already making progress through targeted programmes that support research and creative output.
“We need to source funding for postgraduate bursaries and student support, build strong partnerships with industry, and expose academics to real workplace environments through job shadowing. This will help us align the curriculum with industry needs,” she said. “We also plan to expand transdisciplinary projects that bring together different fields to address complex challenges.”
PERSONAL LOSS INSPIRES GRADUATE’S RESEARCH INTO ELDERLY CARE TECHNOLOGY
By Jim Mohlala
Stanton Clark, who graduated with a master’s degree in Information and Communication Technology in April, drew inspiration for his research from personal experience. Clark lost his father as a child. For 19 years, his father-in-law filled that role — until he passed away in 2021.
The loss prompted Clark to question the lack of technology to monitor the health of elderly people, leading to his thesis, Factors for Adoption of Gerontechnology by Community-Dwelling Elderly in the Western Cape.
“My research passion ignited as a result of my father-in-law’s circumstances,” he said.
“My father-in-law was a strong, community-oriented man who saw potential in me and gave me 19 years of fatherly love. After his passing and the loss of many other elderly people, I questioned the lack of technology to track and monitor vital signs. Early-warning systems, if used correctly, could have alerted us to potential medical emergencies and led to timely interventions.” Clark was supervised by Dr Errol Francke.
His study highlights that accessing quality healthcare in South Africa remains expensive, even for the working class.
“Maintaining long-term care for the aged is no exception. Many elderly people cannot afford to maintain
decent health,” his abstract reads. The research stresses the need for elderly people to remain focused on their health, continue participating in social activities, and live inde pendently for as long as possible.
Clark said the research problem is relevant in South Africa, where the elderly population is growing and healthcare costs are rising.
TURNING EXPERIENCE INTO INSIGHT: Stanton Clark, who graduated with a master’s degree in Information and Communication Technology in April, drew on personal experience to shape his research.
PICTURE: Jim Mohlala
said Fancke.
His study explored the barriers and motivations affecting the adoption of technology among the elderly who live independently.
“Having completed my MICT journey in 2025, I am now part of something bigger than myself. There are still many faces of adversity, but through it all, I stand tall,” he said.
“I have achieved what once seemed impossible. I owe this to support, resilience, hard work, and a positive attitude.
“My story is a reminder that it’s not always about how you start, but how you finish. In the words of Nelson Mandela: ‘It always seems impossible until it’s done.’”
Francke, who was in Poland, sent a message for Clark which was read during Faculty of Informatics and Design post-graduate robing ceremony.
“Although I deeply regret not being able to join you in person today due to international commitments in Poland, my pride and admiration travel across continents to be with you in spirit on this incredible milestone,”
“Today marks far more than the culmination of a postgraduate qualification; it is the fulfilment of a boyhood dream, a dream you’ve carried with quiet resolve and unshakable dignity. The path from Joburg to Cape Town you’ve walked to reach this moment has not been easy, but it has been deeply meaningful, and it reflects a heart shaped by compassion, determination, and purpose.”
Fancke said described Clark’s research as not “just academically rigorous” but “emotionally rich”. “It is rooted in something profoundly personal,” said Fancke.
“There is a story behind your choice, one that involves a dearly departed family member who, though no longer physically present, walks with you still on every page of your thesis, in every conversation you had with your research participants, and in the soul of your work. It is not my place to share that story, but I honour it. And should you choose to share it, know that it would be a gift to all who hear it.”
GRADUATE EXAMINES SOCIAL MEDIA
PITFALLS
IN CORPORATE CRISIS COMMUNICATION
By Philani Nombembe
Watching a financial and insurance services company embroiled in bad publicity on social media prompted Lesley Kanjanda to investigate real-world solutions in public relations to manage such fallouts.
Kanjanda graduated with a master’s degree in Public Relations and Communication Management in April. Her thesis, titled An assessment of the use of social media in crisis communication, was supervised by Dr Blessing Makwambeni and Dr J.O. Adebayo.
“The advent of social media has revolutionised crisis communication, facilitating direct and bidirectional interactions with stakeholders,” her abstract reads.
“In October 2022, the Nyaradzo Group, a diversified financial and insurance services company headquartered in Zimbabwe, was embroiled in controversy when
discussions about its funeral policies erupted on Twitter, causing widespread dissatisfaction among its customers.
“This discourse persisted for approximately three weeks, drawing attention to the company’s challenges in handling the escalating crisis. This study was conducted to evaluate Nyaradzo Group’s deployment of social media as a tool for crisis communication management. Specifically, the research aimed to analyse the strategies Nyaradzo Group employed to engage stakeholders during the crisis, investigate the crisis management techniques utilised on social media, and identify the challenges the organisation faced in managing public grievances online.”
Kanjanda said her study was based on Situational Crisis Communication Theory, Image Repair Theory, and the two-way symmet-
rical communication model. The study assessed the strategic use of social media in crisis contexts. Her data collection included content analysis of relevant tweets and Facebook comments.
“The findings indicate that Nyaradzo faces a significant gap in utilising social media to effectively engage with stakeholders during times of crisis,” the study reads.
“Findings show that Nyaradzo Group’s use of social media during the crisis reflected a limited dialogue. They were following the traditional way of crisis communication where communication was one-way. Despite maintaining a social media presence, the organisation persisted in employing a one-way symmetrical communication model which ultimately precipitated public reaction and backlash.”
According to the study, Nyaradzo Group was not transparent during the crisis, particularly regarding the financial structure of policies, cashbacks, and lapsing periods.
“Nyaradzo also used a denial strategy which exacerbated the crisis. They also tried to initial response strategy,” the study reads. “The initial statement did not address the stakeholders’ concerns; it intensified the crisis. The CEO made a direct intervention in trying to address the issue, but the stakeholders started to question the role of the public relations practitioners.
“The study underscores the need for organisations to refine their social media crisis management strategy and highlights the evolving responsibilities of PR practitioners in the digital era, including the imperative for targeted online training to equip them with the necessary skills for managing digital crises effectively.”
Dr Teurai Matekenya’s PhD research opens new avenues for applying knowledge management (KM) to disaster response. It provides practical insights for policymakers, emergency managers, and researchers in developing countries working to strengthen crisis resilience.
Matekenya graduated with a Doctor of Information and Communication Technology in April. Her thesis, A Knowledge Management Framework for Improving Emergency and Crisis Response in Zimbabwe, was supervised by Professor Ephias Ruhode.
“Effective emergency and crisis response is critical for minimising the impact of disasters on communities and ensuring timely, coordinated efforts,” reads the graduation book.
“In Zimbabwe, challenges such as limited resources, inadequate information sharing, and fragmented decision-making have hindered the effectiveness of crisis response systems. This qualitative research proposes a KM framework designed to enhance emergency and crisis response capabilities in Zimbabwe.”
The proposed framework integrates KM processes, such as knowledge creation, sharing, and application, into the country’s emergency management structures. It also leverages information technology, community knowledge, and institutional collaboration to enable real-time information flow, strengthen decision-making, and improve resource allocation during crises.
The study outlines the potential benefits of a KM-based approach,
including quicker response times, better inter-agency coordination, and a more resilient disaster management infrastructure.
A journal article based on the study has been accepted for publication in The Journal for Transdisciplinary Research in Southern Africa.
Ruhode, who is in Scotland, sent a congratulatory message for Matekenya.
“I really wish I could be there for the robing ceremony, to see that well-deserved smile under the cap and gown. But even if I can’t be there physically, I am virtually bursting with pride. Teurai, your success is a powerful testament to what dedication (and high-speed internet) can achieve. Congratulations, Doc Teu,” said Ruhode.
Ruhode said he only met
Matekenya virtually during her research journey.
“Now, let me start by confessing something unusual about our academic journey together: We never actually metin person from the time she started until she completed. Not once,” said Ruhode.
“Not even a ‘Hey, you look taller than on camera!’ moment. Our entire supervisor-student relationship was powered by technological wizardry — Zoom, Google Meet, MS Teams... you name it.”
MAIEANE EARNS MASTER’S UNDER FORMER LECTURER’S SUPERVISION – 17 YEARS LATER
By Jim Mohlala
When Lerato Maieane graduated with a master’s in Public Relations and Communication Management in April, she completed a full academic circle.
She was supervised by Dr Blessing Makwambeni, who had taught her during her undergraduate studies 17 years earlier.
Makwambeni, now a senior lecturer at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, recalled their initial meeting in 2008 at the University of Fort Hare. He later supervised Maieane’s master’s thesis, titled An assessment of the role of the public relations strategist in Lesotho
“I met Lerato in 2008. She was my student at the University of Fort Hare. Over the years, she went on to do other things, including honours at the University of the Free State,” said Makwambeni.
“At some point, we caught up again. She wanted to do her master’s, and I told her about our new master’s. She then came to do the coursework, and I supervised her thesis.”
Makwambeni said Maieane’s study addressing a niche area.
“It is a highly under-researched area. This is the first kind of work which researches PR functions, not only in Lesotho but across the African continent,” he said.
“We worked well at times, and there were challenges. She has a very demanding job. She works for the Reserve Bank of Lesotho. But ultimately, we were able to conquer and achieve. And I am very proud that of the three students I have now, one is from Lesotho, the other one is from Eswatini, and the other one is from Zimbabwe. I hope it advances the internationalisation agenda.”
Maieane echoed Makwambeni’s sentiments.
“As has been mentioned, we met in 2008. When our paths crossed again, that is when I wanted to do my master’s. But one thing for sure, I was clear that I didn’t want to do the research part,” she said. “And he (Makwambeni) was like, ‘Come in, we have a structured programme.’ Guess what, I did all six modules in one year.
“Unfortunately, when I moved to the research part, my immediate supervisor (at work) resigned, and the workload just fell upon me. That made it difficult for me.
I wrote him a text that maybe I must (quit).”
GUIDED TO SUCCESS: Lerato Maieane and Nozipho Mamba completed their master’s research under the supervision of Dr Blessing Makwambeni (centre).
PICTURE: Jim Mohlala
Maieane could not believe that she had completed her studies when she received an email informing her.
“After I got an email saying, ‘Congratulations, you have completed all the necessary requirements,’ It didn’t sink in. I sent the email to my sister and said, ‘Can we read this email again? What is this email saying?” She said. “After that, I wrote a text (to Makwambeni) that said: ‘Let me take this opportunity to thank you for the effort you have literally put into guiding me through my studies since I started. It was not easy because of my work.”
ESWATINI UNREST INSPIRES MASTER’S RESEARCH ON CRISIS COMMUNICATION
By Philani Nombembe
In June 2021, civil unrest broke out in the Kingdom of Eswatini as citizens called for democratic reform.
What began as a peaceful protest escalated into violence after the government banned the delivery of petitions to authorities, triggering widespread looting and clashes with security forces.
This turbulence formed the basis of Nozipho Mamba’s master’s research in Public Relations and Communication Management.
Her thesis, An Examination of the Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT) in Eswatini’s Civil Conflict, was supervised by Dr Blessing Makwambeni and Dr Trust Matsilele. Mamba graduated in April.
Makwambeni took over supervision after Dr Matsilele left Cape
Peninsula University of Technology in 2023.
“There was some administrative work to address, and we had to rethink certain parts of the thesis that were not aligned with its main focus,” he said.
He commended Mamba’s approach.
“Nozipho is a very diligent student. When you give her instructions, she follows them precisely – and often exceeds expectations. Sometimes I found myself wondering if she had written the work herself, such was the clarity of her argument.”
Dr Makwambeni also acknowledged the support of the Faculty of Informatics and Design.
“I’d like to thank Veda(Naidoo) and the faculty office. Their support, especially for students like Lerato (Maieane), made a real
IN TIMES OF
PICTURE: Jim Mohlala difference.”
He encouraged Mamba to consider pursuing a PhD.
“I invited Nozipho to speak with Professor Nic Theo about doing a PhD. She is the kind of student every supervisor would want to have.”
Mamba reflected on her journey, recalling that Dr Makwambeni had lectured her in her first year in 2017.
“Thank you, Dr Makwambeni. It’s
for democratic reform.
interesting standing next to you now – your words don’t sound as daunting as your emails used to,” she said. She also thanked the Media and Communication Department.
“I appreciate the lecturers, professors and admin staff. Even people I only knew through email always helped when I needed something. Ms Veda, I’m especially grateful for your help during registration –that is not a walk in the park.”
POSITIVE ATTITUDE KEY TO PHD SUCCESS
By Jim Mohlala
A positive attitude is enough to see PhD research through.
Dr Nontobeko Mlambo, who graduated with a PhD in Informatics in April, is testimony to this. Her supervisor, Professor Tiko Iyamu, attested to it during a postgraduate celebration hosted by the Faculty of Informatics and Design following the graduation ceremony.
“What I saw was a positive attitude. That is what I look for in students,” Iyamu remarked. Reflecting on the research journey, Iyamu recalled challenges, including when Mlambo considered severing communication. Mlambo’s doctoral research focused on developing a framework to guide the adoption and implementation of detective analytics to mitigate financial crimes within South African financial institutions.
Her study aimed to demonstrate that understanding key factors influencing the implementation of detective analytics could enhance institutions’ ability to proactively detect and prevent financial crimes.
Describing Iyamu as both “strict” and “lenient,” Mlambo acknowledged his mentorship throughout her academic and professional journey.
“He is a great mentor,” she said. “If you want to write a research paper, a month is too long to him. But overall, he was with me throughout the journey.”
Mlambo recounted seeking Iyamu’s advice during a career transition. Despite his counsel against accepting a particular job offer, she proceeded. She went back to him to express her dissatisfaction.
“He said, ‘Please don’t tell me. I told you not to take that job,” Mlambo recalled.
“He is present, whether it’s academic or career related.”
Mambo said Iyamu organised biannual research workshops.
“He mentors those he supervises — whether at master’s or PhD level,” she said.
“We even had workshops twice a year where we came together to focus on research, Monday to Friday — whether you were in Namibia, Pretoria, or elsewhere. He always made space for you here in Cape Town.”
RESEARCH
UNREST: Nozipho Mamba’s master’s research in Public Relations and Communication Management was shaped by the civil unrest in Eswatini amid calls
POWER OF POSITIVITY: Dr Nontobeko Mlambo, who graduated with a PhD in Informatics in April, is proof that a positive attitude is key to successful research.
PICTURE: Jim Mohlala
DELIHLAZO’S STUDY EXPOSES LAWS IN COOKIE-CONSENT
NOTICES
By Philani Nombembe
Tandile Delihlazo’s study examined an aspect that online users rarely notice: cookie pop-ups. She graduated with a master’s degree in Information and Communication Technology at the April ceremony. Her thesis, Perceptions of Cookie Pop-Up Consent Notifications by Online Users in South Africa, was supervised by Dr Errol Francke.
Francke, who was in Poland during the Faculty of Informatics and Design’s robing ceremony sent a message. “Though I am miles away in Poland, my heart is right there with you today as you celebrate this incredible milestone,” Francke said.
“I want to extend my warmest congratulations on your graduation. This achievement is not just a testament to your intellect but to your perseverance, dedication, and unwavering commitment to
academic excellence.
“Your research on ‘user perceptions of cookie consent notifications’ is not just a study, but a significant contribution to the digital world we navigate daily.
“In an era where personal information is a valuable commodity, your work sheds light on the delicate balance between privacy, trust, and digital convenience.”
Francke said Delihlazo “critically examined how users engage with technology, you have also demonstrated the power of engagement in achieving one’s own success”.
“You took ownership of your journey, tackled challenges head-on, and emerged with insights that will make meaningful contributions to the field of Information Technology. You were a pleasure to supervise,” Francke said.
“Tandile, as you step into the future, know that your work is not just about technology; it is about
empowering people and ensuring they have the under standing to make informed choices in our digital world. May you continue to ask the difficult questions, contest the conventional, and establish spaces where innovation and ethics coexist.”
Delihlazo’s study investigated online users’ understanding, engagement with and confidence in cookie-consent pop-ups.
It found that users rarely read or trust these notices, dismissing them as intrusive, poorly designed and technical, and simply clicked “accept” to access websites. It recommends a standardised, concise format with plain-language explanations
HOW OFFICE CHATS LED TO A MASTER’S DEGREE
By Philani Nombembe
Without fail, Kwena Letsoalo would stop by the office of Professor Masilonyane Mokhele, Assistant Dean of the Faculty of Informatics and Design (FID), to “vent” about the lack of data. That “tendency” turned out to be useful. Mokhele used the opportunity to explore possible master’s research topics with her.
Letsoalo, a lecturer in Urban and Regional Planning, graduated with a master’s degree in April. Her thesis, Spatial Economic Analysis of the Port of Cape Town and its Environs, was supervised by Mokhele. He shared their story at the postgraduate robing ceremony.
“Kwena joined in 2020, during COVID. She started lecturing online,” said Mokhele.
“She came back to campus in 2021. Kwena has this tendency of coming to my office before going home and standing by the door to vent about the
lack of data. An hour later, she’d still be there. So, we used that opportunity to talk about possible master’s topics.”
He later learned that Letsoalo had an interest in transport, logistics and port-related studies.”
Mokhele encouraged her to register in 2023.
“The coursework and proposal development went smoothly. Kwena came up with one of the best proposals in the department. The challenge came when she had to apply for ethical clearance. She needed consent from a company she planned to interview, and that took almost a year. That’s where things stalled.”
They eventually reworked the questions to focus on secondary data.
“Once we changed the questions, we applied for ethical clearance and it was approved,” said Mokhele.
“Then Kwena could move forward. She did extremely well. Both examiners gave her marks above 70% — and that was with a watered-down proposal.”
Letsoalo confirmed Mokhele’s observations about her fixation on data.
“As Prof mentioned, I’m very passionate about data,” she said.
“In practice, before becoming a lec-
UNPACKING DIGITAL CONSENT: Tandile Delihlazo’s study reveals the legal implications behind cookie-consent notices — an often overlooked feature of online browsing.
PICTURE: Jim Mohlala
and a clear one-click opt-out that does not block access, to improve transparency and user control.
Delihlazo described her research journey as “bumpy” and recalled balancing motherhood and study. She said even her small child picked up the jargon she used.
“One thing I want to highlight about the Cape Peninsula University of Technology is its spirit of ubuntu,” she said.
“Staff always responded promptly and offered support. That made all the difference.”
She praised her supervisor. “Dr Francke listens,” she said.
turer, I saw how often we plan without proper data. A lot of data is privatised, and stats take time to be updated. That makes planning — at any level — very difficult. I hoped academic institutions would have better access, but it was still a challenge. That’s always been my frustration.”
She said she and Mokhele often discussed how to build feasible research projects around those constraints.
“I’m glad Prof always encouraged me,” she said.
“Towards the end, we still had data problems. Balancing that with a lecturing job was the most difficult part. But whenever I felt overwhelmed, Prof would always say: ‘It’s doable.’”
TURNING VENTS INTO VISION: Kwena Letsoalo often stopped by Professor Masilonyane Mokhele’s office to vent about data issues— chats that sparked the idea for her master’s research.
PICTURE: Jim Mohlala
Applied Design
Fashion
Jewellery Design & Manufacture
Visual Communication Design
Product & Industrial Design
Design Post graduate studies
Design Foundations ECP
Head of Departments
Dr Monica Di Ruvo
diruvom@cput.ac.za
FID Assistant Dean & Acting Research Coordinator
Architectural Technology and Interior Design
Architectural Technology
Interior Design
Architectural Technology & Interior Design (ECP)
Prof Masilonyane Mokhele
Mr Rayner Moodley
Urban & Regional Planning
Information Technology & Multimedia
Urban & Regional Planning
Higher Certificate: Information & Communication Technology Service Management
Information & Communication Technology: Applications Development
Information & Communication Technology: Communication Networks
Information & Communication Technology: Multimedia Applications
BTech and Advanced Diploma in Information & Communication Technology
