Research Report 2022

2022 RESEARCH REPORT

SlowRedT Popular in southern Africa for centuries, rooibos herbal tea is becoming increasingly appreciated across the globe. Recent breakthroughs at CPUT have shown that this local elixir’s antioxidative effects can protect against a range of chronic health conditions.

Rooibos processing

Rooibos plant

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The university’s Applied Microbial & Health Biotechnology Institute (AMHBI) Rooibos herbal tea has scientifically substantiated the bioactivities of the proudly South African herbal tea. This was to further the understanding of the preventative effects of rooibos on non-communicable diseases where oxidative stress plays a role, with an emphasis on cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

Prof Jeanine Marnewick and her team made history in 2011, when a clinical trial revealedRooibos favourable outcomes mini-tablet in capsule relating to the daily human consumption of rooibos as it relates to the management and prevention of oxidative stress. AMHBI’s research has now led to the development of SlowRedT®, an innovation that involves a modified release delivery system of a Rooibos contains phenolic constituents that have anti-inflammatory, rooibos extract (Aspalathus linearis) to be used as a anti-viral, anti-mutagenic effects and contribute to cardiovascular dietary supplement or nutraceutical.

health

• The mini-tablet in capsuledelivers delivery systemand ofslow-release SlowRedT rooibos eliminates The supplement immediate

constituents. thenutritional technology and the need topolyphenolic drink multiple cups ofThe teakey tonovelty attain ofthe is that it uses a controlled-release matrix type mini-tablet in a health promotion benefits of Rooibos

capsule. Taking one capsule twice-a-day delivers the proposed • SlowRedT improves the normal relatively short of the dose of theon equivalent of six cups of rooibos teaduration over a period of

Rooibos constituents in the blood circulation due to rapid 24 hours. metabolism and excretion by means of providing a constant supply of the constituents over an extended period of time (up to 8 hours)

Inventor(s): Jeanine L Marnewick; Marilize Le Roes-Hill; Johan H Neethling; Josias H Hamman

Benefits of taking SlowRedT® • SlowRedT®’s novel delivery system eliminates the need to drink multiple cups of tea to receive the health promoting benefits of rooibos • The capsule can improve the relatively short duration of the rooibos bioactive components in the body’s circulation due to their rapid elimination, providing important and rare phytochemical antioxidants such as Aspalathin • The bioactivities of rooibos have been shown to support the body’s antioxidant defense system as well as improve its lipid profile, both relevant in the prevention/treatment of heart disease • As well as supporting cardiovascular health, SlowRedT® also assists in the prevention/treatment of other lifestyle diseases, e.g., diabetes and certain cancers

Research into rooibos at CPUT Rooibos, a caffeine-free herbal beverage, presents a range of health advantages that make it an appealing option for various demographics, including pregnant individuals, children and those sensitive to caffeine. This local herbal tea is caffeinefree, making it a suitable choice for populations where caffeine consumption should be limited. Additionally, it has minimal tannin levels, a characteristic worth noting due to tannins’ ability to interfere with the absorption of iron within the body.

has the potential to assist individuals with diabetes in managing their blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of complications.

Notably, a compound known as Aspalathin found in rooibos may also play a role in countering vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis, two contributing factors to heart-related issues associated with diabetes.

Rooibos has been advocated for addressing a spectrum of health concerns, including allergies, colic, digestive problems, insomnia and mental health issues. While these claims warrant further investigation, they underscore the multifaceted potential of this South African herbal tea as a holistic health-supporting beverage.

Research currently being conducted under the leadership of Prof Jeanine Marnewick and researchers at AMHBI includes the effects of rooibos on cognitive health, specifically neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. It also includes investigations into the effects of the herbal tea on cardiac structure, function and inflammation; on high-glucose-induced oxidative stress; and on UV-induced skin ailments.

An outstanding feature of rooibos is its high antioxidant content.

Antioxidants serve as crucial defenders of human health by counteracting free radicals, destructive entities that can inflict cellular damage. Antioxidants play a pivotal role in maintaining overall wellbeing. Antioxidants promote cardiovascular health by mitigating the harmful effects of free radicals, supporting the reduction of cholesterol levels, and potentially inhibiting the angiotensinconverting enzyme (ACE), which is known to elevate blood pressure.

Multi- and transdisciplinary collaborative research are ongoing with: • Prof Ahmed Mohammed of the Natural Products Chemistry Research Group, on the role of rooibos in skin health • Prof Maretha Opperman of the Functional Foods Research Unit, on the modulation of the lipid profile by rooibos • Prof Simeon Davies of the Centre for Sport Business & Technology Research, on the possible use of rooibos as an ergogenic aid

Research suggests that the antioxidant components in rooibos may possess antidiabetic properties. Specifically, this herbal tea

Complementing this research, are other rooibos-focused projects with renowned local, national and international researchers.

Contents 127 FOCUS AREA 1 Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

147 FOCUS AREA 2

CPUT RESEARCH FOCUS AREAS

Space Science, Engineering & Technology

155 FOCUS AREA 3 Smart Energy

170 FOCUS AREA 4 The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability

184 FOCUS AREA 5 Human, Health & Social Dynamics

205 FOCUS AREA 6 The Digital Society

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Foreword by the Vice-Chancellor Message from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Technology Innovation & Partnerships

From the Directors 14 Directorate Research Development 17 Centre for Postgraduate Studies 20 Technology Transfer & Industrial Linkages 24 RTI Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships From the Directorate Research Development 36 CPUT Research Festival 38 DHET Publications Audit National Research Foundation Rating 39 40 Research Funding Deans’ Reports 44 Faculty of Applied Sciences 56 Faculty of Business & Management Sciences 68 Faculty of Education 76 Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment 88 Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences 94 Faculty of Informatics & Design Academic Development & Support 103 Centre for Community Engagement and Work-Integrated Learning 110 Centre for Innovative Educational Technology 112 CPUT Libraries 115 Fundani Centre for Higher Education Development 121 HIV/Aids Unit 125 Student Counselling

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Foreword by the Vice-Chancellor The 2022 academic year has been an overwhelmingly successful, eventful and memorable one for the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT). It was wonderful to see our university returning to normalcy post Covid-19, characterised by a buzz amongst researchers and innovators alike.

The students are at the heart of everything we do at CPUT, and we are committed to providing them with opportunities, support and experiences that will enable them to forge fulfilling and successful careers once they graduate. We offer our students, researchers and collaborators a unique and distinctive intellectual space conducive to thriving research and innovation.

The in-person graduation ceremonies were characterised by ululation in true African style, especially for postgraduate students. The majority of these graduates are the first generation in their families to earn tertiary qualifications, as they come from poverty-stricken areas beset by unemployment.

CPUT’s current and future students belong to the native digital generation who are well exposed to technologies and the knowledge economy, social platforms and the world wide web, and we continue to strive to meet their technological needs.

Applied research is a significant feature of CPUT’s knowledge production, and we make every effort to make ourselves locally responsive and globally connected.

It would be almost impossible to cover all the exciting stories emanating from our research and innovation community for the academic year 2022. Therefore, the selected profiles are from our approved Research Focus Areas (RFAs): • RFA 1: Bioeconomy & Biotechnology • RFA 2: Space Science, Engineering & Technology • RFA 3: Smart Energy • RFA 4: The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability • RFA 5: Human, Health & Social Dynamics • RFA 6: The Digital Society The RFAs play a significant role in the development of research expertise and provide an institutional view of the CPUT research strengths and foci. They also provide a significant foundation for the CPUT Smart RTIP (Research, Technology Innovation & Partnerships) Strategy and give voice to the transdisciplinary research approach used at the university. The RFAs are populated with Research Niche Areas to enhance the bulk of CPUT’s research, technology and innovation efforts, and resources. These provide the mainstays around which capacity and strengths are developed in terms of our

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Foreword by the Vice-Chancellor

A smart university successfully harnesses the potential of digital technology and connected devices, and the use of digital networks to improve people’s lives through technology-embraced teaching, learning, research and engagement. A smart university pays careful attention to the smart people involved in its various activities.

academic and research objectives; buttressing our quest of aspiring to become a ‘smart university’.

A smart university successfully harnesses the potential of digital technology and connected devices, and the use of digital networks to improve people’s lives through technology-embraced teaching, learning, research and engagement. A smart university empowers society. A smart university pays careful attention to the smart people involved in its various activities.

software defined radio payload used in the MDASat mission aims to enhance the security and protection of our country’s marine resources.

The current six RFAs are directly aligned to chapters in the South African National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 in terms of competitiveness and relevance to our country, and to the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals in terms of competitiveness and relevance to the global earth.

These RFAs are further strengthened through the appointment of Research Chairs.

CPUT’s publications count remains strong, with over 344 units submitted to the Department of Higher Education & Training for 2022. Our National Research Foundation ratings also remain strong, with nearly 60 academics holding ratings at present. There has been an increase in the postgraduate cohort – including supervisors and academics – which is the perfect breeding ground for actualising the university’s vision of becoming Africa’s leading smart UoT, globally renowned for innovation, with graduates that shape a better world for humanity. The Centre for Postgraduate Studies facilitated several postgraduate workshops during the year. In addition, the centre spent over R2.2 million on postgraduate capacity development.

This funding includes language editing, methodology consultation and training workshops.

One of the key highlights for CPUT this year was the launch into space of our third satellite mission on Thursday 13 January from the Cape Canaveral launch site in the USA. The MDASat (marine domain awareness) constellation has two main priorities, namely ocean economy and healthcare. In response to the Department of Science & Innovation’s mandate to enhance South Africa’s ocean sovereignty, Operation Phakisa (a fast-track implementation of the NDP) focuses on effective marine domain awareness. The

We are especially proud of the numerous achievements of our Technology Transfer Office.

This unit is on its way to becoming one of the most effective of its kind in South Africa. As One Smart CPUT, we are committed to collaboration and knowledge exchange with industry, society and the public sector, and to partnerships and relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. There must therefore be strong links and dynamic exchanges with business incubators, science parks and other

initiatives related to innovation and technology activities, involving staff and students with industry and business.

The Vice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards continued to celebrate academic excellence and determination in a new cohort of recipients. The ceremony, held at the Cape Town Hotel School on the Granger Bay Campus, also celebrated the success of four awardees who have graduated. The programme was started in 2018, and the awards are bestowed annually on deserving master’s and doctoral students who have shown academic excellence and are an embodiment of CPUT graduate attributes.

All of the above achievements are only possible as result of CPUT’s dedicated staff, students and stakeholders. We are grateful for their invaluable contributions in achieving institutional milestones in support of our decadal plan, Vision 2030. External stakeholders and funders are particularly crucial to research success, for example, the Department of Science & Innovation and the Department of Higher Education & Training. I am also grateful to the university Council for always being encouraging and providing unwavering support.

In conclusion, I am immensely proud of our many achievements and successes, and I am delighted to share these with you in this year’s annual Research Report. We are well on our way to building and sustaining a robust and scholarly culture. These achievements contribute to brand reputation. I, therefore, invite all staff and students, together with our many friends and stakeholders, to join us in continuing to develop CPUT as ‘One Smart University’. Our diversity is our strength, and we need your input to completely harness our full potential.

Prof Chris Nhlapo Vice-Chancellor

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Voorwoord deur die Visiekanselier Die 2022 akademiese jaar was ’n oorweldigend suksesvolle, gebeurtenisvolle en onvergeetlike jaar vir die Kaapse Skiereiland Universiteit van Tegnologie (KSUT). Dit was wonderlik om te sien hoe ons universiteit terugkeer na normaal ná Covid-19, en die jaar is gekenmerk deur groot bydrywigheid onder navorsers en innoveerders.

Ons studente is die kern van alles wat ons by KSUT doen, en ons is daartoe verbind om aan hulle die geleenthede, ondersteuning en ervarings te bied wat hulle in staat sal stel om vervullende en suksesvolle loopbane te begin volg sodra hulle gegradueer het. Ons bied aan ons studente, navorsers en medewerkers ’n unieke en kenmerkende intellektuele ruimte wat bevorderlik is vir florerende navorsing en innovasie. Ons gradeplegtighede, wat weer in person gehou is, is gekenmerk deur ululasie in eg Afrika-styl, veral vir nagraadse studente. Die meerderheid van hierdie gegradueerdes is die eerste geslag in hul gesinne wat tersiêre kwalifikasies verwerf, aangesien hulle uit armoede-geteisterde gebiede kom waar werkloosheid aan die orde van die dag is.

KSUT se huidige en toekomstige studente behoort tot die digitale generasie wat goed blootgestel is aan tegnologie en die kennisekonomie, sosiale platforms en die internet, en ons streef steeds daarna om aan hulle tegnologie-behoeftes te voldoen.

Toegepaste navorsing is ’n belangrike kenmerk van KSUT se kennisproduksie, en ons streef daarna om onsself plaaslik responsief te maak en wêreldwyd vennootskappe te ontwikkel.

Dit sal bykans onmoontlik wees om al die opwindende stories te dek wat uit ons navorsings- en innovasiegemeenskap

voortspruit vir die 2022 akademiese jaar. Daarom fokus ons slegs op uitgesoekte profiele uit ons goedgekeurde navorsingsfokusareas (NFAs): • NFA 1: Bio-ekonomie en Biotegnologie • NFA 2: Ruimtewetenskap, Ingenieurswese en Tegnologie • NFA 3: Slim-energie • NFA 4: Die Omgewing, Klimaatsverandering en Volhoubaarheid • NFA 5: Menslike, Gesondheid en Sosiale Dinamika • NFA 6: Die Digitale Samelewing Hierdie NFAs speel ’n beduidende rol in die ontwikkeling van navorsingskundigheid en bied ’n oorsig van KSUT se navorsingsterkpunte en fokusareas. Hulle verskaf ook ’n beduidende grondslag vir ons strategie vir navorsing, tegnologie-innovasie en vennootskappe (die sg. CPUT Smart RTIP-strategie) en verleen ’n stem aan die transdissiplinêre navorsingsbenadering wat by ons universiteit gebruik word.

Navorsingsnisareas is toegeken aan die NFAs ten einde die grootste deel van KSUT se navorsings-, tegnologie- en innovasiepogings en hulpbronne te verbeter. Dit verskaf die steunpilare waarrondom kapasiteit en sterkpunte ontwikkel word in terme van ons akademiese en navorsingsdoelwitte en dit ondersteun ons strewe om ’n ‘slim universiteit’ te word.

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Voorwoord deur die Visiekanselier

’n Slim universiteit slaag daarin om met sukses die potensiaal te benut van digitale tegnologie en gekoppelde toestelle, en digitale netwerke te gebruik om mense se lewens te verbeter deur tegnologie-gesteunde onderrig, leer, navorsing en betrokkenheid by die samelewing. ’n Slim universiteit slaag daarin om met sukses die potensiaal te benut van digitale tegnologie en gekoppelde toestelle, en digitale netwerke te gebruik om mense se lewens te verbeter deur tegnologiegesteunde onderrig, leer, navorsing en betrokkenheid by die samelewing. ’n Slim universiteit bemagtig die samelewing. ’n Slim universiteit gee noukeurig aandag aan die slim mense wat by sy verskeie aktiwiteite betrokke is.

Die huidige ses NFAs is direk belyn met hoofstukke in die Suid-Afrikaanse Nasionale Ontwikkelingsplan (NOP) 2030 in terme van mededingendheid en relevansie vir ons land, en met die Verenigde Nasies se 17 Volhoubare Ontwikkelingsdoelwitte in terme van mededingendheid en relevansie tot die globale aarde.

Hierdie NFAs word verder versterk deur die aanstelling van navorsingsleerstoele.

Een van die belangrikste hoogtepunte vir KSUT vanjaar was die lansering in die ruimte van ons derde satellietsending op Donderdag 13 Januarie vanaf die Cape Canaveral-lanseringsterrein in die VSA. Die MDASat (“marine domain awareness”) konstellasie het twee hoofprioriteite, naamlik oseaan-ekonomie en gesondheidsorg. In reaksie op die Departement van Wetenskap en Innovasie se mandaat om SuidAfrika se seesoewereiniteit te verbeter, fokus Operasie Phakisa (’n versnelde implementering van die NOP) op effektiewe mariene domein bewustheid. Die sagteware aan boord van die MDASat is spesifiek ontwerp met die oog daarop om die veiligheid en beskerming van ons

land se mariene hulpbronne te verbeter.

KSUT se publikasietelling bly sterk, met meer as 344 eenhede wat aan die Departement van Hoër Onderwys en Opleiding voorgelê is vir 2022. Ons graderings deur die Nasionale Navorsingstigting bly ook goed, met byna 60 akademici wat tans gegradeer is. Daar was ’n toename in ons nagraadse studente – insluitend studieleiers en akademici – wat die perfekte teelaarde is vir die verwesenliking van die universiteit se visie om Afrika se voorste slim universiteit vir tegnologie te word, wat wêreldwyd bekend is vir innovasie, met gegradueerdes wat ’n beter wêreld vir die mensdom bou. Die Sentrum vir Nagraadse Studies het verskeie nagraadse werkswinkels gedurende die jaar gefasiliteer. Daarbenewens het die sentrum meer as R2,2 miljoen aan die ontwikkeling van ons nagraadse kapasiteit bestee. Hierdie befondsing sluit in taalversorging, konsultasies rakende metodologie en ook opleidingswerkswinkels.

Ons is veral trots op die talle prestasies van ons Tegnologie-oordragkantoor. Hierdie eenheid is op dreef om een van die doeltreffendste van sy soort in Suid-Afrika te word. As ’n slim universiteit is ons verbind tot samewerking en kennisuitruiling met die bedryf, die samelewing en die openbare sektor, en tot vennootskappe en verhoudings met ‘n wye verskeidenheid belanghebbendes. Daar moet dus sterk skakels en dinamiese uitruilings wees met sake-ontwikkelingsprojekte, wetenskapparke en ander inisiatiewe wat verband hou met innovasie en

tegnologie-aktiwiteite wat personeel en studente by die bedryf en die sake-omgewing betrek.

Die Visekanselier se Prestigious Achievers-toekennings het vanjaar weer akademiese uitnemendheid en vasberadenheid in ’n nuwe groep ontvangers gevier.

Die seremonie, wat by die Kaapstadse Hotelskool op die Grangerbaai-kampus gehou is, het ook die suksesse van vier ontvangers van die toekenning wat gegradueer het, gevier. Die program is in 2018 begin, en die toekennings word jaarliks gemaak aan verdienstelike meesters- en doktorale studente wat akademiese uitnemendheid getoon het en ’n verpersoonliking is van die eienskappe wat KSUT aan sy gegradueerdes oordra.

Al die bogenoemde prestasies is slegs moontlik as gevolg van KSUT se toegewyde personeel, studente en belanghebbendes. Ons is dankbaar vir hulle waardevolle bydraes tot die bereiking van institusionele mylpale ter ondersteuning van ons dekadeplan, Visie 2030.

Eksterne belanghebbendes en befondsers is veral deurslaggewend vir navorsingsukses, byvoorbeeld die Departement van Wetenskap en Innovasie en die Departement van Hoër Onderwys en Opleiding. Ek is ook dankbaar teenoor die universiteitsraad dat hulle altyd bemoedigend is en onwrikbare ondersteuning bied.

Ten slotte is ek geweldig trots op ons vele prestasies en suksesse, en ek is verheug om dit met u te deel in vanjaar se jaarlikse Navorsingsverslag. Ons is goed op dreef om ’n robuuste wetenskaplike kultuur te bou en in stand te hou. Hierdie prestasies dra by tot ons handelsmerkreputasie. Ek nooi dus alle personeel en studente, saam met ons baie vriende en belanghebbendes, om saam met ons voort te gaan om KSUT as ‘One Smart University’ te ontwikkel. Ons diversiteit is ons sterkpunt, en ons het almal se insette nodig om ons volle potensiaal te bereik.

Prof Chris Nhlapo Visekanselier

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Amagqabantshintshi Ngusekela-Ngqonyela Unyaka wokufunda ka-2022 ube yimpumelelo engathethekiyo, uneziganeko ezininzi kwaye awusoze ulibaleke kwiYunivesithi yobuChwepheshe yoSingasiqithi weKapa (iCPUT). Bekumnandi ukubona iyunivesiti yethu ibuyela kwimeko yesiqhelo emva kweCovid-19, ephawulwa ngumbhodamo phakathi kwabaphandi kunye nabavelisi ngokufanayo.

Abafundi basembindini wayo yonke into esiyenzayo eCPUT, kwaye sizimisele ukubabonelela ngamathuba, inkxaso kunye namava aya kuthi abenzele umsebenzi oncomekayo nonempumelelo bakugqiba ukuthweswa izidanga. Sibonelela abafundi bethu, abaphandi kunye nabasebenzisana nabo ngesithuba sobuchule esikhethekileyo nesahlukileyo esinceda kuphando oluchulumancisayo kunye nokusungula izinto ezintsha. Imibhiyozo yothweso-zidanga ibiphawulwe yimiyeyezelo eyenziwa ngesimbo sokwenyani saseAfrika, ngakumbi kubafundi abasele benezidanga. Uninzi lwaba baphumeleleyo sisizukulwana sokuqala kwiintsapho zabo ukufumana iziqinisekiso zemfundo enomsila, njengoko bephuma kwiindawo ezithwaxwa yintlupheko nentswela-ngqesho.

Abafundi esinabo ngoku eCPUT nabasazayo bangabesizukulwana sedijithali esikwaziyo ukumelana nobugcisa kunye noqoqosho lolwazi, amaqonga ezentlalo, kunye newebhu yehlabathi ngokubanzi, kwaye thina njengeyunivesithi yobuchwepheshe siyaqhubeka nokuzama ukuhlangabezana neemfuno zabo zetekhnoloji.

Uphando olusetyenziswayo luphawu olubalulekileyo kwimveliso yolwazi eCPUT, kwaye sizama ngandlela zonke ukuzenza ukuba sibeyimpendulo ekuhlaleni kwaye sibe nonxibelelwano nehlabathi jikelele.

Akunakubalula ukugubungela onke amabali amnandi aphuma kuphando lwethu kunye noluntu oluvelise izinto ezintsha kunyaka wokufunda ka-2022. Ngoko ke, iiprofayili ezikhethiweyo zisuka kwiiNkalo zoGxininiso zoPhando ezivunyiweyo (iiRFAs).

• IRFA yoku-1: IBioeconomy kunye neBiotechnology • IRFA yesi-2: INzululwazi yeSpace, ubuNjineli neTekhnoloji • IRFA yesi-3: ISmart Energy • IRFA yesi-4: Imo yokusiNgqongileyo, uTshintsho lweMozulu kunye noZinzo • IRFA yesi-5: UBuntu, iMpilo kunye neNtshukumo yeNtlalo • IRFA yesi-6: IDigital Society IiRFA zidlala indima ebalulekileyo ekuphuhliseni ubungcali bophando kwaye zibonelele ngembonakalo yamandla ophando nemimandla engundoqo yeziko iCPUT. Zikwabonelela ngesiseko esibalulekileyo senzame zoPhando, uTshintsho lweTekhnoloji kunye neNtsebenziswano ezaziwa ngokuba yiCPUT Smart RTIP Strategy kwaye zinika ilizwi kwindlela yophando esetyenziswa eyunivesithi. IiRFA zizaliswe ziiNdawo zoPhando lweNiche ukukhulisa ubuninzi bophando lweCPUT, itekhnoloji kunye neenzame zokuvelisa izinto ezintsha kwanezibonelelo. Ezi zinto zibonelela ngeentsika zokuphuhliswa komthamo namandla ngeenjongo zethu zemfundo nophando eziqinisa umnqweno wethu wokuba ‘yiyunivesithi ekrelekrele’.

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Amagqabantshintshi Ngusekela-Ngqonyela

Iyunivesiti ehlakaniphileyo ibamba ngempumelelo amandla obuchwepheshe bedijithali kunye nezixhobo eziqhagamshelweyo, kunye nokusetyenziswa kothungelwano lwedijithali ukuphucula ubomi babantu ngokufundisa iteknoloji, ukufunda, uphando kunye nokuzibandakanya.

Iyunivesiti ehlakaniphileyo ibamba ngempumelelo amandla obuchwepheshe bedijithali kunye nezixhobo eziqhagamshelweyo, kunye nokusetyenziswa kothungelwano lwedijithali ukuphucula ubomi babantu ngokufundisa iteknoloji, ukufunda, uphando kunye nokuzibandakanya. Iyunivesithi ehlakaniphileyo ixhobisa uluntu. Iyunivesiti ehlakaniphileyo inika ingqalelo ngononophelo kubantu abakrelekrele ababandakanyeka kwimisebenzi yayo eyahlukeneyo.

IiRFA ezintandathu zangoku zilungelelaniswe ngokuthe ngqo nezahluko zesiCwangciso soPhuhliso seSizwe soMzantsi Afrika (iNDP) sowama-2030 ngokubhekiselele kukhuphiswano kunye nokufaneleka kwilizwe lethu, kwakunye neeNjongo zoPhuhliso oluZinzileyo (SDG) ezilishumi elinesixhenxe zeZizwe eziManyeneyo ngokubhekiselele kukhuphiswano kunye nokufaneleka kwazo kumhlaba jikelele. Ezi RFA zomelezwa ngakumbi ngokuqeshwa kooSihlalo boPhando.

Enye yezona zinto zibalulekileyo eCPUT kulo nyaka kukuphehlelelwa emajukujukwini kothungelwano lwethu lwesithathu lwesathelayithi ngoLwesine umhla we-13 kaJanyuwari ukusuka kwindawo yokuphehlelelwa kweCape Canaveral eMelika.

Iqela leenkwenkwezi zeMDASat (i-marine domain awareness) inezinto ezimbini eziphambili, ezizezi, uqoqosho lolwandle kunye nokhathalelo lwempilo.

Inikwe igunya liSebe lezeNzululwazi kunye noTshintsho (iDSI) ukukhulisa ulongamo lolwandle lwaseMzantsi Afrika. Ukusabela kwisigunyaziso seSebe lezeNzululwazi noTshintsho lokomeleza ulawulo lolwandle lwaseMzantsi Afrika, iOperation Phakisa (uphumezo olukhawulezileyo lwe-NDP) igxile kulwazi olusebenzayo lwaselwandle. Isoftware echaza umthwalo kanomathotholo osetyenziswa kwimishini yeMDASat ijolise ekomelezeni ukhuselo kunye nokhuseleko lwemithombo yolwandle yelizwe lethu.

Ubalo lopapasho lwaseCPUT lusahleli luqinile, ngaphezu kwama-344 eeyunithi ezingeniswe kwiSebe leMfundo ePhakamileyo noQeqesho ngo2022. Amanqaku eNational Research Foundation nawo ahlala eqinile, ngoku sinezifundiswa ezimalunga nama-60 ezibambe la manqaku. Kubekho ukwanda kweqela labasele benezidanga - kubandakanywa abaphathi kunye nezifundiswa - eyindawo egqibeleleyo yokuzalanisa umbono weyunivesithi wokuba yiYunivesithi yobuChwepheshe ehamba phambili ekrelekrele eAfrika, eyaziwa kwihlabathi jikelele ngokwenza izinto ezintsha, kuquka nabaphumeleleyo ababumba ihlabathi elingcono kuluntu. Iziko leZifundo zabasele benezidanga (CPGS) liququzelele iindibano zocweyo zabasele benezidanga ezininzi apha enyakeni. Ukongeza, eli ziko lichithe ngaphezulu kwezigidi ezi-R2.2 kuphuhliso lwezakhono zabasele benezidanga.

Le nkxaso-mali ibandakanya ukuhlela ulwimi, ukubonisana ngemethodoloji kunye nocweyo loqeqesho.

Siyazingca ngakumbi ngezinto ezininzi eziphunyeziweyo kwiOfisi yethu yoTshintsho lobuChwepheshe (TTO). Eli candelo lisendleleni eya ekubeni lelinye lawona macandelo asebenza ngolu hlobo eMzantsi Afrika. Njenge-One Smart CPUT, sizibophelele kwintsebenziswano nakutshintshiselwano ngolwazi kunye nemizimveliso, uluntu necandelo likarhulumente, kunye nentsebenziswano kunye nobudlelwane noluhlu olubanzi lwabachaphazelekayo.

Kufuneka ke ngoko kubekho amakhonkco aqinileyo kunye notshintshiselwano oluguquguqukayo kunye ne-incubators zoshishino, iipaki zesayensi kunye namanye amaphulo anxulumene nokuveliswa kwezinto ezintsha kunye nemisebenzi yethekhinoloji, ebandakanya abasebenzi kunye nabafundi abanemizi-mveliso kunye nezoshishino.

IVice-Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers Awards iqhubekile nokubhiyozela ukugqwesa ezifundweni kunye nokuzimisela kwiqela elitsha labafumana la mawonga. Lo msitho ububanjelwe kwiCape Town Hotel School kwiKhampasi yaseGranger Bay, ukwabhiyozele impumelelo yabawongiweyo abane abathweswe izidanga. Le nkqubo yaqalwa ngo2018, kwaye la mawonga anikezelwa minyaka le kubafundi abafanelekileyo bezifundo zemaster’s kunye nabezobugqirhalwazi ababonise ukugqwesa ezifundweni kwaye bangumzekelo weempawu zesidanga saseCPUT. Yonke le mpumelelo ikhankanywe apha ngentla inokwenzeka kuphela ngenxa yabasebenzi abazinikeleyo baseCPUT, abafundi kunye nabachaphazelekayo. Siyalibulela igalelo labo elixabiseke kakhulu ekuphumezeni imida esele

7 imisiwe kumaziko ukuxhasa isicwangciso sethu seminyaka elishumi, uMbono wama-2030.

Abathathi-nxaxheba bangaphandle kunye nabaxhasi ngezimali babaluleke kakhulu kwimpumelelo yophando, umzekelo, iSebe lezeNzululwazi noTshintsho kunye neSebe leMfundo ePhakamileyo noQeqesho. Ndikwabulela iBhunga leyunivesithi ngokusoloko likhuthaza kwaye libonelela ngenkxaso engagungqiyo.

Ukuqukumbela, ndinebhongo kakhulu ngezinto ezininzi esizizuzileyo kunye nempumelelo yethu, kwaye ndiyakuvuyela ukwabelana ngazo nani kwiNgxelo yoPhando yalo nyaka. Sisendleleni eya ekwakheni nasekugcineni inkcubeko eyomeleleyo yokufunda.

Ezi mpumelelo zinegalelo kudumo lophawu lwethu. Ngoko ke, ndimema bonke abasebenzi nabafundi, kunye nabahlobo bethu abaninzi nabachaphazelekayo, ukuba bazibandakanye ekuqhubeleni phambili ukuphuhlisa iCPUT njenge ‘One Smart University’. Ukwahluka kwethu ngamandla ethu, kwaye sifuna igalelo lakho ukuze sisebenzise amandla ethu ngokupheleleyo.

UNjingalwazi Chris Nhlapho USekela-Tshansela

VC’s Prestigious Achievers Awards Academic excellence and determination were at the centre of the VC’s Prestigious Achievers Awards ceremony in October, where the new cohort of recipients was celebrated. The ceremony, held at the Cape Town Hotel School on the Granger Bay campus, also celebrated the success of four awardees who graduated. The awards programme was started in 2018 and bestows awards annually on deserving master’s and doctoral students who have shown academic excellence and embody the CPUT graduate attributes.

The 2022 awardees were: • Ms Oritonda Muribwathoho, completing Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering • Ms Murendeni Nethengwe, completing Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Sciences • Mr Shaun Mgoma, completing Doctor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering • Ms Bongisiwe Zozo, completing Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry • Mr Mzoxolo Ntabeni, completing Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering

have the potential to achieve great things. He said that too often such excellent potential is extinguished by a lack of funds or resources, resulting in many brilliant, possibly life-changing dreams being deferred, often forever. Prof Kioko continued, “Fortunately, humanity has in itself the ability to provide the spark or the fuel that would keep those lights shining all the way to a brighter future. For a fitting example of what we can all do, one needs to look no further than people and entities like the Mauerberger Foundation Fund and its chairperson, Advocate Diana Yach. The foundation generously supports these awards and ensures that the spark in many bright minds at CPUT is kept alive.

The four recipients who graduated are: • Dr Yvonne Maphosa, with a Doctor of Food Science and Technology • Dr Imisioluseyi Akinyede, with a Doctor of Engineering in Civil Engineering • Ms Sivenathi Jayiya, with a Master of Public Relations Management • Mr Sihle Ngxabi, with a Master of Horticultural Science Chairperson of the Awards Committee, Prof Joseph Kioko (Dean of FAS), said the recipients

Students awarded for academic excellence

On behalf of the committee, I’d like to express our deep gratitude to Advocate Yach.”

One of the recipients, Ms Muribwathoho, said she was immensely thankful for the award, adding that it would mean less stress and allow her to focus on her studies.

VC Prof Chris Nhlapo saluted the recipients and said he hoped that some of them would become professors and vice-chancellors at the institution. Advocate Yach said she was pleased to announce that the amount allocated to CPUT was being increased this year. She said the awardees had fulfilled the dreams set out when the awards programme was first established.

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CPUT’s journey to Vision 2030 CPUT’s journey to Vision 2030 was unpacked in July, at an event themed ‘Navigating obstacles: Scenario planning for Vision 2030’.

Renowned strategist, best-selling business author, and founding partner of Mindofafox and its education and training arm, Growing Foxes, Ms Chantell Ilbury, was the guest speaker at the event, held at the Auditorium on the Bellville Campus. Guests were welcomed by Prof Driekie Hay-Swemmer, Executive Director in the Office of the VC, who described the event as an exciting moment for the institution.

In his keynote address, VC Prof Chris Nhlapo said the institution had made a choice to be a smart university before the end of this decade.

“We are under no illusion that it is going to be easy. It is going to be a rough road, but we’ll ultimately ascend the heights of greatness.” Prof Nhlapo said the strategy re-imagines CPUT as a leading UoT in the country, the continent and the globe. “The magnum opus in the making must bear the hallmark of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, hence the ‘MIT of Africa’ mantra.” He said it had been agreed that

the next phase should be dedicated to building a smart university.

“Everything that we do must support ‘oneness’ and ‘smartness’. There is a framework for ‘One Smart CPUT’. In this framework, we agree that we will follow a focused approach as far as this strategy is concerned.”

This approach is made up of seven focus areas: • A Smart ITC environment and ITC workforce • Smart teaching and learning and smart learning environments • Smart RTIP that is relevant and excellent in its knowledge production • Smart human capital and talent • Smart internationalisation • Smart engagement and strong links with quintuple helix partners • Smart student engagements and learning experiences The VC continued, “The emphasis on ‘oneness’ is directed at creating one institutional culture because culture is quality, a sense of belonging, an environment where everyone strives towards the same goal, taking pride in who we are and how we conduct our business as a university, working as teams, taking collective responsibility for our future, breaking down silos, working across departments, units, centres, faculties, disciplines and research focus areas, evidenced by a strong sense of caring about the wellness of others in the workplace and the future of the university.” He invited all stakeholders to join the institution on the ‘One Smart CPUT’ journey as we create futures. “One Smart CPUT is focused on more than the technological world. It is our renewed contract with human-centricity and our biggest assets and resources are our people.”

‘Navigating obstacles: Scenario planning for Vision 2030’

Ms Illbury’s presentation focused on scenario planning in terms of possible obstacles to the Vision 2030 journey. This was followed by a lively question and answer session, facilitated by programme director, Prof Paul Green (Dean: FBMS), with Prof Nhlapo and Ms Illbury as panellists. The event concluded with a spectacular laser show encompassing the journey to Vision 2030.

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VC lauds Research Week in France VC Prof Chris Nhlapo led a CPUT delegation on a visit to the University of Montpellier in July. He applauded the highly successful South African Higher Education and Research Week in France. The delegation included DVC: RTIP, Dr David Phaho; Dean: FAS, Prof Joseph Kioko, HOD: Food Technology, Prof Jessy Van Wyk; SARChI Research Chair and CWSR Leader, Prof Bongani Ncube; Assistant Dean: FEBE, Prof Veruscha Fester; Dean: FEBE, Prof Marshall Sheldon; and Stakeholder Engagement Co-ordinator in the Office of the VC, Ms Busiswa Luqhide. The delegation met the Ministry of Higher Education and Research and had several engagements with various universities on diverse topics of collaboration and partnership namely, Science Po, Toulouse University, University of Paris Saclay, University Paris-Est Creteil, University of Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne and University of Montpellier.

CPUT was invited to attend the event by the French Embassy in South Africa in collaboration with the South African Embassy in France and the NRF. The purpose of the event was to reinforce mutual understanding and knowledge of France’s respective academic landscapes and hence achieve the objective of expanding the bilateral scientific and academic co-operation with South African universities.

In an interview at Montpellier with Ecom News about the exchanges between the University of Montpellier and South African universities, Prof Nhlapo said, “We are involved in satellite missions so we have launched a number of satellites into space with them, and we also had a number of staff and student exchanges.”

Reflecting on the benefit to CPUT, Prof Nhlapo said, “It’s an opportunity for international exposure for our students. Actually, if you look at F’SATI, it has been there for more than 25 years. There are a lot of projects, and we are looking at the sustainability of the model because the model works.” Prof Nhlapo said all delegations from 23 South African universities and over 40 French HE and research institutions benefitted immensely. During this visit, the VC was also impressed by the annual

Prof Jessy Van Wyk (HOD: Food Technology), Prof Joseph Kioko (Dean: FAS), Prof Chris Nhlapo (VC), Prof Bongani Ncube (SARChI Research Chair and CWSR leader), and Prof Veruscha Fester (Assistant Dean: FEBE)

Montpellier Sustainability Global Day. “The scientific workshop and panel discussions on various topics related to sustainability were world-class and very high level. This was organised in partnership with University of Montpellier, CNRS (French National Centre for Scientific Research), IRD (Institute of Research for Development) and CIRAD (Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement).

Prof Nhlapo was highly impressed with the conference in Brussels between the EU and Africa, aptly themed ‘Imagining a new Euro-African scientific partnership’. He said this was organised by the CNRS and the IRD in the framework of the French Presidency of the EU Council. “I would also like to thank the NRF for funding this visit, the South African Ambassador in France, and the French Ambassador in South Africa for making this once-in-a-lifetime experience possible,” Prof Nhlapo added.

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MESSAGE FROM THE DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR: RESEARCH, TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION & PARTNERSHIPS (DVC: RTIP)

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2022 marked our much-welcomed transition from the Covid-19 grip with its attendant lockdowns and other restrictions the world endured over the two preceding years. Just like the rest of the higher education sector, a ‘new normal’ took over at CPUT, with an appreciable increase in research, teaching, learning as well as local and global engagements. In some cases, these activities returned to pre-2020 levels. As indicated in this report, the significant increase in value-adding partnerships and collaborations across all our faculties, research institutes and centres, as codified by our Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships (SIP) Directorate, is noteworthy.

Also significant, has been the concerted effort by our nationally recognised Technology Transfer Office (TTO) to drive our innovation agenda. This is in line with legislative fiat for institutions to commercialise publicly funded research outputs where possible. However, challenges abound with some resistance from academics, primarily due to a lack of understanding of the objectives of the Intellectual Property Rights from Publicly Financed Research and Development Act, 2008 (the IPR Act). To address this, TTO continues to offer workshops to ensure that our research and innovation activities bring tangible benefits to society.

Nationally, the publication of the landmark Council on Higher Education (CHE) Doctoral Review Report in 2021 gave unprecedented impetus for an institutional review of not just our doctoral qualifications but also the overall readiness and support structures to ensure postgraduate students’ success at CPUT. Along with CPUT’s own Doctoral Audit report from CHE, the review report serves as a guiding document to ensure that our desired postgraduate attributes are understood by and entrenched among all relevant stakeholders. The collaboration between the Centre for Postgraduate Studies (CPGS) and the Quality Management Directorate to address the recommended

11 improvements in both reports is a noteworthy example of the ‘Oneness’ dimension espoused in our Vision 2030 (V2030) strategic document.

A number of noteworthy institutional activities to address shortcomings and gaps in enhancing postgraduate success have been initiated and implemented during the period under review. Noteworthy is the much-lauded Sisonke Supervisor Mentorship Programme.

This ground-breaking initiative aims to provide co-ordinated training for emerging supervisors within CPUT; leveraging the expertise of experienced academics and scholars. It is anticipated that this will go a long way in addressing the postgraduate supervision capacity constraints across the entire higher education sector as identified in the CHE Doctoral Review.

On the research development front, the impact of Covid-19 on our research outputs and postgraduate students’ progress was not as drastic as was initially feared. This is indicated by the increase in the number of research outputs recorded for 2022 and submitted to DHET. The institution has also experienced some seismic changes within our research environment. The resignation of the National Research Foundation’s (NRF) SARChI Research Chair in Cardiometabolic Health in August was a concern, but this has been mitigated by the appointment of Prof Glenda Davison as Interim Chair. Furthermore, CPUT has welcomed the appointment of Prof Bongani Ncube as the SARChI Chair in Governance & Economics of Water & Sanitation Sector Institutions.

To enhance transdisciplinary research initiatives at CPUT as envisaged in V2030, the CPUT Council approved the establishment of a oneof-its-kind institute to drive transdisciplinary research in education and broader humanities inclusive of policy research. The Global Institute for Teacher Education and Society (GITES) was established using the globally recognised Centre for International Teacher Education (CITE) as a foundational base.

The progress report for the period under review would not be possible without the support and collaboration of CPUT leadership structures including Council, Executive Management, Mancom, Senate and other management formations.

Prof Johann Mouton of CREST at SU and Prof Chris Nhlapo

The diligent and tireless efforts of Prof Dina Burger and her DRD team cannot be over-emphasised.

Their work with internal and external stakeholders has enhanced our research and innovation agenda during the period under review. Notwithstanding the disruption wrought by Covid-19, CPUT is poised for even more growth in the research and innovation space in 2023 as an engaged and relevant university in South Africa.

In closing, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the staff and student body for all the hard work in spite of continuous institutional and societal challenges. As we celebrate our stellar achievements in the research and innovation arena, we must also pause and remember all the colleagues we have lost during this period. Our deepest condolences to their loved ones. Let their memory be a blessing. Their contribution to CPUT shall not be forgotten.

Sisonke Supervision Mentoring Programme launched RTI-Directorate Research Development (DRD) launched the Sisonke Supervision Mentoring programme in May. This programme offers opportunities for capacity building to grow CPUT’s cohort of skilled PhD-qualified staff to supervise and mentor novice researchers. This is due to the steady increase in master’s and doctoral postgraduates seen across Africa, and CPUT needs many more well-prepared supervisors. Building good, sustainable HE supervision mentoring programmes is necessary to expand the number of doctoral postgraduates to work not only in the HE and research sector but in the industrial sector too.

DVC: RTIP, Dr David Phaho, delivered a presentation outlining the CPUT Postgraduate Roadmap to 2030. “It’s been a long time coming, but the efforts have been fruitful, and we have an opportunity here to do great things for this institution.” His message included: • Postgraduate education and CPUT Vision 2030 • CPUT postgraduate enrolment trends 2011 to present • CPUT research output trends 2011 to 2021 • Postgraduate enrolment in the Covid-19 world and current state of play • Strategic levers to increase postgraduate students 2021 to 2030 • How to measure progress and what to watch out for

12

Sisonke Supervision Mentoring Programme launched (cont....)

Dr Phaho said the drive to enhance postgraduate success at CPUT would be primarily informed by the following Vision 2030 focus areas: • Smart teaching and learning and learning environments • Smart RTIP that is relevant and has an impact • Smart internationalisation • Smart engagement and strong links with quintuple helix partners • Smart student engagement and learning experience Director: DRD, Prof Dina Burger, said, “What is clear to me is that it’s important to have a system in place but it has to do with the soft issues, it has to do with the supervisors and the postgraduate students, predominantly, that journey, that relationship is what lies at the heart when I think of successful postgraduate education.” Prof Burger added that there was a need to improve the number of postgraduates and academic staff with doctoral degrees.

The guest speaker was Prof Johann Mouton, Director of the DSI–NRF Centre of Excellence for Scientometrics and STI Policy and professor at the Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science and Technology (CREST) at SU. Prof Mouton said it is widely recognised that South Africa needed more highly-skilled academics and scientists for their reproductive capacity – to train and mentor the next generation of scientists – and their knowledge, productive and innovative capacity. “What we have witnessed over the past 20 years is a steady increase in demands placed on our universities to grow and transform this capacity. And most of the ‘indicators’ show that the sector has responded admirably, both as far as quantitative outputs – graduates and publications – are concerned, as well as qualitatively – through creative and novel initiatives such as the Sisonke programme.”

In his closing remarks, VC Prof Chris Nhlapo said he hoped that the Sisonke programme would assist CPUT to navigate the challenges that arise from not having capacity and not having an adequate programme around the training of the supervisors themselves. Prof Nhlapo added, “And you are absolutely right Prof Burger, that to a large extent we rely on how we supervise.

So, if my supervisor was not good, I am likely to perpetuate that. I hope that the Sisonke programme is going to draw the line to say henceforth we will have to build the capacity of our novice researchers, build the capacity of our mid-career researchers, and build the capacity of our established researchers, because at every level there is a need for development. We are looking forward as an institution, to say from the Executive Management’s point of view, we are fully behind you.”

SAWS delegation with CPUT representatives at SARETEC

CPUT hosts South African Weather Service In a follow-up engagement on potential collaboration projects, a CPUT delegation hosted South African Weather Service (SAWS) delegates at the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre (SARETEC) in June. The Meteorological Services delegation was led by the Executive Director, Dr Jonas Mphepya, while the CPUT delegation was led by Dr David Phaho, DVC: RTIP. This was a follow-up from a virtual preliminary engagement that took place in February between SAWS, FAS, FEBE and RTI-SIP. In his brief welcoming speech, Dr Phaho expressed the institution’s eagerness to have ‘an engaging conversation’ and Director: RTI-SIP, Prof Judy Peter, provided background with reference to the February engagement. Dr Nelisiwe Maleka, Manager: Research Uptake at RTISIP, said the purpose of the engagement was to explore potential research collaborations, student development and training with regard to skills enhancement. All representatives agreed to first look at the current MoA and identify further potential research collaboration projects.

13

Dr Mphepya indicated that the work at SAWS cut across all sectors.

Furthermore, SAWS values the input of academics in the South African value chain, which includes observations, numerical weather prediction, generating forecasts, issuing official warnings, tailored services and business data integration. “There is a need to expand on the value chain and strengthen capacity building in the meteorology, aviation and marine arenas,” said Dr Mphepya. He also highlighted the importance of partnership on the global front and in African countries. In addition, Director: TTO, Dr Revel Iyer, emphasised the importance of translating research solutions to the market and ensuring there would be uptake.

Potential research collaboration projects identified during the first engagement are: • 4IR to explore the development of genuine apps for big data • Use of ICT for experimental learning • Sensor development (low-cost sensors) and satellite development, to conduct collaborations and capacity building • A key component of the ocean economy for ocean gathering, relates to reacting to and building risk modelling • Student development (select three or four career-studentship master’s and doctoral programmes to be supported by SAWS) • Create opportunities for exchange programmes for staff and students The following areas of collaboration with SAWS were explored and consolidated – to be aligned with CPUT’s Vision 2030: • Observations/MET equipment • Infrastructure/software development and applications • Weather and climate knowledge value chain • Training (RTC) • Product/services/research • Opportunities for students • FEBE • Satellite for weather monitoring and sensor development • FAS • Marine sciences and ocean economy • Student development (bottom-up from undergraduate to postgraduate)

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MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR: DIRECTORATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT One of my personal highlights every year is to be one of the contributors to our annual Research Report. It is an opportunity to reflect, to acknowledge and to further encourage the scholars across the institution, who despite many challenges, still push the boundaries of curiosity and work tirelessly to discover novel solutions to societal challenges. After all, in the words of Albert Szent-Gyorgyi written in 1937, “Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought.”

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The work that we do in the Directorate Research Development (DRD) is not only aligned with the 2030 Vision of CPUT, but also closely aligned with the national Development Plan (NDP) of South Africa and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of Africa. Our Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chris Nhlapo, made it known in one of his keynote addresses that we are on a journey to become a leading UoT in South Africa, on the continent and on the globe. We are busy building a smart university with a dedicated focus on ‘oneness’. This clarion call has encouraged DRD to focus all our efforts and energies towards directing, serving and supporting our researchers and students across the university.

DRD has a lean team of dedicated staff members who focus on the following areas of service and support:

• Research management and governance including policy development and revision • A comprehensive suite of research training and capacity development programmes for staff • In alignment with our institutional values, we have a dedicated service and support function honouring research integrity • A state-of-the-art research information management system, enabling accurate and in-time research reporting and facilitating quality decision making • Grants information, administration and support services to grow our grant income, on the one hand, and to assist in the research career development of our researchers at every stage of their development, on the other hand • Rewarding research excellence on an annual basis

15 The work that we do is organised to ensure that we achieve the vision, mission and goals expressed in the CPUT 2030 decadal plan. Our strategic imperatives are to: • Develop the research capacity of a future generation of researchers, scholars and innovators, putting CPUT at the forefront of innovation in the broadest sense • Invest in the development and growth of research leadership on all academic levels through a supportive research culture, creating academic career paths by providing opportunities for the development of mode 2 and mode 3 knowledge production • Increase the number of academic staff with doctoral qualifications in line with the NDP of 2030 through a broad funding support programme • Recruit reputable, productive and experience academics (including adjunct professors), support staff and postdoctoral fellows • Retain productive researchers after the age of 65 as adjunct professors and research fellows • Purposefully support and encourage CPUT academics to obtain and maintain their NRF ratings • Ensure and sustain research influence through high impact and relevant research undertaken by Research Chairs and research entities to address issues of water and sanitation, oceans economy, energy, food security, education, electricity shortage, waste management, climate change and other sustainability challenges • Increase CPUT collaborative transdisciplinary research, and in so doing, provide a better opportunity to contribute novel solutions to societal challenges These key drivers are used to serve and support our researchers resulting in: • Ground-breaking research and innovations as highlighted in this Research Report in the respective reports of the faculties and research entities • Increased research outputs

FUNDING SOURCE Higher Education Reform Experts (HERESA)

AMOUNT 301 398

Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought.

• Improved supervision capacity through the ground-breaking Sisonki Supervision Mentorship Programme • Continuous recognition of our researchers’ findings, both nationally and internationally • Continuous improved grants successes, resulting in research projects supporting CPUT’s six Research Focus Areas • More industry-linked programmes • Active participation in national initiatives such as the Black Academic Advancement Programme, the Improvement of Qualifications Programme (IQP), and the Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme (NESP) • Improvement in academic staff obtaining doctorate degrees • Increased number of transdisciplinary research projects • More participation in national and international conferences linked to accredited research outputs • Improved number of NRF-rated researchers • Increased number of adjunct professors and postdoctoral fellows All of these achievements can be ascribed to the visionary leadership of our senior management team, as well as the invaluable contributions of our support staff, our donors and sponsors, and the support we are given by government.

I wish to specifically congratulate all our academic staff for the important research that they continue to do and disseminate. I also wish to thank every staff member who supports research and, more specifically, the staff of the Directorate Research Development for their dedicated hard work that will ultimately culminate in the successful achievement of the strategic goals set out in CPUT’s Vision 2030.

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DSI delegation visits CPUT A DSI delegation visited CPUT in February, to establish contact with the DRD and get an overview of how research is managed at the university. At the meeting, CPUT was represented by Dr David Phaho, DVC: RTIP; Dr Elisha Chiware, Director: Library Services; Dr Hester Burger, Manager: Unit of Research Integrity, DRD; Dr Patricia Smit, Manager: Research Capacity Development, DRD; and Dr Nelisiwe Maleka, Manager: Research Uptake, RTI-SIP. Dr Burger said the purpose of the meeting was two-fold: i) to introduce the work that DSI does with research offices, particularly on the relationship between South Africa and Europe and the

collaboration in science and innovation research; ii) to enlighten DSI about the areas of research at CPUT and activities that are currently running between CPUT and Europe.

At the meeting, DSI representatives stated that they aimed to create contact with the DRD so that they could arrange information sessions.

The department also advised that there were bilateral consortiums on research initiatives with European countries other than bilateral calls, e.g., Consortium of Minerals and Water in Germany and Austria.

The DSI co-ordinates South African–European funded projects. There are annual joint committee meetings chaired by the DSI Director

General (DG) and the European Commission DG. On behalf of the DIS delegation, Dr Toto Matshediso stated that it was very important for South African HEIs to use these consortiums to forge bilateral co-operation so that they could have access to information about research initiatives and that the interest was in spin-off companies.

A comprehensive overview was provided by representatives on how CPUT managed its research and innovation activities. The DSI highlighted how CPUT was delivering on its mandate, not just in teaching and research, but also in innovation for the benefit of the people of South Africa, citing the successful launch of three nanosatellites in January 2022 as an example. “The DSI colleagues were informed about our activities and they wanted to inform us about existing as well as emerging opportunities for research and innovation funding, especially from the EU for CPUT researchers, specifically young and emerging researchers,” Dr Phaho said. He added that the goal was to establish a single point of entry within the DRD, where opportunities for funding and collaborations managed

by DSI through bilateral agreements with other countries, could be communicated to the CPUT research and innovation community.

“The benefit for CPUT is an opportunity for our researchers (including academics, students and postdocs) to be informed in real-time on existing and new opportunities for funding, partnerships and mobility as they become available.”

The meeting provided insight into research, strategic initiatives and funding opportunities accessible through DSI. “Both CPUT and DSI agreed on strengthening the skills development of CPUT postgraduate students, and participation of postgraduate students in exchange programmes and the European Science Forum. The engagements will continue and some of the action points have been executed,” Dr Burger concluded.

Forging bilateral co-operation

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MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR: CENTRE FOR POSTGRADUATE STUDIES (CPGS) In many ways, 2022 was a year of renewal for the Centre for Postgraduate Studies (CPGS). After the pandemic’s peak, university life gradually returned to normal and postgraduate research resumed. In what was a new direction for the centre, I was appointed the permanent Director in July 2022. I seized the opportunity to introduce a 5-year strategic plan dubbed #OneSmartCPGS in line with the institutional Vision 2030. Indeed, our postgraduate cohort – not excluding supervisors and academics – is the perfect breeding ground for actualising the university’s vision of becoming Africa’s leading smart UoT, globally renowned for innovation, with graduates that shape a better world for humanity. CPGS is the crucial mechanism through which we can drive this vision. Indeed, CPGS aligns itself with the institutional vision that embraces two key dimensions: human-centricity (oneness) and open innovation (smartness). Thus, I created a strategic framework encapsulating these ideas, premised on the notion of ‘human-centric innovation’.

According to this framework, CPGS has at its heart three objectives: (i) to increase the number and quality of postgraduate students, (ii) to improve the quantity and quality of research, innovation, and creative outputs, and (iii) to enhance the postgraduate student experience. I extend these objectives to include supervisors and academics as well. These core objectives are not mutually exclusive to CPGS’s existing functions as a body to co-ordinate postgraduate and postdoctoral research. Instead, they complement these functions. It is also important to note that

these objectives are not achieved linearly but concurrently. Thus, the objectives underpin all activities of this centre.

While I can foresee a range of exciting activations to help CPGS achieve its objectives, I can also reflect on our main activities for 2022. Firstly, we had over 1 400 students active on our student data management portal, Higher Degrees Committee (HDC) Digital. This is the central repository for tracking student progress across the university.

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18 Master’s and PhD Students on HDC Digital 2022 FACULTY

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Applied Sciences

47

166

213

Business & Management Sciences

69

359

428

Education

43

82

125

Engineering & the Built Environment

90

325

415

Health & Wellness Sciences

23

89

112

Informatics & Design

58

83

141

TOTAL

330

1104

1434

Training interventions CPGS also designs, develops, and conducts training interventions to assist this large cohort of postgraduate students. These include facilitating workshops on developing research proposals, research methodology, qualitative data analysis, academic writing, software tools, writing for publication, and data analysis software, among others. We also administer the selection, attendance, and evaluation of postgraduate student training, write reports regarding the training interventions, and do follow-ups on interventions. In addition to training, CPGS offers statistical consultation

RESEARCH OUTPUT 2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO DHET MAY 2023) Journal articles (audited)

UNITS 2.83

19 services to staff and postgraduate students. This support extends throughout the research process, from the planning of a research project, through the analysis of research data, up to the publication of the findings. On request, we will offer short lectures on analysing research data, statistical concepts, and research methodology to staff and postgraduate students. By assisting with the better collection, analysis and reporting of research data, we contribute to an increase in the quantity and quality of research output at CPUT. Overall, CPGS facilitated 92 postgraduate workshops during 2022.

In addition, the centre expended over R2.2 million on postgraduate capacity development. This is funded by the University Capacity Development Grant (UCDG), and includes services like language editing, methodology consultation and training workshops.

UCDG expenditure on postgraduate capacity development: 2021

R1 892 500

2022

R2 081 750

FUNDING SOURCE DHET Publications Subsidy 2020

AMOUNT 12 363

New head intends to develop CPGS academic capacity Former Department of Applied Design NRF-rated researcher Prof Izak van Zyl was appointed Director of the Centre for Postgraduate Studies (CPGS) in July 2022.

He said he wanted to develop the centre’s academic capacity in line with the university’s Vision 2030. “I want to position the CPGS strategically as a postgraduate hub that offers more than just administrative support,” said Prof van Zyl. To achieve this, he has three goals – to increase the number and quality of postgraduates (including postdoctoral fellows), to improve the number and quality of research and creative outputs, and to enhance the postgraduate student experience. “Achieving these objectives will take time and energy, but they form a critical part of the five-year strategic plan I have developed for the centre.”

Prof van Zyl has recently been upgraded from a Y2 to a C2 rating by the NRF. He has worked across disciplines, mainly in communication science and educational technology. Prof van Zyl’s most recent work was the use of WhatsApp as a teaching and learning tool for postgraduate students during the height of the pandemic in 2020. He worked with Prof Johannes Cronjé on this initiative, with students across the university. He says his Prof Izak van Zyl, new Director of CPGS most significant achievements include being rated for the first time, being appointed as an associate professor at a young age, being a finalist at the 2019 Science Oscars, being upgraded to an Established Researcher, and becoming Director of CPGS. “I am honoured to be recognised for what I do and to be able to contribute to the work of the university.”

Prof van Zyl is grateful that since 2017 he has worked under the tutelage of great leaders in FID who helped him grow both academically and personally. “I’ve forged strong relationships with colleagues who have supported me in my various endeavours in the faculty and broader university.” He said he is very excited and grateful for his latest appointment. “It came as a wonderful surprise to be offered the position after a rigorous (and nerve-wracking) interview process.” He added, “I want to thank all colleagues who have expressed their support in the past few weeks. I am also immensely grateful to the previous Acting Director, Prof Dina Burger, for her encouragement and support, to the DVC: RTIP, Dr David Phaho, and to all members of senior management for backing me in this position.”

20

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR: TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER & INDUSTRIAL LINKAGES

Dr

Re

l ve

r

Iye

The modern Western university evolved from the medieval schools known as studia generalia. These primordial universities were generally recognised as places of study open to students from all parts of Europe. These ancient towns were supported and supervised by courts, religious organisations, scientific institutions such as museums, hospitals and observatories, and intellectuals. This Western conception of the university that evolved over the following centuries has become ingrained into the fabric of society worldwide, primarily via the German university model, which developed during the 18th century. A key evolution during the past 150 years, is that universities have grown to be more accessible to the general public.

The establishment of new civic universities focused on science and engineering has marked the transition from the Industrial Revolution to modernity.

1 2

https://www.derby.ac.uk/blog/mean-modern-civic-university/ https://www.derby.ac.uk/blog/mean-modern-civic-university/

“A civic university must be willing to accept that there are some people it prioritises – namely those who grow up, live and work in the area. A civic university should be active in shaping and leading the decisions that affect the people in the locality.

Richard Brabner, Director of the UPP Foundation1 “If you’re going to work with civil society, you need long-term, trust-based relationships, and they are difficult to build, especially under many of the project funding mechanisms that are around. Universities may receive a grant from one research council or business and it’s very quick – in and out. A lot of this development, and that with the community, relies on long-term commitments; it doesn’t happen overnight.”

Professor John Goddard OBE, Deputy Chair of the UPP Foundation Civic University Commission2

21

Industry partnerships There is significant scope to grow the number of industry partnerships with researchers at the institution (chart in right-hand column). In this regard, CPUT is looking to expand on these strategic partnerships with industry, which could involve: Research collaborations: Partnerships with industry to conduct joint research projects. This allows CPUT researchers to gain access to industry-specific data and technologies, while industries can benefit from the expertise and knowledge of CPUT researchers.

Work-integrated learning (WIL): Collaborate with industry to link students to a workplace related to their field of study. This provides students with hands-on industry experience and the opportunity to apply their

academic knowledge to real-world problems, while industries benefit from a pipeline of potential future employees.

Technology transfer: Technology innovations developed at CPUT are transferred to industry through licensing agreements, spin-off companies and other commercialisation strategies. This allows industries to benefit from CPUT’s research and development activities and bring new products and services to market that benefit society.

Continuing education and training: Partnerships with industry provide continuing education and training programmes for industry professionals. This allows industry professionals to stay up to date with the latest developments in their field.

Joint ventures: CPUT and industry can form joint ventures to develop and commercialise new products and technologies. This allows both parties to share the risks and rewards of the venture and can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes.

Contract research: Industry can contract CPUT to conduct a specific research project or programme on their behalf. This allows industry to access specialised expertise and resources that they may not have in-house. For CPUT, contract research provides a source of funding and allows researchers to apply their expertise to real-world problems and challenges.

Research funding: Industry-sponsored research generally aims to advance research projects to product development and commercialisation. Research funding

means that industry can get a ‘burst’ of productivity to answer a particular question without having to hire and maintain an employee. Additionally, funding steers the direction of research – making funding available is therefore a good way to foster that research. Finally, funding independent university-based groups means having studies done in independent settings – this leads to 12increased credibility.

Number of industry contracts reported

CPUT has embraced the civic university concept, and this is well established in its Vision 2030, which states: “In a smart university, there is collaboration and engagement with external stakeholders across all research and teaching activities... Stakeholder relationships and strategic partnerships are key to driving innovation. As One Smart CPUT, we are committed to collaboration and knowledge exchange with industry, society and the public sector, and to partnerships and relationships with a wide range of stakeholders... There must be strong links and dynamic exchanges with business incubators, science parks and other initiatives related to innovation and technology activities, involving staff and students with industry and business.”

10

8

6

4

2

0

Q1

Q2

Q3

Q4

Q1

2020

Q2

Q3

Q4

Q1

Q2

2021

Q3 2022

FEBE

FAS

FID

FBMS

FEd

FHS

AMBHI

Per quarter

Industry contract numbers as reported by the individual faculties and institutes over the period 2020-2022 (contract numbers are not cumulative as the same contract may be reported in multiple quarters)

Technology transfer The goal of technology transfer is to bring new discoveries to market. The result is society benefits as a collective. The commercialisation statuses of technology innovations in a university technology transfer portfolio can vary depending on their stage of development and readiness for commercialisation.

Q4

22

30 25 20 15 10 5

nd Ta ed rg et ing sp in -o ff

De ad

Pa rk ed

Su sp e

Op

tio n

Lic

50

s ig ne d Fu rth er w or k Se ek in gl ea ds In di sc us s io n

0 en se d

60

35

As sig ne d

Technology Innovation split between Faculties December 2022

Number of technology innovations

It is important to note that not all technologies in the CPUT technology transfer portfolio will make it through all of these stages, and some may not be suitable for commercialisation at all. The commercialisation process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring significant resources and expertise to navigate.

Number of technology innovations

Some common commercialisation statuses include: • Pre-commercialisation: This stage involves the initial discovery and development of the technology, which may include conducting feasibility studies, proof-of-concept experiments and prototype development.

• Patent-pending: Once a technology has been developed to a certain stage, CPUT may file a patent application to protect the intellectual property associated with the innovation. At this stage, the technology is still in the process of being commercialised.

• Licensing: Once a patent has been granted, CPUT may begin seeking licensing partners who can commercialise the technology.

Licensing agreements typically involve a transfer of intellectual property rights in exchange for royalty payments or other financial compensation.

• Spin-off: In some cases, CPUT may decide to create a spin-off company to commercialise the technology. Spin-off companies typically involve the transfer of intellectual property rights to the new company, which may receive funding from venture capital firms or other investors.

• Commercialisation: When the technology has been launched in the market, it is considered to be commercialised. At this stage, the university may continue to receive royalty payments or other financial compensation as part of a licensing agreement or equity stake in the spin-off company.

40

Breakdown of CPUT technology innovation portfolio into various commercialisation statuses as at December 2022

30 20 10 0

Economic activation Applied Sciences

Business and Management Sciences

Education

Engineering & the Built Environment

Health and Wel lness Sciences

Informatics and Design

Portfolio of technology innovations showing originating faculty as at December 2022

CPUT technology innovation portfolio TRL profile December 2022 70 60

Percentage of portfolio

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR: TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER & INDUSTRIAL LINKAGES

Commercialisation status of CPUT technology innovation portfolio - December 2022

50 40 30

For a modern university, the challenge of establishing the appropriate balance between the demands of a traditional academic system with peer-review publications as a yardstick of excellence versus more entrepreneurial pursuits is ever-present. In this regard, the Technology Transfer Office has developed a framework for economic activation, which involves a systemic cultural shift towards ensuring that CPUT is an active and valued member of the community. In so doing, it is hoped that the programmes within the university will develop to become more relevant and responsive to the needs of society.

20 10 0

TRL1

TRL2

TRL3

TRL4

TRL5

TRL6

TRL7

TRL8

TRL9

Technology Readiness Level (TRL)

Breakdown of CPUT technology innovation portfolio according to technology readiness level as at December 2022

Fostering internal collaboration and innovation may also involve the development of trans-, multi- and interdisciplinary institutes and centres at CPUT. These may include not only internal members but also external members, from other universities, research institutes or companies.

23

Framework for the establishment of an economic activation office (EAO) and reinforcing CPUT’s role as an active and valued member of the community

24

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR: RTI STRATEGIC INITIATIVES & PARTNERSHIPS (RTI-SIP) Introduction

ter

f Pro

Ju

d

e yP

The internationalisation of higher education (HE) is a contemporary discourse that seeks to add constructively to existing knowledge in all spheres of national and international geopolitical and cultural spaces (Sehoole & Knight 2013).

A broad definition of internationalisation is “the process of integrating an international, intercultural or global dimension into the purpose, functions or delivery of post-secondary education” (Knight 2008). As we rethink strategies and methodologies to enhance the internationalisation of HE in South Africa, Africa and across borders, CPUT has chosen to redesign a strategy for this in a post-Covid world. These global spaces have become allegorical cites for diverse discourses in transnational, cross-border or global readings of HE internationalisation. Its impact is extended to the influences, outcomes, narratives and counter-narratives in HE sub-fields, including mobility, research and global learning outcomes.

There is consensus on the definition of ‘comprehensive internationalisation’ as a strategic response to international HE.

It is an all-encompassing term which includes an institution’s strategy, policies, programme qualification mix (PQM) and the international ecosystem. The aim is to contribute to the global competitiveness of graduates in a diverse, interconnected, cross-border, transnational and geopolitical space https:// www.acenet.edu/Research-Insights/Pages/Internationalization/ CIGE-Model-for-Comprehensive-Internationalization.aspx (CPUT Vision 2030, Deardorff and Charles 2018, Bender 2019).

Internationalisation in the South African context is a fluid term in response to the discursive decoloniality agenda, the political transformation of HE, and the theoretical underpinning of emerging discourses of Afro-centric debates.

Strategies to internationalise HE at home and abroad are congruent with micro- and macro-education policies and plans addressing national and continental imperatives.

CPUT’s V2030 Strategic Vision aims “To develop a unique CPUT multi-cultural community/global academic community by building capacity in our teaching and learning, research, innovation and engagements, that will ensure students and staff can act as global scholars, employees and employers”.

25 CHAIR TITLE It thus supports the premise of the Policy Framework for Higher Education (DHET 2019) to advance staff and student mobility and cross-border research, and to improve institutional rankings; this also drives incentives for universities in Africa (Jowi 2010). The South African Development Community (SADC) has further reinforced the need to incentivise teaching and learning as well as postgraduate research on broader sustainable development on the continent (SAURA 2010).

Strategic research initiatives towards ‘Smart RTIP’ As the Research Technology Innovation & Partnerships (RTIP) portfolio ushers in the new institutional strategy ‘One Smart CPUT’, it is an opportune time for the university to contribute to the country’s economic growth and GDP. CPUT is producing highquality postgraduate output, excellent research with societal impact, and an injection of innovation output into the local economy. Focus Area 3 of the One Smart CPUT Strategy emphasises Smart RTIP that is relevant and 1 2

excellent in its knowledge production.

Through the development of a range of activities in line with the needs of the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) and Circular Economy, we move towards Mode 2 and Mode 3 knowledge production1, i.e., knowledge produced for application (Mode 2) and, more recently, fit for purpose research relevant to society (Mode 3).

One of the key interventions post the adoption of the RTI Blueprint in November 2012, is the Research Chair Initiative. The office of the DVC: RTIP has expended substantive effort in implementing the CPUT RTI Blueprint.

Through a special grant, CPUT has been fortunate to institutionalise six research chairs, with each research focus area having at least one research niche area supported by a chair. The strategic Research Chair Initiative aims to strengthen research and innovation capacity, enhance the training of a new generation of researchers, and further develop established researchers in all knowledge areas while responding to national priorities and strategies2. There are currently twelve research chairs at CPUT.

CPUT Strategic Plan 2021-2030 – One Smart CPUT South African Research Chairs Initiative Consolidated Generic Framework, National Research Foundation

RESEARCH CHAIR

South African Research Chair Initiative (SARChI) Cardiometabolic Health Research Centre (CHRC)

Prof T Matsha (Tier 2) Prof G Davison (Interim Chair)

Centre for International Teacher Education (CITE)

Prof Y Sayed (Tier 1)

Innovative Small Satellite Technology & Applications for Africa (ISSTAA)

In progress

Work-Integrated Learning (WIL)

Prof C Winberg (Tier 2)

Governance & Economics for Water & Sanitation Sector Institutions

Prof B Ncube (Tier 2)

CPUT-funded Research Chairs Biotechnology

Prof JL Marnewick

Energy

Prof MTE Kahn

Innovation in Society (Service Design)

In progress

Literacy Development

In progress

Oceans Economy

Prof KP Findlay

Sustainable Tourism & Global Change

In progress

SETA Research Chairs Work-Integrated Learning (ETDP SETA)

Prof NJ Nduna

The RTI 10-year Blueprint (2012-2022), and its acknowledgment of Research Chairs as an important enabler of CPUT’s mission, is supported by the CPUT Research Chair Operational Framework that guides the way in which the university supports the work done by the chairs through the DVC and faculties. This includes but is not limited to, integration, infrastructure and equipment, resources, administrative support and visibility.

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR: RTI STRATEGIC INITIATIVES & PARTNERSHIPS (RTI-SIP)

26 Research focus areas The research focus areas are an important component of the CPUT research strategy and give voice to the university’s transdisciplinary research approach. The university endorses the objectives of the NRF in its rationale for the research focus areas: Integration and synergy between the social and physical/engineering sciences in support of One Smart CPUT’s two dimensions, i.e., human-centricity and technological smartness.

Research focus areas will likely evolve as strategic imperatives shift and CPUT’s strengths change, and so periodic reviews will be undertaken to assess their relevance to the university’s growth trajectory as well as to national imperatives and orientation to Mode 2 knowledge production. Given the evolving nature of technology through 4IR, which strengthens CPUT’s contribution to

the technology domain, CPUT embarked on a review process of the research focus areas to align better to a new world of work based on human-centricity and ‘technology-enabledness’ (2018–2019). The research focus areas were redesigned to ensure alignment with chapters in the National Development Plan 2030 (NDP 2030) in terms of competitiveness and relevance to South Africa and identified elements of the United Nations’ (UN) 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in terms of competitiveness and relevance to the global earth.

The research focus areas are populated with new niche areas aligned to the above objective. The review and redesign processes were finalised, and six research focus areas were approved in 2020: Research Focus Area 1: Bioeconomy & Biotechnology Research Focus Area 2: Space Science, Engineering & Technology Research Focus Area 3: Smart Energy Research Focus Area 4: The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability Research Focus Area 5: Human, Health & Social Dynamics Research Focus Area 6: The Digital Society CPUT acknowledges in the operational framework that research chairs co-exist within discursive cultural constructs across academic faculties and entities as indicated in the table below. This is also to further promote an environment that actively supports transdisciplinary approaches and research.

FOCUS AREAS & LEADERS

RESEARCH CHAIRS

RESEARCH ENTITIES

FOCUS AREA 1 Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

Prof JL Marnewick

o o o o o o o o

Chair: Biotechnology Agrifood Technology Station (ATS) Applied Microbial and Health Biotechnology Institute (AMHBI) Bioresource Engineering Research Group (BioERG) Crystal Engineering Unit Functional Foods Research Unit (FFRU) Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Facility (NMR) Phytotherapy Research Group

o o o o o

Chair: Innovative Small Satellite Technology & Applications (in progress) Africa Space Innovation Centre (ASIC) Centre for Instrumentation Research (CIR) French–South African Institute of Technology (F’SATI) Quantum Physics Research Group

Dr M le Roes-Hill

FOCUS AREA 2 Space Science, Engineering & Technology Prof I Davidson

27 FOCUS AREAS & LEADERS

RESEARCH CHAIRS

RESEARCH ENTITIES

FOCUS AREA 3 Smart Energy

Prof MTE Kahn

o o o o o o

Chair: Smart Energy Centre for Distributed Power & Electronic Systems (CDPES) Centre for Power Systems Research (CPSR) Centre for Real-Time Distributed Systems (CRTDS) Centre for Substation Automation & Energy Management Systems (CSAEMS) Energy Institute

Prof KP Findlay Prof B Ncube

o o o o o o o o

Chair: Governance & Economics for Water & Sanitation Sector Institutions Chair: Oceans Economy Chair: Sustainable Tourism & Global Change (in progress) Centre for Sustainable Oceans Centre for Water & Sanitation Research (CWSR) Environmental Chemistry, Toxicology & Remediation Flow Process & Rheology Centre (FPRC) [this research group is also involved with projects in FA 5] Nanomaterials Research Group

Prof G Davison Prof T Matsha Prof NJ Nduna Prof Y Sayed Prof C Winberg

o o o o o o o o o o o o o o

Chair: Cardiometabolic Health Chair: Literacy Development (in progress) Chair: Teacher Education Chair: Work-Integrated (ETDP SETA) Chair: Work-Integrated (SARChI) Adaptronics Advanced Manufacturing Technology Laboratory (Adaptronics AMTL) [this technology station is also involved with projects in FAs 4 & 6] Cardiometabolic Health Research Centre (CHRC) Centre for International Teacher Education (CITE) Centre for Sport Business & Technology Research (CSBTR) Centre for Tourism Research in Africa (CETRA) Clothing and Textiles Technology Station (TSCT) Literacy Development Unit Professional Education Research Institute (PERI) Sport Performance Laboratory (SPL)

o o o o o

Chair: Innovation in Society (Service Design) (in progress) Centre for Communication Studies Centre for Business Innovation & Incubation (BIIC) Product Lifecycle Management Competency Centre (PLMCC) Brand & Digital Research Hub (BDR)

Prof MTE Kahn

FOCUS AREA 4 The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability Prof B Opeolu

FOCUS AREA 5 Human, Health & Social Dynamics Dr D Bester

FOCUS AREA 6 The Digital Society Prof I van Zyl

28 At CPUT, research entities form a hub of centres of excellence in research and teaching. They are involved with promoting research, technology transfer, non-formal teaching, community service and outreach programmes in ways not readily possible within faculties.

The university’s research strategy aligns these research entities to the Research Focus Areas and Research Chairs. https://www.cput.ac.za/research-technology-and-innovation/ research-focus-areas https://www.cput.ac.za/research-technology-and-innovation/ research-chairs

Research Forum The Research Forum is constituted of CPUT’s research chairs and is where discourse engagement and dialogue on strategic research initiatives take place. This year’s Research Forum meetings took place on 3 March, 13 June, 20 October and 29 November.

Research Incoko Research Incoko is a platform for quarterly research engagements on a variety of research-related topics to develop CPUT’s research capacity from within and allow research-related issues to be addressed using a trans-disciplinary approach. This year, Research Incoko was held on 16 February, 24 May, 31 August and 30 November.

University Capacity Development Grant (UCDG): Focus Area 5 The RTI-SIP Office leads the UCDG: Focus Area 5 for growing CPUT’s Rising Stars in Research and Innovation. This is aligned with Activity 4: Develop and facilitate activities and appropriate

systems to promote and support research uptake. Five workshops and training sessions were held under themes: ‘Dissemination of findings’; ‘Science communication’; ‘Stakeholder engagement’; ‘Stakeholder engagement between researchers and users’; and ‘Social influence and societal impact’.

Smart internationalisation Strategic international partnerships Internationalisation is a common thread throughout CPUT’s activities. To remain relevant in the ever-changing world of 4IR, the institution has incorporated a comprehensive theme of ‘Smart internationalisation’. CPUT’s approach to ‘smart partnerships’ is strongly embedded within the research focus areas listed above.

The university is currently participating in the following national and international partnerships: • AMHBI – University of Pretoria, Biotikum Ltd, Agriculture Research Council, SU’s Microbiology Department, SU’s Biochemistry Department, SU’s Chemical Pathology Department, North-West University’s Centre for Human Metabolomics • DRD – City of Cape Town • FAS – University of Pretoria, South African Weather Services, Nansen–TUTU, Cape Nature and the Department of Conservation, Centre for Proteomic and Genomic Research • FBMS – National Professional Teachers Organisation of South Africa • FEBE – Liquid Telecommunications South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Schneider Electric (Pty) Ltd, Eskom RT&D MoU with public universities & UoTs, UCT, Department of Transport, iThemba Labs, F’SATI partnering with TUT, UNISA, Fibre Processing and Manufacturing SETA, Liquid Telecom Bursary Funding

29 Agreement, ASTROFICA Technologies, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Department of Science and Innovation and Japan, Academic Institute of Excellence, Ocean Hub Africa, Africa Community Projects, Rewoven (Pvt) Ltd, AAChem (Pvt) Ltd, SIOC Community Development Trust, Overberg Water, UKZN, National Metrology Institute of South Africa • RTI-SIP – Saldanha Bay IDZ Licensing Company SOC Ltd, Mangosuthu University of Technology • SARETEC – Eskom, Visual Training Television (Pty) Ltd, DHET NSF, Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies, Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority, Renewable Cookhouse Wind Farm: Suzlon Wind Energy SA (Pty) Ltd There are also partnerships in place with the following African institutions:

New international partnerships (over and above those already listed) include: Dassault Systèmes, French Ministry

FEBE

France

University of Derby, UK

FID

UK

Universite Paris-Est Creteil (UPEC), France

FID

France

CHEMIE Paris

FAS

France

Efrei Paris

FID

France

KAUNAS University of Technology

RTI-SIP

Lithuania

The University of New South Wales

FAS

Australia

Cranfield University

FEBE

UK

Halmstad University

FEBE

Sweden

Hochschule Dusseldorf: University of Applied Sciences

FEBE

Germany

PLMCC

FEBE

France

African Institute for Science and Policy

FBMS

Nigeria

Botswana International University of Science

FEBE

Botswana

Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)

FAS

Nigeria

TU Delft

FEBE

Netherlands

Obafemi Awolowo University

FBMS

Nigeria

Ernst-Abbe-Hochschule Jene University of Applied Sciences

FEBE

Germany

University of Lubumbashi

FEBE

DRC

Osnabruck University of Applied Sciences

FAS

Germany

Redox Biology Research Lab, Federal University, Oye-Ekiti

AMHBI

Nigeria

Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt

RTI-SIP

Germany

University of Bejaia

AMHBI

Algeria

Fontys University of Applied Sciences

FAS

Netherlands

University of Namibia

Education

Namibia

Lusophone University of Humanities and Technology

FAS

Portugal

University of Botswana

Education

Botswana

BIOMIN

AMHBI

Austria

University of Dar es Salaam

Education

Tanzania

United States Department of Agriculture

AMHBI

USA

African Institute for Science and Policy

FBMS

Nigeria

OeAD-GmbH (agency for education internationalisation)

AMHBI

Austria

University of Vienna

AMHBI

Austria

National Construction Academy

FEBE

Saudi Arabia

BSM Cadet Programme

FEBE

Cyprus

Kazan National Research Technological University in Russia

Howest Hogeschool

Education Belgium

India Institute of Technology, GOA in India

Hochschule Hannover

FID

CPUT is involved with the following BRICS institutes via FEBE:

Germany

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR: RTI STRATEGIC INITIATIVES & PARTNERSHIPS (RTI-SIP)

30 CPUT is also involved in the following Erasmus+ partnerships: Universitatea de Arte, George Enescu din Lasi

RTI-SIP

Romania

Polytechnic of Porto

FBMS

Portugal

EKA University of Applied Sciences

FAS

Latvia

Mendel University in Brno

FAS

Czech Republic

Technical University of Sofia

FEBE and RTI-SIP

Bulgaria

Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences

AMHBI

Hungary

University of Namibia

Education

Namibia

University of Botswana

Education

Botswana

University of Dar es Salaam

Education

Tanzania

African Institute for Science and Policy

FBMS

Nigeria

SUMMARY OF PARTNERSHIPS 2022

Local/national

African

Staff mobility 2022

Summary of inbound and outbound staff

• Inbound staff mobility: Faculty of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Business & Management Sciences, Faculty of Informatics & Design, AMHBI • Outbound staff mobility: Faculty of Business & Management Sciences, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Informatics & Design

International

Summary of local, national and international partnerships

Inbound and outbound exchange students 2022

31 • Inbound exchange students: Faculty of Informatics & Design, Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment, Faculty of Management & Business Sciences, Faculty of Applied Sciences • Outbound exchange students: Faculty of Business & Management Sciences, Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment and Faculty of Informatics & Design

Conference attendance and proceedings • The Southern African Association for Research in Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education (SAARMSTE) 2022 Virtual Conference • Association of Internationalisation Educators Administrators (AIEA) – Board Leadership • AIEA 2022 Conference, New Orleans, Los Angeles, in February • First AIEA Forum hosted by CPUT, in March • Seminar by Prof Faizal Rivzi, in March • HERS-SA International Women’s Day Webinar, in March • Higher Education and Leadership Management (HELM), USAF Engage Webinar, in April • Erasmus+ Symposium for the EURO-ZA Capacity Building in the field of Maritime Sciences, in April • VitaGlobal Erasmus + Project Week, in June/July • Workshop ‘Experiences with Maths Education in US and Africa: A cultural perspective’, in June • First Inclusive Technopreneurship Forum (ITF 2022), in August • SASUF goes Digital Event, in September • Embassy of Finland Social Entrepreneurship, in September • International Educators Association of South Africa (IEASA) Virtual Conference, in August • Higher Education Forum Workshop, in August • HER-SA Women in Leadership Conference, in September • Central University of Technology (CUT) Family Week Series Conference, in October

Delegation visits February

French delegation visit

June

South African Swedish University Forum

August

Weihenstephan–Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences (HSWT), Germany

September

Meeting with representatives from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)

September

SARETEC/GEAPP/Eskom Grant Agreement Signing Ceremony

October

EDU Africa: CPUT–CCID delegation

October

Consulate of China in Cape Town

November

Meeting with Hochschule Munchen University of Applied Sciences in Germany

December

Engagements with CIRAD Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement

December

JAPAN Ministry of Foreign Affairs to CPUT

December

NESO delegation to CPUT

December

Visit by the Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate, Germany

December

Visit by Iranian delegation

December

Qatar, RBAT–CPUT engagement

RESEARCH OUTPUT 2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO DHET MAY 2023) Chapters in books (submitted)

UNITS 0.46

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR: RTI STRATEGIC INITIATIVES & PARTNERSHIPS (RTI-SIP)

32

References

SIP strengthens ties with German university

1.

RTI-SIP hosted representatives from Hochschule München University of Applied Sciences during November. This institution has an existing collaboration with the FBMS. The aim was to touch base with FBMS and to expand the collaboration with other faculties. “In this regard, RTISIP was contacted to engage in discussions as to how we can expand on the partnership.

In particular, there was interest with FEBE,” said Dr Tasmeera Singh, RTI-SIP Manager: International Relations.

Bogenschild T and Latz G (2019), Connecting with the Community, in Deardorff D and Charles H (2018), Leading Internationalisation: A handbook for International Leadership 2. CPUT’s Operational Framework for Research Chairs (2014) 3. Comprehensive Internationalisation Framework: What is Comprehensive Internationalisation, https://www.acenet. edu/Research-Insights/Pages/Internationalization/CIGEModel-for-Comprehensive-Internationalization.aspx 4. Deardorff D and Charles H (2018), Leading Internationalisation: A Handbook for International Leadership 5. Deardorff D, Diabate DB and Rosenbaum KL (2018), Foundations in leading Internationalisation, in Deardorff D and Charles H (2018), Leading Internationalisation: A handbook for International Leadership 6. Bender S (2019), Fostering Global Culture and Engaging Student Leadership on Campus, in Deardorff D and Charles H (2018), Leading Internationalisation: A handbook for International Leadership 7. Gochermann J (2019), The Dual Study Concept of the Institute for Dual Study Programmes, CHEC Dual Study Meeting, Bellville 8. Mohamedbhai G (2014), Massification in higher education institutions in Africa: Causes, consequences and responses, in International Journal of African Higher Education 9. Policy Framework for the Internationalisation of Higher Education in South Africa (2019) 10. Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Strategy (2020) 11. Strategic Plan: One Smart CPUT (2021-2030)

Prof Judy Peter, Dr Fareed Ismail, Ms Veronika Wäninger from Hochschule München University of Applied Sciences and Prof Veruscha Fester

The CPUT delegation included RTI-SIP Director, Prof Judy Peter; RTI-SIP Manager: International Relations, Dr Tasmeera Singh; FEBE Assistant Dean: RTIP, Prof Veruscha Fester; FEBE senior lecturer and researcher, Dr Fareed Ismail; and RTI-SIP Office Administrator, Ms Xolelwa Bashala. Hochschule München University of Applied Sciences was represented by Ms Veronika Wäninger: Non-EU Mobility of Stabsabteilung International Office. Prof Peter extended a warm welcome to everyone present in the meeting.

Prof Fester delivered a presentation on FEBE, which included CPUT structure and background: • FEBE structure and governance • CPUT V2030 Focus Areas applicable to FEBE • FEBE undergraduate and postgraduate programmes • Faculty research focus areas • FEBE flagship projects

Prof Peter conducted a short presentation on Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships: • The CPUT Smart Focus Areas • RTI-SIP internationalisation role • Facilitation of student leadership and agency • CPUT active partnerships (Erasmus+, African and international) • International Education Forum Dr Singh said the meeting was very good as there is great potential for expanding the collaboration constructively.

There were also discussions on potential collaborations around engineering management, and staff exchange for nano- and 3D-printing fields of research. Dr Singh added, “The successful meeting was a starting point for further engagement with different faculties across CPUT.”

33

Namibian Consulate visit strengthens relationship with CPUT A Namibian Consulate delegation visited CPUT in November, and met with RTI-SIP office to promote bilateral and multilateral relations between CPUT and HEIs in Namibia. The visit by the delegation, comprising Consul General Selma Nghinamundova and Consul Sarafina Eine Tshilunga, was part of the relationship-building exercise in which RTI-SIP has engaged to reconnect with the embassies and consulates in Cape Town.

Dr Tasmeera Singh, Manager: International Relations at RTI-SIP, presented an overview of CPUT and internationalisation, followed by a discussion with the delegation. “The idea is to connect to strengthen working relationships as well as to partner with universities in Namibia as a strategy to increase their African footprint and create partnerships with the Global South… The objectives were to build a relationship with the consulate and work with other Namibian universities to see how they could collaborate. This is our action to close the existing gap. We need to create and strengthen relationships.”

Ms Nghinamundova said part of their office’s mandate was to foster partnerships between Namibian and South African HEIs. “We’re here to look for formal engagements with CPUT. We request CPUT to come up with a proposal on areas for collaboration and we will facilitate engagements with our universities… in terms of student exchange and other areas.” Dr Singh added that the meeting was a great success as this is the initial start of a series of meetings and events to follow with the consulate. “Overall, a positive meeting with huge potential for success and continuity.”

Namibian Consulate members at RTI-SIP Directorate

RTI-SIP staff with visitors from SCCCD, RCCD and EDU

RTI-SIP hosts delegation from American colleges RTI-SIP hosted a delegation from two American colleges, the Community College District (SCCCD), Riverside Community College District (RCCD), and EDU Africa during October. Director: RTI-SIP, Prof Judy Peter opened the meeting with a short overview of CPUT. This was followed by short presentations on the background of each institution. Dr Lataria Hall presented the background of Fresno City College and Ms Candice Soupen provided a summary of the purpose of the visit.

study abroad programmes. They also explored virtual professional development, mobility programmes and possible faculty exchange programmes. The delegates also discussed early childhood, elementary, secondary and post-secondary educational systems in Africa, including education in rural areas. CPUT delegates provided comprehensive information on what is currently offered at CPUT as well as alternative options currently available in South Africa.

Prof Peter said the objectives of the meeting were to explore student exchange programmes and obtain information about opportunities that can be relayed to respective university committees. Prof Peter added that the meeting aimed at learning about education systems, distance education, online opportunities and study abroad. She said they were also exploring opportunities for partnerships between organisations, virtual exchange, virtual and travel exchange and traditional

Prof Peter said, “The meeting was very constructive, and all institutions look forward to further communication around the potential opportunities for collaboration in the areas of student exchange programmes, early childhood development and information sharing… It was noted that some of the collaboration areas could be in line with the CPUT COIL facility to address the objective of a virtual platform for exchange students.”

34

CPUT hosts first hybrid AIEA sponsored forum in Africa RTI-SIP hosted the first hybrid Association of International Education Administrators (AIEA) sponsored forum on the continent at the Cape Town Hotel School in March. This theme for the forum, ‘Equity-sensitive strategies of higher education in South Africa internationalisation @home in post-pandemic times’, was conceptualised and hosted by RTI-SIP in collaboration with counterparts from UWC. The forum addressed HE internationalisation strategies and focused on one of the phases of ‘internationalisation@ home’ which included collaborative online international learning (COIL). The case study presented by the host had the objective to advance institutional practices at universities in the Western Cape and UoTs throughout South Africa. The event also served to launch,

pilot and validate the research agenda of the new research project to be established at CPUT, embedded within RTI-SIP. In his opening remarks, DVC: RTIP, Dr David Phaho, said, “I have the distinct privilege to welcome all of you on behalf of CPUT’s Executive Management to the AIEA Forum hosted proudly at our beautiful Granger Bay Campus and seat of our world-class Hotel School.”

Dr Phaho said the forum’s theme could not be timelier. “Academic institutions, both at home and abroad, are looking at developing and implementing mutually value-adding internationalisation strategies…

Amidst these deliberations, Covid-19 like a thief in the night came and up-ended our lives like nothing the world, at least in my lifetime,

has seen. Every hamlet, village, town or city was, and continues to be, directly and indirectly affected… The unprecedented challenges brought by Covid-19 are forcing us to rethink and re-engineer our ways of working, teaching, research as well as engagement, be it in the classroom, places of work, and/or leisure. The biggest casualty is our collective internationalisation agenda, where global travel bans severely constricted student and staff mobility… In spite of these challenges and the unimaginable hardship and sorrow resulting from the pandemic, we are turning a corner and adapting to a new normal.

We are now in post-pandemic mode as reflected in the theme of today’s forum.”

Prof Judy Peter, Director: RTI-SIP and Chair of Transnational Collaborations and Centring the Periphery, said, “We are grateful to have the opportunity to meet in person and virtually as we navigate a fluid and changing world order. We look forward to a productive day of deep engagement to contribute to the growing body of the complex discourses of the internationalisation of global education and the revaluation of internationalisation as practised at our various institutions.”

The programme included a virtual keynote address by Prof Emmet Woldegiorgis from UJ, a session on ‘SDGs – Gender, education and collaborations in Africa’, chaired by Ms Tracy Beckett of UWC, and a keynote address by CPUT’s Prof Michael Twum-Darko. Another session on ‘Third stream income, global learning and digitisation’ was chaired by Ms Nichola Latchiah of UCT. A further keynote address was delivered by Dr Upasana Singh, Academic Leader: Discipline of Information Systems and Technology of UKZN. Another case studies session, titled ‘Internationalisation policy and strategy development’, was chaired by Dr Tasmeera Singh, Manager: International Relations at RTI-SIP. Mr Mahlubi Mabizela, Chief Directorate: Higher Education Policy Development and Research at the DHET, also addressed the forum.

Delegates at the Granger Bay Campus

35

Director joins AIEA board The Director RTI-SIP: Prof Judy Peter, has joined the board of the Association of International Education Administrators (AIEA). AIEA is the only association dedicated exclusively to senior leaders in the field of international education. AIEA members are senior international officers (SIOs) who serve as leaders of HEIs and organisations that support international HE. Serving on the board of AIEA is an opportunity for SIOs to set the agenda for the future of global HE. “I am interested in the board member position as a chance to add diverse perspectives from the global south. I have been an active member since 2018 and have benefited immensely. I would further value the opportunity to participate and provide thought leadership on this high-impact global platform. Issues on inclusivity, diversity and bridging political and economic divides are areas where I can contribute to focused task forces,” said Prof Peter.

The benefits of involvement include: playing a significant role in advancing the SIO position and the importance of internationalisation; an opportunity to enhance the value of AIEA to the field and colleagues; and shaping the field of international HE.

Prof Peters aims to add diverse perspectives from the global south

36

CPUT RESEARCH FESTIVAL Celebrating Research Excellence From publishing research papers to embarking on innovative studies, CPUT researchers once again made the institution very proud during 2022. This excellence in research was set to be celebrated at the muchanticipated Research Festival towards the end of the year. However, unfortunately, institutional schedules clashed and the event has been postponed until early next year.

One way the institution acknowledges our academics’ outstanding achievements is by presenting annual Research Excellence Awards. While the Awards Ceremony will also take place early next year, we are happy to acknowledge and celebrate our winners in this annual Research Report.

• • • •

There are three categories of Research Excellence Awards: Research Output, Postgraduate Supervision and External Funding.

Postgraduate Supervision

There are generally up to four awards in each category: Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze. This year, a fifth award has been introduced for “extra outstanding” achievements. This is the Diamond Award.

Research Output These awards are calculated from the total number of DHET units produced by each author. This includes all output types acknowledged by the DHET, namely:

Journal Articles Books & Chapters in Books Conference Proceedings Creative Outputs & Innovations

These awards are given for the number of postgraduate students supervised. They are calculated based on the total number of units earned by a supervisor.

Supervisors earn: • One unit for supervision of a master’s degree • Three units for supervision of a doctorate

External Funding This category used to be called ‘Industry Funding’, but has recently been expanded to include grants given by universities and councils.

37 To qualify for eligibility for awards in the External Funding category, a researcher needs to have received funding of at least R1 000 000 in the year under consideration. However, if there are not at least four academics who have reached this goal, then funding of over R500 000 will be considered.

If funding is R1 000 000 or over, the researcher will definitely win an award. Once the top awards have been allocated, anyone left with over R1 000 000 in external funding will be presented with Bronze Awards.

If funding is over R5 000 000, the researcher will be presented with a Diamond Award. Hearty congratulations to Prof Kenneth Findlay, Research Chair: Oceans Economy, who is the first researcher ever to be presented with a Diamond Award.

Awards for Excellence in Research Activities RESEARCH PUBLICATION – from DHET 2020 submission

RESEARCH PUBLICATION – from DHET 2021 submission

EXTERNAL FUNDING – for 2021

AWARD

RECIPIENT

FACULTY

AWARD

RECIPIENT

FACULTY

AWARD

RECIPIENT

FACULTY/INSTITUTE

Platinum

Prof Tiko Iyamu

Faculty of Informatics & Design

Platinum

Dr Vipin Balyan

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment

Platinum

Gold

Prof Johannes Cronje

Faculty of Informatics & Design

Prof Tandi Matsha

Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences

Gold

Dr Velaphi Msomi

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment

Gold

Dr Velaphi Msomi

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment

Gold

Faculty of Applied Sciences

Gold

Prof Robertson Tengeh

Faculty of Business & Management Sciences

Silver

Prof Robertson Tengeh

Faculty of Business & Management Sciences

Prof Kenneth Findlay

Prof Oluwafemi Oguntibeju Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences

Silver

Dr Mariska Lilly

Applied Microbial & Health Biotechnology

Prof Tiko Iyamu

Bronze

Dr Pamela Welz

Applied Microbial & Health Biotechnology

Silver

Dr Sipokazi Mabuwa

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment

Silver

Bronze

Dr Balyan Vipin

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment

Bronze

Faculty of Informatics & Design

POSTGRADUATE SUPERVISION – for 2021 graduates*

POSTGRADUATE SUPERVISION – for 2022 graduates**

EXTERNAL FUNDING – for 2022

AWARD

FACULTY

AWARD

RECIPIENT

FACULTY

AWARD

RECIPIENT

FACULTY/INSTITUTE

Platinum

Dr Larry Jowah

Faculty of Business & Management Sciences

Diamond

Prof KP Findlay

Faculty of Applied Sciences

Gold

Prof Tiko Iyamu

Faculty of Informatics & Design

Silver

Prof Johannes Cronje

Faculty of Informatics & Design

Platinum

Prof Justine Daramola

Faculty of Informatics & Design

Gold

Microbial & Health Dr Mariska Lilly Applied Biotechnology

Silver

Prof Tunde Ojumu

RECIPIENT

Platinum

Dr Andre de la Harpe

Faculty of Informatics & Design

Gold

Dr Larry Jowah

Faculty of Business & Management Sciences

Gold

Prof Ephias Ruhode

Faculty of Informatics & Design

Dr Vipin Balyan

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment

Prof Mohamed T Kahn

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment

Bronze

Silver

Bronze

Prof Charles Laubscher

Faculty of Applied Sciences

Bronze

Prof Johannes Cronje

Faculty of Informatics & Design

Bronze

Dr Velaphi Msomi

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment

* for December 2020 and April 2021 graduations

** for December 2021 and April 2022 graduations

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment

DHET PUBLICATIONS AUDIT & NATIONAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION RATING

38

DEPARTMENT OF HIGHER EDUCATION & TRAINING (DHET) PUBLICATIONS AUDIT 2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO THE DHET IN MAY 2023)

UNITS

Books & chapters (submitted)

37.05

Conference proceedings (submitted)

27.00

Journal articles (audited)

280.75

TOTAL

344.77

DHET-APPROVED CREATIVE OUTPUTS FOR 2020

UNITS

FACULTY/SUPPORT UNIT/RESEARCH INSTITUTE

BOOKS & CONFERENCES JOURNALS CHAPTERS

TOTAL

(figures rounded up to two decimal points) Faculty of Applied Sciences

8.34

4.71

79.37

92.42

Faculty of Business & Management Sciences

0.88

6.96

49.33

57.17

Faculty of Education

8.39

-

21.08

29.47

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment

2.55

9.97

64.55

77.07

Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences

0.43

0.48

18.82

19.73

Faculty of Informatics & Design

14.59

4.25

27.8

46.64

-

-

9.93

9.93

0.58

-

0.72

1.3

-

-

2.83

2.83

0.59

0.39

2.15

3.13

Applied Microbial & Health Biotechnology Institute Centre for Innovative Educational Technology

Literary arts

2.00

Theatre, performance and dance

1.00

Centre for Postgraduate Studies

Fine arts and visual arts

1.00

Centre for Water & Sanitation Research

TOTAL

4.00

Computer and Telecommunications Services

-

0.25

CPUT Libraries

-

-

1.5

1.5

Fundani CHED

0.10

-

2.81

2.91

RTI-SIP

046

-

0.25

0.46

39 CPUT JOURNAL RESEARCH UNITS FOR 2022 2022 Journal Articles 0,58

2,83

1,5 2,81

Business & Management Sciences

Applied Microbial & Health Biotechnology Institute

2,15

9,93

27,8

NRF-RATED RESEARCHERS IN 2022

79,37

18,82

64,55

49,33

21,08

Dr S Abel

C2

Prof SEH Davies

C3

Dr M le Roes-Hill

C2

Prof B Knott

Y2

Prof JL Marnewick

C1

Dr M Mutize

Y2

Dr T Mthethwa

Y2

Prof V Naicker

C3

Dr L van der Westhuizen

C2

Dr M Twum-Darko

C3

Dr P Welz

C2

Dr SJ West

C3

Prof NB Báthori

C2

Prof CP Laubscher

C2

Dr BS Chidi

Y2

Prof FB Lewu

C3

Prof KP Findlay

C1

Prof AA Mohammed

C2

Prof S Geerts

Y1

Dr N Ndube-Tsolekile

Y2

Prof A Jacobs

C3

Prof BO Opeolu

C3

Prof VA Jideani

C3

Dr AL Prins

C2

Prof MO Jimoh

Y2

Prof VS Somerset

C2

Prof L Kambizi

C3

Applied Sciences AS

BMS

EDU

EBE

HWS

ID

AMHBI

CIET

CPGS

LIBR

FUN

WSR

NATIONAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION RATING The NRF is a national agency for research support and promotion. In addition to funding, human resource development and the provision of research facilities, the NRF annually invites researchers in all academic fields to apply for individual ratings.

Centre for Innovative Educational Technology

THE NRF RATING CATEGORIES A | Leading international researchers C | Established researchers Y | Promising young researchers

B | Internationally acclaimed researchers P | Prestigious awards

Centre for Postgraduate Studies

Prof EN Ivala

C2

Dr F Waghid

Y2

Prof IJ van Zyl

C2

NATIONAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION RATING & RESEARCH FUNDING

40

RESEARCH FUNDING 2022

NRF-RATED RESEARCHERS IN 2022 (Continued)

SOURCE Education

Health & Wellness Sciences

Africa Uninet Grant (OEAD GMBH)

5 985

Conference Committee (ConfCom)

523 099

Consolidated Research Fund (CRF)

1 456 101

Dr PH Boer

Y2

Prof P Clarke-Farr

C3

Prof A Chigona

C1

Prof G Davison

C3

Prof JL Condy

C2

Prof P Engel-Hills

Prof L Hibbert

C2

Prof K Jooste

Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

220 000

C2

Cranfield University (UK)

530 499

C2

Department of Science & Innovation (DSI) via WITS

665 000

Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)

48 112

Prof ZC Sosibo

C3

Prof T Matsha

C1

Dr Z Waghid

Y2

Prof OO Oguntibeju

C3

Engineering & the Built Environment

AMOUNT

Informatics & Design

Initiative (FEDRATI) – Sea Harvest

2 210 000

Fumonisins Sales – National Metrology Institute of South Africa

1 199 000

Griffith University (Whales and Climate Change)

848 808

Group Technology – NanoAfrica Conference

88 695

Higher Education Reform Experts (HERESA)

301 398

Improvement of Qualification Programme (IQP)

2 393 000

Improvement of Qualifications (UCDG)

2 081 750

Prof K Aboalez

C3

Prof J Cronjé

C1

Dr V Balyan

Y2

Prof J Daramola

C3

Maize Trust

Dr MR Chowdhury

Y2

Prof T Iyamu

C2

National Research Foundation (NRF): Faculties and Units

8 609 468

Prof VG Fester

C2

Prof M Weideman

C3

National Research Foundation (NRF): NRF Chairs

7 771 210

National Research Foundation (NRF): Postgraduate Bursaries

4 007 210

National Research Foundation (NRF): Postdoctoral Grants

4 095 833

Dr V Msomi

Y2

Prof B Ncube

C3

Prof TV Ojumu

C2

Prof OO Oyekola

C2

Professional Education Research Institute

Dr A Patnaik

C2

Prof C Winberg

Nelson Mandela University NRF Community of Practice Project – Ocean Accounts Framework

C1

516 811

250 000

Postdoctoral Funding

18 766 000

Postgraduate Capacity Development (UCDG)

2 081 750

Postgraduate Internal Bursaries

9 406 378

Presidential Youth Employment Stimulus Programme

2 100 000

Proteomics Research and Services Unit – ARC

178 260

41

SOURCE

AMOUNT

Publication 2020 Books and Chapters Contribution

1 520 599

Publication 2020 Conferences Contribution

2 201 779

Publication 2020 Faculty Contribution

5 607 754

Publication 2020 Journal Article Contribution

24 833 990

Research Exchange Programme (REP)

329 785

Research and Innovation Fund for Teaching & Learning (RIFTAL)

278 624

Research Technology & Innovation (RTI): CPUT Chairs

1 500 000

Research Technology & Innovation (RTI): CPUT Prestigious Project

2 000 000

Rhodes University Science & Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development (SATREPS) South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) South African Honeybush Tea South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC)

505 050 1 190 000 36 350 215 900 4 389 664

South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) and Stellenbosch University

166 601

South African Rooibos Council

510 646

Support for emerging, early, mid and established research (UCDG)

2 299 000

Technology Innovation Agency Grant

1 767 500

Technology Innovation Agency Equipment Grant

2 878 631

University of Johannesburg (UJ) University of New South Wales – Global Oceans Accounting Partnership (GOAP)

104 347 4 104 790

University of the Western Cape (UWC)

60 869

Water Research Commission (WRC)

956 708

WITS Institute for Social and Economic Research (Wiser) TOTAL

45 000 12 571 452

CPUT and Ilitha Labantu restore women’s memories CPUT and Ilitha Labantu, in partnership with the African Women Independent Forum and UN Women, successfully held the First Annual National Conference of Isisele Senyathi Women’s Hub on African Women’s history. The three-day conference, attended by national and continental dignitaries on the Bellville Campus, was themed ‘Mobilising African women memories through collective and collating historical knowledge’. This event was a first-of-its-kind, convening some of the most influential voices in African women’s history, including activists and academics and educators in social, political, government, health, technology, creative industries and the law.

Ms Baleka Mbete and Prof Chris Nhlapo

The dignitaries included former South African Deputy President, Ms Baleka Mbete; Minister of Women and Youth (Zimbabwe), Ms Sithembiso Nyoni; ilitha Labantu President Ms Mandisa Monakali; Chief Theresa Kachindamoto (Malawi); CPUT Chancellor and Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Thandi Modise; and many more. The conference was aimed at restoring women’s memories and discovering the hidden histories and untold stories of African women, including politicians, domestic workers, factory workers, educators and union members to the earliest women graduates.

It is imperative to share this information with a wider audience and our unsung heroines by profiling a lifelong learning and intergenerational dialogue, and to recognise the voices of indigenous women and present significant limitations.

In his opening address, VC Prof Chris Nhlapo said the institution was making history by joining forces with Ilitha Labantu in “chronicling the struggle stories of ordinary, resilient, indefatigable women of South Africa. We are part of an organisation aiming at lifting the voices, faces and victories of women, telling stories of the leaders, visionaries and change makers who made the history of today. This is in line with the ‘one smart university’ we are building”. Prof Nhlapo added that the event was immensely beneficial for students and aspiring historiographers: to deal with anti-truth, anti-intellectualism/anti-science; to strengthen the weakening social contract with society – which must be renewed constantly (greater social ownership); to address epistemic and cognitive injustice; to address epistemic exclusion; to counter epistemicide; to contribute to the decolonialisation of knowledge; and to promote knowledge, democracy/ epistemological pluralism.

The conference included presentations, question-and-answer sessions and facilitated discussions on the main aspects of the seminar. Amongst the speakers were Ms Aleta Miller, UN Women Representative in South Africa Multi Country Office; former Minister: Social Development, Ms Bathabile Dlamini; Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, Western Cape MEC for Health & Wellness; and Executive Director in the Office of the VC, Prof Driekie Hay Swemmer, who talked about the role of universities in feminising African women’s history in education. The event concluded with a gala dinner and awards ceremony, where the keynote speaker was Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Minister of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs.

42

Outstanding teachers awarded The remarkable teaching skills of 28 academics from all faculties were acknowledged during the CPUT Teaching Excellence Awards held in May at the Granger Bay Campus. Among the recipients were Dr Candice Livingston from Education; Dr Trust Matsilele, Ms Alexandra Noble, Ms Amanda Morris, Dr Sisanda Nkoala and Dr Belinda Verster from FID; Dr Oluwaseun Oyekola, Ms Leigh Middleton, Mr Kevin Musungu and Dr Sweta Patnaik from FEBE; Dr Shirley Le Roux, Mr Johan van Rooyen, Dr Frans Radloff, Ms Bonita Kleyn-Magolie, Dr Hanle Theron and Dr Vusi Mshayisa from Applied Sciences, Mr Prinesh Bikhani, Ms Raygaanah Barday, Ms Nadia Davids, Ms Frances de Klerk, Dr Ali Almaktoof and Dr Christiaan Hattingh-Niekerk from FBMS, Mr Michael Paulse, Dr Yvonne Prince, Ms Roxanne Maritz, Ms Anelisa Motaung, Dr Kathleen Naidoo and Mr Nkosikho Sogwagwa from FHWS. In his opening speech, Prof Rishi Balkaran, DVC: Teaching & Learning, congratulated the winners. Prof Balkaran said the recipients were working beyond the norm to make sure that the students learn. In her acceptance speech, Dr Livingston said, “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the DVC: Teaching &

Learning, the assessment committee and Fundani for this award; but most of all, I owe this to the students. I am a teacher.”

Awardee Dr Oyekola said that as lecturers they had experienced the #feesmustfall and #Rhodesmustfall protests leading to shutdowns in 2015 to 2016, and there were also multiple internal student unrest situations at CPUT. He said these presented lecturers with difficulties alongside opportunities for innovation in teaching and learning. “I have been privileged to ride the wave, rather than struggle against it.” He continued, “While CPUT celebrates our commitment to teaching excellence, I’d like to appreciate those that have been committed to me, making this a reality. I’m here today because I stand on the shoulders of giants called my colleagues; my wife has been a staunch shoulder to lean on; and I’ve been upheld by God’s hands. I am a teacher because of the students. I’d also like to acknowledge the continued support I’ve received from Fundani.

Behind the scenes of the blessing of this teaching excellence award are bruises, blows and breakdowns. Yet we rise! CPUT, thanks for the opportunities you’ve afforded me, thank you for bestowing on me such an honour and this special award.”

Mr Lwandile Socikwa, new Convocation President

New Convocation President elected The newly-elected President of the CPUT Convocation, Mr Lwandile Socikwa, wants to be remembered as “a person who significantly contributed to the advancement and development of the African child”.

Mr Socikwa’s roots at CPUT run deep – he is a former SRC chairperson, played first-team cricket, has served on various institutional committees, and holds an ND in Public Management and a BTech in Project Management from the institution. “A large part of who I am today I owe to the institution because it gave me an opportunity to express my leadership abilities. The nurturing I received while being part of the different structures really shaped me into the person that I am today, as I know it did for many of my peers, some of whom are industry leaders.”

“I want to lay the foundation to elevate the dignity and credibility of the Convocation as well as how people view it. I want to position the Convocation such

The ceremony took place at the Granger Bay Campus

43

that it becomes an institution that all graduates of CPUT want to be part of. We need all stakeholders to mobilise behind the ‘One Smart CPUT’ vision. A vision of that nature requires leadership of different stakeholder groups that are committed to that and understand what it takes. We want a Convocation that is able to rise above any tensions at any time,” stated Mr Socikwa.

He continued that he wants to drive the entire CPUT community to embrace an ethos of co-creation, saying “Once you embrace co-creation, you are subjecting yourself to a principle that says we are going to be able to solve problems of CPUT together as different stakeholders of CPUT… We need to take the institution to greater heights. I would want to lead a Convocation that supports CPUT to be the leading UoT in the country and to compete with the best universities in the country, such that we can start to be considered as a strong alternative to your best universities. It is very important that we position CPUT among the leading pack of universities in the country.”

A successful entrepreneur who is the founder and MD of Socikwa Management, Mr Socikwa has held senior positions in organisations in the public and private sectors such as the Presidency as a Director, SAPO as a Project Manager, Chase Africa as a Senior Management Consultant, and Public Works as a Deputy Director, respectively. He holds an MBA from NMU Business School and a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management from MANCOSA. He is married with two children. One of his main passions is youth development. “I dedicate a lot of my time offering free mentorship and coaching, especially to young people starting their professional careers. It’s something I am looking at doing for CPUT graduates as well. I also mentor young entrepreneurs, especially those from rural areas and townships.”

SDA promotes learning culture CPUT’s new Staff Development Academy (SDA) offers staff a one-stop shop to grow their skills. Ms Shahieda Hendricks of Human Capital’s Learning and Development said the SDA strives to offer a ‘one smart’ platform where all staff development programmes, training information, relevant resources and valuable self-development programmes are available 24/7. She said it would be updated daily with new training programmes and information in collaboration with various internal and external partners.

Staff could access an induction programme on the SDA, as well as over 30 training programmes, ranging from courses offered by DRD, CTS, Human Capital, Risk Management, among others. “The SDA aims to promote a learning culture for CPUT staff whilst providing the necessary support in developing skills and knowledge. We cater for the needs of staff members by making courses available to enhance their ability to complete their day-to-day tasks. By doing so, we hope to promote job satisfaction and increase productivity amongst staff members,” said Ms Hendricks. Staff may access the SDA via https://sda.cput.ac.za/.

CPUT’s new Staff Development Academy

44

Faculty of Applied Sciences DEAN’S REPORT Prof Joseph Kioko

45 Please note that more information about this faculty’s 2022 research activities can be found in the Focus Areas section of this Research Report

1

Focus Area 1

4

Bioeconomy & Biotechnology Research Units: Crystal Engineering Unit Functional Foods Research Unit Research Groups: Bioresource Engineering Research Group Natural Products Chemistry Research Group Technology Station: Agrifood Technology Station

136 137

Focus Area 4 The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability Research Chair: Oceans Economy

171

Research Centre: Centre for Sustainable Oceans

171

Research Niche Area: Environmental Chemistry, Toxicology & Remediation

180

139 141

143

Pro

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Introduction A post-lockdown academic year was ushered in as we commenced activities for 2022. This followed two years during which the faculty had employed a risk-adjusted strategy that enabled us to run our activities (including pursuing researchrelated objectives) in a safe manner that was responsive to the changes in the Covid-19 alert levels. The post-lockdown period allowed us to widen the scope of what could be done, while also deploying the skills and learning acquired during the lock-down periods to optimise productivity and flexibility. The smooth transition was made possible by the hard work, commitment and self-motivation of all staff members in the faculty. I wish to deeply thank them.

During 2022 we made some key strides, and this report will illustrate some of these advances.

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Faculty of Applied Sciences

46 Progress in new postgraduate qualifications One of the faculty’s strategic goals is to develop and implement a programme qualification mix (PQM) that prepares our students for the future, as well as to contribute to the production of Modes 2 and 3 knowledge. We have therefore been introducing new postgraduate qualifications aligned with the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF).

During 2022, the following postgraduate qualifications received SAQA registration, and their first intake of students is expected in 2023: • Doctor of Agriculture • Doctor of Conservation Science • Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Management • Master of Marine Science • Master of Environmental Management by 100% Research • Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture • Postgraduate Diploma in Conservation Science • Postgraduate Consumer Science: Food and Nutrition • Postgraduate Diploma in Analytical Chemistry In addition, the following postgraduate qualifications had their first intakes of students in 2022: • Postgraduate Diploma in Marine Science • Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management • Postgraduate Diploma in Horticulture Thus, during the year under review, the following postgraduate qualifications were run in the faculty: • Doctoral degrees in Chemistry, Environmental Health, Food Science & Technology and Horticultural Science • Master’s degrees in Agriculture, Chemistry, Conservation Science, Consumer Science (Food and Nutrition), Environmental Health, Environmental Management (by coursework and dissertation), Food Science & Technology and Horticultural Science • Postgraduate diplomas in Marine Science, Environmental Management and Horticultural Science.

Within the next year or two, we expect to have implemented a full suite of postgraduate qualifications for all programmes in the faculty. This will greatly facilitate our strategic goals toward the PQM, Research and Technology Innovation.

Enrolment and graduation of postgraduate students In 2022, the faculty had an enrolment of 245 postgraduate students, distributed among the various postgraduate levels as follows: • Doctoral: 46 students • Master’s: 171 students • Postgraduate diplomas: 28 students These numbers were below our expected targets, primarily because many of the postgraduate qualifications we had planned for received their SAQA registrations only in 2022. Thus, the first intakes will only be in 2023. We expect to be in a better position to meet our targets for postgraduate enrolments then.

In terms of output, 45 postgraduate students in the faculty completed their studies in 2022, with some graduating at the December 2022 ceremony and others in the follow-up ceremony in April 2023. Of those who graduated, there were 7 doctoral, 28 master’s and 10 postgraduate diploma students. We commend the departments and supervisors of all the successful postgraduates.

Research entities During 2022, the faculty continued to maintain seven research entities aligned to two of CPUT’s six research focus areas. The two focus areas are: Bioeconomy & Biotechnology; and the Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability. The faculty entities in the focus area Bioeconomy & Biotechnology are: the AgriFood Technology Station, the Bioresource Engineering Research Group (held jointly with the Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment), the Functional Foods Research Group, and the Natural Products Chemistry Research Group. In the focus area, the Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability, the faculty has these entities:

47 the Centre for Sustainable Oceans, the Crystal Engineering Research Group, and the Environmental Chemistry, Toxicology & Remediation Research Niche Area. The research entities and the respective leaders during 2022 are listed below, and each of the entities has a report in the Focus Areas section of this Research Report.

The postgraduate enrolment numbers for 2022 were 290, of which 178 were postgraduate diplomas, 88 master’s and 24 doctoral studies, with a total which is slightly less than 2021. This may again be due to the sizeable graduation numbers in 2021, and the Covid lockdown discouraging new entries. In 2022, we had a first intake onto our postgraduate diploma programmes in Nursing Science, with 178 students registered. The table below indicates our postgraduate diplomas, master’s and doctoral degrees registered student numbers for 2022 for the various departments: RESEARCH ENTITY

LEADER

RESEARCH FOCUS AREA

Centre for Sustainable Oceans, which hosts the CPUT Research Chair: Oceans Economy

Prof K Findlay

The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability *

Environmental Chemistry, Toxicology & Remediation Research Niche Area

Prof J Odendaal

Crystal Engineering Unit

Prof M Wicht

Agrifood Technology Station

Mr N Mshicileli

Bioresource Engineering Research Group (joint Research Group with the Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment)

Prof M Sheldon and Dr Moses Basitere (FEBE) Prof V Okudoh (FAS)

Functional Foods Research Unit

Prof M Opperman

Natural Products Chemistry Research Group

Prof A Mohammed

Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

FAS research publication output units between 2015 and 2022

The sustained increase in research output is not accidental or incidental, but the result of intentional actions we have taken to support the growth of research output. These actions include: the use of postdoctoral researchers in all key levels of research (student supervision, grant application, writing of articles, etc); the support of researchers with the requisite article publication charges where justified; strategic partnerships with other entities; support for interdisciplinary research; support for staff in pursuit of doctoral degrees and other development opportunities; the output flowing from newlyintroduced doctoral programmes; improved/streamlined administrative support in the Faculty Research Office; etc.

* Prof Beatrice Opeolu is the leader of this focus area, and she is part of the Faculty of Applied Sciences

Research output As detailed below, the Faculty of Applied Sciences produced 92.42 research publication units in 2022. This continues the trend of the recent past, where the output from the faculty has steadily increased, as illustrated in the following chart.

We have put specific focus on increasing research output in our Strategic Plan, and we aim to do more of the things which will continue to drive our output higher still.

Faculty of Applied Sciences

48 Some highlights for 2022

Strategic research partnerships

The graduation of postgraduate students and research output were key highlights of 2022. In addition, we would like to mention a number of other items:

During 2022, the faculty maintained a suite of strategic research partnerships and also established new ones. Among the existing partnerships was the U6+ Consortium of African Universities in which the faculty continues to play a leading role, including providing the Director – Prof Learnmore Kambizi, Department of Horticultural Sciences – for the Consortium’s African Centre Herbal Research, based at the University of Ilorin in Nigeria. The centre has already produced several patented products developed from African medicinal plants.

Promotion to full professors Full professorship represents the highest academic rank at CPUT, and the most defining criterion for this rank is a requisite level of research and scholarship. During 2022, the university promoted two academics to the level of full professorship. Both academics were from the Faculty Applied Sciences: Prof Vernon Somerset (Department of Chemistry) and Prof Learnmore Kambizi (Department of Horticultural Sciences). Their inaugural addresses are scheduled for the first half of 2023, and these will certainly be proud moments for the faculty. I would like to express heartfelt congratulations to Prof Somerset and Prof Kambizi for reaching this well-deserved pinnacle.

NRF-rated researchers The faculty had 15 NRF-rated researchers in 2022, with one of them being a C1 rating for established researchers, Prof Kenneth Findlay, and one being a Y1 rating for younger researchers, Prof Sjirk Geerts. In summary for 2022, the faculty had one C1 rating, six C2 ratings, five C3 ratings, one Y1 rating and two Y2 ratings as listed below.

Prof KP Findlay

C1

Prof VA Jideani

C3

Prof NB Bathori

C2

Prof L Kambizi

C3

Prof CP Laubscher

C2

Prof FB Lewu

C3

Prof AAH Mohammed

C2

Prof BO Opeolu

C3

Prof VS Somerset

C2

Prof S Geerts

Y1

Prof MC Matoetoe

C2

Dr N Ndube-Tsolekile

Y2

Prof F Nchu

C2

Dr BS Chidi

Y2

Prof A Jacobs

C3

With more staff members having applied for rating during the year, we expect these numbers to increase in the years to follow.

The faculty also continued to participate in the Erasmus+ Project VitaGLOBAL, a global network for agricultural sciences and viniviticulture which is aimed internationalising through joint programmes.

The project creates a unique consortium that brings together universities from diverse and mostly nonurban regions in South America, Europe and South Africa. As part of this project, the faculty hosted the 2022 VitaGlobal Week, which was attended by delegates from Universidad Nacional de Chilecito and Universidad Nacional de Jujuy, both in Argentina; the Georgian Technical University in Georgia; Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Spain; the University of Bologna in Italy; the European Union; Stellenbosch University; and, of course, CPUT. The link department for the faculty in this project is the Department of Agriculture.

The faculty’s dean, Prof Joseph Kioko, and HOD: Food Science & Technology, Prof Jessy van Wyk, were part of the CPUT delegation to the South Africa Higher Education & Research week in France in June. Engagements with various French universities resulted in the establishment of fruitful strategic links with universities in Paris, Montpellier and Toulouse.

49 Besides the specific examples listed above, during 2022 the faculty developed other researchlinked partnerships including two European universities for the Erasmus+ programme; four other European universities; four South African institutions; and one African university outside South Africa.

These new partnerships, together with existing ones, are an important avenue towards making an impact nationally, regionally and globally.

Staff development and capacity building The achievement of the faculty’s research objectives, including postgraduate output and strategic research partnerships, is dependent on staff capacity and commitment. Thus, staff development and transformation are key pillars of our Strategic Plan. We therefore made use of targeted capacity-building programmes for staff during 2022. We had academics taking part in the following programmes, all of whom aimed to attain doctoral degrees by the time of completion: • Black Academic Advancement Programme: Four lecturers • New Generation of Academics Programme (nGap): Four lectures, one of whom graduated last year • Improvement of Qualifications Programme (IQP): Three lecturers • Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme (NESP): One scholar recruited, and one to still be recruited There were also numerous staff members on the NRF Thuthuka post-PhD and rating tracks.

Looking towards 2030

A note of appreciation

The faculty’s Strategic Plan, aligned with the university’s Vision 2030, was approved by Faculty Board in October 2021, and by Senate in March 2022. The plan includes an action plan specifically for Research, Technology Innovation & Partnerships, in line with Focus Area 3 of Vision 2030, i.e., Smart RTIP that is relevant and excellent in its knowledge production. In this regard, the faculty has committed itself to the following: • Developing the research capacity of the next generation of scholars and innovators – putting the Faculty of Applied Sciences at the forefront of innovation in its broadest sense • Increasing and strengthening interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research entities in the faculty • Creating new opportunities to work in collaboration with industry, business and communities • Developing commercialisation and other pathways for research impact • Maintaining a high number of NRF-rated researchers • Improving research output by academic staff • Increasing the number of staff qualified to operate leading-edge instrumentation

To all staff, students and collaborators: Thank you for your commitment, energy, dedication and support in making the year 2022 a success for our faculty.

With commitment to the Strategic Plan and the necessary actions, we are confident that the faculty will continue its positive trajectory in the research arena.

FUNDING SOURCE

AMOUNT

Conference Committee (ConfCom)

152 588

Consolidated Research Fund (CRF)

610 837

DHET Publications Subsidy 2020

1 157 320

Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)

48 112

Improvement of Qualification Programme (IQP)

200 000

National Research Foundation (NRF)

2 668 381

Research and Innovation Fund for Teaching & Learning (RIFTAL)

161 855

South African Honeybush Tea

215 900

South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC)

170 000

South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) and Stellenbosch University

166 601

Water Research Commission (WRC)

282 608

TOTAL *Excluding Postdoctoral Funding and Postgraduate Bursaries

5 834 202

Faculty of Applied Sciences

50 RESEARCH OUTPUT 2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO DHET MAY 2023)

UNITS

Books & chapters in books (submitted)

8.34

Conference proceedings (submitted)

4.71

Journal articles (audited)

79.37

TOTAL

92.42

Postgraduate degrees obtained by staff Doctor of Food Science & Technology CPUT Vhangani LN ‘The use of nano-encapsulated plant extracts in inhibiting nonenzymatic browning in fruit canned in juice’ PhD in Chemistry CPUT Adonis S ‘A comparative study of the efficiency of ion exchange chromatography and extraction chromatography for the separation of milligram amounts of scandium from gram amounts of calcium’

PhD in Environmental Health CPUT Mbappe T ‘Morphological characteristics and chemical composition of skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora L.) and burdock (Arctium lappa L.) cultivated under different conditions’ PhD in Statistics UWC Farrar T ‘Handling heteroscedasticity in the linear regression model’

Prof Joseph Kioko (Dean), Ms Juliane Glovania (African–Bavarian Alliance), Prof Carsten Lorz (Weihenstephan-Triesdorf) and Mr Ndumiso Mshicileli (Agrifood)

German university pledges co-operation with CPUT Following their visit to FAS, Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences (HSWT) representatives were impressed by the “outstanding hospitality, friendliness, great enthusiasm and dedication to practice-oriented teaching and research at CPUT”. The German delegation consisted of Prof Carsten Lorz, Vice President for International Affairs and Diversity at HSWT and a professor in Forest Soil Science, and Ms Juliane Glovania, Project Co-ordinator for the African-Bavarian Alliance for Applied Life Sciences.

FAS Dean, Prof Joseph Kioko, said the aim of the visit was to explore and establish strategic links between HSWT and CPUT, particularly with this faculty. Prof Kioko said HSWT has programmes which are similar to those offered by Applied Sciences at CPUT, such as Agriculture, Horticulture, Landscape Architecture, Food Technology, Biotechnology Environmental Sciences and Biodiversity Conservation. “We hope to establish links to advance research collaboration, academic exchanges, and to leverage best

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practices. There will also be a particular focus on innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Prof Kioko.

VC’s Prestigious Achievers Award inspired her to be the best she could be

The visit was a great success and culminated with the formulation of the next steps towards a mutually beneficial partnership between the two institutions. Prof Kioko continued, “As part of the next steps, HSWT will invite CPUT faculty members in the area of agriculture and climate change to an HSWT seminar in March/April 2023, to network with HSWT scholars and other faculty members from partner universities from South Africa, Senegal, Ethiopia and Tunisia in the frame of ‘African–Bavarian Alliance for Applied Life Sciences’.”

HSWT would cover accommodation, meals, and flights to Germany.

Prof Kioko was also impressed by the extent of common areas of interest (for both Teaching & Learning and Research & Innovation), and the interest to collaborate from both sides. “I foresee a rich and productive future of collaboration between ourselves and HSWT.”

Dr Yvonne Maphosa said the VC’s Prestigious Achievers Award “is not just a bursary, it’s an acknowledgement of outstanding postgraduate students who have shown academic excellence and an embodiment of the CPUT graduate attributes.” The Zimbabwean-born academic obtained her doctorate in Food Science & Technology during the CPUT Autumn Graduation Series 2022. Dr Maphosa completed her BTech in Food Technology cum laude in 2013 and was awarded the VC’s Medal as the best graduating student from FAS. She passed her master’s with distinction too, graduating in September 2016.

Reflecting on their experience at CPUT, Prof Lorz said their discussions with FAS as well as with Director: RTI-SIP, Prof Judy Peter, were encouraging. “We were especially impressed by the professionalism of the laboratories and practical teaching sites of the departments of Food Technology and Horticulture/Landscape Architecture,” he continued. “The faculty’s focus on applied teaching and training in agriculture, food technology, horticulture, nature conservation, environmental management, etc. makes it an excellent partner for our university. We were very impressed by the high motivation and dedication of all people we met. The Faculty of Applied Sciences has a great team and we are looking forward to future co-operation.”

Prof Kioko added that the key outcome was that a tangible foundation for collaboration between CPUT and HSWT was laid down, and a plan of action was agreed. “Making this collaboration a success will be a key contribution towards our goals of smart internationalisation in line with the aspirations of our ‘One Smart CPUT’ Vision 2030,” Prof Kioko remarked. Prof Lorz said they would be happy if they could merge their networks with other African universities to enable mutual learning and experience-sharing when it comes to applied HE.

Reflecting on her career journey, the bubbly author said, “A PhD is not a walk in the park. It requires a lot of emotional and financial support. It’s a very difficult journey that requires commitment and strength. I was blessed with the support of my family, friends and fellow postgraduate students. I had amazing supervisors as well. They held my hand and guided me and I will be forever indebted to them. The CPUT postgraduate centre was also very helpful and always there to assist.”

The last-born of six said a PhD is very expensive and the VC’s Prestigious Achievers Award covered her tuition, residence and everything she needed to complete her doctorate. The award played a huge role in the completion of her studies. “It also came with tremendous non-financial support from

the committee and the VC’s office, for which I’m deeply grateful.” A believer and a gogetter, Dr Maphosa said, “It is a motivation to keep on excelling. It inspired me to be the best I could be.”

Growing up in Mambale village, deep in the rural areas of Plumtree, Zimbabwe, working hard came naturally for Dr Maphosa.

“Working [hard] was instilled in me from a young age. Waking up early to work the fields before running many kilometres to school, then running to the river to fetch water after school taught me that in life you have to work hard. It also taught me balance and time management.” Dr Maphosa has always been an A student and has won numerous prestigious awards throughout her academic journey in the form of funding, medals, trophies, certificates and scholarships. “They serve as acknowledgements, reassurances and motivations to accomplish more.”

Besides being an academic, she has published two fiction novels: the national bestseller The y in yOUR Man is Silent and the award-winning Grasping at Straws.

She is also involved in charity work and runs a campaign called ‘Buy-a-Pad with Yvonne’, collecting and donating sanitary pads to disadvantaged women and girls. She also has a writing competition, ‘Luvone’, aimed at discovering young, unpublished writers.

From this competition, the book Luvone: An Anthology of Short Stories, was published. Dr Maphosa is involved in several community

Excelling academic, Dr Yvonne Maphosa

projects in Zimbabwe, especially those aimed at empowering the girl child and advocating for women’s rights. Summiting Mount Kilimanjaro was another highlight of her life.

In her message to prospective students, Dr Maphosa said, “Be yourself. You can only realise your true potential if you are truly yourself. Don’t waste your life mimicking other people or chasing the wind at the expense of your dreams. Focus! Set your goals and work towards them.” Dr Maphosa acknowledged the support she received from the VC and the awards committee. “Thank you for awarding me the VC’s Prestigious Achievers Award. I am sincerely humbled and elated that you found me a suitable beneficiary for this honourable award. It made a remarkable difference in my PhD journey and my life as a whole. I’m truly grateful.”

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PhD candidate applauds VC’s Prestigious Achievers Awards While busy with his master’s, Mr Ngxabi published two scientific papers in accredited peer-reviewed journals. “I am currently registered for a PhD in Horticultural Sciences because I would like to take the study about this plant to its logical conclusion and contribute to achieving the SDGs and the Smart CPUT 2030 Vision. My research topic is ‘The effect of salt stress on the nutraceutical, phytochemical and physiological properties of Trachyandra ciliata: An edible halophyte from the Western Cape’.

Mr Sihle Ngxabi receiving his Master’s in Horticultural Sciences

The VC’s Prestigious Achievers Award played a very significant role for PhD candidate in Horticultural Sciences studies, Mr Sihle Ngxabi, as it enabled him to focus on his research fully without worrying about fees or living expenses.

Mr Ngxabi is from Mount Frere, Eastern Cape. He is amazed at the person he’s become. In 2014 Mr Ngxabi enrolled for his ND Horticultural Sciences, which he completed in 2016, finishing top of his class and second in the faculty. He graduated cum laude, with 23 distinctions out of 27 subjects, and achieved an average of 84% overall. Mr Ngxabi enrolled for a BTech in 2017, and again graduated cum laude, with distinctions in all subjects.

With motivation from his lecturers and mentors, he decided to study further and enrolled for a Master’s in Horticultural Sciences. He graduated in 2021 with the topic ‘The effect of different growth media and salinity on the vegetative growth of Trachyandra ciliata (wild cabbage) in hydroponics’. He was motivated to undertake this research due to the drought threatening Africa, as the plant is edible and drought tolerant and has never been studied before. “The idea was to study its nutritional and phytochemical properties and recommend it as a commercial vegetable to strengthen food security,” he said.

To be where he is today took a lot of discipline, dedication, determination and the desire to succeed. The road has not been easy for this young academic; he had to overcome many challenges, mainly financial. During his undergraduate studies, he travelled by train to and from campus. Sometimes he did not have money for a ticket and had to wait for the last train to go home, after all the security guards had left. “Many who were in my position gave up and dropped out, but my strong mentality, positive thinking and ability to create something out of nothing kept me going.” Mr Ngxabi struggled to pay his fees and was rescued by classmates and a lecturer who made contributions. “Achieving those excellent marks and the fact that I have never scored under 65% throughout my university studies under the circumstances will always be the highlight of my journey.” Mr Ngxabi applauds the VC, Prof Nhlapo, for establishing this award for the hardworking and dedicated individuals who excel academically. “Without the award, it would have been very difficult to complete my research and publish two papers in the process.”

He said the assistance and motivation he received from his lecturers during his studies was amazing and he is thankful to them. His research supervisors contributed enormously to his growth as a researcher and their support is highly appreciated. “I have also drawn a lot of strength and inspiration from members of management with whom I have interacted during my time on the SRC. I would also like to express my gratitude to my classmates for their unwavering support in difficult times, without them the road would have been harder… I am sincerely honoured to be one of the recipients of this prestigious award. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the VC and the award committee for all the assistance and generosity throughout the journey. You are making a difference and we appreciate all that you are doing to the CPUT community. May you live to realise One Smart CPUT.”

Excelling in winemaking with good work ethics CPUT graduate in Master’s in Agriculture, Mr Mvuselelo Dalicuba plays a significant role in the development of the South African wine industry. “The road to success is not easy, you have to keep on digging all the time, you will never know when you are going to hit the gold.” These are the words from the recent graduate in Master’s in Agriculture, who has been appointed as a winemaker at the famous Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate in Stellenbosch.

Reflecting on his appointment, the 29-year-old winemaker from Ngcobo, Eastern Cape said, “It is an overwhelming position, and a lot is expected of me but my boss, Mr Corius Visser [Cellar Master], always says, ‘Vusi keep calm all the time and take it one step at a time’.” His current mandate is to try to be on top of things (focus) at work and set up short- and long-term goals. “I am planning to achieve this by surrounding myself with people who are in my field of work and building contacts,” said Mr Dalicuba, whose career path was shaped by his very supportive family of small-scale farmers in the Eastern Cape. “My family

Mr Mvuselelo Dalicuba produces good quality delicate wines

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has shaped my career to study Agriculture. They have been my support system, financially, physically and emotionally.”

His agriculture career began in 2013, when he enrolled for CPUT’s Diploma in Agriculture: Viticulture and Oenology, which he completed in 2015. The following year, he enrolled for his BTech and he published a review book chapter with his supervisors, Mr Fanadzo Morris and Mr Ernest Dube, titled ‘Application of conservation agriculture principles for the management of field crops pests on the sustainable agriculture’.

Following the completion of his BTech degree in 2017, Mr Dalicuba enrolled for his Master’s in Agriculture: Viticulture and Oenology, monitoring levels of ascorbic acid metabolites in Sauvignon blanc (Vitis vinifera L.) during berry development and in wine. He says Mr Anton Pieter Nel, his supervisor, was the driving force from the beginning to him completing his postgraduate degree.

During his postgraduate studies, this resilient, ambitious and determined young man had an opportunity to work as Assistant Winemaker at the Department of Agriculture, Elsenburg Wine Cellar, under the mentorship of Ms Lorraine Geldenhuys (lecturer and winemaker at Elsenburg College), where he learnt about the practicalities of the winemaking process. During that period, he also had opportunities to work at other wineries at harvest time, such as Anthonij Rupert Wine Estate in 2018, under the mentorship of Ms Yvonne Lester, and at Kanonkop Wine Estate in 2020, under the mentorship of Mr Abrie Beeslaar, who has been voted International Winemaker of the World three times. The highlight of his career was when he first made his own wine in 2017 at Elsenburg College with Mourvedre grapes.

“Because of good references and good work ethics it helped me to get the position as a Winemaker at Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate… One thing that keeps me going is that, if you have to believe in yourself and it’s all in your mind, if you tell your mind that you won’t make it, then the body will react to your thoughts. Mr Beyers Truter of Beyerskloof Wine Estate has been my inspiration and mentor.” Mr Dalicuba’s overall plan is to keep on producing good quality delicate wines for people to enjoy. His message to the younger generation is, “Be yourself at all times and never forget who you are and where you come from, and where you are going.”

Marine Science students cruise aboard the SA Agulhas II Department of Conservation and Marine Sciences students were awestruck after taking part in two oceanographic research and training cruises aboard a South African polar research vessel during July.

Senior lecturer, Dr David Walker, said the SA Agulhas II is South Africa’s world-class icebreaker used for both research and supplying our bases on Antarctica and oceanic islands. The vessel is state-of-the-art fully equipped for all marine research activities.

The first research cruise was the SEAmester V, an oceanographic research and training voyage which is held every year. It is open to postgraduate students from all South African universities who have a marine or aquatic interest. Dr Walker added that the bonus to the cruise this year was that it went to Marion Island in the Southern Ocean. “This was undertaken by three Marine Science Advanced Diploma students: Ms Amanda Buthelezi, Ms Nicole Kieswetter and Ms Onika Mabalabala. I accompanied the cruise as a lecturer and was responsible for giving lectures on oceanic phytoplankton productivity, and I was involved in a multidisciplinary research project investigating an eddy on the edge of the Agulhas Bank.”

The second cruise was SCALE 22, a research voyage to the Marginal Ice Zone of the Southern Ocean by three Marine Science Postgraduate Diploma students: Ms Aldean Esau, Ms Venecia van Balla and Mr Nkateko Maholobela. The students worked on projects in conjunction with a team from UCT, and their role was to take phytoplankton samples and measure chlorophyll in the open ocean as well as from ice cores. The students were immersed in oceanographic work as part of a multidisciplinary and international team. “In this, they gained invaluable personal and professional experience,” said Dr Walker.

Sharing her personal experience, Advanced Diploma in Marine Science student Ms Kieswetter said, “A whirlwind of emotions hit me as I set foot on the mighty SA Agulhas II that Monday morning. It has been a lifelong dream to work on one of these vessels. Seeing Marion Island has also been one of my dreams, but I would have never thought that I would combine these two things into one trip.” Ms Kieswetter was grateful to have been given this opportunity. “I met the most amazing people and learnt so much – even though the working hours are sometimes crazy. This experience has opened my eyes to the true nature of the ocean and possible future career opportunities.”

Ms Mabalabala, said being part of SEAmester V, going to Marion Island and being on the SA Agulhas II research vessel was amazing. “This trip made me appreciate the sea even more. It is one thing to learn about the ocean but to experience it is something else. I am grateful to have been part of the cruise. I have learnt a lot of new things and met new people who work in different fields of oceanography, some of which I had no idea existed.”

Ms Amanda Buthelezi, Dr David Walker and Ms Nicole Kieswetter

Ms Buthelezi said being on the SA Agulhas II for SEAmester V was an amazing experience like no other. She was part of the ASCA Science Team which focused on chlorophyll-a and phytoplankton. Mr Maholobela, said that on the trip he got to engage with people who are experts in the field of ocean research. The different kinds of research which were conducted during the cruise made him realise that there is more to ocean research than he had imagined. “Not only did the cruise inspire me to study further but I have also benefited greatly in terms of working with different people in the research world and using different instruments and types of equipment.”

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Pepkor exposes students to retail sector

Future forward and we are excited to see how many applications come through.”

Pepkor representatives: Ms Lauren Bradman, Ms Tania Conradie and Ms Simone Felix with CPUT staff members: Mr Thomas Farrar (Statistics), Mr Msimelelo Sogoni (Mathematics), Mr Ahmed Eldud (Statistics) and Mr William Manamela (Mathematics)

Pepkor Holdings Limited representatives visited the Mathematics and Physics Department in September. They addressed second-year students studying in the fields of Applied Mathematics, Data Analytics and Engineering, who had academically excelled and wished to pursue a career in the retail sector.

Pepkor Skills Development Manager, Ms Simone Felix, who is a CPUT alumna, introduced the Pepkor Retail Learning Academy programme to the students.

Established in 2020, this pilot programme targets students at HEIs in the Western Cape while they are still studying. “The purpose of the programme is to provide high-performing young people access and exposure to retail

through a structured programme, narrowing the gap between theory learnt at higher education institutions and the world of work.” This programme spans over three years.

Ms Felix, who obtained her National Diploma and BTech in Human Resource Management at CPUT, added, “When graduates seek employment without any experience, it makes it difficult for both graduate and employer. We are seeking to close the gap for both parties to make the graduate more employable and also to secure these scarce skills for the business.”

She was impressed with the level of interaction and questions from the students, and added, “It was indicative of interest,

Statistics senior lecturer, Mr Thomas Farrar, said Pepkor planned to launch a Graduate Incubator Programme later this year, focusing on Mathematics and Data Science.

Students in the programme would participate in activities such as vacation work, extra work-readiness training, doing WIL with the company, and an internship after graduation.

Mr Farrar said, “This is an exciting new opportunity for our students to gain realworld work experience and training, both within and beyond the formal WIL component of their course. It provides a potential pathway from academia directly into their careers. It also represents a significant new industry partnership for the Department of Mathematics and Physics, and indeed for the CPUT community at large.” The PhD candidate in Statistical Sciences (UWC) said, “It was indeed a success, the initiative was well-received by the students; many have already informed me that they intended to apply for the programme.”

Mr Farrar said it is not every day that “a future job comes looking for you while you are still in the second year.” He added, “It is great to work for a company that values your contribution, and this initiative shows that Pepkor values Mathematics and Data Science and wants to invest in developing future professionals in these areas.” He strongly encouraged the students to make the most of this opportunity.

FAS Dean’s Medallist, Ms Clarise Theron, is excited about futuristic discoveries driven by the unlimited applications of chemistry. The young scientist’s academic success is driven by the intricacies of chemistry and its unlimited potential. She is so absorbed by science, that she has now enrolled for a degree in Chemical Biology, after just completing her diploma in Analytical Chemistry. She said that once you unlock the science of chemistry, it is a fascinating discipline that is rewarding and interesting. “Unpacking the different layers of the subject and drawing links between the different modules is what I enjoy most. Drawing links between modules and studying the calculations involved with the subject is my passion.”

Ms Theron also credited her lecturer, Dr Shirley le Roux, for giving her the confidence to seek a purposeful career in her field of interest. She said that students who want to replicate her academic success of distinctions in all subjects with special awards should focus on their own journey. “Remember that it is totally normal for your path to look different from someone else’s.

University is a good time to develop interpersonal skills and grow. Do not be afraid or ashamed to ask for help,” she said. “I feel proud knowing that the hard work paid off.”

Ms Clarise Theron, standing between VC Prof Nhlapo and FAS Dean Prof Kioko

55

Students empower communities

CPUT and iThemba LABS expand their partnership

Second-year Food Production and Service Operations (Programme Consumer Science: Food and Nutrition) students convened a catering workshop for members of Weskusmandjie at the District Six campus in November. Weskusmandjie, founded in 2018 by entrepreneur Ms Hilda Adams, consists of a group of subsistence fisherwomen, and is based at St Helena Bay, Steenbergs Cove and Buffeljags Bay. The women rely on their knowledge of the ocean to produce home-made food items such as sour fig (suurvytjie) jam, pickled alikreukel (giant periwinkle), and rollmops (pickled herring fillets). The group uses local raw materials to produce products which are marketed via the ABALOBI Pantry, a digital platform for fishery product marketing.

CPUT representatives met with their iThemba LABS counterparts to enrich the partnership. To enhance student training, research development and technical support to the faculties of Applied Sciences (FAS), Engineering & the Built Environment (FEBE) and others, CPUT representatives engaged with their iThemba LABS counterparts. At the meeting held on the Bellville Campus during July, FAS and FEBE presented their research endeavours. SIP Manager: Research Uptake, Dr Nelisiwe Maleka, stated that the purpose of the Representatives from CPUT and iThemba LABS at the Bellville Campus meeting was to improve training collaboration between iThemba LABS and CPUT. Dr Maleka said the two parties seek to explore and consolidate possible areas of research collaboration and training opportunities. She added that the partnership would create opportunities for joint teaching, joint supervision, future development of diploma qualification in Physics, funding opportunities through a scholarship for postgraduate students, and international exposure for students through student practice.

Programme Service-Learning Co-ordinator, Ms Raché Hanekom, said that after a roundtable discussion with the women, a need was raised with Weskusmandjie members to develop catering knowledge and skills. Six ladies from the group attended the workshop. They demonstrated a snoek fishcake recipe, which linked well with the Food Science and Practice 1 curriculum content. The day was celebrated with a feast table to showcase the products produced. Student, Ms Lithalam Nxano, said the service-learning was really helpful in terms of teaching how busy things can be in the industry. “It showed the importance of time management and of working as a team.”

SIP Director, Prof Judy Peter, who chaired the meeting, said, “The expansion of the partnership with iThemba Labs is aligned with CPUT’s vision and commitment to collaboration and knowledge exchange with industry, society and the public sector.” iThemba LABS Deputy Director, Dr Rudzani Nemutudi, stated that the focus was on current and prospective training opportunities under the Southern African Institute of Nuclear Technology and Sciences, and that most of the Chemical Technologists working at iThemba LABS were from CPUT. Dr Nemutudi emphasised the importance of pooling and sharing resources, and the need for postgraduate students to attend courses.

Catering workshop with members of Weskusmandjie

Some areas of collaboration were explored during the engagement, including joint funding opportunities for postgraduate students who could be linked with iThemba LABS while remaining registered full-time students at CPUT. This includes research and development technical support, software engineering, software development, information technology, and many more.

Faculty of Business & Management Sciences

56

Faculty of Business & Management Sciences DEAN’S REPORT Prof Paul Green

57 Please note that more information about this faculty’s 2022 research activities can be found in the Focus Areas section of this Research Report

5

Focus Area 5

6

Human, Health & Social Dynamics Research Centres: Centre for Tourism Research in Africa 196 Centre for Sport Business & Technology Research 200 Research Laboratory: Sport Performance Laboratory (SPL)

Focus Area 6 The Digital Society Research Centre: Centre for Business Innovation & Incubation

208

Research Unit: Brand & Digital Research Hub

214

200

Introduction Research productivity is the central foundation of the strategic objectives of the Faculty of Business & Management Sciences (FBMS). We graduated 65 postgraduate students during 2022, with 57 receiving master’s and 8 receiving doctoral degrees. Our research outputs have also continued to increase, with 52.43 units recorded for 2021, an increase from 2020’s 32.10 units.

Our research portfolio has expanded, and our four centres are engaging in world-class research projects: • Our Centre for Sport Business & Technology Research (CSBTR) and the Applied Microbial & Health Biotechnology Institute (AMHBI) have accomplished much through deepened multidisciplinary collaboration via the innovative Rooibos Exercise Study.

• The Centre for Business Innovation and Incubation (BIIC) completed the Inclusive Graduate Technopreneurship Development Infrastructure and has established the Student Technopreneurship Club for inclusive hackathons to feed BIIC’s Simulator for Venture Creation. The BIIC received the ITF Award of £20 000 (£8 148 for CPUT), a Services SETA award of R872 000 to develop a skills demand model for the South Africa Services Sector, and a BANKSETA award of R1.19 million.

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58 • The Brand and Digital Research Hub (BDR) secured funding from META (previously Facebook) in the form of vouchers to the value of $99 (R1 400) for Marketing postgraduate diploma students in 2022 to engage in social media marketing accreditation. BDR hosted a research symposium in October to share the research of their postgraduate students, supervisors and international collaboration.

• The Centre for Tourism Research in Africa (CETRA) received scholarships for two students for July to September 2022 to visit Ravensburg University in Germany. Two staff members were funded by the Fire Network to visit this university to engage in further collaborative discussion.

Our NRF ratings have also increased to four C3-rated researchers and one Y2-rated researcher, who produce healthy research outputs.

We are proud of our staff members who registered for the Master’s Advancement Programme 2021. At least half of this cohort will graduate in April 2023.

Capacity building FBMS research activities are guided by the university’s Vision 2030: One Smart CPUT, and are aligned to CPUT’s Focus Area 3. The faculty’s motto of ‘Oneness and Smartness’ drives its researchers to create an enabling environment and produce relevant and high-quality research and innovation.

Academic development and capacity building remains a key priority for the faculty. Various initiatives were undertaken during 2022 to develop academic staff and postgraduate students.

These include the Master’s Advancement Programme (aimed at raising staff to a level of a master’s degree); proposal development workshops; supervision training workshops; research capacity workshops; and writing retreats. The faculty held a four-day writing retreat for academic staff and a two-day writing retreat for postgraduate students late in 2022. Support for postgraduate students has been provided via weekly online workshops.

FBMS hosted several conferences during 2022, including the Inclusive Technopreneurship Forum, the ICBMD Conference, and the W&R SETA Conference. We are proud of our postgraduate students who presented their research at the Postgraduate Conference in August and the undergraduate students who presented at the Emerging Researcher Conference in November.

The second faculty Achiever Awards function will be held early in 2023 to celebrate the many achievements and milestones attained during 2022, and to honour FBMS colleagues.

We celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of our staff during 2022 and are proud of their contributions to research and scholarship which defines a clear direction for moving into the future.

Staff at a writing retreat: Dr Sandra Williams, Ms Ilanza Perold, Ms Mandisa Silo, Dr Kevin Ncube, Dr Tshinakaho Sunday, Ms Celiwe Menze, Prof Desiree Scholtz, Prof Retha De La Harpe, Ms Beverley Seager and Ms Nosiphosethu Brandau

59 Faculty Research Ethics Committee (FREC) Prof Michael Twum-Darko served as the FREC Chairperson until the end of 2022. We thank him for his excellent service. During this year, the committee received 90 applications – 9 from academic staff, 4 from external universities and research institutions, and 77 from students. Of the applications received, 79 were approved, 6 received conditional approval and 5 were asked to resubmit for additional information.

ISCAP welcomed a significant number of academic, non-teaching staff, partner representatives and researchers for a week of teaching, networking, best practice collaborations and cultural diversity. CPUT staff lectured on various areas including business, management, technology, data analytics, accounting, tax, auditing and entrepreneurship.

At the launch of the Fire Network in Ravensburg: Ms Mandiso Silo, Prof Dr Conny Mayer-Bonde (DHBW) and Dr Cynthia Dube (front row left) with other participants

Strategic initiatives and projects The virtual internationalisation efforts for the 2022 academic year began with two workshops on Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), which were led by facilitator Ms Eva Haug from the Netherlands. Ms Haug is a well-known educational advisor for internationalisation of the curriculum. The faculty welcomed 27 exchange students from Germany and the Netherlands, as well as 17 visiting academics during the second half of the year when borders were reopened. It is noteworthy that our international partner universities hosted 8 students and 14 staff from the faculty in the following nations: Belgium, Turkey, Portugal, Germany, Dubai, Finland, France and the Netherlands.

The CPUT–ISCAP Erasmus agreement involved FBMS lecturing and research staff participating in the International Week in Porto, Portugal. ISCAP International Teaching Week was held in May, where

Hub Symposium. Prof Tudor Edu, the Vice-Rector of Romanian–American University, delivered a message of support at this symposium (virtually).

CPUT Staff at ISCAP Teaching Week: Dr Lynn Kleinveldt, Mr Douglas Dyers, Ms Widaad Martin and Ms Rabia Lall

International exchange partnership visits Ms Mandiso Silo and Dr Cynthia Dube from the Department of Tourism & Events Management visited Germany during the year to build partnerships. They spent time at Baden-Wuerttemberg Co-operative State University (DHBW) in Ravensburg and the Munich University of Applied Sciences.

Dr Holger J Schmidt from Koblenz University of Applied Sciences visited CPUT in October and was a guest speaker at the Brand and Digital Research

Prof Dr Burkhard von Freyberg from the Munich University of Applied Sciences in Germany and Mr Daniel José Gaioso Vaz Carvalho Azevedo from the Polytechnic Institute of Porto in Portugal visited CPUT’s Hotel School in Granger Bay to identify opportunities between the organisations.

Prof Victor Virimai Mugobo visited Middlesex University in Dubai in November to establish a collaborative research partnership focusing on the retail sector.

The Department of Retail Business Management hosted two German professors, Prof Holger Schimdt from Koblenz University of Applied Sciences and Prof Thomas Dobbelstein from DHBW Ravensburg. The two professors were part of the panel of presenters at the

Faculty of Business & Management Sciences

60 Inaugural Research Conference that was organised by the Wholesale & Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&R SETA) in collaboration with CPUT’s Department of Retail Business Management.

The conference was held in October at the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town.

Renewal of international partnerships The faculty currently boasts 35 active MoUs, including four new MoUs with the Southern Africa Institute for Government Auditors (SAIGA), Ostbayerische Technische Hochschule Regensburg in Germany, the Public Service Commission, and Romanian–American University in Romania. During 2022, MoUs with Fontys University of Applied Science in the Netherlands and Hoschule Anhalt University of Applied Science in Germany were renewed in order to grow and maintain our worldwide partnerships.

Prof Renitha Rampersad, Ms Mandy Jones, Dr Kuhle Zwakala, Prof Dr Andreas Donner (Dean of Hochschule Anhalt), Prof Paul Green, Dr Pieter Steenkamp, Prof Dr Daniel Michaelis (Anhalt, Germany) and Ms Andiswa Mrasi

New international partnerships New partnerships between FBMS and Regensburg University in Germany and Polytechnic Institute of Porto in Portugal were established during 2022.

International mobility This year provided greater opportunities for staff and student mobilities to take place, as FBMS continues to strive to achieve its key strategic objective of being the leading faculty regarding internationalisation within CPUT. Dr Kuhle Zwakala from the Department of Marketing was given the opportunity to visit Romanian–American University as an exchange lecturer in May, via Erasmus+. An exchange student from Germany participated in the Hospitality firstyear programme at the Cape Town Hotel School.

Ms Simone Thomas, a Marketing doctoral student, continued her residency in Germany for 2022. Ms Thomas was awarded a bursary and took up a job opportunity in Germany in 2021, involving academic activities at Hochschule Koblenz University of Applied Science while furthering her doctoral studies through the CPUT–HSK co-operation.

Student Ms Zimasa Ndaba and staff members Ms Wendy Magangqaza and Ms Elhaam Abrahams (Department of Tourism & Events Management) visited DHBW Ravensburg University in Germany on a student and staff mobility programme. Two students, Ms Aviwe Tapuko and Ms Moemtaaz Manuel, and lecturer Mr Eric Van Zyl (Department of Retail Business Management) visited DHBW Ravensburg University as part of the international exchange partnership between CPUT and the German university. Prof Pieter

Ms Namhla Matwa and her mentor, Prof Henrik Gustafsson

Karlstad University in Sweden

Steenkamp (Department of Marketing) was invited as a virtual visiting professor to both partner universities, Koblenz University of Applied Sciences and Anhalt University of Applied Sciences.

Ms Namhla Matwa, a master’s student in the Department of Sport Management and a VC Prestigious Achievers Award recipient, was awarded the SANORD Brian O Connell Scholarship in 2021.

61 Due to Covid-19 and travel restrictions, she only travelled to Sweden in 2022, where she spent six months writing her dissertation at Karlstad University. Ms Matwa was raised by a single mother, and was the first in her family and the first female in her village where she grew up to enjoy tertiary education. She said that the exchange programme has filled her with such gratitude. She added that she has become open-minded and now sees the world differently; she has seen a world with no colour; she has experienced different cultures; and she is filled with such hope. Through this experience and her research, Ms Matwa’s goal is to use advocacy to improve the state of physical education in South African public schools, and for the quality of physical education to be improved through tertiary institution training.

Portugal. Ms Van Wyk was mentored by Prof Inês Periera and said she felt very privileged to have experienced the Erasmus Mobility Programme and that this was a special learning experience both on an educational and cultural front. She added that this programme is certainly going to add value to many students, providing them with not only academic progress but also personal and professional growth.

Faculty-hosted conferences Several conferences were hosted by the faculty during 2022, including: • The Inclusive Technopreneurship Forum in August • The ICBMD Conference in September • The W&R SETA Conference in October Prof Rodney Duffett was invited as a track chair to the virtual International Conference on Business & Management Dynamics held in September.

Research from the BDR Hub was showcased at the Brand & Digital Research Hub Symposium in October under the theme ‘Branding services in the digital era’, and was well attended by postgraduate students, alumni, industry and international guests, as well as CPUT staff.

Prof Inês Periera and Ms Sandhya Nankoo van Wyk

Ms Sandhya Nankoo van Wyk, a master’s student in Business & Information Administration, was the first student on the Erasmus Exchange Programme and spent two months at the ISCAP, at Porto Accounting & Business School, which is the largest Polytechnic in

We are proud of our postgraduate students who presented their research at the Postgraduate Conference in August and the undergraduate students who presented at the Emerging Researcher Conference in November. Congratulations to all the supervisors who work tirelessly with your students.

This has resulted in the showcasing of work of exceptionally high quality.

Faculty of Business & Management Sciences

62 Research awards

CPUT Research Excellence Awards

Faculty Research Excellence Awards

Platinum Award Supervision 2021 graduates

Dr Andre De La Harpe

The FBMS Achiever Awards for 2022 ceremony was held at the Cape Town Hotel School to recognise and celebrate the achievements and milestones attained during the year. The guest speaker was Dr David Phaho, CPUT’s DVC: RTIP. The evening was well attended and provided an opportunity to honour the staff and students in various categories.

Gold Award Supervision 2021 graduates

Dr Larry Jowah

The following awards were presented: Research Department of the Year

Public Administration & Governance

Researcher of the Year

Prof Brendon Knott

Emerging Research of the Year

Dr Hilary Bama

Supervisor of the Year

Prof Robertson Tengeh

Top Doctoral Student of the Year

Dr Lance Barbier

Top Master’s Student of the Year

Ms Miria Claude Eulalie Okouwadela

Gold Award Publications DHET 2020 submission Prof Robertson Tengeh Lecturer to Senior Lecturer

Dr Juan-Pierre Bruwer Dr Christiaan Hattingh-Niekerk Dr Jerome Kiley

Senior Lecturer to Associate Professor

Prof Nollen Leach Prof Virimai Mugobo Prof Desiree Scholtz Prof Sharhidd Taliep Prof Micheal Twum-Darko

Postgraduate student conferences

NRF Ratings Prof Brendon Knott

Y2

Dr Sacha West

C3

FBMS Postgraduate Research Conference

Prof Micheal Twum-Darko C3 Prof Vicky Naicker

C3

Prof Simeon Davies

C3

External award Prof Rodney Duffett received an Outstanding Reviewer Emerald Literati Award.

Prof Brendon Knott

Dr Hilary Bama, Ms Mandisa Silo, Mr Nizaam Peck

The FBMS Postgraduate Research Conference was held virtually in August.

Master’s and doctoral students presented their research studies. Congratulations to: • Ms Martha Grewe (Human Resource Management) who received first prize Doctoral Presentation • Ms Anza Ramatsia (Sport Management) who received first prize Master’s Presentation • Ms Kayla Sampson who received the Most Innovative Master’s Presentation award

63 2022 Emerging Researcher Conference The 2022 Emerging Researcher Conference was held virtually in November. The conference was hosted under the theme ‘Driving smart, innovative, and responsive research for sustainable economic development’. Prizes were awarded to: • Group Research Proposal – Ms Mushfiqah Adams, Ms Aqeelah Petersen, Ms Kelley Arthur and Ms Francisca Swartz (Human Resource Management) • Individual Research Proposal – Ms Kgomotso Manthotsaka Malete (Sport Management)

FUNDING SOURCE

AMOUNT

Conference Committee (ConfCom)

136 622

Consolidated Research Fund (CRF)

79 500

DHET Publications Subsidy 2020

784 532

Postgraduate degrees obtained by staff

Improvement of Qualification Programme (IQP)

400 000

Doctor of Commerce in Internal Auditing CPUT Enow S ‘The market liquidity of designated 2B equity securities under the Basel Accord: Empirical evidence from South African commercial banks’

National Research Foundation (NRF)

363 333

Research Exchange Programme (REP)

59 785

TOTAL

1 823 772

*Excluding Postdoctoral Funding and Postgraduate Bursaries

PhD in Exercise Science UCT Ramnath U ‘Physical activity, physical fitness, functional capacity and cognitive performance in older adults: Effects of interactive video gaming’

RESEARCH OUTPUT 2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO DHET MAY 2023)

PhD in Sport and Exercise Science UWC Venter T ‘A context-specific physical education programme for senior-phase primary and high schools in resource-poor communities in the Western Cape’ MTech in Tourism and Hospitality Management CPUT Magangqaza W ‘Critical success factors for a cycling event in Cape Town: Road cyclists versus mountain bikers’

UNITS

Books & chapters in books (submitted)

0.88

Conference proceedings (submitted)

6.96

Journal articles (audited)

49.33

TOTAL

57.17

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Strengthening relations between CPUT and Portugal

Smart engagements and collaborations FBMS Dean, Prof Paul Green, hosted a delegation from TUT’s Faculty of Management Sciences, led by their Executive Dean, Dr Edgar Nesamvuni, in November. The purpose of the meeting was to establish ‘Smart’ engagements and collaboration between the universities. In the HE environment where resources have been dwindling, both deans expressed an intention to build partnerships to leverage each other’s strengths as an avenue for growth. The meeting followed an open agenda with Prof Green showcasing the FBMS, using the faculty video, followed by a presentation from Dr Nesamvuni.

In the discussions that ensued, similarities in programmes, challenges with supervision capacity, strategies to improve staff qualifications, and thirdstream income generation were shared. Both parties agreed that the meeting was beneficial, and that further collaboration would follow. The two deans agreed to pursue an MoA as the next step to formalise the engagement between the two universities.

Delegation from Porto with FBMS representatives at the Granger Bay Campus

Prof Paul Green, Dean: FBMS, welcomed a delegation from the Instituto Superior de Contabilidade e Administracao do Porto in Portugal in June. “Engagements between CPUT academics and their overseas’ counterparts provide the space for open, creative discussions, which give rise to innovative ideas that can be operationalised and lead to the realisation of CPUT’s Smart Internationalisation Strategy in the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences.” Prof Green continued, “As a faculty and university at large, we nurture collaborations of this nature as they speak to our new decade Vision 2030, which asserts that an internationalised university is characterised by the development of a multicultural ecosystem to provide an educational experience that prepares our staff and students at all levels for the global environment.”

The purpose of this collaboration is focused primarily on teaching, research and postgraduate supervision. Some staff members from the Business and Information Administration (BIA) Department travelled to Porto in 2019. An MoU was put in place to formalise the partnership, in addition to the ICM Erasmus+ funded agreement which was successfully applied for in 2018. The exchange programme was initiated in 2015 and a good working relationship with Dr Alexandra Albuquerque, head of International Relations, was established

by CPUT’s Dr Shairn Hollis-Turner. A mobility agreement was originally signed in 2019, set to expire in 2021 but extended to July 2022 due to the impact of Covid-19 and the subsequent country lockdowns that affected all travel planned for 2020 and 2021.

Prof Green, Dr Nesamvuni and delegates at Granger Bay

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BANKSETA to invest R10.3 million for IT programmes BANKSETA CEO, Mr Eubert Mashabane, announced that the Seta would invest R10.3 million towards the WIL programme in ITrelated qualifications for 2022/3. Speaking virtually at the CERPIA SAP Skills Development Programme graduation ceremony held on the Bellville Campus, Mr Mashabane said, “This investment is to fund about 140 students from this institution. The banking sector remains a pillar of our economic growth, but we are convinced that we could achieve additional growth if we produced more graduates such as the ones graduating today. We remain committed to producing a pipeline of young people who contribute to our economic sector.” He said when BANKSETA partnered with

CPUT, one of the long-term objectives was to address the high unemployment rate challenge facing the country. The second objective was to create an environment where education is a partnership of mutual commitment “where we both pursue wisdom, we pursue knowledge, we pursue understanding that the development of expertise and skills are of paramount importance as well as to embrace appropriate values and values among our youth”.

Addressing the guests, VC Prof Chris Nhlapo said, “Today we celebrate your achievements, marking the successful completion

of your SAP course. In this graduation we celebrate the 70 students who completed the course. SAP is one of the world’s leading software developers for business process management (automation – audit findings). It offers a comprehensive portfolio of leading cloud-based ERP [Enterprise resource planning] solutions and tools to meet the needs of businesses.” Prof Nhlapo said SAP skills are in demand in South Africa and globally – ‘Glocalised vs Globalised’. “It has been proven that the addition of SAP courses enhances your competitive advantage and enables you to stand out in a crowd,” he continued. “Thank you to BANKSETA and long live our relationship which started way back in 2013, funding WIL. Certainly, without BANKSETA’s millions of rands, we wouldn’t be here today celebrating your accomplishments.”

Mr Mashabane said, “Congratulations to the BANKSETA graduates who made this day a very memorable one for all of us and through whose commitment the BANKSETA and CPUT partnership has resulted in such an achievement bearing such impressive results.

It’s indeed a great pleasure to join you in this graduation ceremony at which we acknowledge and celebrate you as our VIPs today.

Apart from the joy emanating from this graduation ceremony, we indeed have to emphasise that you are acknowledged as the future drivers of the South African economy, and we recognise you as the leaders of the future.”

CERPIA SAP Skills Development Programme graduation ceremony

Dr Diane Bell from FBMS said, “I would like to thank Mr Eubert Mashabane and the BANKSETA for the sponsorship of the CERPIA SAP Skills Development Programme, without whom none of this would have been possible. We are appreciative of your support and partnering with us to develop the skill sets of our students, which are demanded by the 4IR and future knowledge revolutions.”

Student Mr Dewrin Cookson said, “On behalf of the students, I would like to take this moment to thank CPUT, BANKSETA and last but not least, the Advancement Department, for providing us with such an amazing opportunity. Not only the funding but the skills development programmes as well to help us advance our career aspirations.”

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W&RSETA bursaries universities in Germany, France and Sweden.

Ms Louw said, “I am really grateful to W&RSETA for selecting me. The bursary has helped me financially. I was under a lot of pressure because my single mother is unemployed and could not afford to pay my fees.”

“We congratulate the recipients and sincerely hope that the bursaries will go a long way in assisting them to complete the 2022 academic year without any financial challenges, thus enabling them to concentrate on their studies,” said Prof Mugobo. The WRLC has also fully financed two students and one staff member who will be visiting Duale Hochschule BadenWürttemberg (DHBW), Ravensburg as part of the international exchange programme. The students will be in Germany for about three months whilst the staff member will spend two weeks there.

The students are Ms Moemtaaz Manuel and Mr Aviwe Tapuko, both third-year Retail Business Management students. The lecturer is Mr Eric van Zyl.

Much-needed funding welcomed for FBMS students

The Wholesale and Retail Leadership Chair (WRLC) has awarded bursaries to six Retail Business Management students and one Business Administration student to cover their educational and living expenses. The bursaries were awarded to academically gifted students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.

The recipients were Mr Sbabatso Emihle Sofute (first year), Mr Likhona Lukholo Mtiya (second year), Ms Caylin Amber Louw (fourth year), Ms Ziyanda Qwase (fifth year), Mr Innocent Tumelo Ntuli (Master of Retail Business Management), Ms Anushka Benjamin (Master of Retail Business Management) and Mr Bongani Bango (Master

of Technology: Business Administration). The undergraduate students each received R50 000, while the master’s level students each received R150 000, paid into their student accounts.

HOD: Retail Business Management, Prof Virimai Mugobo, explained that the awarding of bursaries to deserving students was one of the deliverables in the partnership agreement between the W&RSETA and CPUT. Prof Mugobo said that one of the key deliverables was to establish international partnerships globally with universities that offer wholesale and retail-related qualifications.

Currently, the WRLC has partnerships with

Prof Mugobo added, “The purpose of the international exchange programme is to expose our students to international wholesale and retail trends. The programme affords them the opportunity to observe and learn how wholesale and retail businesses operate in the country they will be visiting. Upon their return, they will share their experience and knowledge with fellow students and staff in the department. We wish them well during their stay in Germany, and hope that they will be take the opportunity to learn not only about how wholesaling and retailing are conducted but also about the German culture.”

Ms Andiswa Vili of FBMS

Bright CPUT student receives national prize A hardworking Human Resources Management (HRM) student won first prize in the Marius Meyer SABPP Excellence Awards in November. Third-year student Ms Andiswa Vili outshone many other students from higher education institutions around the country to receive the award. An excited Ms Vili said lecturers had to nominate top-performing students for the award. “We were instructed to propose in a fiveminute pre-recorded presentation how an African HR practitioner could upskill oneself on self-management and working with people in any one of the SABPP standards,” she said.

During her studies, she has achieved distinctions in well over 70% of her modules and was selected as one of the recipients of the EJ Lombardi Trust Bursary and the Western Cape Local Government

67

SETA Bursary. Ms Vili also managed to secure an internship with Deutsche Telekom’s T-Systems International (a Fortune 500 Multinational IT company) where she was offered a permanent position as a Junior HR Business Partner at the end of the programme.

The SABPP, through the National HRM Student Excellence Awards, rewards exceling students in HR and related fields.

This serves as recognition of their outstanding performance at accredited universities in South Africa; and recognition of outstanding performance by SABPP registered student members. Head of the Human Resource Department, Dr Liiza Gie, said the purpose of the awards is to encourage and empower top-performing, deserving students to keep the profession’s flag flying high. The awarding of the prizes was administered by the SA Human Resource Universities Forum (SAHRUF). The 2022 theme for the SAHRUF is ‘Managing talent in an African hybrid world of work’.

Ms Vili said her first reaction after hearing that she had won was “to scream with my inner voice”. She added, “I was extremely happy because the topic was one very close to my heart and my presentation touched on a lot of intricacies regarding the role to be played by the HR field in the advancement of technology and 4IR as we move more towards working online/virtually. I felt reassured, and my thoughts and ideas were validated after winning first prize.” The young HR entrepreneur said it was also an honour to be invited to the SABPP 40th Anniversary Celebration and Awards Ceremony, where the award was presented to her.

Ms Vili thanked her lecturers and family for their support. “I have nothing but love and gratitude for all my lecturers, especially Mr Sihlangene Mgudlwa – he saw something in me that many had not seen or had ignored, a passion for the field of HR and a pursuit of excellence that I had forgotten I had in me. I would not have been able to achieve half the milestones I achieved this year, without my family. I am truly grateful to everyone who has supported me in everything I’ve pursued in my journey.”

Re-imagining the past to shape the future As the country celebrated Heritage month, FBMS’s Business & Information Administration Department collaborated with the District Six Museum (D6M).

Second-year Diversity Management students and international exchange students took part in workshops, re-imagining and exploring the past, at the Homecoming Centre in Cape Town. Ms Mandie Richards, senior lecturer and subject co-ordinator, said that the workshop focused on forced removals in District Six, but the Group Areas Act of April 1950 was responsible for the separation and segregation of people into residential areas based on their race throughout South Africa. Ms Mandy Sanger, Education Manager at D6M, engaged students in active conversations about colonialism, white privilege, culture, identity, language, restitution and human dignity. Students enacted scenarios at the Avalon Theatre, previously the Fugard Theatre.

Potential future stars were born, as the student audience applauded dramatic performances highlighting suffering experienced by South Africans.

As the past influences the present and often shapes the future, District Six ex-residents accompanied students on guided tours and shared their stories. Ms Jasmina Salie, an exresident and author, shared the pain she and her family endured when they were forcibly removed from District Six to Hanover Park, where she still resides. Second-year student Ms Zena Julie shared the story of her grandmother’s forced removal from Newlands to Mitchells Plain. Ms Julie added that the workshop provided her with a greater understanding of the past and the impact of apartheid.

Ms Richards was joined at the workshops by Mr Fidelis Chu, lecturer on the Wellington Campus, who shared his insights on the importance of history and how it shapes students’ understanding of the present. Students engaged in further conversation over lunch, which was held on the rooftop garden overlooking the City Hall and Table Mountain. Ms Richards added that to enhance the understanding of students, the conversations at the workshops were integrated into the Diversity Management curriculum. Students had to identify a challenge in their community and explore ways they could make a difference by sharing their knowledge and skills or creating awareness, thereby empowering communities.

“The workshop concluded with teams presenting

Young global citizens and agents of change

their project plans, which included homework clubs in communities, volunteering their services as tutors, neighbourhood watch to ensure the safety of the community, to creating awareness about gangsterism, teenage pregnancy and gender-based violence, and feedback was provided to each team,” said Ms Richards. She further advised that the future of the country was in the hands of the youth, which requires them to be part of the narrative, and that their voices and contributions are valued. The challenges raised by the teams and solutions for how they would address them in their communities provided her with hope that “this cohort of students will be global citizens and agents of change”.

Faculty of Business & Management Sciences

68

Faculty of Education Successes despite trying times In 2022, the Faculty of Education was successful in many research activities despite the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, which have negatively impacted research production since 2020. The researchers in the faculty have shown resilience and continued to work on projects that respond to the needs of South African society during the post Covid-19 era. As a result, some articles published have been about the effect of the pandemic on education. Examples of such publications include a) Evidence and education policy-making in South Africa during Covid-19: Promises, researchers and policymakers in an age of unpredictability, in Southern African Review of Education: A Journal of Comparative Education; b) Towards cultivating a critical pedagogy of space: A response to teaching practices in Higher Education amidst Covid-19, in Re-thinking the Humanities Curriculum in the Time of Covid-19; and c) Teacher Resilience During Covid-19: Comparing teachers’ shift to online learning in South Africa and the United States, in TechTrends.

DEAN’S REPORT Prof Andile Mji

69 Please note that more information about this faculty’s 2022 research activities can be found in the Focus Areas section of this Research Report

5

Focus Area 5 Human, Health & Social Dynamics Research Chair: Centre of International Teacher Education (CITE) (NRF SARChI Chair)

Collaborative research projects The faculty is involved in several collaborative research projects with national and international funding. In 2022, partnerships existed with Belgium, Sweden, Finland, the USA and the UAE. The faculty has research projects focusing on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, vocational and adult education, communities of practice within service-learning, work-integrated learning, language and literacy, leadership and gender awareness, culturalhistorical complexities in education community engagement, curriculum, teaching and learning issues, the impact of Covid-19 on teaching and learning, as well as technological and e-learning methodologies in education. Staff are also involved in research funded by the provincial and national Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the Department of Higher Education & Training (DHET), and with other local universities with funding from CPUT, the DHET and the NRF.

188

In 2022, a number of researchers in the faculty were awarded funding for various projects: • Prof Zayd Waghid was awarded R300 000 NRF Young researchers funding for ‘Examining remote teaching and learning in universities in response to a higher education crisis’ • Prof Janet Condy was awarded R230 000 NRF–CPRR funding for ‘Reading for meaning’ • Dr Naseema Shaik was awarded R119 500 Thuthuka funding for ‘Strengthening a transformative pedagogy through developing a children’s participatory rights framework in early childhood care and education’ • Prof Chigona was awarded R1.2 million by the NRF for ‘Equipping pre-service teacher with digital pedagogies for the most marginalised 21st century learner’ Prof Chigona’s project will contribute to closing a gap she identified in her previous research. This showed that pre-service teachers are not adequately prepared to teach with and through mobile technologies available to learners in rural and less affluent communities. Effective digital pedagogies would enable teaching and learning to continue even when school-based, face-to-face curriculum delivery may not be possible due to lockdowns.

Pro

fA

nd

ile

Mj

i

Faculty of Education

70 NRF ratings

International visits

The number of NRF-rated researchers in the faculty continues to grow. During 2022, we had both established and young researchers as follows:

During April, a group of eight academic visitors from the University of Ghent in Belgium was hosted by Prof Candice Livingston and Prof Hanlie Dippenaar at the Wellington Campus. In September 2022, these two professors visited the University of Ghent to conclude the Flemish Interuniversity Council/CPUT Teams project ‘Teaching the teachers of the future: Language and literacy at CPUT’. During the same month, Dr Naseem Shaik also went on an exchange visit to Sweden to visit the University of Gothenburg to establish research collaboration and partnership in Early Childhood projects.

Prof A Chigona

C1

Prof JL Condy

C2

Prof C Livingston

C3

Prof ZC Sosibo

C3

Prof PH Boer

Y2

Prof Z Waghid

Y2

In August, we hosted a professor from Old Dominion University, USA. While visiting our faculty, Prof Helen Crompton facilitated seminars and workshops for academic staff and postgraduate students. The visit was in line with the faculty’s internationalisation focus. In this regard, our objective is for the faculty’s staff to work collaboratively with international researchers. Prof Crompton is an international collaborator on Prof Agnes Chigona’s 21st Century NRF-funded projects.

SARChI Research Chair Adjunct professors During 2022, the Faculty of Education hosted two adjunct professors who co-supervised doctoral and master’s students, mentored and co-authored articles with staff, presented research and writing workshops, and facilitated local and international research collaboration and exchange. One of these highly regarded academics, Prof Janet Condy, and her postdoctoral fellow were the leaders of the highly praised RTI-DRD’s Sisonke Supervision Mentorship Programme, which benefited all faculties at CPUT. Our faculty had 16 mentees participate in this programme.

The faculty hosted a Tier 1 SARChI Research Chair during 2022. The SARChI research unit, the Centre for Initial Teacher Education (CITE), is funded by the NRF. Centre for Initial Teacher Education (CITE) (NRF SARChI Chair) The impact of the work of this chair lies in not only enlarging the discipline’s body of knowledge of education theory and practice but also in drawing together students and researchers in the discipline. These participants work in collaboration with stakeholders across the education landscape, nationally and internationally, including national and provincial education departments, unions, universities, NGOs, the South African Council for Educators, as well as schools and teachers.

In 2022, the centre also hosted a visiting professor, Prof Amy Stambach, from the University of Wisconsin, in Madison USA. For 2022/2023, we also have an A-rated professor, Prof Crain Soudien, working closely with the centre on various research projects. Furthermore, CITE remains committed to supervising and building the capacity of their enrolled students. Monthly seminars remain key to building their capacity and development. Students have also been involved in various research projects, presentations and discussions at seminars and conferences during

71 2022. In addition to this, the centre and chair have worked closely with the British Council and their consultants in the development and implementation of the Teaching for All Programme material and course work. The course is now available on the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) website for all teachers at no cost and includes accredited CPD points. By the end of 2022, the WCED has already enrolled 1 325 participants in the Teaching for All Programme. Of the 548 teachers who have so far accessed the course, 230 participants have completed Unit 1 and are now enrolled in Unit 2; 104 participants have completed Unit 2 and are now enrolled in Unit 3; 74 participants have completed Unit 3 and are now enrolled in Unit 4; and 48 have completed all four units.

It is also worth mentioning that the CITE team collaborated with the DHET, the DBE, and other stakeholders, in a Round Table Discussion and the Global Education Summit 2021–2022. The key role of the chair was to provide insights into policy contexts, inputs, processes, and outputs of initial teacher education programmes in South Africa. In addition, the centre and the chair were part of the strategic plan for teachers in 2022. Three postdoctoral research fellows were also involved and contributed to research on initial teacher education in South Africa.

The centre and chair also remain in collaboration with six stakeholders to ensure project outputs, namely, the DBE, the WCED, the University of Johannesburg, CPUT, the University of Sussex and UWC.

Student graduations Twelve students graduated from the faculty’s master’s and doctoral programmes this year. Eleven of these students were awarded their master’s degrees and one was awarded a doctoral qualification. Nine more master’s and six doctoral students completed their theses by December 2022, and will be awarded their degrees at the Autumn Graduation next year. The Faculty of Education is proud to have graduated this number of doctoral candidates in one academic year.

New Dean for Faculty of Education The new Dean of the Faculty of Education, Prof Andile Mji, believes that teaching and learning with technology and empowering the next generation of educators in South Africa will be the faculty’s contribution towards accomplishing CPUT’s vision. “I see CPUT as one of the great UoTs in the country,” said Prof Mji. “The vision of being Africa’s leading Smart UoT, globally renowned for innovation, with graduates that shape a better world for humanity, attracted me to the university.”

Prof Mji has spent several years in HE, having worked at the University of Transkei (now WSU), Unisa and TUT. He added that everyone at CPUT had been very welcoming. “In fact, a number of Prof Andile Mji appreciates his warm welcome into the “CPUT family” colleagues from different environments within the university have wished me well,” he continued. “What I noticed in all their well wishes and welcoming statements is that they have said welcome to the CPUT family. So, my first impression is being acknowledged as a member of the family.” He believes that his experience in HE means that he is familiar with and thoroughly knows the South African HE landscape.

Prof Mji served as a Mathematics Education professor with extensive publications and supervision in the area.

He worked at management level as Assistant Dean for 16 years or so at TUT. Prof Mji joined TUT in 2005 as a Professor from Unisa, where his last designation was Associate Professor. “At TUT I worked as an Assistant Dean for all the years I was there. In addition, l hold an MBA from Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences in Finland… My contribution will be focused on leadership aimed at taking the Faculty of Education, and the university, to greater heights, by making sure that we excel in our core business of teaching and learning, research as well as community service.”

Faculty of Education

72 A note of thanks

Postgraduate degrees obtained by staff

The faculty wishes to acknowledge and express its appreciation to the following CPUT units for supporting its continued growth: • DVC: Research, Technology Innovation & Partnerships • Directorate Research Development • Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships • Technology Transfer & Industrial Linkages

Doctor of Education CPUT Kriel C ‘Guidelines for the development of a policy framework for ethics in teaching practice’

Master of Education CPUT Van Wyk DM ‘Pre-service teachers’ preparedness for Fourth Industrial Revolution teaching and learning’

PhD in Information Systems Unisa Moyo M ‘Towards a cloud business intelligence security evaluation framework for small and medium enterprises’

Master of Education Graduated 2021 but omitted from Research Report 2021 CPUT Lentz GS ‘Blended learning as an academic writing intervention programme for first year students’ academic writing’

FUNDING SOURCE

RESEARCH OUTPUT AMOUNT

Consolidated Research Fund (CRF)

93 000

DHET Publications Subsidy 2020

587 256

Improvement of Qualification Programme (IQP)

793 000

National Research Foundation (NRF)

1 233 850

Research and Innovation Fund for Teaching & Learning (RIFTAL)

18 769

University of Johannesburg (UJ)

104 347

TOTAL *Excluding Postdoctoral Funding and Postgraduate Bursaries

2 830 222

2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO DHET MAY 2023)

UNITS

Books & chapters in books (submitted)

8.39

Journal articles (audited)

21.08

TOTAL

29.47

73

New book on community engagement research An academic in the Faculty of Education, Prof Hanlie Dippenaar, is co-editor of a book launched in July.

Community Engagement Research in South Africa – Methods, Theories, Histories and Practice is published

by Van Schaik. It emphasises the importance of community engagement in HE. Ms Jacqui Scheepers, Manager: SLCE Units, is one of the authors. Another CPUT lecturer, Dr Rolene Liebenberg, a very experienced community engagement pioneer in the institution, is the author of one of the chapters titled ‘The transformative pedagogical potential of preservice teacher professional learning communities embedded in a mathematics service-learning course’. “It showcases the value of partnering with communities, including community engagement and service-learning initiatives in the curriculum. It foregrounds students and academics as change agents in HE,” said Prof Dippenaar.

Prof Dippenaar also authored a chapter in the book Collaboration Embedded in Service-Learning through the Lenses of a Network of Activity Systems and a Change Laboratory. She has been involved in community engagement and service-learning since 2004, starting out as a lecturer at UP. “When I joined CPUT in 2012, I continued this journey under the leadership of Ms Jacqui Scheepers. Prof Irma Eloff, Dean of UP’s Faculty of Education at the time, is one of the editors of the book, and invited me onto the project.” Prof Dippenaar said said the project was a lengthy one which took several years to complete, especially when the Covid-19

pandemic slowed things down. “The authors who participated, however, are all experts in their fields and it was a privilege to work with them.”

“Prof Elize van Eeden (editor) and Prof Irma Eloff are both experienced academics, and I learned much from their leadership and guidance. We were all very passionate about the project as community engagement is an essential part of HE and enhances the professional development of our students and lecturers,” Prof Dippenaar said. She added that working with colleagues collaboratively in community projects is very rewarding as it develops critical thinking, problem-solving and social responsibility. “When we partner with our communities and learn from their skills and expertise, we prepare our students for a better society.” The cross-disciplinary engagement with community partnership has the potential to provide a holistic view of education for students.

Several chapters in this publication showcase examples of collaborative research.

At the book launch held at NWU, Ms Beatrix Bouwman, former chairperson of the South African Higher Education Community Engagement Forum (SAHECEF), said universities can contribute to community development by applying the basic principles of community engagement such as engaged research that is relevant and addresses community needs, and by engaged teaching and learning such as service-learning.

“I am confident that the scholarly contributions that the book brings will impact this field of studies and those who are serious about its development in South Africa, Africa and beyond,” said Ms Bouwman.

Ms Scheepers said her units strive to support the scholarship of engagement, which benefits students, staff and external university partners. “As one of the authors, I want to express my gratitude for being able to contribute to this book and am proud that one of our own, Prof Hanlie Dippenaar, is one of the editors. We will continue to celebrate the engaged research achievements of CPUT as we grow our research footprint for SL and CE.” Prof Dippenaar said all their community engagement initiatives at CPUT are guided by Ms Scheepers and the Centre for Community Engagement and Work Integrated Learning. “They support us in all our projects, which was difficult during Covid. However, when we read the reflections and final reports by our students, we see the difference it made in their lives and how much they learned. The chapter I wrote in the book reflects some of our projects and was written in collaboration with Prof Marianne Teras from Stockholm University and Prof Eloff from UP.” Prof Dippenaar continued by saying the project had been most rewarding and will contribute to the scholarship of service-learning and community engagement in HE. She added, “I would like to thank all the authors for sharing their research and my co-editors for the privilege of working with them. I would also like to thank my dean and colleagues from the Faculty of Education for the opportunities to implement CE in our curriculum and look forward to taking this further in our new projects with colleagues and communities in and around CPUT, as well as collaborating with partners overseas on a new project in India.”

Prof Elize van Eeden (NWU), Prof Hanlie Dippenaar, Ms Jacqui Searle and Prof Irma Eloff (UP)

74

Lecturer shares his proud legacy Being his first experience as a novice researcher presenting at a national conference, Mr Clive Brown is proud to have delivered three papers at the South African Education Research Association (SAERA) 9th Annual Conference, in November. The SAERA event, themed ‘Education in transition: Challenges and opportunities’, was hosted by UWC’s Faculty of Education at the Two Oceans Aquarium Conference Centre at the V&A Waterfront.

Mr Brown, CPUT’s Faculty of Education Intermediate Phase Teaching Practice Co-ordinator, is currently completing a Doctorate in Philosophy at UKZN. He submitted three abstracts to the SAERA Local Organising Committee and had all three papers accepted. The titles of his papers, which are related to his ongoing PhD studies, are: ‘Enhancing teacher education quality: Comparative student reflections on well-being’ (with Prof Hanlie Dippenaar, Deputy Dean of Education); ‘Knowing complexly: Methodological transitions to arts-based representations of educational research’ (with Prof Michael Anthony Samuel, UKZN); and ‘Re-imagining the teaching practicum in the new post-Covid era: Developing partnerships in teacher education’ (with Dr Marinda Swart, Stadio and Prof Michael Anthony Samuel, UKZN).

Mr Clive Brown delivered three papers at SAERA

The first paper explored the context of CPUT through a comparative perspective of two campuses, namely, Wellington and Mowbray. The second paper was part of an international panel looking at arts-based methodologies as an alternative form of representation. It involved panellists from the Mauritius Institute of Education, UKZN, CPUT and a respondent from NMU. The third paper presented a proposal for a national teaching practicum framework.

Mr Brown said this framework recommended a co-ordinated national response involving many stakeholders, such as the DBE, HEIs, schools and the South African Council for Educators. The proposal included teaching practicum and induction considerations for newly-qualifying and newly-qualified teachers. He said the papers were well-received and that comments on the presentations provided insight into how daily challenges within a local Faculty of Education reverberate with similar needs across other research contexts, suggesting the need for dialogue and collaboration.

Mr Brown said he was honoured to have co-presented with Prof Michael Anthony Samuel, who, at the Gala dinner, was awarded the SAERA Recognition Award for distinctive contribution towards educational research development, adding, “This award sets benchmarks for the kind of researcher we should all become”. “This conference was my first experience as a novice researcher presenting at a national conference. It was enriching to share my ideas with leading scholars, who generously offered critique and redirection for my studies. I encourage other novice researchers to participate in special activities organised by SAERA to support our development as early career researchers,” Mr Brown observed. He was particularly struck by how senior research leaders, such as Prof Shireen Motala (SARChi Chair: Teaching in Learning in HE), Prof Linda Chisolm (Director for Centre for Education Rights & Transformation), Prof Maureen Robinson (SAERA President), Prof Lee Rusznyak (architect of the Teachers Choices in Action Model), Prof Labby Ramrathan (SAERA former president) and Prof Nyna Amin (UKZN Academic Leader: Research), contribute willingly to supporting the next generation of younger academics. “I look forward to my next conferences to continue the networks I have established with various institutions locally and abroad,” Mr Brown added.

Education lecturer, Dr Zayd Waghid

Research outputs propel academic to become a professor Dr Zayd Waghid, a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Education, was promoted to the position of Associate Professor in October, becoming the youngest academic to bear the title in his faculty. Dr Waghid began his career in HE as a lecturer in 2015, transitioning from a schoolteacher. “My 6.5 years of teaching experience helped prepare me for my current position,” he observed. “My promotion to Associate Professor in under seven years is a major turning point in my academic career.

However, I don’t think anybody should be too relaxed about things… Thanks to the flexibility of my current position and support from my HOD, I’ve been able to significantly improve my research output, with seven publications in 2022 alone.”

75

Despite the widespread protests that produced a lot of anxiety this year, Dr Waghid concentrated on his teaching while still focusing on research. “After my first year of academia, I had a conversation with a professor, and when asked how many research outputs I had produced, I said that I had submitted two papers to local journals,” recalled Dr Waghid. “After that discussion, I realised then that, although teaching has traditionally been the university’s primary purpose, I wanted to find more efficient methods to boost my research output.”

He added that as he began to write more journal articles, book chapters, produced his first co-authored book in 2016, and he crafted a curriculum that would include a service-learning project. “This I believe was necessary in laying the foundation for me to focus on all three spheres in HE, i.e., teaching, learning, research and innovation, and community engagement.”

After receiving recognition for his research productivity and teaching excellence at the university level, he was promoted to the position of senior lecturer in 2018. “But I’ve always had this sense that I should not feel complacent,” he said. “I collaborated on writing projects with people from various universities, both in South Africa and abroad, and submitted applications for several NRF projects.” In his latest entry into Conversation Africa, an independent source of news and views from the academic and research community, he further discusses research on his teaching. https://theconversation.com/decolonisingeducation-in-south-africa-a-reflection-on-a-learning-teachingapproach-192190 Dr Waghid’s advice to young academics just starting in HE is, “Create a team of researchers to collaborate on journal publications and put in time writing both group articles and single-authored papers… Use your time wisely by focusing only on your research. Create an annual research plan and discuss it with your department head for approval. CPUT has a plethora of opportunities so use these wisely. Be selective about your research without overextending yourself. Do what makes you happy and the rest will follow.”

State-of-the-art elastic gym In November, the Faculty of Education celebrated the opening of a state-of-theart Elastic Resistance Training Facility – a project which aims to boost physical education teaching. The facility is on the Mowbray Campus. Speakers at the event included Mr Charl du Toit, who won two gold medals at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, and Mr Sandro di Girolamo, President of the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA). Attendees were treated to a demonstration of the elastic system.

do extensive research on the value of elastic resistance on children in partnership with IBSA. Mr Du Toit congratulated everyone involved in the project. “This is the foundation for great memories and actually changes lives without realising it. So, well done and I’m very excited to see what the impact of this gym, this facility and this family is going to

The gym is the brainchild of the faculty’s Dr George Joubert. “One of my PhD recommendations referred to the implementation of physical education systems that could address the specific physical needs of primary school learners but also had the ability to be used in relatively small spaces with a maximum number of learners that could train together over a short period of time. As a lecturer, I am constantly looking at innovative ideas and concepts for my students that would have a profound, positive impact on their journey as young teaching practitioners,” said Dr Joubert.

The gym is funded by a sponsorship agreement with Ultimate Resistance Training (URT) systems. Its main objectives are to: develop a physical education teacher base that is well-trained in the elastic system; create a specific teaching method and curricula for the system; and

New gym at the Mowbray Campus

be over the next couple of years,” he said.

Mr Di Girolamo said he was very happy to be at CPUT and emphasised the important role universities played in terms of research on sport. The main role-players of the initiative are CPUT’s Department of Education and its Sport Management Department, IBSA, the Forward Foundation, Winelands Para Sport and the South African Sports Association for the Physically Disabled.

Faculty of Business & Management Sciences

76

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment DEAN’S REPORT Prof Suresh Ramsuroop

77 Please note that more information about this faculty’s 2022 research activities can be found in the Focus Areas section of this Research Report

2

Focus Area 2

3

Space Science & Technology Research Institute: French–South African Institute of Technology

151 153

Research Group: Quantum Physics Research Group

154

Energy Research Institute: Energy Institute

150

Research Centres: Africa Space Innovation Centre Centre for Instrumentation Research

Focus Area 3

Research Centres: Centre for Distributed Power & Electronic Systems Centre for Real-Time Distributed Systems Centre for Research in Power Systems Centre for Substation Automation & Energy Management Systems

157

159 164 162 167

Pro

fS

4

Focus Area 4

5

The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability Research Centre: Flow Process & Rheology Centre

179

Research Groups: Bioresource Engineering Research Group (BioERG) 139 Nanomaterials Research Group 181 [Note: This research group is also involved with projects in FA 5]

Focus Area 5

ure

sh

Ra

ms

Human, Health & Social Dynamics Technology Station: Clothing & Textiles Technology Station 202 [Note: This technology station is also involved with projects in FAs 4 & 6]

6

uro

op

Focus Area 6 The Digital Society Research Centre: Product Lifecycle Management Competency Centre 212

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment

78 A year of unprecedented successes

A deepening focus on internationalisation

The Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment (FEBE) had a year of unprecedented success stories in 2022. We started the year with the launch of our MDASat (Marine Domain Awareness) constellation of satellites in January. The satellites were launched

by SpaceX, a company founded by South African born entrepreneur Elon Musk. The MDA constellation carried an upgraded AIS receiver payload from ZACube-2, which is capable of: over-the-air upgrades; enhancing diagnostic testing on signal interference; and a more effective messaging scheme.

The South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre (SARETEC) became instrumental in the Just Energy Transition Strategy, by partnering with Eskom to develop renewable energy artisan skills in South Africa. SARETEC will support Eskom over the next three years to repurpose the Komati Power Station into a similar training centre to re- and upskill the current staff of the power station and qualifying community members in the Mpumalanga area. The project is supported by the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) and promises ‘to develop a blueprint for truly just, job creating energy transition’ to echo the words of its Executive Director. SARETEC will receive up to R170 million to complete this task.

Two staff members improved their NRF ratings from C3 to C2, and one staff member received her Y2 rating, bringing the current number of NRF-rated researchers in the faculty to ten.

The faculty graduated 50 master’s and 9 doctoral

FEBE is deepening its focus on internationalisation.

The faculty hosted its first International Day in October this year. The event took place at SARETEC, and its purpose was to learn how to overcome language and cultural barriers. We invited a guest speaker from UWC’s Centre for Humanities Research, Dr Rosette Sifa Vuninga, who shared how she has overcome such barriers. Prof Mellet Moll, who read from his own poetry journal, also did a presentation on literature, poetry and science.

students at the April and December 2022 graduation ceremonies. Dr Sipokazi Mabuwa and Dr Nomzamo Tshemese-Mvandaba, two female staff members, received their doctoral qualifications in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering respectively.

This shows FEBE’s dedication to gender equality and to the creation of an environment that can attract females in these generally underrepresented engineering disciplines. In accordance with CPUT’s Vision 2030 goals, we have developed the terms of reference for a FEBE meritorious bursary to attract black women and students with disabilities into these disciplines.

Several different regions were represented by staff and students. Each region was required to: • Decorate their table to display cultural aspects • Dress in cultural attire • Do a presentation on overcoming a language and/ or cultural barrier • Prepare a poster on sustainable mining in their region (what is mined, in what technology it is used, and the current recycling efforts) – in the most spoken language for their region and English • Perform a traditional dance or poem or song

79 We also hosted five international students conducting course work or working on a research project. Furthermore, four of our students participated in the Engineering Design for Social Change Connections between CPUT and the University of Pittsburgh’s Swanson School of Engineering during May. A team from Pittsburgh arrived at CPUT, and Prof Kumar Pallav gave a lecture on ‘Building material for heritage sites’.

Innovation and commercialisation The faculty hosted its first Innovation and Commercialisation Indaba in December this year. The aim was to craft a plan for addressing challenges such as clean green energy and the hydrogen economy as well as support the National Faecal Sludge Management Strategy

RESEARCH PUBLICATION Gold

Silver

Bronze

Dr Velaphi Msomi (Department of Mechanical & Mechatronic Engineering)

for Onsite Sanitation Systems (2022/2023) through innovative solutions.

Furthermore, of the five invention disclosures filed for the year, one was found actionable, and a patent application was filed in December.

Staff development

Conferences hosted

Staff qualifications

During 2022, FEBE successfully hosted three conferences: • 8th International Conference on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology in Africa (NanoAfrica 2022), at the Lord Charles Hotel in Somerset-West in October, with Prof Veruscha Fester as Chairperson of the Organising Committee • Energy and Human Habitat Conference (EHH), hosted by the Energy Institute and Prof Mohamed T Khan at the Castle of Good Hope in Cape Town in November

Two staff members obtained their doctoral qualifications this year.

POSTGRADUATE SUPERVISION Silver

Dr Siphokazi Mabuwa (Department of Mechanical & Mechatronic Engineering) Dr Vipin Balyan (Department of Electrical, Electronic & Computer Engineering)

• International Conference on Applied Research and Engineering (ICARAE 2022), hosted online by the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Dr Velaphi Msomi in November

Prof Mohamed T Kahn (Research Chair: Energy; Department of Electrical, Electronic & Computer Engineering)

EXTERNAL FUNDING Silver

Prof Tunde V Ojumu (Department of Chemical Engineering)

NRF ratings During 2022, three faculty staff submitted NRF rating applications.

Prof Tunde Ojumu and Prof Veruscha Fester improved their ratings from C3 to C2. Dr Sweta Patnaik obtained her Y2 rating.

FEBE academics with NRF ratings during 2022: Prof VG Fester

C2

Prof OO Oyekola

C2

Prof A Patnaik

C2

Prof K Aboalez

C3

Prof B Ncube

C3

Prof TV Ojumu

C2

Dr V Balyan

Y2

Dr MR Chowdhury

Y2

Dr V Msomi

Y2

Dr S Patnaik

Y2

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment

80 South African Young Academy of Science Chemical Engineering’s Associate Professor, Prof Mahabubur Rahman Chowdhury, was selected to serve on the South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS).

SAYAS was established in 2011 and annually inducts ten excellent researchers younger than 40 years, who have made an impact in their field. These members form part of various working groups such as policy making, science communication, etc., and serve for a period of five years.

FUNDING SOURCE

AMOUNT

ALC Corporation Pty

15 467

Conference Committee (ConfCom)

233 889

The way forward

Consolidated Research Fund (CRF)

223 009

We have made great strides towards achieving Vision 2030 in addressing the goals set out for CPUT’s Focus Areas 3 and 5. Our emphasis moving forward is to increase our engagement with industry as per the objectives set for Focus Area 6. The first step is the establishment of an Advisory Committee for RTIP for the faculty to foster strong links with quintuple helix partners.

The faculty has also set up several forums for the promotion of interdisciplinary research.

DHET Publications Subsidy 2020

862 479

DSI via WITS (part of SA Quantum Initiative Phase 2)

665 000

Group Technology – NanoAfrica Conference

88 695

Improvement of Qualification Programme (IQP)

600 000

RESEARCH OUTPUT 2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO THE DHET IN MAY 2023)

UNITS

Chapters in books (submitted)

2.55

Conference proceedings (submitted)

9.97

Journal articles (audited)

64.55

TOTAL

77.07

National Research Foundation (NRF)

2 025 866

Research Exchange Programme (REP)

120 000

Research and Innovation Fund for Teaching & Learning (RIFTAL)

50 000

Research Technology & Innovation (RTI): CPUT Prestigious Project

1 000 000

Science & Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development (SATREPS)

1 190 000

University of the Western Cape (UWC) TOTAL *Excluding Postdoctoral Funding and Postgraduate Bursaries

60 869 7 135 274

81 Postgraduate degrees obtained by staff Doctor of Engineering: Civil Engineering CPUT Wentzel L ‘A corporate social responsibility model to achieve sustainable business performance of SMEs in the South African construction industry’ Doctor of Engineering: Electrical Engineering CPUT Tshemese-Mvandaba N ‘Modelling and controller design of flotation columns’ Master of Engineering: Mechanical Engineering TUT Snyman G ‘A carbon fibre roll cage for a cruiser solar vehicle’ Master of Technology: Business Administration (Project Management) CPUT Komani C ‘Students’ perceptions towards the use of e-learning platforms at a university of technology in the Western Cape’

Eskom partners with CPUT and GEAPP Eskom, SARETEC based at CPUT, and the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) signed a partnership agreement in September for the development of the Komati Training Facility. They sought to contribute to a ‘just’ transition for the local community as the Komati Power Station becomes decommissioned. The facility will enable Eskom to reskill, retrain and upskill workers and communities. In addition to the training facility, which is part of Eskom’s Komati Repowering and Repurposing Project, Komati will be repowered with 150 MW solar, 70 MW wind and 150 MW batteries. Eskom has also established a containerised micro-grid assembly factory at Komati. The Komati Repowering and Repurposing Project is one of the largest coal-fired power plant decommissioning, repowering and repurposing projects globally and will provide a tangible case-study for the world on how to transition fossilfuel assets.

Ms Mandy Rambharos, GM of the Just Energy Transition (JET), said, “Eskom is pleased to be partnering with CPUT, SARETEC and GEAPP on this groundbreaking initiative. The training facility complements Eskom’s JET plans to ‘REignite’, in other words, not only repower and repurpose the plant but to re-train, re-skill and re-empower people to take advantage of the transition that is upon us. Mpumalanga is endowed with the best resources for JET – wind, solar, skilled people and available grid capacity, and therefore has the potential to once again become the thriving energy hub of the country.”

GEAPP will fund the training facility. These funds will be used to establish the centre and will enable SARETEC – the only fully accredited training centre for renewable energy in South Africa on Quality Council for Trades and Occupations – and Eskom to educate, reskill, and upskill Eskom Komati Power Station staff and qualifying beneficiaries from the surrounding communities in the Mpumalanga region. Upon completion, the training centre will be managed by Eskom’s Academy of Learning who will be supported by SARETEC to achieve accreditation over time, enabling Eskom to replicate this initiative in other locations.

“South Africa can be a lighthouse for emerging markets, demonstrating the way to achieve a truly just, job-creating energy transition,” said Mr Joseph Nganga, GEAPP’s Executive Director for Africa. “We are thrilled to be working together with Eskom and SARETEC on this new training facility, which will focus on the upskilling of workers, before decommissioning has even begun. This facility can

Mr Joseph Nganga, Ms Mandy Rambharos and Prof Chris Nhlapo

inform reskilling programmes at other power stations and catalyse investment in South Africa’s energy transition.” The partnership agreement presents a unique opportunity for the creation and scaling up of new industries across the renewables value chain. Taking full advantage of these opportunities will require retraining and upskilling for parts of the South African workforce. This will mitigate the risk of job losses related to the decommissioning of coal-fired power stations and create new job opportunities, particularly for unemployed young people.

The Komati Training Facility will serve as a blueprint for how these training requirements can be fulfilled. VC Prof Chris Nhlapo thanked Eskom and GEAPP for their confidence in the university and assured them that the project had found the perfect home at SARETEC. “SARETEC is very different from other energy centres around the world, and I know that we have the requisite skills to fulfil a nationally imperative project like this. We will succeed because this model must be replicated across South Africa. The pursuit of an energy mix that is cleaner and greener is the only way we will address electricity challenges in this country.

We are also grateful to be part of a solution that provides the Komati community with economic opportunities into the future. By assisting Eskom to set up and accredit its own training facility, SARETEC is fulfilling its mandate of supporting the socio-economic needs of the country, continent and world.”

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Lecturer pays tribute to VC’s Prestigious Achievers Awards

Dr Akinyede is grateful for all the support he has received

Financial constraints nearly led to Dr Imisioluseyi Julius Akinyede dropping out of the doctoral degree programme.

“Glory be to the Almighty God for opening the door of opportunity to be a recipient of the VC’s Prestigious Achievers Award twice,” he said.

Dr Akinyede was born into the Akinyede-Asamo dynasty in Ado-Ekiti in the Ekiti state of Nigeria. In 2013 he registered for an MTech in Construction Management at CPUT and graduated in 2015, and then worked as a project manager from 2015 to 2016. Dr Akinyede commenced his DEng degree in 2016. His work experience manifested in the research he conducted on affordable sustainable housing delivery and his role as a research assistant, mentor and lecturer helped him tremendously with research outcome. He always set targets for himself and focused on achievement. His mother, Ms Felicia Akinyede, a trader, made him understand that the road to success is through education and she encouraged him to achieve his target in education, morally and financially. Dr Akinyede said that the major factor that helped him to reach his present position was endurance and perseverance through God’s guidance.

The FEBE academic received the VC’s Prestigious Achievers Award in 2019 and 2020. “It helped me greatly to complete my doctorate within record time as scheduled by the university. I was a debtor to the university, and registration became difficult for me as a result of the debt I owed. On receiving this award, I was able to register in 2019 and 2020.

This award impacted my career and life significantly. I was on the verge of dropping out because of financial challenges, but the award helped me to pay the fees and accommodation expenses.” A Construction Management & Quantity Surveying lecturer, Dr Akinyede passed his master’s degree at CPUT with distinction. During the master’s degree programme, he presented and published nine DHET-accredited conference papers. His excellent work manifested in his doctoral degree programme. Dr Akinyede published an article in an international DHET-accredited journal and presented five papers at local and international conferences. His thesis focused on affordable housing delivery, based on challenges faced by communities in South Africa.

Reflecting on the support he received from CPUT staff during his studies, Dr Akinyede said, “My departmental staff are virtuous people, ready to assist at all times. The love and kindness shown to me by academic staff of the Department of Construction Management & Quantity Surveying during this study was wonderful and appreciated.” Dr Akinyede also paid tribute to the VC and the awards committee. He acknowledged the support of the VC for skill development at CPUT. “I am one of the beneficiaries. The formation of the VC’s Prestigious Achievers Award is a good initiative by the CPUT management team. My appreciation goes to the award committee for nominating me. I will forever be grateful to the VC and the awards committee for the financial value attached to the award. Furthermore, I appreciate the letter from the VC sent to me upon graduation. I am willing to continue my academic career at CPUT with reference to the content of the VC’s letter to join a group of talented academics at CPUT.”

First woman to obtain PhD in Electrical Engineering at CPUT FEBE once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting students to achieve their highest potential when it graduated its first woman with a doctoral degree in Electrical Engineering. Dr Nomzamo Tshemese-Mvandaba was one of the PhD candidates from the FEBE to obtain a doctoral degree during CPUT’s Summer Graduation in December. Her research title was ‘Modelling and controller design of a flotation column’. Dr Tshemese-Mvandaba’s doctoral study addressed the advanced controller design for a multivariable system. Advanced controllers are needed to address the intricate interactions that characterise complex industrial processes.

Dr Tshemese-Mvandaba, who was born in the small town of Tsolo in the Eastern Cape, attributes her success to her late supervisor, Prof Raynitchka Tzoneva. “I have mixed feelings, I am very excited but at the same time, I am very emotional right now. I always dreamed that Prof Tzoneva would be here to witness and celebrate with me, however, it wasn’t meant to be. We always discussed my future, and we both decided that by 35 I must have a PhD, and it really happened. I believe she is currently looking at this moment from above and congratulating me. Thank you to too to all my colleagues at DEECE.” Dr Tshemese-Mvandaba also acknowledged the role played by her cosupervisor and colleague.

“I would like to thank Dr Mkhululi Mnguni for his dedication and support throughout my work, especially during the writing-up process and when Prof Tzoneva’s health started to be a challenge. Last but not least, I thank Dr Carl Kriger for his leadership and the excellent job that he accomplishes today.”

Dr Tshemese-Mvandaba attributes her success to her late supervisor, Prof Tzoneva

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CPUT hosts marine training platform The Maritime Studies Department successfully hosted the Erasmus+ Marine Education and Training (MET) hybrid symposium at the Granger Bay Campus in July. The purpose of the event was to disseminate the project ‘The European Commission’s 2020 Erasmus+ Programme Guide’, which defines dissemination as “a planned process of providing information on results and initiatives to key actors”. CPUT’s work package was to ensure this happened.

Senior maritime instructor and manager at the Survival Centre, Mx Samantha Montes, facilitated the event.

She said the symposium was held to share the results of the work packages. Long-term project vision is the offering of unique personal and professional development, mobility and partnership opportunities for staff and students between six institutions, with the project objectives aligning maritime education and curriculum standards to enable and facilitate student and staff exchange. “Increase the pool of globally competitive and highly marketable seafarers, efficient and high-quality training geared for the 21st century (in time and economy),” said Mx Montes.

The project had three main focus areas: • Curriculum evaluation • Pedagogical processes • Facilities and resources The results of the research into the above focus areas were shared with industry stakeholders and other interested parties at the event. The seminar allowed introductions from the six universities in the Euro–ZA Capacity Building in the Field of Maritime Education: • Satakunta University of Applied Sciences (Rauma, Finland) • Solent University (Southampton, UK) • CPUT (Cape Town) • NMU (Port Elizabeth) • DUT (Durban) • Hochschule Wismar University of Applied Sciences (Warnemünde, Germany) The programme culminated with two open roundtable discussions, facilitated by Ms Colleen Jacka, managing editor of Maritime Review Africa. The topic of the first was ‘Project challenges and how they were overcome, lessons learnt and how they will be applied, and how each university benefits from the project’. The topic of the second was ‘What does industry (as potential employers) want to see from academic graduates?’ “We often throw around the concept of collaboration in the maritime sector, but three local tertiary institutions have truly embodied the concept over the last few years working with the three international maritime training institutions

All six universities were represented at the successful MET event

to put the student first and create world-class training centred around the needs of the student and industry,” said Ms Jacka.

Mx Montes, who headed up the CPUT team, acknowledged the hard work of the previous CPUT Erasmus+ team members, Prof Edward Snyders, Mr Douglas Dyers, Ms Vanisha Harry, Dr Derek Lambert and Captain Natasha Fowkes. Reflecting on the project, Mx Montes said, “The project has contributed to improving the quality of HE and enhancing its relevance for student employability.” She said the programme had contributed to the high level of competencies and skills of students through the transfer of best practices in curriculum evaluation, pedagogical processes, facilities and resources. Mx Montes added that the funding received assisted in increasing the capacities of South African partners to modernise the HE systems, to the benefit of the students, with the minimum required technology for the training of seafarers in the form of upgraded simulators and computer equipment.

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Department of Maritime Studies hosts ship simulation and maritime systems expert The Department of Maritime Studies hosted Prof Benedict Knud, a Hochschule Wismar, University of Applied Sciences (HSW) representative for the Erasmus+ Euro–ZA capacity-building project in the field of maritime education in March. Mx Samantha Montes, Department of Maritime Studies: Senior Maritime Instructor, Survival Centre, explains, “The primary goal of the Erasmus+ capacity building project in Maritime Education and Training (MET) taking place between the six participating maritime universities, is to develop systems processes to aid the development of Maritime Education and Training. The objective is to develop a clear mapping of the focus areas that each institution needs to modify in order to have a recognised curriculum amongst the six institutions.”

HSW representative, Prof Benedict Knud

Prof Knud delivered three guest lecture sessions at the Granger Bay Campus, each referring to a sample of the Euro–ZA project: • ‘Life & Study global tendencies and individual aspects for beginner students’ • ‘Life & Study global picture and the role of simulation in maritime studies and ship operation – from wooden ship models to fast time simulation systems’ • ‘The role of simulation in maritime studies and ship operation – demonstration of fast time simulation SAMMON and ARROW tool’

with special reference to: i) Ship’s dynamic for efficient manoeuvres – this is using SAMMON planning software tool; and ii) Avoiding dangerous rolling and other wave effects in heavy weather – this is using the ARROW software tool.”

Prof Knud said the specific reason for the meetings is “our partnership in the Euro–ZA project where three universities from Europe and three from South Africa (CPUT, DUT and NMU) are working together to improve maritime education and training – exchanging information about their curricula and equipment and contributing with lectures. Reflecting on his visit, Prof Knud said, “Cape Town is a beautiful city – even under Covid-19 impact – and the lectures and meetings were perfectly organised, so, it has been great.” He added, “They manage the campus and the Department of Maritime Education & Training so well, even under such difficult conditions in South Africa with less money than available in Europe. And most of all, the friendliness of the people who feel the joy of life even under complicated conditions.”

Prof Knud has a very engaging YouTube channel that is highly informative and offers case studies of maritime casualties, as well as routine ship handling. “To be able to see one of his lectures in person was most beneficial to the students for the opportunity to engage directly with him and his experience. As an experienced seafarer, I found the philosophical approach to simulation most intriguing. This is a concept I had not previously considered,” said Mx Montes. She appreciated that the two disciplines of studies in the department (Marine Engineering and Nautical Science) were exposed to the same lectures and that they understood that their actions onboard a ship could not be seen as not impacting other areas of seafaring. “For every action, there is a reaction. This also illustrates the need for effective communication and teamwork – including Engine Room Management and Bridge Team Management.” She was also impressed by the depth of knowledge and unique ideas, and how Prof Knud developed the software and the concepts.

Mx Montes said that the project consisted of six partner universities from Finland, Germany, the United Kingdom and South Africa. “The benefit to CPUT’s Department of Maritime Studies is the introduction to simulation as a research tool

In his message to the CPUT community, Prof Knud said, “I wish you all the best for the future – overcoming the drawbacks due to Covid-19 constraints, and also the respective problems in shipping that currently exist.”

Mr Simphiwe Ngubane

CPUT Student is one of Africa’s Brightest Young Minds The president of the CPUT Golden Key Chapter, Mr Simphiwe Ngubane, has been selected as one of Africa’s 100 Brightest Young Minds (BYM) 2022.

BYM is an NPC (non-profit company) that works to inspire and mobilise a generation of proactive young leaders equipped to address present and future social, economic and environmental challenges in Africa. The mission of the organisation to connect young leaders and equip them with the skills, mindset and network needed to create sustainable impact across Africa. BYM has hosted 18 summits over the last two decades and created a network of over 1 600 of the most impactful young leaders on the continent.

This year applications were received from across the continent and Mr Ngubane, a final-year Bachelor of Geomatics student, said it was

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an incredible honour to have been selected. He attended the BYM Summit in Sandton in December. Interviewed before the event, he said, “I’m looking forward to the opportunity on 2 December to interact with trailblazers and pioneers across Africa working to solve the myriad of challenges faced by the continent.” This year’s summit was co-hosted with the World Food Programme Southern Africa and the theme was ‘Connect, inspire, impact: Solutions to food systems challenges’.

Mr Ngubane said the opportunity to apply was brought to his attention via Golden Key Southern Africa. He has been the president of the CPUT Golden Key chapter since April. Golden Key International Honour Society is the world’s largest collegiate honour society for graduate and undergraduate students, and has strong relationships with over 400 universities around the world. Members qualify when they are in the top 15% of their class. They are given access to a wide range of rewards, scholarships, travel and study abroad opportunities, and more.

Mr Ngubane said he was humbled by his selection as one of the Brightest Young Minds. “The application was incredibly involved, requiring heavy introspection from the applicants from a myriad of points about what one has accomplished, what activities they are doing within society, accolades achieved and to also give insight on how an applicant addresses challenges in not only the context of the continent and world at large, and also on how individuals manage the challenges they face in their immediate environments.” He encouraged his peers not to be afraid to “put yourself out there”. “You have worth and value, put yourself forward and be confident in your inherent abilities, they can have an incredible impact.”

In the first semester of this year, Mr Ngubane received distinctions for all seven of his modules, a testament to the calibre of person Golden Key wishes to nurture. “Academic excellence is part and parcel of the message but being an all-rounded individual is as important, which is where the student chapter comes in to promote activities around personal, professional and leadership development. What I’d say to anyone part of Golden Key or looking to be invited (membership is only to the top 15%), apply to be a part of the executive committee, it’s worth all the time and effort at the end of the day and you won’t regret it.”

Ms Melani-Ann Hara, student development officer in the Division of Student Affairs, said she was immensely proud of Mr Ngubane for being recognised as one of the 100 Africa’s BYM. “He has shown great leadership and dedication as the CPUT Golden Key President, always pushing to assist and develop students to promote academic excellence, service and leadership. He indeed is a bright mind achieving excellence in his academics, and he is involved in many community outreach projects like tutoring maths at local high schools. I am confident he will continue to make great changes wherever he is, and we will continue to hear about the great work he is doing. Mr Ngubane is a true inspiration and example of our CPUT graduate attributes and values lived.”

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CPUT teams excel at WorldSkills competition The institution is thrilled with the performance of CPUT WorldSkills teams who attended the WorldSkills South Africa National Competition held in Durban in June. The five CPUT teams won a total of six medals – three gold and three silver. CPUT also received tools for CNC Milling of R70 000 from the DHET as part of upskilling the competitors and experts. The tools are now kept at CPUT’s CNC Workshop for community training.

After the national competition, numerous sponsors and SETAs showed interest in investing in CPUT as a hub and driver of higher order skills. This puts the UoT in a strong position to ‘train the trainers’ for the WorldSkills Competition (WSC). Prof Rishidaw Balkaran, DVC: Teaching & Learning, congratulated the team, saying, “Well done! To the colleagues and students at the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics, thank you for the excellent work and keeping the CPUT flag flying high.” DVC: RTIP, Dr David Phaho, said, “This is great news.

Congratulations to the faculty and the colleagues involved.”

CPUT competitors at a send-off function in May: (back) Mr Lubabalo Qali, Mr Mikhail Solomons, Mr Khuliso Kevin Tshinavhe, Mr Laeeq Jefferies, Mr Jarod De Wee; (front) Ms Londeka Sibiya, Ms Phumelele Lerato Mofokeng, Ms Naledi Ntsane, Mr Promise Sithembiso

The CNC Milling and Mobile Robotics went on to participate in the next round of WSC in Leonberg, Germany and Bordeaux, France respectively during October. The Department of Mechanical & Mechatronic Engineering hosted a send-off ceremony for the two teams at the Bellville Campus. HOD, Mr Simphiwe Nqabisa, said, “As a department we are very proud of our students, we are proud that we can send students to Europe. Go there and represent the department, institution, and your country.” Prof Suresh Ramsuroop, acting Dean of FEBE, said he was hoping for more participation in the future. “Thank you so much for the effort and sacrifice you have made to represent the country,” he said.

Mr Laeeq Jefferies, a Mechatronics Engineering final-year student, said, “The journey to get to where I am today was not easy and took a lot of discipline, commitment and hard work. Despite all the challenges, you have to keep your head up and have a positive outlook to overcome the challenges along the way.” Mr Mikhail Solomons, who will soon be graduating with his Advanced Diploma in Mechatronics, said his journey was quite challenging thus far, “having to manage the workload of completing Mechatronics while doing additional activities outside my course such as the WorldSkills Competition. I am self-motivated and that is what keeps me going.”

Prof Suresh Ramsuroop (Dean), Mr Mike Oluwaseun Ojumu (Mobile Robotics expert), Mr Mikhail Solomons (competitor) Mr Vuyani Moni (WSC Manager), Mr Laeeq Jefferies (competitor), Mr Louis Carelse (CNC Milling expert) and Mr Simphiwe Nqabisa (HOD) in October

Department of Mechanical & Mechatronic Engineering lecturer, Dr Fareed Ismail, was extremely happy to see what was happening. “When you go overseas you will realise that you are top dogs because you are streetwise. You are making us proud. I am so excited. May you do your best.”

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CPUT hosts first IASST International Seminar in South Africa The Maritime Department hosted a four-day International Association for Safety and Survival Training (IASST) meeting and seminar at the Granger Bay Campus in November. The topic was ‘The use of simulators in safety and survival training’. IASST is a highly professional organisation, which pays efforts to improve the efficiency of safety and survival training all over the world, therefore, saving the lives of seafarers. The association has vast experience with over 40 years in the field, combined with the expertise of all its members. It is an extensive network of more than 150 members in over 50 countries on all continents. Every member contributes to the development of the association and the safety of seafarers.

Mr Leon Morton from Sea Safety Training Group, said, “In terms of simulation, the last presenter with the gaming mode was something interesting but not all age groups would be able to do that as the gaming consoles take time to get used to… My favourite was the fish platform, showing how everyone locally and internationally, doesn’t consider the figures of the fishing industry. Our fishing industry needs to be included and not just be on the side as a mention.” Mr Paul Douglas from Survival Systems said, “We are from Canada, and it was nice to see that South Africa is developing a safety culture when it comes to survival at sea. And the people were extremely nice and helpful.”

The 20 delegates at the event were from: CPUT’s Department of Maritime Studies; Project Maritime Training of South Africa; Sea Safety Training Group of South Africa; Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) of Japan; National Maritime College of Ireland; Survival Systems Limited of Canada; Maritiem Instituut Willem Barentsz of the Netherlands; WoW Company International SA of Belgium; Novikontas Latvia; Centre for the Study and Practice of Survival (CEPS) of France; and FISH Platform of the Netherlands.

At the event, the IASST presented a charitable donation of £500 to the National Sea Rescue Institute – NSRI Station 29 – Airborne Sea Rescue.

Senior Maritime Instructor and Manager of CPUT’s Department of Maritime Studies’ Survival Centre, Mx Samantha Montes, who was the event organiser, said the objective of the meeting was to facilitate an exchange of information and to fulfil other objectives of the IASST, and that the meetings are held regularly at locations around the world. She added that a one-day safety seminar is held in conjunction with any international meeting.

A safety seminar features a mix of international and local presenters. Reflecting on this year’s event, Mx Montes said it was very successful as “we were only asked in July to host because the assigned host could no longer accommodate the meeting and seminar. I was impressed with the quality of speakers who were available at short notice and am honoured that we, as CPUT, were asked to host. The IASST has not met in South Africa before; this was the first time hosting since IASST’s inception in the 1980s.”

Mr Yann Chauty from CEPS said the main topic ‘Simulation in safety training’ was very interesting and successful. Mr Chauty added that there was a need to invest sufficiently in the quality of training equipment in schools, including davits, lifeboats, etc. Mr Cormac Mac Sweeney from Munster Technological University said the event accelerated the update on current thinking and possibilities regarding the use of simulation in safety training. Mr Sweeney said although a lot can be achieved in online meetings, “in-person meetings give you the opportunity of not only having longer discussions on the topic but also the ability to discuss other topics of mutual interest, expanding on similar methodologies, discussing new ideas and perhaps creating new links, partnerships, etc… Overall, the ability, without time restraints, to discuss areas of mutual interest to improve our ability to pass the most up-to-date knowledge onto our students/clients.”

IASST donated £500 to the NSRI Station 29

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Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences DEAN’S REPORT Dr Nicole Brooks (Acting)

89 Please note that more information about this faculty’s 2022 research activities can be found in the Focus Areas section of this Research Report

1

Focus Area 1

5

Bioeconomy & Biotechnology Research Group: Phytotherapy Research Group

142

Focus Area 5 Human, Health & Social Dynamics Research Chair: Cardiometabolic Health Research Centre

193

Introduction The Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences specialises in many diverse fields related to overall health and well-being, and consists of several research entities, working towards improving the current health dynamic. The staff and postgraduate students produce significant research outputs, which represent CPUT and South Africa on the international stage.

Graduations We had fewer graduates in 2022, with four master’s and two doctoral graduates. One staff member, Dr Aladdin Speelman, was awarded his doctorate (Doctor of Radiography) this year. The lower number of graduates may be due to the high number of graduates in 2021, leading to a high new intake in 2022, with some studies possibly delayed by the Covid-19 lockdown.

Postgraduate students The postgraduate enrolment numbers for 2022 were 290, of which 178 were postgraduate diplomas, 88 master’s and 24 doctoral studies, with a total which is slightly less than 2021. This may again be due to the sizeable graduation numbers in 2021, and the Covid lockdown discouraging new entries. In 2022, we had a first intake onto our postgraduate diploma programmes in Nursing Science, with 178 students registered. The table below indicates our postgraduate diplomas, master’s and doctoral degrees registered student numbers for 2022 for the various departments.

Dr

Nic

ole

Bro

ok

s

Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences

90 Department

Postgraduate diplomas

Master’s

Doctoral degrees

TOTAL

Biomedical Sciences

0

28

14

42

Medical Imaging & Therapeutic Sciences

0

27

10

37

Emergency Medical Sciences

0

13

0

13

Nursing Science

178

16

0

194

Dental Sciences

0

4

0

4

178

88

24

290

TOTAL

NRF-rated researchers FUNDING SOURCE

AMOUNT

Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA)

680 000

Consolidated Research Fund (CRF)

351 854

DHET Publications Subsidy 2020

386 399

National Research Foundation (NRF)

181 931

Nedbank DSI-NRF SARCHi Chair

1 865 050

Postdoctoral Fellowships (Nedbank DSI-NRF SARCHi Chair)

400 000

South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC)

574 914

TOTAL *Excluding Postdoctoral Funding and Postgraduate Bursaries

4 440 148

There are currently six NRF-rated scientists in the faculty: Prof Tandi Matsha with a C1 rating; Prof Karien Jooste with a C2 rating; Prof Penelope Engel-Hills with a C2 rating; Prof Peter Clarke-Farr with a C3 rating; Prof Glenda Davison with a C3 rating; and Prof Oluwafemi Oguntibeju with a C3 rating.

RESEARCH OUTPUT 2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO DHET MAY 2023)

UNITS

Books & chapters in books (submitted)

0.43

Conference proceedings (submitted)

0.48

Journal articles (audited)

18.82

TOTAL

19.73

91 Conferences and workshops Due to the nature of the academic sphere during 2022, many students participated in online conferences and workshops held by the faculty as well as by international organisations.

Research output The Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences prides itself in producing research outputs at the forefront of health sciences in South Africa. Interdepartmental collaboration further strengthens the research ethos of the faculty. The faculty research outputs for 2021 resulted in 34.24 DHET units. The current submitted units for 2022 are 19.73, which is higher than all other years apart from 2021.

EMS Department joins Gift of the Givers intervention Department of Emergency Medical Sciences (EMS) staff and students joined the Gift of the Givers Foundation on a one-day medical intervention in the Central Karoo town of Touws River in October. Specialists, medical personnel and trainees joined the humanitarian organisation to provide much-needed medical services to residents of the town and surrounding areas. EMS staff who participated were Mr John Meyer (project lead), Ms Casey van der Walt, Mr Elroy Cameron, Mr Daglin Thomas and Ms Candice De Waal. They were joined by students Ms Khuthazwa Sontangana, Ms Lindibuhle Njwayi, Ms Sinalo Faca, Mr Lazarus Mohlahlo and Ms Nelisa Qongwane. “Our main function was the triaging of 1 500 patients,” said Mr Meyer.

EMS has worked with the Gift of the Givers Foundation for many years and has been on local and international missions with the organisation. Ms Sontangana said she gained valuable experience from the intervention. “It was my first time assisting so many people and I learnt so much. It was a good experience – you get to help the people without expecting anything in return. What Gift of the Givers are doing really inspires me.”

Postgraduate degrees obtained by staff members Doctor of Radiography CPUT Speelman A ‘Post-mortem computerised tomography in the assessment of fatal child abuse’

EMS helped provide medical care in Central Karoo

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Eye Care Awareness Month honoured Eye Care Awareness Month was commemorated from September to October to raise awareness about the importance of eye health, specifically around the prevention and treatment of avoidable blindness. The Department of Ophthalmic Sciences marked the initiative with a range of community engagement activities to promote eye health and vision care awareness.

Junior lecturer, Ms Sanele Buthelezi, said the activities included a multidisciplinary medical intervention in Touws River, organised by the Gift of The Givers Foundation. A group of second-year students and four staff members, Ms Angelique Walbrugh (HOD), Ms Zukile Sirayi, Ms Noluthando Mjwana and Ms Fatima Flander, conducted vision screenings on over 300 patients, dispensing over 80 pairs of spectacles to this underserved community.

Other activities during the month included: • The Bishop Lavis Service-Learning Project was successfully rolled out. A team of second-year students and staff members, Ms Nomfundo Mkhombe, Mr Shaun Ketile, Ms Noluthando Mjwana and Ms Zukile Sirayi provided eye care services to a number of patients.

• The South African Optometric Association (SAOA) educational campaign in collaboration with the Department of Transport, included 15 students who worked with the SAOA team at bus depots and traffic departments.

• A week-long Northern Cape multidisciplinary outreach was organised by Dr Errol Visser of Global First Responders. The department sent staff member Ms Sanele Buthelezi to conduct eye examinations and provide spectacles and ocular therapeutic care to several rural communities in the Northern Cape.

Representatives from CPUT and Bishop Lavis

CPUT provides services to local community The Department of Nursing Science participated in community engagement at the Bishop Lavis Community Health Centre again this year. The centre accommodates undergraduate and postgraduate students for their work-integrated learning placements, providing service to the community. The aim is to facilitate staff development and to identify the needs of the community.

The initiative has been driven by HOD Prof Karien Jooste for the past six years. “To assist the patients’ nutritional needs, the staff members provided sandwiches and tea in the waiting area.

This allowed them to have breakfast and safely consume their chronic medication, as many of the patients wake up early to attend the clinic and do not have time to eat,” said Ms Bridgette Lockett, Programme Co-ordinator for Primary Care Nursing.

Health education was provided by the lecturers and clinical mentors throughout the four areas of the clinic, as identified by the Facility Manager Sr Rachel Carelse. Sr Carelse also discussed the initiatives in place to support the community in maintaining their health, e.g., community walks in the morning and healthcare workers delivering chronic medication to patients, thus ensuring their compliance.

CPUT promotes eye health and vision care awareness

“Hypertension and Diabetes mellitus are two of the chronic disorders identified within this community. The health education specifically focused on Diabetes mellitus. The patients were educated on how to monitor their blood glucose levels, how to take their prescribed medication and the importance of maintaining their health and well-being,” added clinical co-ordinator, Ms Ursula Mafaro.

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New research could aid in fatal child abuse cases With many South African children falling victim to abuse, a CPUT study has highlighted the valuable contribution post-mortem imaging can make in assessing the injuries suffered. The first of its kind in South Africa, the study was conducted by senior lecturer in Diagnostic Radiography, Mr Aladdin Speelman, for his doctoral thesis ‘Post-mortem computed tomography in the assessment of fatal child abuse’. According to the study, there has been a worldwide decline in autopsy rates due to cultural and religious objections, and clinicians have had to find alternative ways to establish cause of death. The increased application of post-mortem imaging in forensic pathology has resulted in researchers exploring the suitability of both postmortem PMCT and PMMRI to establish the cause of death, determine injuries sustained, and whether this imaging modality can replace the autopsy in certain cases.

the excellent guidance received from my two supervisors and the two paediatric radiologists who assisted me with the interpretation of the images. These two paediatric radiology experts were based in the UK and the Netherlands. Thanks to technology, their expert opinions could be obtained without any hassles.”

The study’s conclusions included that PMCT should serve as an adjunct examination to forensic autopsies of children whose death was due to suspected fatal abuse, irrespective of the initial manner of death. Mr Speelman added, “PMCT must therefore be routinely employed as a supplementary examination to the forensic autopsies in the assessment of suspected fatal child abuse.”

Mr Speelman said skeletal injuries identified with diagnostic imaging are often the only evidence that a child is a victim of abuse. “SA has a high rate of child abuse and child homicides, and the many social dimensions do not get the attention they deserve. Radiographers have a greater role to play in stemming this social anomaly. Research such as this can highlight the valuable contribution advanced imaging modalities such as PMCT can make in the diagnosis and management of child abuse.” Mr Speelman added that PMCT has advantages over conventional diagnostic imaging options as a full body can be scanned in less than one minute, giving a broad overview of a child’s injuries. “I was aware that internationally there has been steady growth in using advanced cross-sectional imaging in forensic medicine. This move has not yet started in SA, hence my decision to test this modality.”

Thirty deceased children with a history of suspected child abuse or sudden unexplained death underwent a whole-body PMCT examination using a 64-slice CT scanner, followed by a forensic autopsy. All PMCT studies were reviewed independently by two paediatric radiologists.

“To my knowledge, this was the first study of its kind conducted in South Africa, particularly involving children only. I sincerely appreciate

Mr Speelman was capped during CPUT’s Summer Graduation in December

Mr Speelman’s supervisors were Prof Penelope Engel-Hills, an adjunct professor and former Acting Dean: FHWS at the time, and Prof Lorna Martin, Head of Division: Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UCT. Mr Speelman stated, “I think I have grown tremendously on a professional and disciplinary level. In addition, I also gained significant transdisciplinary knowledge in that I learnt a lot about the science and application of forensic medicine and PMCT imaging, which is a fairly new field in radiology. I think the greatest joy I derived from completing this doctoral degree was knowing that my work met the scientific rigour of multidisciplinary international examination and in such a particularly new and emerging field.”

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Faculty of Informatics & Design DEAN’S REPORT Prof Tembisa Ngqondi

95 Introduction Research, Technology Innovation & Partnership activities continue to grow in the Faculty of Informatics & Design (FID). The faculty is pleased to present this report on its 2022 highlights.

Twenty-one master’s degrees and six doctoral degrees (including three staff members) were awarded in FID during 2022. This is evidence of the faculty’s deliberate efforts toward supporting postgraduate students and improving staff capacity development.

While the world was brought to a standstill by Covid-19 during 2020 and 2021, the faculty adopted emergency remote teaching and learning as part of its technological fluency strategy.

Wherever possible, postgraduate students and researchers who needed presence in computer laboratories and design studios became innovative by running activities under simulated environments at home.

This year has proven to be one of enormous progress in the research output of the faculty.

Research and innovation development The faculty participated in various research and innovation development activities during 2022. Among the most notable are: • Prof Tiko Iyamu received CPUT’s Platinum Award for Research Excellence in the Publications category for the 2020 academic year.

• Prof Justine Daramola received CPUT’s Platinum Award in the sourcing of External Funding for 2022.

• Prof Johannes Cronjé received CPUT’s Gold Award for

•

• •

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Research Excellence in the Publications category and the Bronze Award for Research Excellence in Postgraduate Supervision for the 2020 academic year.

Adjunct Prof Ephias Ruhode received CPUT’s Gold Award for Research Excellence in Postgraduate Supervision for the 2020 academic year.

Dr Joseph Adebayo obtained a new NRF C2 rating.

FID co-hosted the NEMISA 2022 Colloquium and Summit The Future of Work and Digital Skills with Unisa and the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa.

Dr Sisanda Nkoala, an academic in the Media Department, was awarded a Michael Haley Travel Grant by the International Communication Association.

In August, Dr Sisanda Nkoala delivered a keynote address at the National Science Week, hosted by the Human Sciences Research Council South Africa.

Dr Trust Matsilele produced a monograph titled Social Media and Digital Dissidence in Zimbabwe (published by Palgrave Macmillan), and co-edited New Journalism Ecologies in East and Southern Africa (to be published early 2023 by Palgrave Macmillan).

The faculty held a five-day writing retreat in October to facilitate the throughput of postgraduate students enrolled in the HEQF-aligned qualifications.

In December, Prof Nic Theo and Dr June Jordaan delivered a keynote address on ‘Representing pasts – Visioning futures’ at the virtual Architecture, Media, Politics, Society (AMPS) Conference.

In December, Dr Belinda Verster served as Session Chair at the International Conference on Teaching, Assessment and Learning in the Digital Age (DigiTAL2K), hosted by the Victorian Institute of Technology, Australia, and the Independent Institute of Education, South Africa.

The following staff members received the Dean’s Special Award for research excellence and community engagement:

Pro

fT em

bis

aN

gq

on

di

Faculty of Informatics & Design

96 Dr Sisanda Nkoala

Learning and Teaching, Research and Community Engagement

Dr Trust Matsilele

Research

Ms Colleen Cocotos

Learning and Teaching and Community Engagement

Dr June Jordaan

Community Engagement

Mr Nikheel Joshi

Community Engagement

Ms Gingirikani Maswanganye

Community Engagement

Mr Rayner Moodley

Community Engagement

Members of CCS successfully completed several projects during 2022, in pursuance of CPUT’s Vision 2030. These include a number of publications, the hosting of a range of conferences, postgraduate examinations and peer reviews.

Prof Nic Theo served for the third year on the DHET Creative Outputs Sub-Panel in Film and Television as a reviewer and credit adjudicator. He also served as the faculty representative on the South African Humanities Deans Association, and as faculty liaison for the National Institute of Human and Social Sciences. Various projects came to fruition during 2022, including special publications, hosting conferences and colloquia, training, and creative outputs.

Please see page 210 of this Research Report for details about these CCS activities.

Centre for Communication Studies The transdisciplinary Centre for Communication Studies (CCS) began its activities at the start of last year. CCS’s vision is to foster human-centred relevance and excellence in research that is directed at bridging communication theory and practice in the fields of media, design, digital engagement and the arts.

In addition to text-based output (journal articles, books and conference proceedings), the centre facilitates practice-based projects to encourage creative research outputs and intellectual property development. Research uptake activities are in Digital Media Community, Community Informatics, Health Information Systems, Design for Sustainability, and Design for Community.

NRF ratings Four FID academics have NRF ratings for 2022: Prof JC Cronjé

C1

Prof T Iyamu

C2

Dr JOA Adebayo

C2

Prof J Daramola

C3

97 Postgraduate degrees obtained by staff Doctor of Applied Arts in Design CPUT Di Ruvo M ‘Towards resilience in South African craft enterprises, from design theory to craft practice’ Doctor of Philosophy UCT Nkoala S ‘Persuasion and the ‘mediatisation’ of culture: A rhetorical criticism of South African television news reports on crime and the criminal justice system’ Doctor of Philosophy Utrecht University Romano N ‘Reconfiguring a history of art and design curriculum in a South African university of technology: Becoming-with critical arts-based pedagogical encounters’

FUNDING SOURCE

AMOUNT

Consolidated Research Fund (CRF)

97 900

DHET Publications Subsidy 2020

1 068 569

Improvement of Qualification Programme (IQP)

200 000

National Research Foundation (NRF)

850 521

Research Exchange Programme (REP)

30 000

Research and Innovation Fund for Teaching & Learning (RIFTAL)

48 000

South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) WITS Institute for Social and Economic Research (Wiser) TOTAL

3 485 250 45 000 5 825 240

*Excluding Postdoctoral Funding and Postgraduate Bursaries

RESEARCH OUTPUT 2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO DHET MAY 2023)

UNITS

Books & chapters in books (submitted)

14.59

Conference proceedings (submitted)

4.25

Journal articles (audited)

27.8

TOTAL

46.64

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Media Department academic celebrates first book His life’s journey took him from a difficult childhood in Zimbabwe to struggling to make ends meet in South Africa. However, Dr Trust Matsilele overcame the odds to become a respected journalist and successful academic, whose excellent teaching skills have been recognised and commended by CPUT. He joined the institution in 2019, and is now a senior lecturer in the Media Department.

Dr Matsilele is celebrating the next step on his journey – the release of his first book, which comes less than four years into his academic career. This is titled Social Media and Digital Dissidence in Zimbabwe https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-08403-4. Dr Matsilele said the topic relates to his PhD studies, adding that he wanted to understand the intersection of social media and

digital media as forms of counter-hegemonic expression. “In most dictatorships in Africa, citizens resort to using social media to counter state propaganda. My interest was really to see to what extent this was applied in Zimbabwe, in part because Zimbabwe remains a dictatorship. Some scholars locate it as a hybrid model which has some semblance of democracy as well as some semblance of dictatorship, so I was trying to understand how Zimbabweans were using social media to contest hegemonic narratives or to contest state narratives or state propaganda.”

Dr Matsilele continued, “The very core of the study was trying to understand how historically citizens have spoken back to power.”

He said that the literature that followed the Arab Spring tended to glorify social media as a revolutionary or revolutionising tool.

He was interested in understanding if this was indeed the case.

“After understanding that, I wanted to trace in African people’s lives their modes of expression protesting a domestic power. African people have always protested, and these are the ways that they protested before social media. I’ve used African folklore as a point of departure, African proverbs, African idioms, African songs. I have traced the forms of protest that we are seeing in African people’s lives – how do they express themselves in today’s world or today’s social media sphere.”

Born and raised in Zimbabwe, this young academic and his twin brother were left at a police station as babies. His story was documented in an article by his former employer, Forbes Africa magazine https://www.forbesafrica.com/cover-story/2016/10/01/ beyond-wildest-dreams/ and outlines how he ended up working at a scrapyard in South Africa, living on a dumpsite, and eventually beating the odds to become a respected journalist and political consultant, before pursuing a career in academia.

Senior lecturer, Dr Trust Matsilele

Earlier this year, he was among the recipients of the CPUT Teaching Excellence Awards. Dr Matsilele thanked his colleagues in FID for their support. “One of the contributing factors that made the project

a success is the support I received from the faculty, through the Dean making sure that there were available funds to do the editing of this work. I received support from the Centre for Communication Studies and Prof Nic Theo was also very active in making sure I didn’t lose track.” He expressed his gratitude to Dr Blessing Makwambeni (Acting HOD: Media Department), Prof Nirvana Bechan (HOD: Media Department), and other colleagues in the Media Department as well as the book’s reviewers and independent readers.

Dr Matsilele has published over 20 peer-reviewed articles, and is currently editing two books. The first is with Palgrave Macmillan, New Ecology of Journalism in Africa: Innovation, Newsmaking Cultures and Citizen Engagement, which is expected to be published later in 2022 or early in 2023. The second is Media, Social Movements, and Protest Cultures in Africa, which is being reviewed by Routledge. “I am currently working on a project with Dr Sisanda Nkoala, looking at how South African female politicians are appropriating social media. Dr Nkoala and I have co-authored four articles, one on talk radio has been published and another one is set for publication in December. I have also done some research with other colleagues within the department, including Dr Joseph Adebayo, Dr Blessing Makwambeni and Mr John Bulani. I believe that a department that researches in the community has a propensity to achieve shared outcomes.”

Some of Dr Matsilele’s affiliations: • International Association for Media and Communication Research (IAMCR) • Global Risk Journalism Hub, South African Affiliate researcher https://www.globalriskjournalismhub.com/affiliate-researchers • South African Communications Association member (SACOMM) • South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) member and education cluster committee member • External reviewer for UCT’s Centre for Film and Media Studies and TUT, and he has also reviewed for UJ and the University of Limpopo

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Media Department lecturer excels

Mr Tatenda Marwa and Prof Chris Nhlapo with the winning portrait

FID students showcase artistic talent Product Design student Mr Tatenda Marwa’s portrait of VC Prof Chris Nhlapo earned him First Prize in FID’s first-ever Dean’s Drawing Award. The winners of the competition were announced at a special handover ceremony, held shortly after Father’s Day, where the portraits were handed over to the VC as a token of appreciation from the faculty.

The competition, which required students to create a portrait of the VC, attracted 35 entrants.

Dean of the faculty, Prof Tembisa Ngqondi, said the students were provided with a picture of the VC, as well as the material needed to complete the portrait. The event was kept a secret from the VC, who said he appreciated the gesture. “Thank you so much for this. I am really humbled,” he said. The runners-up were Mr Mahle Noyo (Second Prize) and Ms Mukelwa Sishi (Third Prize). The three winning students received vouchers. Mr Tatenda said he was surprised that he had won. “I’m glad that I put in the effort and very happy that I won.”

The CPUT Mentorship Programme for Black Academic Women is delivering on its mandate of supporting participants to accelerate their careers. Media Department lecturer, Dr Adelina Mbinjama, is amongst the mentees on the programme and has been awarded a research grant allocated to mentees as part of the CPUT Career Advancement Grant. Her project is ‘A transdisciplinary approach to Train-the-Trainer for digital literacies, cyber-ethics, coding and robotics: A multilingual pilot study’. Her mentors are Prof Justine Daramola and Prof Nic Theo from FID. Dr Mbinjama said, “I’m immensely grateful for the seed funding from CPUT because it helped me think of a transdisciplinary research project that is currently a pilot study. I’m glad I could meet the requirements and that the project has potential to venture into other related research areas on cyber-ethics.”

Media Department lecturer, Dr Adelina Mbinjama

Last year, this young academic was awarded a Thuthuka grant from the NRF for her project ‘The effects of cyber-ethics among digital marketers: A case study on black SMEs in South Africa in the wake of Covid-19’. Dr Mbinjama continued, “I am learning new methods and developing ideas to address some philosophical and often difficult questions about the cyber world. I have done this with the NGO sector and am now focusing on SMEs. Because of the nature of digitalisation, I foresee my work expanding transdisciplinarily and transnationally.” She said the Thuthuka grant had made her realise that although attaining some research objectives can be challenging, it is not impossible. “Because of the Thuthuka grant, I have been able to work with a dedicated master’s student who is carrying out an aspect of my research on cyber-ethics. We have faced challenges along the way, but we are close to finishing. I am excited about my research area and where it will take my academic career.”

Dr Mbinjama published a paper in September in the journal Communicatio with the support of the grant titled ‘Cyber-ethics for NGOs during Covid-19: The eight ethical variables and a microsocial contract’. Some other recent highlights include: • She was selected for the CPUT Transdisciplinary Grant for Emerging and Early Career Academics of R100 000 for the Biogas Project in Kyamandi, Stellenbosch, under Prof Vincent Okudoh from the Department of Biotechnology. She will be involved in media and communication aspects of the project.

•

•

She became member of the Editorial Board for the Journal for Transdisciplinary Research in Southern Africa, which is chaired by Prof Izak van Zyl, Director: CPGS. She published a book chapter titled ‘#VoetsekANC and Covid corruption: A Foucauldian discourse analysis of A Song for the ANC’, in Shepard Mpofu’s Digital Humour in the Covid-19 Pandemic.

Perspectives from the Global South, Vol 2: Social Media, Laughter during the Covid-19 Pandemic.

Dr Patricia Smit, Manager: Capacity Development in the DRD, said the CPUT Mentorship Programme for Black Academic Women takes the form of a small-scale programme focused on supporting women in advancing their research careers. Senior academics, mostly NRF-rated researchers, were invited to indicate their availability and commitment to becoming mentors. Mentees are women academics who have completed doctoral degrees and are working on their career plans and who would commit to working with a mentor to guide them. The aim is to assist the mentee to evaluate where she is on her career trajectory and assist her in planning the next steps in becoming an established researcher within a reasonable time frame. Mentees are invited to submit a proposal for a small amount to fund a research or career-related activity, which will result in accelerating their career.

The grant aims to stimulate research activity amongst this group, setting them up on a path to becoming well-rounded research leaders.

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World Press Freedom Day Conference Journalism lecturer Ms Sisanda Nkoala flew the CPUT flag at the UNESCO World Press Freedom Day Global Conference which took place in Uruguay in May. The theme of the conference was ‘Journalism under digital siege’. Not only was one of Ms Nkoala’s papers selected for presentation at the conference, but she also served on a panel discussing ‘Censorious assaults on education and collateral impacts on student press freedom’.

“I am really excited and honoured to have been selected, because the UNESCO Global Press Freedom Conference is an important event for the global journalism fraternity. It allows me to deliberate on press freedom, which is one of the cornerstones of a functioning democracy. It is also an important platform to network and create meaningful collaborations to advance my research and teaching in journalism studies,” said Ms Nkoala. The title of her paper was ‘Language as symbolic action in

Journalism lecturer, Ms Sisanda Nkoala

online violence against South African female journalists on Twitter’.

Ms Nkoala said that online violence against journalists was a global phenomenon. Recent studies have documented patterns suggesting that specific groups of journalists are likely targets of online harassment intended to prompt women journalists to self-censor. “My study focused on using language as symbolic action for mob censorship in digital spaces against selected female South African journalists. Mob censorship is understood as violence exercised by ordinary citizens against journalists to intimidate and silence the press.” Using a qualitative content analysis, she investigated how women journalists were subjected to mob censorship in digital spaces through the posts directed at them. “My main finding was that the most prevalent linguistic devices used to engage in mob censorship of women journalists are name-calling and chastisement. My analysis highlighted that this occurred through belittling them based on race and gender, and trying to admonish these women into silence through sexual innuendo and mentalism.”

The panel on which Ms Nkoala served considers issues and developments that threaten student journalists’ ability to exercise their press freedom. World Press Freedom Day is observed on the 3rd of May every year and acts as a reminder to governments of the need to respect their commitment to press freedom. It is also a day of reflection among media professionals about issues of press freedom and professional ethics. Asked what World Press Freedom Day meant to her, Ms Nkoala said it was a day to remember the centrality of a free and functioning press in all of our lives. “In the age of disinformation, it’s important to know that there’s an institution like the press that can be trusted not only to help us decipher fact from fiction but also to speak truth to power and be a voice for those whose voices are muted. Our press in South Africa has played such an important role in recent years in doing this. Through entities such as the South African Press Council, where I serve as a public representative, it is encouraging to know that the climate of excellent and ethical journalism, which is also important for press freedom, is preserved.”

Ms Jaime Scholz

Student wins international design award A ‘showstopping’ design by a talented Interior Design student has been recognized with an award in a prestigious international competition. Ms Jaime Scholz won in the category ‘Jury’s favourite in interior design: Institutional’ at the BLT Built Design Awards event in November. The event celebrates the best of architecture, interior design and construction worldwide and attracts submissions from professionals, emerging designers and students.

Ms Scholz, from Melkbosstrand, said it was a huge honour to see her name and project ranked with those of such prestigious interior designers and architects’ projects.

She added, “I am very grateful to have been given this opportunity and excited for what lies ahead.” Referring to

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her design, she said she was guided by the brief to accommodate a primary care clinic, which focuses on wellness visits, physicals, vaccinations, screenings for illness, and acute illness and injury care for all patients. “With a strong focus on inclusive design, I ensured specialised kitted examination rooms for paediatric, bariatric, disabled, elderly and the general patient. I focused on being environmentally conscious and reusing or refurbishing the existing walls instead of demolishing and rebuilding unnecessarily.”

Ms Scholz said the spatial design concept needed to maximise usable space without sacrificing the hallway, to promote a spa-like feel, creating a sense of comfort and well-being for the patients.

Most of the furniture and equipment would be sourced from local South African suppliers and/or manufacturers. She said she loves the puzzle of practical problem-solving through design and this, together with her fascination with how the built environment affects our lives and its surrounding environment, led her to study interior design and to study further in architecture.

Senior lecturer Ms Colleen Cocotos said that when she heard about the competition, she did not want to miss the opportunity to highlight the best work that was submitted to the competition and won. “It was a pleasure working with Jaime because she has an exceptional work ethic, and she is engaged and open to learning and receiving constructive feedback. The entire class reviewed exceptional case studies, which we critically discussed. Jaime had a clear understanding of how to execute her design, as she is a very intuitive designer. I know my guidance assisted the class, yet Jaime’s Clinic was indeed the showstopper.”

Alumna’s design showcased in Dubai A project designed by an Interior Design alumna earned her a place in the finals of the 2022 edition of Prototypes for Humanity, held in November in Dubai. Ms Bronwen Smith developed the Integrated Sustainability Awareness System, an online platform for collecting information relating to household consumption of energy and resources, as part of her fourth-year dissertation project at CPUT. Prototypes for Humanity is a wonderfully diverse assembly of innovations that have the power to change the world, with programmes and activities to raise awareness of global problems, celebrate solutions, and catalyse action for positive social and environmental impact.

Ms Smith and senior lecturer Ms Colleen Cocotos travelled to Dubai where they attended the exhibition and the final awards announcement by Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. “I felt truly honoured and excited. It would be wonderful if this sustainability awareness system can receive further attention and possibly be developed into a marketable idea that will impact humanity.

I have always been motivated to make people aware of how to live a more sustainable lifestyle,” said Ms Smith.

Explaining how the platform works, Ms Smith said information is collected through a smartphone application that feeds into an online database. “The information is analysed to generate understandable statistics that are freely available on the website. Anyone can access the statistics to track the impact of the system and to see how different areas measure up to one another… Through encouraged regular interaction and a gamified or reward element to the user experience, consumers learn how to make changes in their daily lives and make informed choices that reduce the impact on the planet.” The proud CPUT graduate, who hails from Plumstead, is completing a Master’s in Interior Architecture: Adaptive ReUse at Hasselt University in Belgium.

Ms Bronwen Smith, Interior Design alumna

Ms Cocotos said, “Bronwen’s design was competing against master’s and PhD submissions; she should be proud of being selected as a finalist in such a prestigious competition. I thought that it was a genius idea and she deserves to get further recognition for the development of the sustainability awareness system.”

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ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT Centre for Community Engagement and Work-Integrated Learning Centre for Innovative Educational Technology CPUT Libraries Fundani Centre for Higher Education Development HIV/Aids Unit Student Counselling

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Centre for Community Engagement and Work-Integrated Learning (CCEWIL) Vision To be a Centre of Excellence working smartly with industry, government and community, locally and globally, to provide co-operative education and community engagement opportunities for students to meet the challenges in this rapidly changing world.

Mission • To provide strategic direction and leadership for community and industry engagements with the university and quintuple helix partners regionally, nationally and internationally in promoting graduate employability and grant systems.

• To re-imagine the work-integrated learning (WIL) framework through appropriate curriculum development, research and quality assurance.

• To contribute to a sustainable economy and cohesive community in South Africa, the African continent and beyond.

• To seek to instil values, graduate attributes, employability, entrepreneurship, and social responsiveness in students, through staff and student development, engagement and research initiatives.

Prof Lalini Reddy reddyl@cput.ac.za

ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT

104 CCEWIL FOCUS AREA

STRATEGIC ACTIVITIES

FA1: Smart ITC environment and ITC workforce

Manage WIL and community service-learning (SL) by LMS (Blackboard) and a planned data management system to monitor success

FA2: Smart teaching & learning and learning environments

Promote placement of WIL students in industry; Include 4IR for future-proof curriculum, preparing students for employability; Offer curriculum development advice for LTA for WIL/SL subjects; Offer future-proof work-preparedness hybrid programmes; Introduce entrepreneurial thinking and technopreneurship for students from first year; Offer guidance for SL projects for all programmes; Promote dual higher education system (DHEP, CHEC)

FA3: Smart RTIP that is relevant and excellent in its knowledge production

Develop WIL and CE pedagogies that are research-led including 4IR, entrepreneurship, community engagement and the 17 SDGs; Enrol staff onto programmes which support postgraduate WIL studies; Provide research support for staff together with PERI

FA4: Smart human capital and talent

Define roles and responsibilities of WIL co-ordinators in the WPO induction programme; Provide opportunities for sharing of best practices in WIL and SL; Improve qualification profile of WIL, SL and CE co-ordinators, other academic staff and postgraduate students in the Future World of Work (FWOW) and CE through scholarly engagement with industry and the community

FA5: Smart internationalisation

Promote WIL and CE internationalisation focusing on South African and African contexts; Encourage staff and student exchange for WIL and CE; Organise CE events that promote and celebrate multiculturalism and multilingualism

FA6: Smart engagement and strong links with quintuple helix partners

Develop a 4x4 engagement strategy with four primary partners (civil society, industry, government and academia); Engage with industry and government and community to determine supply–demand in relevant job markets; Ongoing partner engagement by CCEWIL and faculties; Seek approval of workstations for WIL placements; Set up an advisory committee for each programme comprising industry, university, community, government and alumni; Work with SAQA, THENSA, USAF and CHEC on WIL policies and strategies; Manage SETA and other external funds for WIL and intern stipends

FA7: A smart holistic CPUT student experience

Manage SETA and other external funds for WIL stipends; Create entrepreneurship hubs for student learning; Set up a Leadership Academy for students; Engage in graduate recruitment by matching alumni with employers; Track graduates

HERESA delegation to KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden

CPUT stand at SASCE WIL Africa Conference, East London

Karlstad University in Sweden

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Service-Learning and Civic Engagement (SLCE) Units Manager: Ms Jacqui Scheepers

scheepersj@cput.ac.za

Academic Leadership UCDG Project

CAPE–VET Capacity Building for VET in South Africa

This project promotes engaged scholarship through transdisciplinary community engagement projects and programmes with students. The SLCE Units cultivate mutually beneficial research collaborations which stretch across local, regional, national and international boundaries.

By integrating CE with teaching & learning and research, a more holistic approach to knowledge generation can be pursued. CE practitioners, including students, are encouraged to reflect on their practice so that learning and impact can be realised. Therefore, the notion of the self-reflective practitioner is critical to improving learning, teaching and engagement practices at the university.

This is a bi-national research project focused on the professionalisation of TVET lecturers in South Africa.

Its goal is to develop scientific, participative and authentic recommendations for the design of academic professionalisation for TVET lecturers.

A paper titled ‘Interdisciplinary platform sharing and reflecting on students’ community engagement projects’ was presented at the Academic Leadership Conference in Cape Town in December

Research initiatives The SLCE Units are actively involved in initiating, supporting, and contributing to various research initiatives.

The researchers involved in this project are: • Ms Jacqueline Scheepers, CPUT • Mr Jonas Gebhardt, former Institute of Vocational Education, Work & Technology at Europa University Flensburg (EUF), Germany • Prof Dr Axel Grimm, former Institute of Vocational Education, Work & Technology at EUF, Germany • Mr Martin Kuehn, Centre for Business & Technology in Africa, Flensburg University of Applied Sciences, Germany • Prof Dr Kay Pfaffenberger, Centre for Business & Technology in Africa, Flensburg University of Applied Sciences, Germany • Ms Jelena Zascerinska, Hochschule Wismar University of Applied Sciences Technology, Business and Design Wismar, Germany

ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT

106 DATA, which explored instruments for coding the research data for the Cape–VET project.

Prof Kay Pfaffenbery of Flensburg University, at a CPUT workshop organised by CCEWIL

The activities in the CAPE–VET project are organised under three themes: ‘Research and data collection’; ‘Transfer of research results’; and ‘Knowledge’. The activities so far include mostly measures of the first area. The aim has been to harmonise the terminology, determine the current status, derive relevant influencing factors, and collect and evaluate data on the training needs of two main target groups, i.e., TVET teachers and representatives of industry.

An overview of the VET/TVET system and a compressed glossary have been compiled. As part of the preparatory research activities, a study was conducted on the current political, economic and social framework conditions. An analysis is currently being carried out to derive significant influencing factors for further project activities. https://www.blogs.uni-mainz.de/fb03-mp-invet-en/ capevet/ In February, Ms Scheepers and Mr Gebhardt participated in CAPE–VET Analysation Workshop

The SLCE units brought together seasoned academics and researchers to participate in a CAPE–VET bilateral seminar/webinar in May. This was a dialogical session on research findings in the TVET sector of the Western Cape. Participants who have been part of the project since its inception: Department of Teacher Professional Development; CPUT’s Faculty of Education; CPUT’s FEBE; CPUT’s CIET; Europa-Universität Flensburg’s Institute of Vocational Education, Work and Technology; Hochschule Flensburg; Centre for Business & Technology in Africa; Hochschule Wismar’s Technology, Business and Design; CPUT’s PERI; DHET; TVET Regional Office, Western Cape; TVETColleges (West Coast College, False Bay TVET College, Boland College, Northlink College and South Cape TVET College). The universities presented their research findings. The programme made provision for interactive feedback and dialogue. The session was hybrid, maximising the participation of all stakeholders.

In October, the Cape–VET report was published.

Title: Professionalisation from individual perspectives of TVET practitioners in South Africa – Challenges and demands, joint discussion paper and final report on the CAPE–VET research results 2022. Publisher: Hochschule Wismar. ISBN: 9783947929184.

Authors: Ms Scheepers, Mr Gebhardt, Mr Kuehn, Dr Zascerinska, Prof Dr Grimm and Prof Dr Pfaffenberger. https://www.uni-flensburg.de/fileadmin/content/ institute/biat/dokumente/projekte/cape-vet/cape-vetjoint-publication-2022.pdf

In November, a small delegation from the Cape– VET research project visited CPUT, including Prof Dr Pfaffenberger and Mr Kühn from Hochschule Flensburg, University of Applied Sciences. They participated in a meeting arranged by the SLCE Units with CPUT’s Faculty of Education to share the Cape– VET project report and research findings with staff involved in the TVET programme.

MP–INVET and YoriVET The manager of the SLCE Units, Ms Scheepers, is an active participant in the MP–INVET Network.

Currently, this network consists of 11 German research projects with international co-operation partners from countries in Asia, Central and Latin America, Europe and Africa. Its key objective is to cultivate an inter- and transdisciplinary research network. In order to do this, MP–INVET focuses in particular on: i) internal networking between the 11 individual national projects and the advisory board; and ii) external networking with other institutions and partners.

One of the main purposes of the MP–INVET metaproject is to establish a cross-programme research network as part of the BMBF funding initiative Research on the Internationalisation of Vocational Education and Training (IBBF). The goal of this network is the establishment of a new (young) research community to strengthen the (inter)national co-operation in international VET research. To support the transfer of knowledge and experience between actors from different scientific disciplines and fields of practice, the network focuses on current developments and research results in German

107 VET research, strengthening the national and international connectivity of the funding initiative. The promotion of young researchers is a part of YoriVET (Young Researchers for Internationalisation of VET).

The Cape–VET research project forms part of this broader YoriVET community. In July, Ms Sophia Grunert (German Confederation of Skilled Crafts) and Mr Martin Roggenkamp (BFW – Unternehmen für Bildung) enriched the YoriVET community with their webinar on ‘The role of social partners in the German dual VET system and in partner countries’.

They introduced the German skilled crafts sector (ZDH & SCIVET) as well as DGB, BFW and Unions4VET. They then explained Germany’s dual apprenticeship system, focusing on how the social partnership in German VET works. An insight into international VET co-operation was given.

There was a lively discussion among the participants, who attended online from Germany, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Russia and South Africa. https://www.blogs.uni-mainz.de/fb03-mp-invet-en/yorivetwebinare/ In June, the Cape–VET researchers presented a poster at John Gutenberg University, Mainz. https://www.mp-invet.de/files/2020/04/CAPE-VET_Poster_ A0-1.jpg

The SLCE Units subscribe to the concept of engaged scholarship and the principles of ethical leadership.

Amongst its most valuable assets are the committed students, staff and external partners. Credit should be given to the work of the committed multi-stakeholder project teams, for whom community engagement is an essential element of active citizenship and social justice.

Strategic international partnerships The SLCE Units’ international partnerships include virtual programmes using various online platforms to promote access to international and intercultural contexts for students and staff, such as: • Ubuntu Global Network: A global ubuntu network • Talloires Network of Engaged Universities • HAN University community engagement projects EU/THENSA-HERESA Project on WIL Prof Lalini Reddy represented CPUT at the study visit for WIL at the KTH Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden in October. The project facilitated the development of a reform strategy to improve employability of the university’s graduates.

Poster presented at John Gutenberg University

‘The multi-sided analysis of needs of TVET students in problem solving skills in South Africa’ was presented in October at the IBBF Final Conference. It was compiled

by Ms Scheepers, Mr Kuehn, Dr Zascerinska and Prof Dr Pfaffenberger. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/364242633_Multisided_Analysis_of_Needs_of_TVET_Students_in_Prob-_lem_ Solving_Skills_in_South_Africa

Research output Conferences Centre members participated in the WIL Africa Conference in East London in September, organised by the Southern African Society for Co-operative Education (SASCE).

108 Prof Rishidaw Balkaran, DVC: Teaching & Learning was the invited plenary speaker for the opening of the conference.

Presentations included: • ‘Building student leadership in inter-disciplinary contexts for engaged citizenship and the world of work’, by Ms J Scheepers, Ms T Burns, Ms L Bolters • ‘Exploring alternative approaches to traditional WIL industry placement through hybrid modalities of WIL in engineering and the built environment in a university of technology context’, by Ms J Scheepers, Ms TK Stringer, Mr W Kohlhofer • ‘Work-integrated learning in the TVET sector: Perspectives of college lecturers and industry’, by Dr J Zascerinska, Ms J Scheepers, Mr M Kuehn • ‘Analysing work-integrated learning assessment practices through the lens of autonomy principles’, by Prof L Reddy CCEWIL also presented a paper at the WIL and Graduate Employment Virtual Summit in October: • ‘Preparing future-proof curricula to boost the economy and contribute to social cohesion in the Western Cape, South Africa’, by Prof L Reddy Publications • ‘Apoptotic effect of Bulbine natalensis and Chlorophytum comosum in myelogenous Leukemia K562 cell line’, in the Brazilian Journal of Biology, 84 • ‘Potential roles of modified pectin targeting galectin-3 against severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus-2’, in J: Multidisciplinary Scientific Journal, 4(4) • ‘In vitro antioxidant and cytotoxicity activities of selected indigenous South African medicinal plants’, in African Health Sciences, 22(1)

• ‘Determination of the ursolic and oleanolic acids content with the antioxidant capacity in apple peel extract of various cultivars’, in Brazilian Journal of Biology, 84 • ‘Gastrointestinal microbiota dysbiosis associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in colorectal cancer: The implication of probiotics’, in Gastroenterology Insights, 13(1) • ‘Thoughts from academia – Community engagement in higher education and training in the future: From theory to practice’, in Research in South Africa: Histories, Methods, Theories and Practice

External funding i) SETA Funding Project for WIL Placements Funded WIL placement projects are vital to the university’s efforts to achieve the goals of CPUT’s Vision 2030.

Implementation of these projects offers a suitable vehicle for the centre in its attempts to contribute to the achievement of this vision. The projects provide the following advantages for the institution: • Increased number of WIL placements • Improved management of WIL in the institution • Improved quality of relations with stakeholders in our quintuple helix environments • Improved marketing of the institution The past year saw 582 WIL students benefiting from their placement. Awarded funding totalled R15 358 500. The students were from: Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences (FHWS), Faculty of Business Management Sciences (FBMS), Faculty of Applied Sciences (FAS), Faculty of Informatics & Design (FID)

109 NAME OF SETA

AMOUNT

FACULTIES AND DEPARTMENTS

NUMBER OF BENEFICIARIES

HWSETA

8 400 000

FHWS Biomedical Sciences Radiography Dental Technology

200

CATHSSETA

840 000

FBMS Hotel Management Tourism & Events Management

40

SASSETA

175 000

FBMS Applied Legal studies

15

LGSETA

322 500

FBMS Public Management

43

CHIETA

680 000

FHWS Biomedical Sciences Applied Sciences Analytical Chemistry

40

MERSETA

3 849 000

FEBE Mechanical Engineering Electrical Engineering Industrial Engineering

59

BANKSETA

3 593 205

FID Information Technology

105

MICTSETA

420 000

FBMS Public Management

60

CATHSSETA (Graduates)

672 000

FBMS Tourism & Events Management

10

ii) PYES Graduate Placement Project The centre participates in a national graduate project which emanated from the Presidential Youth Employment Stimulus Fund, an initiative by the President’s Office. At the beginning of 2022, the DHET invited universities to indicate their capacity to host interns for six months to provide exposure to the university environment.

The interns were earmarked to assist in operations and academic activities for this experience. A total of 3 000 opportunities were made available, and CPUT committed 70 beneficiaries to the project. The university was granted R2 100 000, which has been distributed among students in 18 departments, at a stipend of R5 000 per learner.

ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT

110

Centre for Innovative Educational Technology (CIET)

Prof Eunice Ndeto Ivala ivalae@cput.ac.za

Introduction

Research outputs

CIET’s mandate is to support the academic project through staff development into innovative integration and use of technologies and pedagogies to promote holistic student success.

During 2022, CIET produced the following research outputs:

To achieve this mandate, the centre’s work is informed by design-based research. Results are used to improve staff development training programmes and student learning. Staff development activities include workshops, seminars, a short course on blended learning, learner analytics and various other projects. The centre also mentors academics towards design-based research and scholarship of learning and teaching. During 2022, CIET staff members were involved in designing and delivering some of the short courses offered by the Cape Higher Education Consortium (CHEC).

• Dr Vusi Mshayisa and Prof Eunice Ivala authored ‘No student left behind: Students’ experiences of a self-faced online learning orientation in undergraduate studies during the Covid-19 pandemic’, in Educational Sciences, 12(6) https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci12060386

Journal articles

Books and chapters • Prof Y Waghid, Prof Z Waghid, Prof J Terblanche and Dr F Waghid authored the book Higher Teaching and Learning for Alternative Futures: A Renewed Focus on Critical Praxis

111 • Prof Y Waghid, Prof Z Waghid and Dr F Waghid authored ‘Pedagogical responsiveness and claims of democratic citizenship education in Africa’, in Pedagogical Responsiveness in Complex Contexts

Review of research publications and grant proposals CIET staff members were involved as reviewers for DHETaccredited and ISSN journals. They were also involved in the reviewing of NRF grant proposals.

Technical reports • CIET academics contributed to an international report on ‘FutureAbility digital readiness’: https://read-lab.eu/wp-content/themes/pdfs Report_digital_readiness_FINAL.pdf

NRF ratings Prof Eunice Ivala was awarded a C2 rating by the National Research Foundation (NRF), bringing the total of NRF-rated researchers in the centre to two, the second being Dr Faiq Waghid.

Collaboration on research projects CIET staff members were involved in collaboration with various researchers at CPUT and at other higher education institutions in the region and nationally. They also participated in three EU-funded projects: • FutureAbility Erasmus+ Project, which aims to investigate how educators teach visual art subjects and use visual arts methods to teach online during the pandemic 2021– 2023 • Internationalisation of the curriculum in order to prepare pupils/students and equip them for their global citizenship (both personal and professional), which was completed this year

FUNDING SOURCE DHET Publications Subsidy 2020

AMOUNT 85 000

RESEARCH OUTPUT 2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO DHET MAY 2023)

UNITS

Chapters in books (submitted)

0.58

Journal articles (audited)

0.72

TOTAL

1.30

ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT

112

CPUT Libraries

Dr Elisha Chiware chiwaree@cput.ac.za

Introduction CPUT Libraries form an integral component of the research activities at CPUT by providing access to relevant world-class information resources, various platforms, tools and services. The Libraries continued to provide essential services to the CPUT research community during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns, with essential services delivered online.

The Libraries have an important role in Open Sciences and Open Access initiatives, which they make available in the CPUT environment. Open Science is a movement to increase accessibility and openness of scholarly research based on FAIR principles for all – Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability and Reusability. On a national level, work is being done towards a South African Open Science Cloud by various stakeholders, including the Department of Science & Innovation and the European Open Science Cloud. This work emphasises the importance of open sciences, and CPUT Libraries contributed by having an institutional repository and research data repository to make the research outputs of CPUT as accessible as possible.

Highlights for 2022 During the period under review, CPUT Libraries continued with services to enhance research and postgraduate student performance throughout the university. The key areas of service provision included access to information resources, specialised services to researchers and postgraduate students, the hosting and maintaining of open repositories, provision of research data management services and tools, as well as various types of scholarly communication support.

113 Research impact assessment tool The Libraries have developed a tool that makes it easy for researchers to download their research impact from five major platforms all at once: Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, eSango and ORCID. This enables a more efficient and easier way for preparing bibliometric and other impact reports, for grant applications and for promotions.

This tool was launched in 2022 and has been used by 85 researchers with 145 reports created and it is currently going through phase 2 for further enhancements.

Research support collections During the 2022 academic year, the Libraries’ primary focus in enabling research at the university was to provide the necessary knowledge base for academic programmes and research niche areas. Across the institution, the Libraries had 257 075 books on the shelves, 264 024 books online, and 82 066 scholarly journal titles to support academic programmes and knowledge production.

Open Science support The Libraries have upheld our commitment to enhance the visibility and citations of university research outputs and authors. During the past academic year, up to 260

CPUT research outputs, 131 theses and dissertations, as well as 140 datasets, were added to our open access repositories. The institutional research data platform eSango continues to grow and to provide opportunities for future collaborations between CPUT researchers and researchers from other institutions, countries and domains.

The DMP tool was updated to include a new section to ensure that plans are POPIA compliant. The eWorkbench was developed at the Technical University Munich (TUM), based on the open software which is available via GitHub. The web-based platform offers numerous functions for creating electronic lab books and data management plans, and also for managing appointments, resources, contacts and tasks. Research data can be uploaded, structured, shared and provided with metadata. CPUT’s eWorkbench installation was concluded this year.

During the seminar, academics, librarians and industry came together to deliberate on skills needed to prepare students for the workplace.

Research output In our own contribution to the librarianship body of knowledge, the Libraries’ staff produced several research outputs during 2022.

Journal articles

Preservation strategy A preservation strategy was developed during this year. The Arkivum platform was procured. Onboarding started and eSango, powered by Figshare, will ingest into Arkivum.

Ilifu project The last deliverable in ongoing Deliverable 5 is to submit the CPUT Research Data Repository for the Core Trust Seal certification. The 3rd submission was made this year, we are awaiting feedback.

2nd Research and Information Literacy Skills in the Workplace Seminar The Libraries have successfully hosted our 2nd Research and Information Literacy Skills in the Workplace Seminar.

• Dr Elisha Chiware and Dr Lara Skelly authored ‘Open Science in Africa: What policymakers should consider’, in Front: Research Metrics and Analytics, Special issue on Open Science in Africa https://doi.org/10.3389/ frma.2022.950139 • Dr Elisha Chiware and Dr Lara Skelly authored ‘African researchers do not think differently about Open Data’, in Frontiers in Research Metrics and Analytics, Special Issue on Open Science in Africa https://doi:10.3389/ frma.2022.95021 • Prof Anna (Hanlie) Dippenaar, Prof Candice Livingston, Ms Joanne Arendse, Prof Pieter Boer, Ms Kobie (Jacoba) Meiring and Ms Valencia Cloete authored ‘Spreading our wings toward collaborative servicelearning: A South African case study’, in Emerald Insight https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ S2055-364120220000047008/full/html

ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT

114

CPUT Libraries hosts successful hybrid event CPUT hosted the 2nd Research & Information Literacy Skills in the Workplace Seminar in November. The hybrid event brought together industry partners, academics and librarians, attracting more than 250 participants. The keynote speaker was Mr Dennis Ocholla, a professor of Information Studies at the University of Zululand. The title of his presentation was ‘The three sisters: Partnership between research, library and library information science education towards information literacy skills in the workplace’.

“As we focus on preparing our students for industry, one of the important aspects is the ability to research and use information in the workplace. It is also important that industry and libraries have a dialogue regarding information skills in the workplace to ensure the academic sector understands the nature of these requirements,” said Ms Janine Lockhart, Library Manager: Research Support and Faculty of Applied Sciences. “The purpose of this seminar is to have open discussions between librarians, academics and industry partners with regard to research and information literacy skills within the workplace.

Through this engagement, we hope that industry can help ensure that we understand what skills are needed and how these skills are used within the workplace.

This dialogue will inform the broader university community to improve and enhance curriculum development in information literacy so that we can produce graduates who can make a positive impact within the workplace.”

In his opening remarks, Prof Elisha Chiware, Director: CPUT Libraries, said the Covid-19 lockdowns had created new opportunities for academic and research libraries globally to rethink how they deliver services to their clients to support learning, teaching, research,

innovation and community engagement. “We are also learning more of the demands from industry, especially in the areas of empowering our graduates who are entering the workplace to be more tech-savvy and especially in the area of data literacy.” Prof Chiware added, “One of the key emerging areas in almost all domains is the ability of any new employee to be able to handle data, especially in how they source, evaluate, organise and interpret it, as well as produce meaningful reports and provide their seniors with data for decision-making.”

Dr David Phaho, DVC: RTIP, delivered the official welcome, “It is one thing to have a vast treasure trove of information resources at our disposal. There is still a need for students, researchers and scholars to constantly upgrade or upskill their knowledge to ensure proper, effective and efficient access to these resources. Technology innovations are evolving, and so must our skill sets to ensure we are not left behind on the information highway.”

• Ms Christel Oosthuizen and Ms Michelle Kahn authored ‘The research support needs of emerging researchers employed at the Education faculty of a university of technology’, in Practical Academic Librarianship: The International Journal of the SLA Academic Division, 12(1) Conference papers • Ms Christel Oosthuizen presented ‘Where there’s a WIL there’s a way: The case of a CPUT branch library’s opportunity to present a workplace information literacy course to a group of Grade-R Diploma students’, at the 2nd Research and Information Literacy Skills in the Workplace Seminar, at CPUT in November • Ms Nokuthula Ndlovu and Prof Cecile Gerwel Proches presented ‘Embracing changes in technology in an academic library at a higher educational institution in South Africa’, at the 2022 IBC Conference, in Somerset West in September

FUNDING SOURCE Improvement of Qualification Programme (IQP)

AMOUNT 200 000

RESEARCH OUTPUT 2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO DHET MAY 2023) Journal articles (audited) Research & Information Literacy Skills in the Workplace Seminar

UNITS 1.15

115

Fundani Centre for Higher Education Development (CHED)

The Fundani Centre for Higher Education Development (CHED) is a strategic unit that initiates and facilitates higher education development in alignment with relevant international and national imperatives. The centre works collaboratively with colleagues in faculties and other strategic units to strengthen research in teaching and learning in higher education.

The centre forms partnerships with other universities to collaborate on projects to promote the scholarship of teaching and learning. It also collaborates with these institutions to strengthen student access and success in higher education and to develop the scholarship of teaching and research.

Research output Fundani staff play a significant role in CPUT’s Research Focus Area 5: Human, Health & Social Dynamics through regular publications in accredited journals and books. In 2022, Fundani academic staff produced a book titled Student Peer Support Initiatives in Higher Education: A Collection of South African Case Studies, edited by Dr Xena Cupido, Dr Nelia Frade, Ms Thaiurie Govender, Prof Subethra Pather and Mr Edgar Samkange.

Dr Xena Cupido cupidox@cput.ac.za

Academics in the centre regularly review papers for national and international journals. Many are also chosen as external examiners for master’s and doctoral theses. They supervise several CPUT staff members engaged in master’s and doctoral studies focusing on general education and higher education. Dr Najwa Norodien-Fataar, HOD of the Curriculum Development Unit, was invited as keynote speaker at the HELTASA Coffee Conversations, which focused on ‘Recentring the student voice in student feedback on teaching and courses’.

Research and Innovation Fund for Teaching & Learning (RIFTAL) Fundani staff provide a supportive space for research into teaching and learning across CPUT’s faculties. RIFTAL is an integral part of research development at the centre. The University Capacity Development Grant (UCDG) and the DVC: Teaching & Learning’s RIFTAL project ensure that approximately R650 000 is disbursed to CPUT faculty members by Fundani to conduct classroom-based research each year. During 2022, projects submitted and approved for funding addressed the issues related to digital technology, online assessments and teaching and learning approaches in higher education.

ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT

116 Research in Teaching & Learning Conference (RITAL)

A new feature of the RITAL Conference was a keynote address by the winner of the institutional Teaching Excellence Award, Dr Sweta Patnaik.

CPUT academic staff presented their research findings at the 10th Annual Research in Teaching and Learning Conference held at CPUT’s Granger Bay Campus. The conference theme was ‘Beyond the pandemic: Rethinking and revitalising our pedagogical practices in higher education institutions’. The keynote address titled ‘Re-imagining higher education online learning environments post Covid-19 and beyond: A selfdirected learning (SDL) perspective’ was delivered by Prof Mncedisi Maphalala, Director of the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT) at DUT. The RITAL Conference allowed academics to rethink and revitalise their roles as lecturers beyond the pandemic. A focus on using technology meaningfully by placing pedagogy at the centre of student learning was emphasised. Lecturers were encouraged to focus on the following questions: - How do we create a pedagogy that enables students to engage with knowledge dialogically between lecturers and students and between students and students?

- How do we ensure access to knowledge through our mixed, blended and contact delivery modes?

- How do we shift from traditional top-down pedagogical practices to active learning pedagogies?

- How does technology-enhanced learning influence our perspectives of decolonisation in higher education?

- How can technology-enhanced learning lead to transformative learning among our students?

CPUT curriculum officers and academics were invited to attend. They submitted abstracts based on empirical and conceptual research and reflections on curriculum development, teaching, learning and assessment. The objectives of the writing retreat were to: encourage a culture of writing and research; build a scholarly identity among CPUT academics; encourage participants to learn from one another; and identify accredited journals for publication.

Conference attendance

Dr Xena Cupido, Prof Mncedisi Maphalala and Dr Sweta Patnaik

Writing retreat Fundani’s Research Co-ordinator, Dr Najwa Norodien-Fataar, organised a writing retreat at Monkey Valley Resort, 31 October to 2 November.

Participants at Monkey Valley Resort

Dr Nosisona Mkonto, HOD of the Student Learning Unit and the First-Year Experience Co-ordinator, attended the international 41st Annual Conference on First Year Experience virtually. She also regularly attends the annual South African National Resource Centre Conference on First-Year Experience.

Fundani staff and CPUT’s curriculum officers attended the Higher Education Learning and Teaching of South Africa (HELTASA) Festival in December. The conference followed a hybrid approach, with some sessions online and inperson at various local university hubs. The theme was ‘Sivela phi. Siphi? Siya phi? Shifts, options and decisions’. The conference was designed in a festival manner with presentations by various groups such as professional learning, digital learning and teaching and student learning groups.

The organisers encouraged contributions such as collages, Tik-Tok videos and poems.

117 Book published

initiatives that have developed nationally, reflect strategically upon them, and consider implementing them in their own institutions. As such, the volume may be used as a reference to add value to the design, implementation and administration of peer support initiatives.

Student Peer Support Initiatives in Higher Education: A Collection of South African Case Studies was compiled by Dr Xena Cupido, Dr Nelia Frade, Ms Thaiurie Govender, Prof Subethra Pather and Mr Edgar Samkange, and published in November.

The structure and coverage of the guide were collectively developed, honed and pared, with a view to advocacy, information sharing and newcomer orientation. Readers can dip into it, searching out relevant areas for their institutional contexts.

Siyaphumelela entry survey

Book cover: Peer Support Initiatives in

The guide is aimed Higher Education at a diverse group of individuals responsible for conceptualising, co-ordinating and implementing peer support activities at institutions of higher education.

Rather than a how-to or set of findings, this publication is an attempt to capture some current peer support practices in South African HE in order to raise the profile and expectations of peer support practices in a journey towards transforming the experience and outputs of the higher education system.

It was developed for those engaged in peer support initiatives in HE as a means to enhance student retention and success. It aims to create a working resource focused on peer support to stimulate reflection and dialogue to develop responsive strategies to foster student engagement and learning. The range of case studies provides rich snapshots of selected innovative interventions and practices. Theoretical and pedagogical frameworks which underpin peer support practices are highlighted.

This allows the reader to learn about several peer support

During the 2022 academic year, a carefully designed survey was conducted for the Siyaphumelela Project at CPUT, primarily aimed at first-time entering students. This survey, specific to this university’s context, aimed to extract insights into student background, preparedness and needs, in order to better design and implement student success initiatives. The survey was offered in the three official languages of the institution. A total of 2 035 responses were received, with 1 795 of these from the first-year cohort – mainstream and ECP – representing a little over 25% of the total first-year entering cohort of 2022. The institutional survey forms a part of an institutional student success project.

Collaboration with HERESA and THENSA HERESA training workshop and partner meeting The Higher Education Reform Experts South Africa (HERESA) training workshop and partner meeting were part of the approved HERESA project activities for 2022–2023. Three delegates from CPUT were invited to participate in three study visits to Europe. The study visits were designed to capacitate the Higher Education Reform Experts (HEREs) within CPUT to revise/develop new strategies and policy reviews for teaching and learning innovation, WIL and entrepreneurship.

Visit to Tampere University of Applied Sciences Tampere University of Applied Sciences (Finnish: Tampereen Ammattikorkeakoulu, TAMK) is a partner institution in the HERESA project. A delegation of executive level participants from South Africa were invited to visit TAMK in November. At the same time, another delegation of THENSA (Technological Higher Education Network South Africa) arrived at TAMK for a short visit. The HERESA project aims to help South African technology-focused universities revise and reinvigorate teaching and learning strategies. The TAMK members participating in HERESA are Dr Elina Botha, Mr Jiri Viippola, Mr Juha Lahtinen and Ms Ella Kallio.

ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT

118 THENSA is a network that aims to enable its partner institutions to respond to the challenges and targets set in the NDP, the UN’s SDGs and the Africa 2063 Agenda through technological education, research and innovation. The visit of the HERESA delegation was organised due to the interest towards Finnish bachelor’s level education in universities of applied sciences.

The biggest areas of interest were the studentcentred pedagogics, skills-based learning, the curricula, and entrepreneurship education concept Proakatemia. The three-day visit was planned by Dr Elina Botha, senior lecturer in Social Services and Health Care at TAMK, and Mr Jiri Vilppola, senior lecturer of Pedagogic Innovation and Culture at TAMK School of Professional Teacher Education (TAOK). The visit included a tour around the main campus and an introduction to the Finnish education system.

RESEARCH OUTPUT 2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO DHET MAY 2023)

Fundani celebrates women’s voices and experiences Aligned with the International Womxn’s Day theme of ‘Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow’, and continuing with the African tradition of art and storytelling, Fundani CHED hosted a workshop in August to celebrate CPUT womxn’s voices and experiences. Fundani CHED Director, Dr Xena Cupido, said they were deliberate in the use of the noun, plural ‘wom·xn’ [wim-in] (used especially in intersectional feminism as an alternative spelling to avoid the suggestion of sexism perceived in the sequences m-a-n and m-e-n, and to be inclusive of trans and nonbinary women). Womxn at CPUT were invited to share their lived experiences, intergenerational stories, challenges, highlights and influences under the following topics: Womxn in Poverty, Education, Health, Violence, Power and Decision Making, The Environment, and Girl Child.

Tampere University of Applied Sciences in Finland

FUNDING UNITS

Chapters in books (submitted)

0.10

Journal articles (audited)

2.81

TOTAL

2.91

SOURCE DHET Publications Subsidy 2020

AMOUNT 80 363

The workshop, held on the Bellville Campus, was facilitated

by Ms Janine Lange, a feminist indigenous storyteller, interdisciplinary artist and researcher. As a yoga instructor and narrative practitioner, she works with embodied practices to facilitate the focalising of peripheral stories to promote engagement, acceptance and collaboration rather than tolerance in institutional practice and the artmaking/research process. Ma Lange currently serves as an associate lecturer in the Department of Anthropology at UWC and is a PhD fellow in the New Imaginaries project for sexual and gender justice based in the Women’s and Gender Studies department at UWC. The two-day programme journeyed with participants through the development of a ‘Tree of Life’. The exercise was used as a metaphor to assist in storytelling based on one’s life. Using arts-based pedagogies, participants captured the experience through drawing. During the

119

second day, the participants were taken through a process to develop their story, poem, narrative and or art piece. The workshop was open to all womxn at CPUT, students and staff members.

The womxn engaged in the workshop both face-to-face and online. It created a moment in time, away from the everyday business to take time to ‘exhale’. “It is important to create spaces within our environment where we acknowledge the rich diversity, backgrounds, strengths and wisdom in the institution. We can learn from each other in surprising and unexpected ways when we share our individual and collective experiences. Faculties and departments are encouraged to host such events not just during Womxn’s Month, but throughout the year,” said Dr Cupido. She added that cultural understanding emerged from the workshop, “but more so that our experiences are more similar than different, we are able to bring ourselves into a space through imagination and creativity. As we shared our stories, trust, empathy and feelings of community unfolded. We felt a sense of oneness”.

(seated) Ms Onele Tshaka, Ms Nicolene Pasquallie, Dr Xena Cupido; (standing) Ms Bukiwe Sojiji, Ms Dudu Mdakane, Ms Nomxolisi Jantjies, Ms Yanelisa Bija and Ms Janine Lange

Fundani takes the lead at RITAL Conference Fundani CHED hosted the annual RITAL Conference at the Granger Bay Campus in December, with the aim of discussing and debating teaching, learning, curriculum and assessment issues related to higher education. The one-day conference was funded by the UCDG and themed ‘Beyond the pandemic: Rethinking and revitalising our pedagogical practices in higher education institutions’. The event brought together academics across the disciplines who are interested in discussing teaching, learning, curriculum and pedagogical practices beyond the Covid-19 pandemic at CPUT. The Research Co-ordinator at Fundani, Dr Najwa Norodien-Fataar, who chaired the conference, said they aimed to enable academics to rethink and revitalise their roles as lecturers beyond the pandemic. Academics who were recipients of RIFTAL funding also presented their research findings to the CPUT academic community. Approximately 60 academics attended the conference and participated in debates on various teaching, learning, curriculum and assessment matters. The conference attracted academics from the faculties of Applied Sciences, Engineering & the Built Environment, and Education. “A key concern for all academics is to use technology meaningfully by placing pedagogy at the centre of student learning. Several presentations focused on pedagogy as central to productive learning at universities. A crucial aspect of pedagogy is to ensure that students engage with knowledge in a dialogical manner between lecturers and students and between students and students,” Dr Norodien-Fataar observed.

The Director of the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching at DUT, Prof Mncedisi Maphalala, delivered the keynote address ‘Re-imagining higher education online learning environments post-Covid-19 and beyond: A selfdirected learning perspective’. Teaching Excellence Award winner, Dr Sweta Patnaik, from FEBE, also delivered a presentation. This focused on how she consistently sought feedback from students regarding their understanding of the subjects she teaches. Dr Patnaik emphasised that she always looks for innovative ways to ensure students learn effectively. Dr Norodien-Fataar noted that “A crucial message of the conference was to emphasise pedagogy as central to student learning. Several presentations focused on the relationship between pedagogy and technology-enhanced learning and how to ensure access to knowledge through our mixed, blended and contact delivery modes.”

One of the presenters, Prof Jessy van Wyk, HOD: Food Science & Technology, said, “The conference was an enormous success. What really impressed me was the amount as well as the scope of the work done by so many staff at CPUT around delivering quality and student-centred LTA [learning, teaching and assessment] to our students. The scope covers a healthy mix of (i) research based on tried-and-tested methods (e.g., the Socratic method) as well as new theories and methods (with a particular focus on the digital space) and (ii) implementing those methodologies in the classroom and laboratories and evaluating the impact towards continuous improvement.”

In her presentation, Prof van Wyk stated that her department was able to develop new curricula aimed at producing graduates that are job-ready, practitioners who are capable of complex practices such as enhanced graduate employability. “Successfully developing and delivering these curricula is facilitated by the depth of experience in the department, as well as input from our wide network of partnerships with industry as well as local and international universities.”

More information about RITAL, please visit: https://blogs.cput.ac.za/rital/

Dr Xena Cupido, Prof Mncedisi Maphalala and Dr Sweta Patnaik

120

Fundani CHED launches STEM Club Fundani CHED launched the institution’s Science, Technology and Mathematics (STEM) Club at the Bellville Campus during October. Mathematics Support Lead and STEM Co-ordinator, Dr Frikkie George, said the purpose of the establishment of the STEM Club was to contribute to the two dimensions of CPUT’s V2030, namely, ‘Oneness’: creating a community of STEM students with Ubuntu principles, and ‘Smartness’: advancing the conceptions of technology.

CHED houses the STEM sector, providing maths and science support for students in various CPUT departments.

The Fundani CHED STEM Club was established in April 2022 to assist with STEM support and to meet one of the imperatives of the UCDG STEM Research Project at CPUT. “The vision and mission of the STEM Club is to build an inclusive STEM student community, fostering affinity for STEM disciplines, and lowering the STEM attrition rate – especially among students from disadvantaged backgrounds,” Mr Haarhoff said.

STEM Club Chairperson, Ms Sarah Tshabangu, said the purpose of the club was to magnify the maths and science experiences of learners and support them by bringing together all the STEM students and providing them with learning spaces. Her deputy, Ms Mano Tshebeletso, said their aim was to improve quality of education through involvement in learning spaces, research projects and competitions. “And also to invite field professionals who are STEM-related for discussions to promote general awareness and encourage networking.

Furthermore, we shall interact, engage and co-operate with other student support structures at CPUT.”

Dr George said the launch signals the creation of a safe, fun and brave space for students to express themselves and improve the development of their critical thinking skills of the science and maths concepts they learn in lectures. He added that the STEM Club would play a very important role in the eventual establishment of STEM Centres on the various CPUT campuses. He added that the launch would make the CPUT community aware of the existence of the STEM Club and provide an opportunity to establish partnerships and networks with external partners.

Fundani CHED UCDG project team member, Mr David Haarhoff, said student support for student success is the key focus of the Fundani CHED at CPUT. Mr Haarhoff said the Student Learning Unit (SLU) located in Fundani

The launch included beautiful renditions by the CPUT choir, scientific demonstrations by the students, input from academics from CPUT, UWC as well as the Cape Town Science Centre. “I’m ecstatic about the positive feedback and happy that the day was successful. In terms of our broader goal, this has been a stepping-stone in respect of dispelling the stigma attached to STEM subjects. All external partners and internal partners are onboard in helping us achieve our goal,” said Mr Haarhoff.

Speaking at the event, Fundani CHED Director, Dr Xena Cupido, highlighted the importance of working towards CPUT’s Vision 2030 and STEM pedagogies supporting student success. Dr Cupido’s address also focused on the following topics: • Movement away from the student deficit approach toward the dialogic approach, which engages students and academics in the stem sector • Processes of co-creating curriculum can be seen as a way of promoting democratic values in HE • Drawing upon a democratic approach • Emphasis that learning is closely connected to the participation, subjectification and negotiation of meanings • Focus on the transference of power, authority and voice to the students in a decolonising university space – working in partnership

Support for maths and science students

“Students need access to high-quality STEM learning experiences that affirm their identities as important members of the STEM community who are working to make the world a better place,” said Dr Cupido. Mr Haarhoff added that they managed to forge partnerships with stakeholders who committed to “ensuring that they are onboard in terms of supporting us to ensure that our goal is achieved. This has opened many doors for the STEM Club, and we look forward to working together.”

121

HIV/Aids Unit

Ms Melanie Swanson maraisme@cput.ac.za

The HIV/Aids Unit falls under the Division of Student Affairs. During 2020, the pandemic taught us to use technology at a much higher level and this filtered down to our Peer Educators as well. We were able to continue with multiple educational virtual interventions during 2021 and 2022.

strategy. We used a similar model to that used in the past for HIV testing and health screening at our campuses and campus residences. Drive participants included Wellington Campus, Mowbray Campus, District Six Campus and Catsville Residence, one of the biggest residences of the institution.

Highlights for 2022

Health screening services

Vooma Vaccination Drive

One of the most important programmes under the Division of Student Affairs is the health screening programme that consists of screenings such as blood pressure, blood sugar, HIV and sexually transmitted infections, including risk assessment and link to care. Supported by Sonke Gender Justice, the unit was able to screen over 6 000 students this year. These services were not only brought to the different campuses during the pandemic, but also to many student residences through the Mobile Wellness Services.

The objective of this drive was to promote CPUT’s Covid-19 vaccination programme during the pandemic. The second round of the Vooma Vaccination campaign saw close to 2 000 people receiving their Covid-19 vaccinations at pop-up sites on the various campuses as well as at the Vaccination Centre on the Bellville Campus. The centre manager, Mr Benjamin de Waal, said 1 992 people were vaccinated – 813 at the pop-up sites and 1 179 at the Bellville centre. He said much of the success of the campaign hinged on the

Vooma Vaccination Drive

efforts of Campus Health, the HIV/Aids Unit and the team of peer educators.

The campaign was also supported by the Central SRC. Off-campus Vooma Vaccination drives were executed through a strong social mobilisation

ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT

122 Young women empowerment

Mobile Wellness Services at the Granger Bay Campus

Peer educators on the District Six Campus

Peer Education Programme The HIV/Aids Unit has a strong focus on developing peer educators to be strong student leaders across CPUT’s campuses and residences. Every year, peer educators are trained to become change agents in raising awareness about holistic health and wellness, and social justice.

They disseminate accurate information to their peers in such a way that their peers will share further. Through participation in our Peer Education Programme, skills such as time management, critical thinking, planning, project management, facilitating and communication are nurtured to enhance personal development and job opportunities. Collaborative work with internal and external stakeholders remains important in the implementation of the Peer Education Programme. Students who enrol in the programme undergo a year of training that consists of a five-day course followed by supervised and mentored activities, including social mobilisation, discussion groups and actively participating with and engaging their peers about important issues such as Covid-19, unplanned pregnancies, alcohol and substance abuse, mental health issues, and gender-based violence. The Peer Educators’ Award Ceremony was hosted in September at the Granger Bay Hotel School.

Peer educators at their awards ceremony

Jubilant peer educators

This year there was another strong focus on the empowerment of young women. Unfortunately, even though we were toward the end of the Covid-19 pandemic, many of our engagements still happened virtually. We were privileged to have phenomenal ladies engage with our young women. Ms Nthabiseng Maake is a philanthropist and owner of an NGO that focuses on giving a platform to and helping single mothers with basic needs. Ms Siba Mtongana, is an alumnus and celebrity chef, who shared about her experiences as a university student. She also gave innovative ways as to how to ensure a healthy lifestyle in terms of taking care of oneself physically, mentally and spiritually. At the virtual events, there was always a focus on spreading awareness as to how women can empower each other. There was also time to reflect on ways that women can motivate and encourage each other. Another phenomenal young woman who spoke to our students was Ms Ntombozuko Botha, also an alumnus, who recently published her first book A Seed Grown into a Flower.

An inspirational webinar with Ms Siba Mtongana

123 Amajita Men’s Programme During November, men were educated about prostate cancer awareness and risk factors. Issues of men’s mental health were also highlighted. The Men’s Pledge that was launched in 2018 was re-emphasised, putting the spotlight on the role of men in terms of curbing gender-based violence. An interactive webinar was hosted in July, with the focus on educational aspects and key issues related to substance use and abuse.

Stakeholders’ meeting The HIV/Aids Unit held a stakeholder meeting in December at the Hotel School at the Granger Bay Campus. The Department of Student Affairs was represented at the meeting by delegates from its various divisions, including the HIV/Aids Unit, Student Counselling and the Campus Health Clinic, as well as representatives from its partners, such as NORSA, ANOVA, Wits RHI, NACOSA, Rape Crisis Centre, Marie Stopes Reproductive Health, and the Department of Health. Important stakeholders who were unfortunately unable to attend were Sonke Gender Justice and Partners in Sexual Health.

The stakeholders’ meeting had the dual goals of celebrating and reflecting on stakeholder partnerships both old and new.

Each stakeholder was given an opportunity to give an overview of the services offered to CPUT and discussed their plan of action for the coming year (2023).

The significance of providing CPUT students with access to antiretroviral treatment, health care and mental health services was discussed. The foundation for communication has been laid, so the NGO organisations now only need to decide how they will link their services to support CPUT students.

FUNDING SOURCE Research Exchange Programme (REP)

AMOUNT 60 000

Stakeholders at the Hotel School, Granger Bay

124

Peer Educators honoured at awards ceremony CPUT’s HIV/Aids Unit held its annual Peer Education Awards ceremony in October, which was the first face-to-face ceremony after the Covid-19 pandemic. The ceremony was held at the Cape Town Hotel School and hosted by the Unit’s interns, Ms Siphelele Maseko and Ms Nthabiseng Maake.

Ms Melanie Swanson, Head of the HIV/Aids Unit, said, “The purpose of the event was to celebrate the hard work and dedication of the 2022 Peer Educators throughout the year. They have given themselves entirely by ensuring that each campus and campus residence had condoms, that students were aware of what was going on in the unit, and that discussions were held on crucial topics faced by students.

They showcased their leadership skills by actively promoting the CPUT Vooma Vaccination Drive earlier in the year.” Ms Swanson continued, “These incredible young minds were celebrated through a state-of-the-art classic and vintage themed event titled ‘Celebrating a vintage heart, with a vintage mind’… We wish to thank the management of CPUT, Higher Health and Fundani for their generous support of our programmes.”

The peer educators were awarded certificates of completion in various categories such as Covid Warrior of the Year, Social Media Influencer of the Year, Role Model of the Year, Junior Peer of the Year, Senior Peer Educator of the Year, Campus Leader of the Year, Peer Mentor of the Year, Condom Distributor of the Year, Most Discussions of the Year, Change Agent of the Year, and Campus of the Year. Monetary prizes were awarded to the first, second and third place prizes according to work recorded through a monthly log sheet. Executive Director in the Office of the VC, Prof Driekie Hay-Swemmer, shared a message of support with the peer educators to encourage them to keep doing great work and to be great mentors to others. Mr Andile Xolo, who represented the Central SRC, said, “I hope that the HIV/Aids Unit will continue recruiting peer educators to join the programme and I hope that all students come and participate in the programme. All in all, the HIV/Aids Unit is doing a great job and I enjoyed myself.”

Here’s what some of the winners had to say: • “The experience I got in this programme will forever stay with me. It has inspired and motivated me to want to do more and see my fellow peer educators getting awards/certificates for what they have done during the year. That sparked my interest to be more active in everything I want to achieve.”

• “I enjoyed those team-building games we had in our refreshers training and the discussion we had that day. Also, this programme has helped me to gain back my confidence.”

• “The ceremony was amazing and congratulations to all who won and those that are motivated to do better next year. As long as we support each other, the world is a better place.”

• “My thanks go to the HIV/Aids unit and their sponsors, and office bearers and peer educators on the ground.”

• “We are CPUT and once a peer educator, always a peer educator.”

Celebrations at the Cape Town Hotel School

125

Student Counselling

Ms Leanie Brits pienaarl@cput.ac.za

Student Counselling provides a comprehensive range of services to registered and prospective students in the form of individual and group interventions. The department serves the CPUT community through various programme activities which focus on the prevention and treatment of mental health challenges and the personal development of students. These activities are supported through various partnerships with academic and support departments, and several student groups and organisations.

As part of the departments’ ongoing programme evaluation and service excellence, professional staff members regularly gather information on student engagement experiences, through qualitative and quantitative methods. The results are presented as research output – some informal (annual reports and newsletters) and some formal (workshops, journal articles, conference papers and poster presentations).

The Final Year Experience Programme (FYEP) is an initiative by the Division of Student Affairs and Services, overseen by the Department Student Counselling. The programme aims to develop professional and personal life skills of senior, final-year and postgraduate students as they prepare to enter the world of work as well-rounded CPUT graduates. Its three themes are ‘Personal capabilities’, ‘Social capabilities’ and ‘Professional capabilities’, each with a sub-set of themes such as ‘Career preparedness’, ‘Financial literacy’, ‘Personal leadership’ and ‘Diversity and inclusivity’. The programme hosted 31 online activities during 2022, and 1 100 students attended the various activities.

Students had the opportunity to complete an online evaluation

after each workshop. 594 students completed evaluation forms, and results indicated that most found the information shared in the workshop to be very informative (92%), but their ability to apply what they have learnt was rated slightly lower (80%). Participants identified the need for more practical exercises. The majority found that the programme positively contributed to their development (89%), and they shared very positive comments about their experience. Challenges mostly centred on logistical and technical issues such as the time of the workshop, connectivity challenges, and a need to have contact sessions. The FYEP programme of 2022 obtained an 89% satisfaction rating.

The communication strategy employed was very effective, and the newly created social media pages also created additional awareness of FYEP topics and events. 247 students indicated that they heard about the workshops through social media pages, and 345 students relied on other media of communication, such as Blackboard and Newsflash. The FYEP Facebook and Instagram pages were created in March 2022. Social media pages proved to be successful in creating awareness for programme activities as 47% of students who attended sessions heard information about the topic on social media.

Based on the students’ feedback recommendations, next year we will implement a hybrid learning calendar inclusive of contact and virtual sessions. Practical resources will aid students with the application. More sessions will be facilitated after-hours where possible. Blackboard will be used for the majority of activities, to allow for ease of access to recordings and instant communication and reminders to students about upcoming activities.

126 FOCUS AREA 1 Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

FOCUS AREA 2 Space Science, Engineering & Technology

FOCUS AREA 3 Smart Energy

FOCUS AREA 4

CPUT RESEARCH FOCUS AREAS

The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability

The CPUT focus area programme is one of the outcomes of the institution’s strategy for research and innovation, as described in the institution’s Research & Technology Innovation 10-year Blueprint (2012–2022).

FOCUS AREA 5

In order to build critical mass and make effective use of limited resources, CPUT resolved to develop clear areas of focus over a period of ten years. The institution’s research, technology and innovation efforts along with its resources are concentrated on these focus areas.

Human, Health & Social Dynamics

Each of these areas provides a basis upon which research and innovation niche areas are developed within faculties, centres of excellence and units.

FOCUS AREA 6 The Digital Society

The choice of these focus areas and associated niche areas has been informed by: • CPUT’s strengths • Areas likely to make strong contributions to strategic imperatives and national priorities • A need to support a multidisciplinary approach to research and innovation

Note: Please see ‘Message from the Director: RTI-SIP’ on pages 25 to 26 for a more detailed introduction to the Focus Areas.

127

1

FOCUS AREA 1 Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

Introduction by Prof Marilize Le Roes-Hill Biotechnology-based research and innovation at CPUT is aimed at achieving the objectives of CPUT’s RTI Blueprint and Vision 2030, as well as contributing towards the South African Bioeconomy Strategy. This will be achieved with knowledge production aimed at benefiting local and national communities, and ultimately also supporting the growth and development of a global bioeconomy.

The goals of the South African Bioeconomy Strategy are to address health challenges; food nutrition and security; clean water; clean renewable energy with a reduced reliance on fossil fuels; a shift from a resource-based economy to a knowledgebased economy with sustainable resource management; and the protection of biodiversity. Research Focus Area 1 includes research activities within the various Research Niche Areas aimed at addressing these goals.

In addition, a number of the UN’s Strategic Development Goals are addressed through this Research Focus Area: Goal 2 – Zero hunger Goal 3 – Good health and well-being Goal 5 – Gender equality Goal 9 – Industry, innovation and infrastructure

leroesm@cput.ac.za

Goal 12 – Responsible consumption and production Goal 14 – Life under water (biodiversity management) Goal 15 – Life on land (biodiversity management) The research taking place in Research Focus Area 1 aims to enhance strategic partnerships, facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity building, and stimulate socio-economic development in the target areas identified. An interconnectivity with the work taking place in the other CPUT Research Focus Areas makes this Research Focus Area an ideal base/starting point for multi- and transdisciplinary research.

The Research Niche Areas that currently form part of this Research Focus Area include: • Biocatalysis and enzyme production • Chemoprevention • Community-based knowledge translation • Energy from bioresources • Functional foods • Oxidative stress in health and disease development • Natural products chemistry • Sports performance and supplementation

RESEARCH INSTITUTE

APPLIED MICROBIAL & HEALTH BIOTECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE (AMHBI)

FOCUS AREA 1 Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

128

Prof Jeanine L Marnewick (Chair: Biotechnology and Director: AMHBI)

marnewickj@cput.ac.za The Applied Microbial and Health Biotechnology Institute (AMHBI) has a mandate to conduct excellent research with a strong multi- and transdisciplinary focus in line with CPUT’s RTI Blueprint and Vision 2030. The institute’s research is aimed at exploring South Africa’s vast microbial and indigenous flora biodiversity in finding innovative solutions aimed to improve the overall health of the country’s communities.

AMHBI strives to achieve this through integrated research in Microbial and Health Biotechnology while encouraging the development of key scarce skills in the realisation of South Africa’s Bioeconomy Strategy. The core business is focused on postgraduate training in the scarce skills areas of Biocatalysis, Biomarkers, Biotechnology, Chemoprevention, Oxidative Stress, Redox Biology, Proteomics and related research fields, securing funding to allow for this research to take place, and the creation and dissemination of new knowledge related to these niche areas.

Message from Prof Jeanine L Marnewick Research Chair: Biotechnology and Director: AMHBI 2022 marked the 3rd year since the inception of AMHBI at the university, and indeed the first year noting our exponential growth in research activities and outputs. The first AMHBI CPUT Biotechnology Symposium was launched in September.

It took the format of a hybrid meeting with an impressive lineup of national and international invited experts in the field as presenters, including Prof Don Cowan (University of Pretoria) serving as Chair of the AMHBI Advisory Board. It was very well attended by CPUT staff and students and other interested parties and will become an annual event.

This year, we also experienced an increase in academic mobility since the Covid-19 pandemic and a number of AMHBI staff, postdoctoral fellows and postgraduate students attended and presented at national and international meetings and training opportunities. The highlights and research activities reported on here for AMHBI reflects our use of inter-, multi- and transdisciplinary approaches to generate new knowledge in the respective niche and focus areas of CPUT. I wish to thank everyone who contributed to another year successfully completed.

129 Focus area and niche areas

Postgraduates and postdoctoral fellows

The focus area and relevant niche areas within the AMHBI are aligned to address CPUT’s 10-year RTI Blueprint. Focus Area 1: Bioeconomy & Biotechnology is featured within AMHBI via the following niche areas:

In true multi- and transdisciplinary nature, AMHBI staff in collaboration with CPUT faculties, other regional, national and international HEIs, and successfully supervised and/or co-supervised several postgraduate students. This resulted in: - Two master’s degrees: MSc Environmental Health obtained by Ms Shandre Weels and Ms Thendokazi Sam - Two PhD degrees: one in Chemistry obtained by Dr Akeem Akinfenwa, and one in Biotechnology obtained by Dr Rima Maibeche from the University of Bejaia, Algeria.

Niche areas within AMHBI Biocatalysis and enzyme production Biomarkers Chemoprevention Oxidative stress in health and disease development • Wastewater remediation and reuse • • • •

Niche areas located within faculties and departments outside AMHBI • Natural products chemistry • Functional foods • Sport performance and supplementation • Health and well-being • Environmental (air, soil and water) assessment and monitoring

Research output During 2022, AMHBI staff, postgraduates and postdoctoral fellows contributed to 29 peer-reviewed journal articles, one book chapter and 25 conference presentations (in person and/or online).

Our staff currently supervise/co-supervise a total of 37 postgraduate students, 25 at master’s level and 12 at doctoral level. AMHBI researchers hosted 12 postdoctoral fellows in 2022, including one transdisciplinary fellow with shared hosts Prof Jeanine Marnewick (AMHBI) and Prof Penelope Engel-Hills (Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences), who is an AMHBI adjunct member.

Partnerships and collaboration During 2022, AMHBI members strengthened their strategic partnerships with institutions across Europe, the United States of America, Mexico, Japan and three African countries, to ensure alignment with CPUT’s Vision 2030.

Research funding and grants AMHBI researchers were successful in attracting research funding to the value of R6 092 555 for 2022 from external funders, which included the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), the South African Rooibos Council, the Maize Trust, Rhodes University, the National Research Foundation (NRF) (under various funding programmes), the Water Research Commission (WRC) and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)/Department of Science & Innovation (DSI).

Research awards Dr Mariska Lilly received CPUT’s Gold Award for Research Excellence in the sourcing of External Funding category for the 2022 academic year.

Ms Shana de Bruyn was awarded the Best Poster Presentation at the South African Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (SASBMB 2022), an online meeting held in January.

Dr Amrita Ranjan was awarded Runner Up Best Presentation in her category at the International Conference on Technological Interventions for Sustainability (CHEMCONFLUX22) MNNIT, in Allahabad, Prayagraj, India and hybrid in April.

Postdoctoral fellow Dr Taskeen Docrat received a travel grant to attend IBRO-ARC School, hosted at the Faculty of Medicine in Manusora, Egypt in November.

She inspired future neuroscientists as she presented her cuttingedge research on ‘Impact of lifestyle modification on neurodegenerative disorders from preventive and therapeutic perspectives’.

Dr Taskeen Docrat presenting her cutting-edge research

130

FOCUS AREA 1 Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

NICHE AREAS WITHIN THE FOCUS AREA: BIOECONOMY & BIOTECHNOLOGY A. Biocatalysis and enzyme production Leader: Dr Marilize le Roes-Hill Research projects in the area of marine actinobacterial biodiversity, enzyme and antibiotic discovery, and biocatalysis continued during 2022.

New collaboration with Dr Lara Atkinson from the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) allowed the team to further explore marine actinobacterial diversity. The Foundational Biodiversity Information Programme (FBIP) project SEAMAP aims to ‘map’ marine macro- and micro-biodiversity along the South African coastline.

Marine actinobacteria previously isolated from sediments collected along the Western Cape coastline were further explored in a new NRF-funded project (2022-2024) exploring the application of marine-derived enzymes in plastic degradation and the beneficiation of seaweed. This project allows for the team to build on existing collaborations with the Durban University of Technology (Prof Tukayi Kudanga), Rhodes University (Prof Brett Pletschke), and the University of Stuttgart (Prof Dr Jürgen Pleiss). A main component of the study is aimed at the development of standardised protocols for the

generation of good quality, reproducible data that can be converted into formats that are machine readable and that would follow the FAIR principles of open access data. To that end, Prof Le Roes-Hill hosted a bachelor’s student from the University of Stuttgart, Mr Max Häußler, who assisted with the development of a Jupyter Notebook application for the processing of enzyme assay data.

Reproducibility of enzymatic data was also the main topic at the two-day 3rd EnzymeML Workshop, held at the Jagdschloss Niederwald, Rüdesheim, Germany. The workshop was organised by Prof Dr Jürgen Pleiss (University of Stuttgart), Dr Carsten Kettner (Beilstein Institute), and Prof Santiago Schnell (University of Michigan). Prof Le Roes-Hill was invited

to give a presentation focused on the importance of reproducibility in enzyme catalysis – a key focus of our current research.

Continued collaboration with the Antibiotic Accelerator Initiative (AAI) project (UK Newton Fund, UK MRC, and SAMRC) members saw attendance by a large contingent of representatives at the H3D Drug Discovery Symposium at Webersburg Estate, Stellenbosch in October. The continued work of the AAI team is focused on the identification of potential new leads for the development of novel antibacterials for application against drug- and multidrug-resistant pathogenic bacteria, thereby contributing towards the continued fight against the silent pandemic driven by these pathogens.

Attendees of the 3rd EnzymeML Workshop, including Mr Alaric Prins and Prof Marilize Le Roes-Hill of AMHBI

131 B. Biomarkers

C. Chemoprevention

Leader: Dr Liana van der Westhuizen

Leader: Dr Mariska Lilly

Biomarker development research is integrated in the Rooibos and Heart Health CPUT Prestigious Project within the Oxidative Stress in Health Promotion and Disease Development niche area of the Focus Area: Bioeconomy & Biotechnology. The clinical phase of this study was completed in 2022, and so the biomarker analysis will be able to start in 2023. Samples obtained from this clinical study will be analysed for rooibos phenolic compounds and/or metabolites to find possible biomarkers of effect. Preliminary work done by previous exchange students, Ms Ida Frøyen, Ms Runa A Folgerø and Ms Amanda K Drabløs from the Western Norway University of Applied Sciences in Bergen, Norway. The project ‘Assessing rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) flavonoids by LC/MS in plasma after acute/chronic consumption of a fermented rooibos supplement’ will contribute to the optimisation process for this study.

One of the primary research projects undertaken in this niche area was an investigation of the chemopreventive properties of fermented and unfermented rooibos tea against UVB-induced skin damage, utilising a proteomic, lipidomic and transcriptomic assessment approach. This research endeavour was made possible through funding provided by the South African Rooibos Council (SARC). The dissemination of research findings took place on various national platforms, including a live radio interview on Cape Talk and RSG, as well as a live television interview on eNCA, during which Dr Lilly discussed the potential of nanotech to revolutionise rooibos skincare. Dr Lilly and her team also collaborated in the production of a YouTube video for SARC, elucidating the health benefits associated with rooibos consumption.

Dr Van der Westhuizen attended several virtual conferences, workshops and webinars on biomarkers, ethics, writing and other related fields. She is the Cochairperson of the Institutional Animal Research Ethics Committee, a member of the Faculty HDC Committee, and a member of the Research Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences. She is the supervisor of three MSc and BHSc IV students in this faculty, in the Department of Biomedical Sciences.

Dr Lilly and her team were invited speakers at the SARC Science Café held at Kirstenbosch National Gardens, where they presented their exciting research findings on the anti-inflammatory effects of rooibos on skin and gut health. In addition, Ms Shana de Bruyn, a PhD student, was awarded the Best Poster Presentation at The South African Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (SASBMB 2022) for her research on the modulation of inflammation and apoptosis in intestinal cells by aqueous rooibos extracts.

The team’s studies using polyphenol-enriched honeybush extracts to modulate barrier dysfunction and allergy-related pro-inflammatory activity in keratinocytes have strengthened collaborations with Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (TUAT), the South African Agricultural Research Council, and Infruitec-Nietvoorbij in Stellenbosch. As a result, a project building on the research was submitted for another SA/Japan JSPS Grant.

The team has also been investigating mycotoxins, their production by Fusarium, and possible control mechanisms. The NRF-funded project ‘Investigating the Fusarium verticillioides–maize interactions related to fumonisin production under drought stress conditions with an omics approach’ generated very exciting research data, which was presented at the 3rd ASM Joint MYTOX-South International Conference. A newly funded study by the Maize Trust also kicked off in 2022 looking at possible biocontrol of Fusarium species utilising indigenous rooibos and honeybush extracts. Findings were presented at national conferences (SASBMB and SASP) and a manuscript submitted for publication.

Dr Lilly received CPUT’s Silver Research Excellence Award for External Funding for 2021, and the Gold Research Excellence Award for External Funding for 2022.

FOCUS AREA 1 Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

132 D. Oxidative stress in health and disease development Leader: Prof Jeanine L Marnewick The research focus of this niche area is oxidative stress and its involvement in the aetiology of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes, and its prevention and/ or delay via the use of indigenous medicinal plants, including the proudly South African herbal tea rooibos. In 2022, this niche area continued collaborative projects across different niche areas and focus areas within CPUT, including close collaborations with Prof Ahmed Mohammed (Niche area: Natural Products Chemistry), Prof Simeon Davies (Sport Performance & Supplementation), Health and Well-being (Dr Dirk Bester), Functional Foods (Prof Maretha Opperman), Biocatalysis and Enzyme production (Prof Marilize Le Roes-Hill), Biomarkers (Dr Liana van der Westhuizen), Environmental (air, soil and water) Assessment & Monitoring (Prof James Odendaal and Prof Reinette Snyman) and Food Technology (Dr Zanephyn Keyser). Laboratory activities were continued for projects involving the elucidation and substantiation of various bioactivities for rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and its main polyphenolic constituents, and Cannabis (Cannabis sativa), with collaborators from the University of Vienna, the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Ankara University in Turkey, and a number of national institutions.

AMHBI PhD student Mr Oiva Kamati received training at the University of Vienna as part of the SA/Austria bilateral funding initiative by the NRF grant awarded to Prof Marnewick in collaboration with Prof Dr Karl-Heinz Wagner from Austria.

Highlights for 2022 include the hosting of two AMHBI PhD student Mr Oiva Kamati international experts, Prof Dr Melinda Kovacs from the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences and Prof Dr Karl-Heinz Wagner from the University of Vienna, incoming research student exchange visits by two PhD students (Ms Laura Bragagna and Ms Agnes Draxler) from the University of Vienna, as part of the AfricaUninet award, and an outgoing research student exchange by Mr Oiva Kamati (PhD candidate) to the University of Vienna.

Prof Marnewick, researchers in the niche area and other AMHBI researchers were invited speakers at the Rooibos Science Café, held under the auspices of the South African Rooibos Council at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, making a significant contribution to the rooibos research taking place in the country.

A major achievement for this niche area was the conclusion of the clinical intervention phase of the Rooibos, Heart and Cognitive Health Study, with Prof Marnewick as the principal investigator (PI). New funding from the Austrian–African Research Network Africa–UniNet was also obtained by Prof Marnewick and the team for a project involving Covid-19, with

the first phase of this clinical project also concluded this year, with PI Dr Donne Minné, a transdisciplinary postdoctoral fellow.

AMHBI staff, postdoctoral fellows and postgraduate students with Department of Sports Management staff at the Science Café

The Rooibos, Heart and Cognitive Health Study team led by Prof Marnewick

133 E.

Wastewater remediation and reuse

Leader: Dr Pamela Welz

Co-leader: Dr Thandeka Mthethwa

The group focuses on the remediation and/or valorisation of solid and liquid waste. The research is funded by the WRC, the CSIR and the NRF. The current projects are mainly centred around beneficiation of agriindustrial and industrial wastes and are conducted in collaboration with industry partners from the edible oil, winery, maize wet-milling and tanning industries. As part of the Technological Higher Education Network of South Africa (THENSA) niche area ‘Waste Management and Circular Economy’ that focuses on synthesis and degradation of bioplastics, the group is performing novel research on the use of Canola fines and starch-rich waste for microbial and chemical synthesis of bioplastics. Dr Welz was invited to take part in the THENSA International Congress in February as the South African Chair representing the niche area.

FUNDING

Other projects include: (i) Phytoremediation of pre-treated tannery effluent using native algal species; (ii) The effect of inoculum source and acclimation of the efficiency of anaerobic digestion of agri-industrial wastewater sludge; (iii) The use of bimetallic nanoparticles against fungi isolated from contaminated maize; and (iv) Nanostructure engineering of graphitic carbon nitride for catalytic reduction of nitroarenes and visible light photocatalysis.

Medical Research Council (SAMRC)

159 500

National Research Foundation (NRF): Grant-holder linked

605 716

National Research Foundation (NRF): Grant-holder linked

431 600

National Research Foundation (NRF): Thuthuka

140 000

Twelve manuscripts and one book chapter were authored/co-authored by members of the group and published in DHET accredited high impact factor journals in 2022. Two master’s students, Ms Thandokazi Sam and Ms Shandre Weels (MTech: Environmental Health) graduated this year with respective projects ‘Cultivation and identification of filamentous bacteria from twelve wastewater treatment plants in South Africa’ and ‘Microbial biodiversity as an indicator of health: A focus on selected peatlands of the southern Cape, South Africa’.

NRF SA–Japan Bilateral

205 000

Rhodes University (AAI project)

505 050

South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON)

36 350

South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC)

159 500

RESEARCH OUTPUT 2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO THE DHET IN MAY 2023) Journal articles (audited)

UNITS 9.93

SOURCE Africa Uninet Grant (OEAD GMBH)

AMOUNT 5 985

Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

220 000

DHET Publications Subsidy 2020

146 504

Maize Trust

516 811

Fumonisins Sales – National Metrology Institute of South Africa

1 199 000

South African Rooibos Council: Rooibos and Heart Study

1 703 173

South African Rooibos Council: Rooibos and Skin Study

510 255

South African Rooibos Council: Rooibos and Alzheimer Study

705 000

Water Research Commission C2021/2022-0393

150 000

Water Research Commission K5/2841/3

424 100

TOTAL

6 034 699

134

CPUT researchers develop rooibos phytosome product CPUT researchers are using the emerging field of phytosome nanotechnology to enhance the bioavailability of rooibos extracts in skin formulations. Previous studies that pointed to rooibos’ protective effect against inflammation in skin cells are what prompted Dr Mariska Lilly, senior researcher of Proteomics & Molecular Biology at the AMHBI of CPUT to probe further. Dr Lilly is working with Dr Stefan Abel, adjunct scholar at AMHBI (phytosome development) and Dr Celeste Abrahams (previous postdoctoral fellow at AMHBI) (phytosome development). Dr Hapiloe Maranyane and Dr Tandeka Magcwebeba (previous postdoctoral fellows at AMHBI) have contributed to determining the amount of herbal tea to use for preventing or treating inflammation, as well as in the development of biomarkers for inflammation in skin cells.

Dr Lilly said, “We knew that once the skin was exposed to the sun’s UV rays, rooibos extracts could remove precancerous damaged cells and block the onset of inflammation. It does so by hindering the multiplication of inflamed cells and ridding the body of them.” She added, “Our studies went a step further. Instead of

just studying one biomarker, we looked at several and found the same to be true. Rooibos indeed has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, which protects the skin from the damaging effects of the sun, changing environmental conditions and pollution. However, the concentration of the rooibos extract must be just right.”

Dr Lilly explained that the combination of polyphenols (antioxidants) naturally occurring in rooibos give it its restorative ability. “Because of their potential health benefits to humans, phytochemicals (bioactive polyphenolic compounds) in plants and herbs have been studied extensively in recent years. These compounds not only protect the plant throughout its lifecycle but are responsible for its colour, aroma and flavour. Their positive biological effect, higher safety margins and lower cost than synthetic agents has led to a significant increase in the demand for herbal products globally.”

Rooibos’ potent bioactivity against various diseases – by scavenging free radicals (harmful compounds or elements) – in the body, and its ability to be utilised in the production of cosmetics and dietary supplements, has caught the attention of the scientific world and the public at large. Researchers are studying its ability to heal wounds, relieve burns and other skin conditions, including eczema, acne, urticaria, pruritus, psoriasis and other bacterial and fungal skin diseases, among a host of other ailments.

Dr Lilly explained that up until now the bioavailability (proportion of active ingredient absorbed by cells and that could have an effect when introduced into the body) of many plant extracts, including rooibos, has been limited. “But loading rooibos’ polyphenolic compounds (extracts) in a novel nanodelivery system will facilitate their penetration across the skin barriers, thereby enhancing their topical bioavailability. Nanocarriers not only help to protect the bioactive compounds in rooibos from oxidation and degradation, but improve the solubility, absorption, long-term benefits, as well as their stability (shelf-life).” She elaborated, “We will use an enriched concentration of rooibos total polyphenols packed inside a vesicle that resembles a cell.”

Before making the rooibos phytosome available to the market, more research needs to be conducted to determine the right concentration of Rooibos and rate of bioavailability. This will be followed by clinical trials in humans where phytosome prototypes will be tested in small skin biopsies. Dr Lilly said the development of a scientific data-based skin protection product is envisaged, strengthening the value and marketability of rooibos. “This will be a tested product, with known polyphenol concentrations, and scientific data supporting its claims. What we found is that rooibos protects against inflammation in skin cells, and chronic inflammation is one of the hallmarks of skin cancer development. The idea is to develop a pre- and after-sun lotion containing rooibos phytosomes that will aid in the prevention of UVB skin inflammation.”

For more information on rooibos research, please visit www.sarooibos.co.za

The combination of antioxidants in rooibos give it a restorative ability

135

AMHBI hosts CPUT Biotechnology Research Symposium AMHBI hosted the CPUT Biotechnology Research Symposium in September. The institute’s Director, Prof Jeanine Marnewick, said the main objectives were to inform the CPUT research community about the field of microbial and health biotechnology and how it could contribute to the bioeconomy through the innovation pipeline.

It also aimed to introduce the research community to some of the research projects taking place in AMHBI. The speakers included: • Prof Don Cowan, Director: Genomics Research Institute and Director: Centre for Microbial Ecology and Genomics, UP • Prof Jürgen Pleiss, Bioinformatics Group Leader, Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry, University of Stuttgart • Prof Brett Pletschke, Professor of Biochemistry, Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, Rhodes University • Prof Sias Hamman, Professor in Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, NWU • Dr Revel Iyer, Director: Technology Transfer Office, CPUT

Microbial and health biotechnology contribute to the bioeconomy

NRF rating for promising young researcher The AMHBI’s Dr Thandekile Mthethwa has been awarded an NRF Y2 rating.

NRF ratings are allocated based on a researcher’s recent research outputs and impact as perceived by international peer reviewers. A Y rating is awarded to promising young researchers. “I am very pleased and grateful for the recognition. It is very humbling when you realise that your efforts are seen. It is merely the beginning. This recognition encourages me to continue to do my best work. I continually strive to improve my research and to provide mentorship to the next generation of young researchers.”

Dr Mthethwa joined AMHBI in 2015, and her research interests are in the fields of nanomaterials and photochemistry.

“My work is focused on the design of high-quality novel nanostructures, their interaction with light, and their assembly into functional nanomaterials for applications such as treatment of wastewater, as well as the development of fundamental understanding of structure-property relationships.” The young academic grew up in Empangeni and Melmoth in KZN, and completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Zululand and her PhD at Rhodes.

“My greatest research achievement has been my PhD. This is one of the most significant events of my professional career. It has given me the necessary

Dr Thandekile Mthethwa, future scientific leader

tools to be able to make a significant contribution to the scientific community through my research.” She said she appreciated the platform that CPUT has provided for her to establish her research niche within AMHBI and she is grateful to everyone who continues to help her in her professional growth.

Director: AMHBI, Prof Jeanine Marnewick,

congratulated Dr Mthethwa. “Since joining CPUT and AMHBI, Dr Mthethwa has produced a coherent body of work seeking to establish herself as a young researcher in the field. Her recent NRF Y2 rating is in recognition of her hard work.

I am extremely proud of Thandekile, she is one of our future leaders of science and I will continue to support her in her scientific endeavours at AMHBI.”

RESEARCH UNIT

CRYSTAL ENGINEERING UNIT | Faculty of Applied Sciences

FOCUS AREA 1 Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

136

Prof Merrill M Wicht wichtm@cput.ac.za During 2022, a new staff member joined the unit from the Free State. Dr Dumisani Kama sound experience in crystallography.

A new elective subject, Supramolecular Chemistry, commenced in the Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry. This is the first time this field has been introduced in the undergraduate chemistry courses. The subject was co-ordinated by Prof Nikoletta Báthori, with assistance from the lecturers Prof Ayesha Jacobs, Prof Merrill Wicht and Dr Elise de Vries.

Significant research in the field of solid crystalline and inclusion compounds has continued, including the crystal structures of drug-related compounds and host–guest co-ordination complexes. Interpretation using X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis and spectrometric instrumentation revealed data such as the formation of structural synthons, which are non-covalent interactions found in molecular crystal structures.

The highlight of the year was the graduation of two master’s students, under the supervision of Prof Bathori. Mr Emanuel Jabu Lukhele graduated with a thesis titled ‘Synthesis and characterisation of magnetic gold nanomaterials and their application in selected catalytic and pharmaceutical processes’.

Ms Yamkela Nomnganga, with her thesis ‘Design, synthesis and analysis of multicomponent crystals of furosemide and indomethacin’, made department, unit and supervisor proud with her summa cum laude graduation.

Three WIL students researched projects dealing with the synthesis of host:guest compounds using three different transition

April 2022 Graduation: Ms Yamkela Nomnganga, Prof Nikoletta Báthori and Mr Emanuel Jabu Lukhele

metals. This information broadened the knowledge of the characteristics of manganese, cobalt and zinc in the complexes and their discrimination abilities between structural isomers.

‘Reduction and removal of methylene blue from aqueous solutions via recyclable magnetic gold nanomaterials’ was published by Prof Báthori, her student Mr Lukhele and coworkers in the journal Surfaces and Interfaces.

Prof Báthori is a member of the Molecular and Materials Structure working group of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and serves as the Executive Secretary of the South African Chemical Institute (SACI).

137 RESEARCH UNIT

FUNCTIONAL FOODS RESEARCH UNIT (FFRU) | Faculty of Applied Sciences Prof Maretha Opperman oppermanm@cput.ac.za The Functional Foods Research Unit (FFRU) was established in 2009 and is part of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Department of Biotechnology & Consumer Science. The FFRU’s aim is to translate results of research on essential fatty acids and micronutrients into new and improved functional food products with functional food characteristics for health promotion and disease prevention in South Africa.

The FFRU team The FFRU team comprises the leader Prof Maretha Opperman; laboratory technician Ms Buhle Mpahleni; administrative assistant Ms Angie van Niekerk; and innovation fellow Dr Ayodeji Oyenihi.

DHET-accredited journal publications Prof Opperman co-authored the following articles: • ‘Comparison of the ability of anthropometric indices to predict the risk of diabetes mellitus in South African males: SANHANES-1, in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(6) https://doi.org/10.3390/ ijerph19063224 • ‘Anthropometric indices and cut-off points for screening of metabolic syndrome among South African taxi drivers’, in Frontiers in Nutrition, 9 https://doi.org/10.3389/ fnut.2022.974749 • ‘Association between macronutrient and fatty acid consumption and metabolic syndrome: A South African taxi driver survey, in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19 https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192315452 Dr Oyenihi co-authored the following articles:

Ms Mpahleni, Prof Opperman, Ms van Niekerk and Dr Ayodeji Oyenihi

• ‘Trends and progress in sorghum research over two decades, and implications for global food security’, in South African Journal of Botany, 151(part A) https://doi.org/10.1016/j. sajb.2022.11.025 • ‘Advances in non-thermal technologies for whole and minimally processed apple fruit – A review, in Food Bioscience, 50(part B) https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fbio.2022.10217

FOCUS AREA 1 Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

138 • ‘Platinum(II) complexes bearing asymmetrically substituted pivaloylthioureas: Synthesis, crystal structures, DFT and antioxidant studies’, in Polyhedron, 226 https://doi.org/10.1016/j. poly.2022.116076 • ‘Reactive oxygen species: Key players in the anticancer effects of apigenin?’ in Journal of Food Biochemistry, 46(2) • ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away: The potentials of apple bioactive constituents for chronic disease prevention’, in Journal of Food Science, 87(6) https://doi.org/10.1111/17503841.16155

International research collaboration FFRU has been in an ongoing research collaboration with Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Marine Biodiversity, Exploitation and Conservation (MARBEC University of Montpelier), Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries. The project is titled ‘Nutritional value of marine organisms for the development of sustainable, nutrition-sensitive marine aquaculture in South Africa’. The project is now complete, and publications are in progress.

International presentations FFRU members took part in the KIM Sea & Coast Workshop in Montpellier, France from end September to beginning October. Their presentation

title was ‘Nutritional content of marine organisms to develop nutrition-sensitive approaches to marine aquaculture in South Africa’. The contributors were: - Functional Foods Research Unit, CPUT - Department of Forestry, Fisheries & the Environment, Aquaculture Research, Sea Point - Department of Food Science and Technology, CPUT - Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town - UMR QualiSud–CIRAD, SupAgro, IRD, University of Montpellier, University of Avignon, University of la Réunion in Montpellier - MARBEC, the University of Montpelier, CNRS, Ifremer, and IRD of Montpellier

Research collaboration with other South African universities FFRU successfully applied for the NRF South Africa Agency for Science and Technology (SAASTA) grant (R1.089 million) to establish a science shop at the Department of Biotechnology & Consumer Sciences. A science shop is a facility, often attached to a specific department of a university or a nongovernmental organisation (NGO), that provides independent, free and participatory research support in response to concerns and issues experienced by civil society.

A project titled ‘Empowerment of subsistence fisher women of the Weskusmandjie co-operative to

produce, identify and market safe food products: Participatory research addressing poverty relief, job creation and zero hunger’ is being conducted in partnership with Unisa. The project duration is 2022–2025.

External examination [name of examiner] examined a [type of degree] for Unisa. The student was [title] A………. Ramdut, and the title of the thesis was ‘Exploring healthconscious consumers’ consumption, knowledge and factors that influence the intention to purchase functional foods’.

139 RESEARCH GROUP

BIORESOURCE ENGINEERING RESEARCH GROUP (BioERG) Faculty of Applied Sciences and Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Dr Moses Basitere

Co-principal Investigator, Engineering & the Built Environment

moses.basitere@uct.ac.za Responsible for (sub-units): Agrifood/Agrowaste Wastewater/Water Engineering – Poultry slaughterhouse and dairy wastewater

The Bioresource Engineering Research Group (BioERG) was conceptualised and established under the leadership of Prof Seteno Ntwampe together with two co-principal investigators, Dr Moses Basitere and Prof Vincent Okudoh. The resignation of Prof Ntwampe in December 2019 led to the appointment of Dr Basitere as co-principal investigator responsible for Water & Wastewater Treatment and Agricultural Waste Recovery research; and Prof Okudoh as the co-principal investigator responsible for the Waste-toEnergy research.

BioERG has continued to operate according to the same vision and mission. The Vision is to be a research centre of excellence (COE) committed to technological innovation through bioresource engineering for economic and environmental well-being in Africa. The Mission is to commit to the advancement of applied natural resources knowledge through excellent teaching, learning and research. This can only be attained by the dedication of all stakeholders who support the initiatives of the research group.

Prof Vincent Okudoh

Co-principal Investigator, Applied Sciences

okudohv@cput.ac.za Responsible for (sub-units): Waste2Energy Biofuels Materials Sciences Environmental Biotechnology

Some BioERG highlights for 2022 Dr Basitere was nominated to participate in the esteemed Future Professor Programme hosted by Stellenbosch under the guidance of Prof Jonathan Jansen. Furthermore, Dr Basitere was appointed as one of five Exco Members to serve at the South African Young Academy of Science.

Seven journal papers were published under Dr Moses Basitere, and seven journal papers under Prof Okudoh.

Funding secured shows good recognition of the quality of the outputs from the BioERG research group.

In 2022, BioERG graduated five master’s degree students – three under the Wastewater sub-unit and two under the Waste2Energy sub-unit.

BioERG continues with collaborative research outputs with both local and international universities, such as the University of Cape Town, the University of Mpumalanga, Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), Northwest University (NWU), the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and Stellenbosch University.

FOCUS AREA 1 Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

140 Publications by Dr Basitere and his research team • ‘The challenges and treatment of abattoir effluents: A South African perspective’, in Water Practice & Technology, 17(12) • ‘The mechanism of adsorbents adsorption affinity in relation to geometric parameters’, in Key Engineering Materials, vol. 924 • ‘Evaluation of the adsorptive process on adsorbent surfaces as a function of pressure in an isosteric system compared with adsorption isotherm’, in ChemEngineering, 6(4) • ‘Modelling filamentous bacteria in activated sludge systems and the advancements of secondary settling tank models: A review’, in Biochemical Engineering Journal, 186 • ‘Proximate, physicochemical, techno-functional and antioxidant properties of three edible insect flours (gonimbrasia belina, hermetia illucens and macrotermes subhylanus)’, in Foods, 11(7) • ‘Extraction methods, quantitative and qualitative phytochemical screening of medicinal plants for antimicrobial textiles: A review’, in Plants, 11(15) • ‘Poultry slaughterhouse wastewater treatment using an integrated biological and electrocoagulation treatment system: Process optimisation using response surface methodology’, in Sustainability, 14(15)

Publications by Prof Okudoh and his research team • ‘Women’s perception of cervical cancer pap smear screening’, in Nursing Open, 9 https://doi. org/10.1002/nop2.1196 • ‘A perspective on sustainable food waste management and interdisciplinary cutting edge technologies: An outlook of current and promising

•

•

•

•

•

prospects’, in Applied Sciences, 12(22) https://doi. org/10.3390/app122211399 ‘In vitro antioxidant mechanism of action of Hibiscus sabdariffa in the induction of apoptosis against breast cancer, in Journal of Herbs, Spices & Medicinal Plants, 29(7) https://doi. org/10.1080/10496475.2022. 2135661 ‘Effects of population knowledge, perceptions, attitudes, and practices on Covid-19 infection prevention and control in NUST’, in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(10) https://doi.org/10.3390/ ijerph19105918 ‘Nepenthes mirabilis fractionated pitcher fluid use for mixed agro-waste pretreatment: Advocacy for non-chemical use in biorefineries’, in Catalysts, 12(7) https://doi.org/10.3390/catal12070726 ‘A rumen-based anaerobic digestion approach for lignocellulosic biomass using barley straw as feedstock’, in South African Journal of Chemical Engineering, 14 https://doi.org/10.1016/j. sajce.2022.05.005 ‘Control of mould spoilage on apples using yeasts as biological control agents’, in Polish Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences, 72(2) https://doi. org/10.31883/pjfns/147913

Conferences and plenary addresses • Prof Okudoh co-authored ‘Operational efficiency of batch, single- and two-stage semi-continuous anaerobic co-digestion of abattoir and winery solid wastes’, in Proceedings of the 6th International Conference on Fossil & Renewable Energy (F&R 2022). The conference took place in Houston, Texas in February.

• Prof Okudoh was a delegate at Science for Social Justice at the World Science Forum in CITTC, Cape Town in December. The forum was organised

by UNESCO, ISC, InterAcademy Partnership (IAP), The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), European Academies’ Science Advisory Council (EASAC), American Association for the Advancement of Science, and the Hungarian Academy of Sciences (MTA). https://worldscienceforum.org/

Funding, awards and other recognitions • Dr Basitere was awarded an NRF Thuthuka Post-PhD Track Grant of R300 000 • Prof Okudoh received three external examiner appointments: - Namibian University of Science and Technology – Ms Rachel Penehafo Nakale-Halweendo, Master’s in Health Sciences, ‘Impact of hepatitis e interventions targeting pregnant women in Havana informal settlement in Namibia’ (full thesis) - University of KwaZulu-Natal – Ms Milesh Lalitha, Master’s in Microbiology, ‘Development of innovative pretreatments for simultaneous saccharification and citric acid production from banana pseudostem: Bioprocess optimisation and kinetic assessment’ (full thesis) - University of Johannesburg – Ms Vizelle Naidoo, MTech in Chemical Engineering, ‘Biotransformation of ganoderic acid A using Epicoccum nigrum, Penicillium novae-zelandiae and Penicillium brevicompactum’ (full thesis) • Ms Justine Oma Angadam (PhD student) received CRF research funding of R45 000 for ‘Fractionated digestive juices of Nepenthes mirabilis for reducible sugar release and phenolic compound reduction from mixed agro-waste pretreatment’

Students in the spotlight The following students graduated with an MEng Chemical Engineering during 2022: Ms Philadelphia Ngobeni summa cum laude Ms Laurah Gutu summa cum laude Ms Ntsodwa Sindisiwe summa cum laude Ms Noluthando Nonwabiso Dube Mr Gustav Ludwig Meyer

141 RESEARCH GROUP

NATURAL PRODUCTS CHEMISTRY RESEARCH GROUP Faculty of Applied Sciences Prof Ahmed Mohammed mohammedam@cput.ac.za The Natural Products Chemistry Research Group is dedicated to unlocking the potential of Cape flora and discovering new active agents as fresh scaffolds for developing novel safe and potent drugs.

Town, where he presented a keynote talk about the recent activity of the group in nanotechnology research.

The group works with traditional natural product chemistry for the isolation and identification of new bioactive compounds, covering various biological activities such as neuroprotection, anticancer and protection against skin-related diseases. The group also has research projects covering the synthesis of metal nanoparticles using pure natural products for biomedical applications. Some natural compounds (capping agents) can reduce metal salts and stabilise formed nanoparticles.

Additionally, these capping agents contribute to the final bioactivity and biodistribution of the nanoparticles in the biological system. The group intends to design new conjugate(s) for biomedical applications, especially relating to the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

The group organised the First International Conference on African Natural Product Chemistry in May 2022. The purpose of the conference was to bring to researchers from different niche areas of natural products research together to strengthen and promote indigenous knowledge systems and sustainable use of natural resources.

During 2022, the group published 17 research outputs, including articles and book chapters.

We also celebrated the graduations of Dr Akinfenwa Akeem Omolaja with a PhD, and Mr Eloge Wakwanyembo Lawmba and Mr Justin Moser with their MSc degrees.

The principal investigator of the group, Prof Mohammed, participated in the Nano-Africa International Conference in Cape

Prof Ahmed Mohammed at one of the graduation ceremonies

The conference’s programme can be viewed at https://www. alies.pt/BBR%20Editions/Vol-19-2-2022/bbr.19.2.302_ AfricanConfNatlProds2022.pdf

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FOCUS AREA 1 Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

RESEARCH GROUP

PHYTOTHERAPY RESEARCH GROUP | Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences Dr Samantha Meyer meyers@cput.ac.za The principal investigator for the Phytotherapy Research Group is Dr Samantha Meyer, a senior lecturer in CPUT’s Department of Biomedical Sciences. Her collaborators include Dr Lulama Mciteka (UWC), Prof Mervin Meyer (UWC), Prof Abram Madiehe (UWC), Prof Martin Onani (UWC), Dr Nicole Sibuyi (Mintek) and Dr Adewale Fadaka (CCHMC, USA).

The aim of this research group is to investigate the potential antimicrobial and wound-healing properties of indigenous South African plant extracts and biogenic metal nanoparticles produced from these plant extracts.

Student in the spotlight PhD student Ms Caroline Tyavambiza was a second-time recipient of the CPUT Vice Chancellor’s Prestigious Achievers’ Award this year. In addition, Ms Tyavambiza won the Best PhD Presenter Award at the DSI/Mintek NIC Conference at Rhodes University in November.

DHET-accredited journal articles

Conference presentations

The research group published the following peerreviewed journal articles this year:

• Two posters were presented at the South African Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in January: - ‘The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects of silver nanoparticles synthesised from Cotyledon orbiculata aqueous extract’ - ‘Bactericidal activities of green synthesised AgNPs in the fight against antimicrobial resistance’ • A poster titled ‘Investigation of the cytotoxic and anti-obesity effects of citrate-capped gold nanoparticles on 3T3-L1 cells’, was presented at the 8th International Conference on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology in Africa in October • An oral presentation titled ‘The antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and woundhealing effects of silver nanoparticles synthesised from Cotyledon orbiculata’ was awarded First Place in the PhD Category, at the DSI/Mintek NIC Conference at Rhodes University, Grahamstown in November • ‘Investigation of the anti-obesity effects of citrate-capped gold nanoparticles’ was presented at the 11th International Conference of the African Materials Research Society in Dakar-Senegal in December, and received the award for Best Overall Oral Presentation

• ‘The antioxidant and in vitro wound healing activity of Cotyledon orbiculata aqueous extract and the synthesized biogenic silver nanoparticles’, in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences • ‘Cellular and molecular events of wound healing and the potential of silver based nanoformulations as wound healing agents, in Bioengineering • ‘Biomedical applications of plant extractsynthesised silver nanoparticles’, in Biomedicines • ‘Nanotechnology-based strategies for treatment of obesity, cancer and anti-microbial resistance: Highlights of the Department of Science and Innovation/Mintek Nanotechnology Innovation Centre Biolabels Research Node at the University of the Western Cape’, in Applied Sciences • ‘Catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol and methylene blue by biogenic gold nanoparticles synthesised using Carpobrotus edulis fruit (sour fig) extract’, in Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology • ‘Broad spectrum anti-bacterial activity and non-selective toxicity of gum arabic silver nanoparticles’, in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences

143 TECHNOLOGY STATION

AGRIFOOD TECHNOLOGY STATION | Faculty of Applied Sciences Mr Ndumiso Mshicileli mshicilelin@cput.ac.za The Agrifood Technology Station (ATS) is a platform that provides a range of interdisciplinary technological services to the agrifood sector, focusing on existing smaller and medium enterprises with a view to improving competitiveness and innovation as well as research and development capacity in a sustainable manner.

Funded by the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), an initiative of the Department of Science & Innovation (DSI), ATS offers a wide range of services that can assist food and related companies in developing, enhancing and maintaining safe, efficient and cost-effective food production and processing.

Strategically situated at the Department of Food Science & Technology (DFST), Bellville Campus, ATS offers their clients access to the pilot plant, analytical and research laboratories, processing areas, and general and cold stores. This technology station is a source of support for postgraduate research within the higher education fraternity. ATS also extends its reach to communities by providing various tailor-made training workshops on value addition and food safety.

Geographic footprint ATS commenced 2022 focusing on reaching its set target and meeting objectives stipulated in the Service Level Agreement (SLA) for the financial year 2021/2022 ending in March of 2022.

The technology station (TS) then reported completion of a commendable 77% of its set target.

The ease in the restriction of movement and operations during the Covid-19 pandemic created an opportunity for the TS to implement the strategic objective of expanding its geographic footprint to other provinces, most notably the Eastern Cape.

Various stakeholders, namely Amadlelo Agri, two TVET colleges, Fort Cox Agriculture and Forestry Training Institute, and Tsolo Agricultural & Rural Development Institute (TARDI) were part of these engagements. The discussions yielded concrete plans and opportunities for implementation for the following year. A notable increase in the number of clients from Gauteng was observed after ATS staff attended and marketed the TS to entrepreneurs at the BIOAFRICA Convention in Durban. Further collaborations with TIA Bioprocessing Platform based in KwaZulu Natal (KZN) linked ATS with various potential clients, with whom projects will commence in 2023.

Regional exposure Through TIA’s invitation, ATS participated in knowledge sharing of the TS activities and operations to a delegation from the Malawian University of Science and Technology (MUST) in April. This was followed by a visit from the CEO of Kenyan National Innovation Agency (KeNIA) in May. Later in the year, a presentation on the TS Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

FOCUS AREA 1 Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

144 and governance was presented to a delegation from the Centre for Development and Transfer of Technology Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology COSTECH in Tanzania in September.

Equipment funding and procurement processes ATS received approximately R3 million funding from the Department of Science & Innovation for the replacement of obsolete equipment and procurement of new equipment this year.

Another important milestone was steps being taken to set up certification of the Chocolate Factory with hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP).

This will be jointly completed with an SMME company called Cocoa Emporium as well as the Department of Food Science & Technology (DFST).

Partnership with South African Agri Academy ATS signed a non-disclosure agreement with SA Agri Academy to provide various services to their farmers and entrepreneurs who produce value added products. The collaborative partnership aims to support SA Agri Academy by providing technical services and also offering training workshops to their constituencies, with one in Kimberly earmarked for early 2023. These cosponsored workshops will aim to capacitate entrepreneurs in agro-processing.

Plant-based products

Akhana dairy-free products

There has been a growing demand for the development and production of plant-based products in the food industry in recent times. This is driven by health-conscious individuals understanding the great benefits of consuming plant-based foods, growing veganism and animal rights advocacy. ATS therefore has continued to work on projects to develop products and improve processes for its clients during the year under review. These include:

Akhana Food & Nutrition has produced a cerealbased milk alternative to traditional cow’s milk. It is a milk substitute for vegans and for people who are lactose-intolerant and/ or health-conscious. This collaboration with the client has achieved an upscaling of production from laboratory scale to pilotplant production scale, and obtaining initial consumer traction and sales.

So Yhum gluten-free products Sorghum-based biscuits were developed for the client So Yhum. These were exhibited on various platforms such as at the Nampo Alfa 2022 Expo, which took place from 29 September to 1 October in the Free State.

This gluten-free product range will soon be extended to include another five variants. It will be completed with the next phase focusing on sensory evaluation, packaging and shelf-life.

So Yhum gluten-free biscuits

Akhana oat milk

Western Cape Indigenous Knowledge Systems Documentation Centre (WC IKSDC) The technology station participated in the launch of National Recordal System (NRS) by the DSI in March. It contributed data from the Attaqua Community that was synced to the central server as required for all the centres. The theme was ‘Promoting our indigenous knowledge, securing our tomorrow’s treasures’. The overall objectives of the launch were (i) to recognise the communities who have contributed their indigenous knowledge to the NRS; and (ii) to provide a platform for research scientists, industry and policy makers to access NRS documented knowledge for R&D purposes. The project with the Attaqua Community, and possibly a

145 new community or communities, will also be addressed in the 2023/24 financial year.

The IKSDC co-ordinator attended an International Indigenous Astronomy Conference hosted by North–West University in Rustenburg in July. A topic involving IKSDC was also presented on at the 1st Annual Conference of Isisele Senyathi Women’s Hub on African Women’s History in September. The IKSDC co-ordinator, recorders and a DSI representative attended a 3-day training workshop on a new NIKMAS App offered by the CSIR in November.

Dairy processing workshops During 2022, ATS continued to empower people in neighbouring areas by conducting a Basic Cheese Making Workshop for the Belhar community and a Yoghurt Making Workshop for the Kraaifontein community.

July workshop with Valhalla Park Feeding Angels

Training workshops Chocolate workshops ATS successfully hosted three Chocolate Workshops with the aim of transferring skills and knowledge regarding chocolate making.

One of the workshops was presented in partnership with Cocoa Emporium. These events were directed at various organisations, co-operatives and entrepreneurs, including April workshop with Sinakho LSSDC and UKITA Sinakho LSSDC, United Khayelitsha Informal Traders Association (UKITA) and Valhalla Park Feeding Angels. The majority of participants were women.

Basic Cheese Making Workshop in Belhar

December workshop with interns and postgraduate students

Yoghurt Making Workshop in Kraaifontein

FOCUS AREA 1 Bioeconomy & Biotechnology

146 Other activities The TS continued to support postgraduate projects through technology training, demonstrations and instrumentation accessibility. ATS staff were again instrumental in DFST’s annual new product development (NDP) with the production of insect flour (entomophagy), which is part of the department’s niche area of research. The process of producing this flour was improved upon, and a technology demonstration was shared with the DFST students to help them with researching and developing new products.

CPUT hosts Heritage Careers Expo Speaking at the event, Mr Manamela said there were several things they wished to achieve with the concept of the Heritage Expo. “The first is to educate our young people about the value of heritage and expose them to a vast array of careers in the heritage sector.

Through the training and skills development opportunities provided by our SETAs, TVET colleges and UoTs, we also seek to encourage and support the young people of our country to take up entrepreneurial ventures in the heritage sector.” Mr Manamela added that they wanted young people to become highly successful and globally competitive entrepreneurs in the heritage sector.

Prof Chris Nhlapo with Mr Buti Manamela

Looking towards 2023/2024 With the success of extending the visibility of ATS into other provinces and regions, collaborative impactful projects with greater funding are envisaged for the next financial year.

DHET Deputy Minister, Mr Buti Manamela, visited CPUT in August to host a Food Day Expo for the Third Annual Heritage Career Expo at the Bellville campus. The Expo was held under the theme ‘Unlocking the wealth in our heritage’ and aimed to expose young people in the post-school education and training sector to the heritage arena. The exposure was essentially focused on high school learners and students in TVET colleges and universities.

This programme is steered by Mr Manamela, in partnership with nine SETAs – Food and Beverages; Services; Transport Education Training Authority; Culture; Arts; Tourism; Hospitality and Sport; Fibre Processing and Manufacturing; and Media, Information and Communication Technologies.

In his opening speech, VC Prof Chris Nhlapo said, “We feel especially honoured to have been

given the privilege of hosting the Food Day of this series of events. It is appropriate, given that we boast the very best Agrifood Technology Station… This includes a pilot plant with five different processing areas: bakery; meat products; extrusion and milling; chocolate and sugar confectionary; and spray drying and heat processing. Prof Nhlapo added, the university’s ten-year plan was to build ‘One Smart CPUT’, a construct with two dimensions – ‘smartness’ and ‘oneness’. We are a UoT and we revel in a culture of learning by doing. Our strategies are focused on technological developments and innovations. We strive to make a better world through education, research, and technological innovation… Oneness, three Us: Ubunye, Ukungafani, Ubuntu. Thus, we ascribe to the African philosophy of ‘ukuhamba unxibe izihlangu zomnye umntu’, to walk in someone else’s shoes.”

Mr Manamela said another objective was to dispel the myth that heritage was just about expressing or celebrating languages, songs, dance or cuisine, i.e., that heritage only has performative value. He hoped that the expo would help young people understand that there is much more to heritage, and that heritage is also about the creation and preservation of sustainable livelihoods and passing these on from one generation to the next. “In this sense, heritage must give and sustain life. It is for this reason that it is important for our young people to understand the economic potential of the heritage economy as a contributor to South Africa’s long-term economic growth, and in particular, its importance for the revitalisation of local economies, especially after the devastating economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.” He also encouraged high school learners to enrol at CPUT once they pass their matric.

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FOCUS AREA 2 Space Science & Technology

Introduction by Prof Innocent Davidson Over the past decade, South Africa has become increasingly dependent on space-based applications to manage its national resources and security objectives. Space science is indeed one of the five Grand Challenges defined and addressed by the Department of Science & Innovation (DSI) in its 10-year Innovation Plan.

The establishment of the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) signalled a formal and coherent approach to the development of space-based research, engineering and technology innovation in South Africa. This focus area serves as a catalyst for expanding current research in order to leverage the societal benefits that can be derived from multidisciplinary space-based services.

The focus area is informed and guided by national and regional developmental imperatives, primarily the National Development Plan (NDP). Operation Phakisa is an initiative by the South African government to fast-track the implementation of critical solutions that address issues highlighted in the NDP. The first initiative of Operation Phakisa focuses on the South African ocean economy and is sub-divided into four areas, one of which concentrates on Marine Protection Services and Governance.

davidsoni@cput.ac.za

The main thrust of research within this focus area is creating spacebased solutions to enhance the maritime domain awareness (MDA) of the South African exclusive economic zone.

ZACube-2 was the first mission to validate technologies for this MDA. The satellite was launched in 2018, and represented a precursor mission for an ambitious constellation of nanosatellites.

The first three satellites in this constellation were launched on 13 January 2022 as the MDASat-1 mission.

The generic implementation of the comprehensive space programme at CPUT, as guided by its ZACube-1 mission five-year development plan, is summarised below: Phase 1 - Development of technological capability Phase 2 - Leveraging the capability to derive research benefits Phase 3 - Development of production capability Phase 4 - Development of a sustainable vehicle for research through nanosatellite technology Phase 5 - Managing a constellation of nanosatellites to the benefit of CPUT and South Africa The focus area has now reached Phase 5 of its development.

FOCUS AREA 2 Space Science & Technology

148 Key institutional arrangements providing a solid foundation for growth of this focus area are: • The French–South African Institute of Technology (F’SATI), which emanated from a partnership between the governments of the two countries • The Africa Space Innovation Centre (ASIC) hosted by F’SATI, which serves as an innovation hub to take research to the marketplace through its international industry partnerships • The South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) Chair in Innovative Small Satellite Technology and Applications for Africa, which embodies the approach set out in this focus area • Amaya Space, a spin-off company designed to commercialise the intellectual property developed in the CPUT satellite programme, primarily within ASIC The focus area comprises the following research niche areas and staff: Space Segment Prof Innocent Davidson, Mr Nyameko Royi, Ms Lilie Leopold and Mr Sinamandla Maqina

CPUT launches 3rd Satellite mission On Thursday 13 January 2022, CPUT launched its third satellite mission into space from the Cape Canaveral launch site in the USA. The MDASat constellation has two main priorities, namely ocean economy and healthcare. DSI has given the mandate to enhance South Africa’s ocean’s sovereignty. Operation Phakisa, a fast-track implementation of the National Development Plan, focuses on effective marine domain awareness. The software defined radio payload used in the mission aims to enhance the security and protection of South African marine resources.

MDASat is CPUT’s third satellite mission and follows on from the successful development, launch and operation of ZACUBE-1 (TshepisoSat) and ZACUBE-2. In the interim, a suite of commercial CubeSat parts was also developed by CPUT engineers, and these were also used on the satellites.

CPUT’s Acting Chief Engineer on the project, Mr Nyameko Royi, says increased visibility in space by more nations bodes well for all. “This mission marks the first constellation of satellites developed and designed in Africa. The more

Space Applications Mr Kevin Msungu ICT for Space Dr Angus Brandt and Dr Vipin Balyan Industrialisation of Space Prof Stephen Bosman, Prof Mellet Moll, Prof Graham Oliver and Ms Patricia Khwambala Space Science Dr Kessie Govender, Mr Rory Pentz and Prof Pierre Cilliers

we get people involved in space the better, the more data we extract from space the better for the world. This is a significant milestone for CPUT and South Africa.”

Dean of FEBE Prof Marshall Sheldon said the MDASat launch is the latest development in a long timeline of space engineering events at the university, which first began in 2008. “Each successful development and launch is a paradigm shift away from the traditional space industry norms, and we are proud to be at the centre of that.

Attracting more undergraduate and postgraduate learners to careers in space science will ensure we can continue celebrating future successes.”

The first three satellites of the MDA constellation carry an upgraded AIS receiver payload from ZACube-2 capable of: • Over the air upgrades, which means software can be developed and uploaded to the orbiting satellite when ready • Capturing raw data and enhances the opportunity for diagnostic testing on signal interference and decoding messages • Long-range AIS – two specific channels used as uplinks for receiving AIS messages by satellite • More effective messaging scheme – the firstgeneration payload was limited in how it could save data and have it extracted by the ground station; the enhanced data interface optimises the use of the data transmitter’s bandwidth These enhancements pave the way for the future MDASat2’s development and launch and minimise the risk of damage to the current payload.

A significant milestone for CPUT and South Africa

The constellation was launched by SpaceX, a company founded by South African born entrepreneur Mr Elon Musk.

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Two government departments visit CPUT’s space facility In an effort to build on and explore partnerships and capacity building in the field of space, the DSI’s Space Science and Technology (SST) Chief Directorate and the Department of Defence (DoD) visited the space facility infrastructure in the FEBE in April. The two government departments are collaborating with the university to conceptualise and co-design space programmes that are relevant to the national

imperatives and societal needs. The delegation also included representatives from the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) and Armscor.

In his welcoming speech, VC Prof Chris Nhlapo said, “We acknowledge that the challenges facing the global community are getting more

complex and interdependent and thus global partnerships between universities, business, industry and government are essential elements for the success of any institution. Partnership/collaboration, however, is not a given – collaborate or collapse… The facility you are visiting today owes its success to CPUT, DSI and F’SATI that was jointly developed by the French and South African governments, as well as the NRF and SANSA.” The VC emphasised that it was a mandate of the institution to produce adaptable graduates who were solution-driven and could respond to socio-economic challenges. Prof Nhlapo reiterated the importance of collapsing the boundaries within collaborations to strengthen strategic partnerships and initiatives. He said this can be achieved through continuous engagements with various stakeholders. “We managed to look beyond the hype and mania associated with 4IR – not to mention fear, uncertainty, and doubt.” Prof Nhlapo said universities cannot protect jobs that are made redundant by technology, but they do have a responsibility to their people. Protecting people and upskilling is imperative. If technology is killing jobs, then it is only technology that can save people. “It is the new equation, and we must solve it.”

FEBE hosted representatives from DSI and DoD

RTIP Assistant Dean, Prof Veruscha Fester, and Dr Angus Brandt of F’SATI and ASIC provided an overview of the FEBE and the Satellite Programme. Acting Chief Engineer, Mr Nyameko Royi, facilitated a tour of the space facilities. SST Chief Director, Mr Humbulani Mudau, acknowledged the continuous partnership DSI has with CPUT. Mr Mudau pointed out that they brought the DoD, SANSA and Armscor to allow the opportunity to engage with FEBE to understand CPUT’s requirements. Manager Research Uptake at RTI-SIP, Dr Nelisiwe Maleka, added that the key message from the engagements was creating access to space and building viable indigenous programme is critical for our country. “Therefore, a need exists to create opportunities within the field of space and explore other ways of increasing SMMEs, business development and entrepreneurship.” SANSA acting CEO, Ms Andiswa Mlisa, said, “More women should be encouraged to join the field of space because transformation is key.”

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FOCUS AREA 2 Space Science & Technology

RESEARCH INSTITUTE

FRENCH–SOUTH AFRICAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (F’SATI) Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Prof Innocent Davidson davidsoni@cput.ac.za Since its establishment in 2009, the F’SATI Postgraduate Programme in Satellite Systems Engineering at CPUT has received over a decade of sustained funding from the Department of Science & Innovation (DSI) and the National Research Foundation (NRF) for the development of human capacity and skills required by the South African space industry.

F’SATI hosts the CPUT Research Focus Area: Space Science & Technology, with a programme aimed primarily at postgraduate research and training. A joint master’s degree programme with our French university partner is earmarked for implementation during 2024. The CubeSat nanosatellite platform facilitates practical training, which typically spans four phases: Theory, Research, Development and Innovation. The last two of these phases take place within ASIC, where engineers are employed in a professional environment.

The combined vision of F’SATI and ASIC is to be a world-class African innovation and support hub with

end-to-end capability in the design and manufacture of nanosatellites and their components, space operations and ground-based support. The institute also undertakes data acquisition and handling for the provision of cost-effective satellite-based solutions tailored to the continent’s specific socio-economic needs.

Among the relevant applications are space weather research, marine vessel tracking, wildfire detection and monitoring, and communications and technology validation.

FUNDING SOURCE DHET Publications Subsidy 2020

AMOUNT 6 180

151 RESEARCH CENTRE

AFRICA SPACE INNOVATION CENTRE (ASIC) Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Prof Innocent Davidson davidsoni@cput.ac.za ASIC was established as a formal RTI research centre within CPUT in 2013. It has since evolved into a vibrant innovation hub, where graduates and engineers develop cutting edge nanosatellite technologies in modern high-tech facilities. These technologies help to support space-based applications such as space weather research, marine vessel tracking, wildfire detection and monitoring, communications and technology validation.

All intellectual property developed in ASIC is licensed to an industry partner, and the products are sold internationally through Clyde Space AAC of Scotland.

The ASIC engineering team members are Prof Innocent Davidson, Mr Nyameko Royi, Ms Lilie Leopold and Mr Sinamandla Maqina. Mr Ian van Zyl provides operational support to the centre.

Over the past years, the ASIC team of engineers has developed a suite of communications products with proven space heritage on a growing number of missions. These products span VHF, UHF, S- and X-band for telemetry, and payload data communications.

ASIC is also responsible for the full lifecycle development of nanosatellite missions. Work has started on the design and manufacture of three MDASat nanosatellites that will be the next step in the South African government’s Operation Phakisa and its oceans economy and biodiversity initiatives.

This project is a precursor to a larger constellation of similar satellites.

FUNDING SOURCE

AMOUNT

Research Technology and Innovation (RTI): CPUT Prestigious Project

1 000 000

152

Collaboration with DSI, DoD, SANSA and CSIR The DSI and the Department of Defence (DoD), together with the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) and the CSIR, visited CPUT in November. The visit was a fact-finding mission to assess the state of ASIC’s capability and potential to provide satellite and ICT short courses to the DoD. VC Prof Chris Nhlapo welcomed the high-level delegation and said the well-organised event was very successful and that CPUT was already a major player in space and the building of

nanosatellites. “Therefore, CPUT has an opportunity to contribute and exhibit her prowess to many stakeholders and a broader platform for the benefit of the Republic of South Africa.”

Prof Veruscha Fester (Assistant Dean: RTIP in FEBE), Dr Angus Brandt (leader of niche area ICT for Space) and Mr Nyameko Royi (Chief Engineer) provided an overview of ASIC activities, and Mr Royi

facilitated a tour of the space facilities. DVC: RTIP, Dr David Phaho, outlined CPUT’s sustainability plans for ASIC. He was impressed by the interest shown by DoD VIPs in CPUT’s research, innovation and training in the space science and technology initiatives. “The appreciation they showed CPUT as an engaged university focusing on the needs of society is noted,” Dr Phaho observed. “We regard ASIC/F’SATI as a continental flagship programme and hence management has committed resources to ensure sustainability as well as the overall transformation of the emerging space industry by training students who reflect the country’s demographics.”

In his observation, Mr Humbulani Mudau, Chief Director: Space Science & Technology DSI, commented on CPUT sharing its impressive achievements with the visitors. “The university has produced 74 satellite engineers from all over the continent, with 43% South Africans over 12 years and five satellites from 2009 to 2021, one launched in 2013, the other one in December 2018, and a constellation of three launched in January 2022.” He added that in the current cycle, the university has admitted 58 students, of which 81% were South Africans. “We achieved the purpose of the visit as Dr Phaho has also shared future plans to sustain ASIC,” Mr Mudau said.

In his remarks, Brigadier General Lance Mathebula voiced his happiness with the CPUT visit and said their mission was to see how the institution could assist his department in making sure “that we can have people who are qualified in air and space. We prefer to start with short courses first to improve their skills before they start the long courses”. Reflecting on the event, Dr Phaho said, “It was a high-level delegation who are aware of our footprint in the space sector. They showed an interest in working with CPUT in advancing the sector in the greater national interest.”

High level delegates working together to advance the South African space sector

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RESEARCH CENTRE

CENTRE FOR INSTRUMENTATION RESEARCH (CIR) Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Dr Kessie Govender govenderk@cput.ac.za

The Centre for Instrumentation Research has a longstanding history within CPUT’s Department of Electrical, Electronic & Computer Engineering, and is based in the new Electrical Engineering Research Building on the Bellville Campus.

The main projects currently undertaken are novel electronics for direct current technology. A 350V direct current house project is in process. Household appliances are moving towards direct current, which makes the conversion from alternating current to direct current unnecessary and wasteful. The CIR has developed a focus group which is conducting research into a DC micro-grid and 350V direct current house model that will hopefully set the trend for the future domestic landscape.

This is a collaborative project involving a number of local and international partners including De Haagse Hogeschool Delft and Technische Universiteit Delft in the Netherlands, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium, and industrial experts in the Netherlands.

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FOCUS AREA 2 Space Science & Technology

RESEARCH GROUP

QUANTUM PHYSICS RESEARCH GROUP Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Dr Kessie Govender govenderk@cput.ac.za

The Quantum Physics Research Group was established within the Department of Electrical, Electronic & Computer Engineering in 2014. Led by physicist Dr Kessie Govender, the group currently conducts investigations and develops expertise in quantum-based technologies. A quantum optics laboratory has been founded for the purpose of cooling atoms and the subsequent development of quantum information processing components.

Current projects include the development of an atomic clock for satellite applications, the generation and characterisation of entangled photons for quantum key distribution, and fundamental studies of laser–atom interactions.

The Quantum Physics Research Group has formed collaborations with researchers at the Laser Physics Group at Stellenbosch University, the National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA) and the Quantum Physics Research Group at UKZN. The group is funded by an NRF Thuthuka grant, a CSIR-NLC laser rental

pool grant, as well as CPUT’s Directorate Research Development and the Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment. The group is also a member of the South African Quantum Initiative www.saquti.org and has been receiving a grant from this initiative.

Currently, there are two doctoral students and three master’s students in this research group.

More information on the activities of the group, its members and publications can be found at: http://www. cput.ac.za/academic/faculties/engineering/research/ febe_research_entities/quantum_physics

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FOCUS AREA 3 Smart Energy

Introduction by Prof Mohamed Tariq Ekeramodien Kahn khant@cput.ac.za This focus area’s research vision may be defined as an aspiration to provide innovations in the field of Energy that improve quality of life and create value. This vision relates directly to these UN 2030 high-impact Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy; SDG 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities; SDG 13 Climate Action; and thus indirectly as well SDG 3 Good Health and WellBeing.

The concept of ‘Smart Energy’ involves leveraging synergies among innovations across all sectors of electrical, chemical, thermal and fossil fuel energy systems. It encompasses transdisciplinary collaboration and technologies. This focus area requires all energy-related research in any centre across departments and faculties to collaborate with a vision for excellence. This is crucial to a sustainable energy future.

Focus Area 3: Smart Energy encourages extensive use of the ‘smartness’ that digital innovations enable across areas such as energy production, transportation, efficient use and transfer of

energy, and the general power system improvement to meet the UN’s SDGs. Providing cost-effective integration of smart energy systems at scale requires balancing present needs, existing fossil fuel resource optimisation and renewable energy deployment in line with future needs.

Difficult trade-offs exist between quick wins and long-term strategies, which is a challenge in the energy sector. The innovative exploratory research areas mapped by the research under this focus area will achieve solutions tailored to South Africa’s NDP and the UN’s SDGs. The following research niche areas are among those broadly encouraged in this focus area: E-mobility and transportation Increased efficiency in fossil fuel-based transportation, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and extended range electric vehicles is a key player in transportation. This research area is relevant to SDGs 3, 7, 8, 9, 11, 13, 15 and 17.

FOCUS AREA 3 Smart Energy

156 Energy production, use and access

Power system improvements, smart grids and microgrids

Sustainable, renewable and alternative energy sources – including cleaner fossil fuel generation, oceans’ energy and waste management approaches – are being investigated across the disciplines of electrical, chemical and mechanical engineering, as well as through interfaculty collaborations.

Energy management systems (EMS) were introduced to combine both the power system hardware and the intelligent software systems that monitor, control and plan for the operation of power systems. EMS is a concept used to identify the systems that forecast, monitor, measure and control energy generation and energy consumption for a reliable and stable operation of modern smart electrical grids.

The key elements in improving energy efficiency would be in reducing the 67% rejected energy on the user side, as well as optimising the demand-side use of energy. This is achievable with power electronic systems and improvements in advanced metering and sensor/communication technology applied across the sector. This research area is relevant to SDGs 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 16.

Energy efficient agriculture and human settlement Water is essential for agriculture and human settlement. Researchers are looking at developing improved methods of renewable energy-based desalination, pumping and energy efficient water purification. The mechanised agriculture sector, including aquaponics, depends on effective use of energy in the forms of strategic solar and wind farm placement, smart sensor deployment and electromechanical interface development.

In addition, the expansion of smart sensor technology helps to monitor operations, crops, and livestock with IoT and ambient intelligence, which can also branch out to include green buildings and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) climate control in buildings and warehouses. This research area is relevant to SDGs 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 15, 16 and 17.

Development of techniques for assessing customer accountability for harmonic distortion across a ring main network, maximum power point tracking (MPPT) for PV Systems under different meteorological conditions, stability assessment of interconnected IPP renewables to the utility grid, improvements in microgrids and smart grids are investigated in this research area.

Real-time distributed systems, advanced digital technologies, energy modelling – including big data in load forecasting – and blockchain techniques in electricity from generation to load utilisation are explored. This research area is relevant to SDGs 1, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 17.

157 RESEARCH INSTITUTE

ENERGY INSTITUTE | Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Prof Mohamed Tariq Kahn khant@cput.ac.za

Prof Atanda Raji rajia@cput.ac.za

The focus area leader for Smart Energy, Prof Mohamed Tariq Kahn, is the Director of the Energy Institute and CPUT’s Research Chair: Energy. Prof Atanda Raji began serving as Deputy Director of the institute in November 2021.

The Energy Institute links various researchers in these research centres: • Centre for Distributed Power & Electronic Systems (CDPES) • Centre for Research in Power Systems (CRPS) • French–South African Schneider Electric Education Centre (FSASEC) The Energy Institute bases its research on the 2030 SDGs adopted by CPUT and on the institution’s 10-year RTI Blueprint. Focus Area: Energy is promoted within the Energy Institute via various niche areas.

Megatrends like urbanisation, globalisation and digitalisation are stimulating change in our world, and the energy sector must be driven toward a more sustainable future. A key aim of the Energy Institute’s research is to enhance prosperity and quality of life for all people by championing the cause of energy access.

Through its research, the institute strives to enhance the energy value chain, from power generation and distribution, energy usage in buildings, industry and mobility, to products, solutions and the services sector. The institute’s energy research has high and medium impact on numerous SDGs, including ones most affected by the pandemic, namely SDG 3 Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 13 Climate Action.

FOCUS AREA 3 Smart Energy

158 The Energy Institute’s aim is to foster collaboration among energy researchers and groups by building a network of expertise to shape the future course of energy development in southern Africa. A focus on interdisciplinary world-class research and advancing novel research in energy is at the heart of the institute.

The institute’s objectives are to promote technologies for efficiency and sustainability and integrate these into smart city applications in South Africa; to support the introduction of sustainable energy solutions and energy access into urban and rural areas; and to create awareness and be at the forefront of new techniques, processes and developments in energy technology.

Fortunately, the year 2022 has seen the return to a more normal and integrated learning approach post the pandemic.

Research highlights for 2022 • Dr Marco Adonis had 3 master’s students and 1 doctoral student graduate, and he published 4 journal articles and 1 conference paper.

• Prof Khaled Aboalez had 3 master’s students graduate, and he published 4 journal articles and 3 conference papers.

• Prof Atanda Raji had 4 master’s students and 2 doctoral students graduate, and he published 3 journal articles and 5 conference papers.

• Dr Ali AlMaktoof had 1 master’s student graduate, and he published 4 journal articles and 10 conference papers.

• Prof Mohamed Tariq Kahn had 5 master’s students and 2 doctoral students graduate, and he published 9 journal articles, 5 conference papers and 1 book chapter.

• Dr Balyan Vipin had 3 master’s students and 2 doctoral students graduate, and he published 14 journal articles and 1 conference paper.

• Prof Seun Oyakola published 13 journal articles.

• Dr Efe Orumwense published 4 journal articles and 1 conference paper.

• Dr Fareed Ismail published 2 conference papers.

Laboratory launches and updates for 2022 The French–South African Schneider Electric Education Centre (FSASEC) Laboratory was relaunched with over 100 students having attended laboratory sessions during the second half of 2022.

The Laboratory for Advances in Converter and Inverter Design (LACID) and the Laboratory for E-Mobility and Battery Testing (LeBaT) continued work with senior graduate students. LeBaT is proud to house the unique NEPfunded Chroma Battery Test and Simulation System, and continued progress with development work during 2022. A visit by an industrial delegation from the Enlit Africa Conference attended a demonstration at the laboratory in May. Dr Akim Moussavou and Prof Mohamed Kahn gave a presentation about the laboratory’s capabilities.

The year 2022 saw the introduction of the BEng Tech Honours. The Master’s in Energy degree, the biggest postgraduate degree programme at CPUT, continued to attract positive enrolments during 2022. This MEng Energy degree is unique in that it attracts students from interdisciplinary research sectors, and students that graduate can be registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa upon application. Funding for bursaries was obtained via Hysa (Hydrogen South Africa) and LTSA (Liquid Telecom South Africa) to the value of R600 000 and R4.2 million respectively.

Staff of the Energy Institute were involved in the operations and review committees of a number of face-to-face and digital event conferences during 2022. The Energy Institute also organised the 3rd Energy and Human Habitat Conference at the historic Castle of Good Hope during November 2022.

FUNDING SOURCE DHET Publications Subsidy 2020

AMOUNT 325 992

159 RESEARCH CENTRE

CENTRE FOR DISTRIBUTED POWER & ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS (CDPES) Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Dr Marco Adonis

Dr Ali Almaktoof

adonism@cput.ac.za

almaktoofa@cput.ac.za

Through its research, CDPES aims to: • Develop power conversions for renewable energy sources and investigate the interconnectivity of distributed resources with microgrids and electric power systems • Apply such technology in multidisciplinary applications in the energy sector, especially in the commercial and industrial fields • Investigate and apply optical fibre and wireless communication techniques over largescale power systems for telemetry and control of microgrids, both AC and DC, and deploy into smart grids • Improve control schemes for power converters and drives • Develop instrumentation for complex alternatives such as the wind, solar and nuclear energy sectors, including environmental protection and sustainable development

CDPES team members

Research publications

Dr Marco Adonis (head), Dr Ali Alamktoof (deputy head), Prof Mohamed Tariq Kahn, Prof Atanda Raji, Prof Khaled Aboalez, Dr Ayokunle Ayeleso, Dr Balyan Vipin, Dr Efe Orumwense, Dr Martial Giraneza, Dr Anges Akim Aminou Moussavou, Mr Deon Kallis and Mr Achmat Fish. During 2022, Mr Christopher Wills provided technical support.

During 2022, CDPES members published numerous peerreviewed national and international publications. A total of 45 journal papers, 28 conference papers and 5 book chapters were produced, including: • ‘Evaluation of the MPPT efficiency using solar array simulator (SAS) test standard’, in Proceedings of the 30th IEEE Southern African Universities Power Engineering Conference (SAUPEC 2022)

FOCUS AREA 3 Smart Energy

160 • ‘Variable-Speed wind turbines for grid frequency support: A systematic literature review’, in Mathematics, 10(19) • ‘An optimised hybrid biomass combined cycle with integrated solar thermal system’, in International Energy Journal, 22(3) • ‘Exploring hydropower options at a wastewater treatment plant – A case study’, in Proceedings of the 30th IEEE Southern African Universities Power Engineering Conference (SAUPEC 2022) • ‘A machine-learning-based labelling diversity model for predictive analysis: Using 16QAM as a case study’, in IEEE Access, vol. 10 • ‘Genetic algorithms: Tuning of parameter K for the labelling diversity problem in wireless communications’, in International Journal on Communications Antenna and Propagation (IReCAP), 12(4) • ‘Energy and sustainable development in smart cities: An overview’, in Smart Cities, 5(4) • ‘An overview of renewable energy utilisation and developments: Challenges and opportunities worldwide’, in African Journal of Advanced Pure and Applied Sciences (AJAPAS), 1(3) • ‘An energy access assessment report focusing on resource and cost assessment for Rwanda’, in AIUE Proceedings of the 3rd Energy and Human Habitat Conference • ‘Investigation of principal component analysis for fingerprint recognition’, in Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Advanced Technologies (ICAT 2022) • ‘An efficient design of a harmonic filter for improving the operation of PV systems’, in Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Advanced Technologies (ICAT 2022)

• ‘Energy savings from energy audit of a residential building in Forest Hill, City of Johannesburg’, in Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Advanced Technologies (ICAT 2022) • ‘DC-DC boost converter with P&O MPPT applied to a stand-alone small wind turbine system’, in Proceedings of the 30th IEEE Southern African Universities Power Engineering Conference (SAUPEC 2022) • ‘Performance analysis of a phase-lockedloop-based synchronisation technique for grid connected-photovoltaic systems’, in Proceeding of the 2022 IEEE 2nd International Maghreb Meeting of the Conference on Sciences and Techniques of Automatic Control and Computer Engineering (MI-STA) • ‘16-ary modulation based uncoded space-time labelling diversity with four transmit antenna for future wireless communication systems’, in Proceeding of the 2022 IEEE 2nd International Maghreb Meeting of the Conference on Sciences and Techniques of Automatic Control and Computer Engineering (MI-STA) • ‘Smart metering and energy access programmes: An approach to energy poverty reduction in sub-Saharan Africa’, in Proceeding of the 2022 IEEE 2nd International Maghreb Meeting of the Conference on Sciences and Techniques of Automatic Control and Computer Engineering (MISTA) • ‘Genetic algorithm-based uncoded M-ary phase shift keying space-time labelling diversity with three transmit antennas for future wireless networks’, at 9th International Conference on Electrical and Electronics Engineering

• ‘Outage probability for a multiuser NOMA-based network using energy harvesting relays’, in Nonlinear Engineering, 11(1) • ‘Constant weight polar coded orthogonal space– time block codes for dimmable indoor MIMO-VLC systems’, in IEEE Communications Letters, 1(1) • ‘Vertical handover prediction based on hidden Markov model in heterogeneous VLC-WiFi system’, in Sensors, 22(7) • ‘5G radio access networks: A survey’, in Array • ‘Influence of Covid and AI on Teaching and Learning’, in Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems book series (LNNS), vol. 569 • ‘Simplified thermoelectric generator (TEG) with heatsinks modelling and simulation using Matlab and Simulink based on dimensional analysis’, in Aims Energy, 9(6) • ‘Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) and thermoelectric coolers (TECs) modelling and optimal operation points investigation’, in Advances in Science, Technology and Engineering Systems Journal, 7(1) • ‘Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) modules – Optimum electrical configurations and performance determination’, in Aims Energy, 10(1) • ‘Design of IIoT device to parse data directly to SCADA systems using LoRa physical layer’, in International Journal on Smart Sensing and Intelligent Systems, 15(1) • ‘Optimising data visualisation in the process control and IIoT environments’, in International Journal on Smart Sensing and Intelligent Systems, 15(1)

161 • ‘Comparative exploration of diverse substrate materials on performance of ultra-wide band antenna design for on-body WBAN applications’, in Wireless Personal Communications • ‘Development of Distributed Data Acquisition System’, in Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems book series (LNNS), vol. 371 • ‘Fault diagnosis of power electronic circuits based on improved particle swarm optimization algorithm neural network’, in Electrica • ‘Modelling and simulation of tidal energy generation system: A systematic literature review’, in International Journal of Advanced Technology and Engineering Exploration, 9(92) • ‘Energy management system for PV, microhydro power with battery storage using Matlab/Simulink’, in Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 17(7) • ‘On increasing the energy efficiency of wireless rechargeable sensor networks for cyber-physical systems’, in Energies, 15(3) • ‘Applications, challenges and future trends towards enabling Internet of Things for smart energy systems’, in IEEE Nigeria 4th International Conference on Disruptive Technologies for Sustainable Development (NIGERCON) • ‘An approach of battery energy management systems for DC microgrids considering stateflow controller’, in i-Manager’s Journal on Electrical Engineering, 15(3)

Master’s and doctoral supervision • • • • • • • •

Prof Kahn: 22 MEng and 6 DEng Prof Aboalez: 2 MEng and 2 DEng Dr Adonis: 16 MEng and 2 DEng students Prof Raji: 22 MEng and 6 DEng Dr Vipin: 6 MEng and 2 DEng Dr Almaktoof: 8 MEng and 1 DEng Dr Ayeleso: 3 MEng Dr Orumwense: 4 MEng and 1 DEng

The total number of CDPES students completing their theses during 2022 was 83 in MEng and 23 in DEng programmes.

Postgraduate graduation A total of 7 DEng and 24 MEng students graduated from CDPES during 2022.

Advisory board and reviewer board membership CDPES members participated in the following boards/ committees of the Energy and Human Habitat Conference held in November at the Castle of Good Hope, Cape Town, which was also held as a digital event: • Dr Adonis was a member of the Advisory Board • Prof Raji was a member of the Advisory Board • Dr Almaktoof sat on the Advisory Board and the Reviewer Board • Prof Kahn was part of the Operations Committee and was a co-editor of the proceedings

The Energy & Human Habitat Conference 2022 had the theme ‘Energy and Industry 4.0’. Industry 4.0 involves a mixture of advanced technologies, which use the internet and digital systems widely. Many of these technologies and applications are now impacting human processes including the production and use of energy. Advantages of the 4th Industrial Revolution include: an increase in economic efficiency; an increase in labour productivity, flexibility and intelligence; a reduction in manufacturing costs; and an increase in returns on investments.

How these impact energy use and human applications of energy intensive industries, transportation and living conditions are all part of the human environment or habitat. The Energy sector needs to put technology and innovation to the task of helping our nation, and by extension the world, to get us there.

This conference attracted research collaborators, and provided opportunities for networking and sharing of research amongst some of the brightest minds on the continent.

Workshops, staff development and training • Dr Vipin was a keynote speaker at the International Conference on Communications and Cyber-Physical Engineering (ICCCE 2022) in Hyderabad, India in April • Dr Almaktoof attended the CPUT Article Processing Charges (APCs) Agreements for Open Access Publishing Workshop, organised by RTIP and presented by CPUT Libraries in May • Dr Almaktoof attended a workshop on how to optimally use LinkedIn learning resources, hosted by CPUT’s FEBE in August • Dr Almaktoof presented ‘Development of a MATLAB-based educational software for PV module’ at CPUT Teaching & Learning with Technology Day, online via Blackboard Collaborate in November

162 RESEARCH CENTRE

CENTRE FOR RESEARCH IN POWER SYSTEMS (CRPS)

FOCUS AREA 3 Smart Energy

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Prof Khaled Aboalez

Prof Mohamed Tariq Kahn

aboalezk@cput.ac.za

khant@cput.ac.za

CRPS team members are Prof Khaled Aboalez (head), Prof Tariq Kahn (deputy head) and Mr Christopher Wills (technical support).

Research publications

The research centre’s aims are to: • Develop integrated HVAC/HVDC networks within power systems • Study and improve power quality problems, efficiency and energy saving techniques • Expand grid studies in line with modern protection and control systems and the implementation of 4IR-ready systems • Evaluation, application and comparison of modern industrial grade frequency and time– domain software packages • Grid frequency support with a high penetration level of wind energy generation systems • Advanced protection systems for smart grids • Energy management systems for hybrid energy systems for different applications • Modelling and advanced control strategies for grid connection and islanded operation • Demand-side management impacts on distribution networks • Model predictive control in power systems • Power systems and energy engineering education research

• ‘Transaction and operation control algorithm for an energy bank’, in Proceedings of the 2022 Global Energy Conference (GEC), IEEE • ‘An approach to voltage quality enhancement in wind energy conversion systems’, in Proceedings of the 2022 International Conference on Electrical, Computer and Energy Technologies (ICECET), IEEE • ‘SM-PSHP vs DFIM-PSHP for stability improvement of wind integrated power systems’, in Proceedings of the 2022 International Conference on Electrical, Computer and Energy Technologies (ICECET), IEEE • ‘DC system-based bottom-up grid extension for rural communities’, in Proceedings of the 30th Southern African Universities Power Engineering Conference (SAUPEC), IEEE • ‘An effectual control technique for islanded operation of a step-up power converter fed by a small wind turbine system’, in Proceedings of the 2022 International Conference on Electrical Engineering and Sustainable Technologies (ICEEST), IEEE

Peer-reviewed national and international conference papers

163 • ‘The spatial distribution of ocean energy and analysis of measured data of South Africa’s most active coastal zone’, at the 3rd Energy & Human Habitat Conference 2022 (EHH 2022), Cape Town • ‘Design and performance analysis of a delta photovoltaic roofing tile’, at the 3rd Energy & Human Habitat Conference 2022 (EHH 2022), Cape Town • ‘Genetic algorithm-based uncoded M-ary phase shift keying space-time labelling diversity with three transmit antennas for future wireless networks’, in Proceedings of the 9th International Conference on Electrical and Electronics Engineering (ICEEE), IEEE • ‘DC–DC boost converter with P&O MPPT applied to a stand-alone small wind turbine system’, in Proceedings of the 30th Southern African Universities Power Engineering Conference (SAUPEC), IEEE • ‘Applications, challenges and future trends towards enabling Internet of Things for smart energy systems’, in Proceedings of the IEEE Nigeria 4th International Conference on Disruptive Technologies for Sustainable Development (NIGERCON)

Peer-reviewed journal papers • ‘Energy and sustainable development in smart cities: An overview’, in Smart Cities, 5(4) • ‘Variable-speed wind turbines for grid frequency support: A systematic literature review’, in Mathematics, 10(19) • ‘Modelling and simulation of tidal energy generation system: A systematic literature review’, in International Journal of Advanced Technology and Engineering Exploration, 9(92)

• ‘Agent-based system for microgrid power real-time pricing with client preferences’, in International Journal on Engineering Applications (IREA),10(2) • ‘On increasing the energy efficiency of wireless rechargeable sensor networks for cyber-physical systems’, in Energies, 15(3) • ‘Genetic algorithms: Tuning of parameter K for the labelling diversity problem in wireless communications’, in International Journal on Communications Antenna and Propagation (IRECAP) 12(4) • ‘Power line communication: A review on couplers and channel characterisation’, in AIMS Electronics and Electrical Engineering, 6(3) • ‘A designed energy management system (EMS) for an off-grid residential microgrid’, in Mehran University Research Journal of Engineering & Technology, 41(1) • ‘An overview of renewable energy utilisation and developments: Challenges and opportunities worldwide’, in African Journal of Advanced Pure and Applied Sciences (AJAPAS) • ‘Wind turbines control trends and challenges: An overview’, in International Journal of Innovative Research and Scientific Studies, 5(4)

Keynote speaker Prof Aboalez gave a keynote address about the future of hydrogen energy in smart grids at the 3rd Energy & Human Habitat Conference 2022 (EHH 2022), at the Castle of Good Hope in November. The conference was chaired by Prof Kahn.

Postdoctoral fellows Prof Aboalez mentored two postdoctoral fellows this year: • Dr Efe Orumwense, with project focus: Cyber-physical energy systems • Dr Martial Giraneza, with project focus: Energy trading in future smart grids

Research funding During 2022, Prof Aboalez secured Eskom Tertiary Education Support Programme (TESP) funding of R60 000, NRF rating funding of R50 000, and additional university funding of R50 000. The TESP fund is intended for continuous capacity development. The project title is ‘Distributed generation system real-time modelling and simulation for reliable and stable operation in smart grids’.

International and local research collaboration This year, research collaboration took place with researchers from: • University of Benin, Nigeria • Stellenbosch University • Mansoura University, Egypt • Egyptian–Japanese University, Egypt • University of the Western Cape (UWC) • University of Cape Town (UCT) • CPUT’s Centre for Distributed Power & Electronics

164 RESEARCH CENTRE

CENTRE FOR REAL-TIME DISTRIBUTED SYSTEMS (CRTDS)

FOCUS AREA 3 Smart Energy

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Dr Mkhululi Mnguni

Dr Carl Kriger

mngunim@cput.ac.za

krigerc@cput.ac.za

The Centre for Real-Time Distributed Systems (CRTDS) team members are Dr Mkhululi Mnguni (leader), Dr Carl Kriger (deputy leader), Dr Senthil Krishnamurthy, Dr Nomzamo Tshemese, Mr Mukhove Ratshitanga, Mr Haltor Mataifa, Mr Sinawo Nomandela and Dr Yohan Mfoumboulou.

The centre strives to make a theoretical and application-based contribution to advances in real-time distributed systems. It works on the development of novel models, design methods, software and hardware, as well as their integrated application for real-time monitoring and control. It also aims at insightful and focused determination of proper areas of application and research through appraisal and reappraisal of emerging control technologies.

The core activities are: • Design and implementation of nonlinear controllers • Design and implementation of adaptive controllers • Design and implementation of process automation • Distributed control based on the IEC61499 standard for function block programming • Design and implementation of networked control systems • Optimisation of complex interconnected systems and development of algorithms for parallel computation.

IN MEMORIAM The year 2022, although filled with many reasons to celebrate, was also a very sad year for the Centre for Real-Time Distributed Systems, as our founder Prof Raynitchka Tzoneva (retired) passed away after a short illness. Her legacy, which includes many achievements within academia and industry both locally and internationally, was celebrated at a memorial service held at CPUT in June.

165 Highlights for 2022 CRTDS achievements in research, development and applications of the IEC 61499 standard and technology to various industrial processes for 2022 include: 1. Novel theoretical methods, software and real-time implementation of these methods using PLCs and the RTDS simulator were developed and tested: • Dr Nomzamo Tshemese completed her DEng studies and was one of the late Prof Raynitchka Tzoneva’s last students supervised.

Dr Tshemese’s study addressed the advanced controller design for a multivariable system.

Advanced controllers are needed to address the intricate interactions that characterise complex industrial processes and mitigate the stability issues in these systems. She dedicated her doctoral work to her remarkable supervisor Prof Tzoneva and thanked her co-supervisor Dr Mnguni for his tireless efforts in ensuring that she completed successfully.

• A multivariable controller of an industrial debutaniser distillation process together with its mathematical and simulation models was developed and validated using a data acquisition system with a Beckhoff PLC. This was performed

by MEng student Mr Andisiwe Mbadamana, with supervisor Dr Kriger and co-supervisor Dr Mfoumboulou.

• A method for the design of an optimal nonlinear controller based on Lyapunov’s theory for the control of interconnected power system and

its real-time implementation using a Real-Time Automation Controller (RTAC), PMUs and the Real-Time Digital Simulator (RTDS) was developed. This was done by MEng student Mr Tswa-wen Banga-Banga, with supervisor Dr Kriger and co-supervisor Dr Mfoumboulou.

2. The Erasmus+ Mobility for staff and student exchange collaboration agreement with the Department of Automation and Control at Yildiz Technical University in Istanbul is ongoing.

However, due to the restrictions on travel, no staff or student exchange took place during 2022. Dr Kriger is the departmental host for this project.

Dr Nomzamo Tshemese-Mvandaba hosted and moderated the WIP 2022 event

3. Dr Tshemese hosted, moderated and was a prominent speaker at the Women in Power (WIP) 2022 event. This event aims to build a network, to inspire future females and provide them with support in the field. The Institute of Electrical Electronics Engineers Power, and Energy Society (IEEE PES) Women in Power South Africa, joined hands with CPUT’s department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering (DEECE) Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP) to celebrate Women in Power Day. There were 47 women within DEECE who attended.

Funding secured Funding from the Eskom Tertiary Education Support Programme (TESP), with a total amount of R130 000, was secured with successful proposals submitted by Dr Mnguni and Mr Ratshitanga.

Dr Nomzamo Tshemese-Mvandaba with some of the other speakers at WIP 2022

FOCUS AREA 3 Smart Energy

166

Outputs

Postgraduate graduations

Journal articles

• Mr Tswa-wen Pierre Patrick Banga-Banga with thesis ‘Model reference adaptive control algorithm for power system interarea oscillations damping’ graduated MEng in Electrical Engineering summa cum laude. His supervisor was Dr Kriger and his co-supervisor was Dr Mfoumboulou.

• Mr Andisiwe Mbadamana with thesis ‘Multivariable control of an industrial debutaniser distillation process’ graduated MEng in Electrical Engineering summa cum laude. His supervisor was Dr Kriger and his co-supervisor was Dr Mfoumboulou.

• Dr Nomzamo Tshemese-Mvandaba with thesis ‘Modelling and controller design of a floatation column’ graduated with her DEng degree. Her supervisor was Prof Raynitchka Tzoneva (late) and her co-supervisor was Dr Mnguni.

• ‘Development of a new linearizing controller using Lyapunov stability theory and model reference control’, in Indonesian Journal of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, 25(3) https://doi.org/10.11591/ijeecs.v25.i3 • ‘Decentralised model-reference adaptive control-based algorithm for power systems inter-area oscillation damping’, in Energies Journal, 15(22) https://doi.org/10.3390/ en15228762 • ‘Power system rotor angle stability enhancement using Lyapunov-based trajectory tracking controller and model reference adaptive control’, in Energies Journal, 15(22) https://doi. org/10.3390/en15228479 Conference publications • ‘A review on sustaining power system frequency stability considering the integration of distributed energy resources (DERs)’, in Proceedings of the 30th Southern African Universities Power Engineering Conference (SAUPEC), IEEE • ‘The limitations of an automatic generation control in stabilising power system in the event of load demand increase’ Proceedings of the 30th Southern African Universities Power Engineering Conference (SAUPEC), IEEE

Dr Nomzamo Tshemese-Mvandaba is DEECE’s first female doctoral graduate

167 RESEARCH CENTRE

CENTRE FOR SUBSTATION AUTOMATION & ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (CSAEMS) | Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Dr Carl Kriger

Dr Senthil Krishnamurthy

krigerc@cput.ac.za

krishnamurthys@cput.ac.za

The Centre for Substation Automation & Energy Management Systems (CSAEMS) team members are Dr Carl Kriger (leader), Dr Senthil Krishnamurthy (deputy leader), Dr Mkhululi Mnguni and Mr Mukhove Ratshitanga.

The centre aims to address the need in South Africa for research infrastructure development that supports human capital development as well as research and innovation in the field of metering, monitoring, protection, automation and control of smart power systems, with a focus on current and emerging standards in this domain. As a result of its visionary approach, the centre has attracted investments from numerous industrial partners and donations from some of the vendors of equipment.

The main activities that contribute to the theory and practice of substation automation, energy management systems and smart grids include: • Continuation of the MEng Electrical Engineering Smart Grid qualification under the Erasmus+ K2 DAMOC project • Training, development and knowledge transfer through equipment-orientated courses, which are aimed at industry engineers and postgraduate students at other collaborating universities

IN MEMORIAM The year 2022, although filled with many reasons to celebrate, was also a very sad year for the Centre for Substation Automation & Energy Management Systems, as our founder Prof Raynitchka Tzoneva (retired) passed away after a short illness. Her legacy, which includes many achievements within academia and industry both locally and internationally, was celebrated at a memorial service held at CPUT in June.

Dr Kriger delivering an address at Prof Tzoneva’s memorial service

FOCUS AREA 3 Smart Energy

168 • Interpretation, modelling and implementation of the IEC61850 standard functions at all levels for the control, protection and automation of smart grids • Development of innovative protection schemes for different applications • Integration of the distributed energy resources (DERs) to the power grid • Development of test-bench facilities for the testing of ideas, project solutions and new developments in the field of power systems • Real-time simulation and providing of innovative solutions to the energy management problem in the conditions of smart grids

Highlights for 2022 Achievements of the centre during 2022 include: 1. Members of CSAEMS attended the Eskom Annual Research Industry Workshop. This event took place as a hybrid meeting with delegates attending in-person in Johannesburg or virtually via the online platform. There are ongoing transitions and changes at Eskom, and so the meeting was used to update stakeholders about new developments, including restructuring within the parastatal and how this affects their research vision and trajectory.

2. Novel, innovative theoretical applications and methods and algorithms, as well as practical implementation with embedded system development, computers, intelligent electronic

devices (IEDs), data networking switches, realtime automation controllers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and a real-time digital simulator (RTDS) are designed, built, tested and validated by postgraduate students. A number of these solutions are tested and validated in real-time using the hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test-bed capability offered by RTDS. The results showcase excellent performance compared to conventional solutions.

3. Erasmus+ K2 capacity building international project: Although the final reports for DAMOC project were submitted and completed in the 2021, the outputs of the Erasmus+ Capacity building project for development of a new MEng in Electrical Engineering in Smart Grid qualification continued in 2022, with ten new part-time students enrolling for the first time. Two students completed their studies on the MEng Smart Grid programme and graduated in April and December 2022.

4. The CSAEMS website containing all the activities and research information of the research group is complete and is linked to the CPUT website. This provides more visibility for the centre and all of its activities, while raising the profile of the university as a whole. The Master of Engineering Smart Grid programme is also advertised on the website. The website can be visited at https://www.csaems. com 5. Two CSAEMS members, Dr Krishnamurthy and Mr Ratshitanga, received the Departmental

Teaching Excellence Award at the Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment 2022 awards ceremony.

6. Staff members and postgraduate students of the centre attended a five-day training workshop in November, presented by Dr Bruce Rigby, who is the RTDS representative in South Africa. The workshop covered new developments within RTDS hardware and software, and focused on the newly supported Global Traceability Network (TraceTracker) (GTNET) protocols and other technological developments.

CSAEMS staff members and postgraduate students with Dr Rigby

Staff, postgraduate students and Dr Rigby in front of CSAEMS’s laboratory

169 Funding secured

Conference publications

• Eskom Tertiary Education Support Programme (TESP) R130 000 with successful proposals from Dr Kriger and Dr Krshnamurthy for the support of CPUT postgraduate students • Eskom Power Plant Engineering Institute (EPPEI) Project R25 000 secured by Dr Krishnamurthy for the production of highly skilled engineers at the postgraduate level • NRF Thuthuka Grant of R870 000 awarded to Dr Krishnamurthy over a three-year period (2022–2024) for the project ‘The impacts of grid connected hybrid renewable energy sources and automate its protection, control and monitoring function using IEC61850 standard’

• ‘Digital implementation of an auto-reclose protection scheme for a distribution system’, in Proceedings of the 30th Southern African Universities Power Engineering Conference (SAUPEC), held in Durban doi: 10.1109/SAUPEC55179.2022.9730695 • ‘Enhancement of distribution system protection through automatic network reconfiguration’, in Proceedings of the 2022 IEEE PES/IAS PowerAfrica Conference, held in Kigali, Rwanda doi: 10.1109/ PowerAfrica53997.2022.9905289

Outputs Journal articles • ‘Transmission congestion management using generator sensitivity factors for active and reactive power rescheduling using particle swarm optimisation algorithm’, in IEEE Access, 10 https://doi.org.10.1109/ ACCESS.2022.3224060 • ‘Volt/VAR optimisation: A survey of classical and heuristic optimisation methods’, in IEEE Access, 10 https://doi. org.10.1109/ACCESS.2022.3146366 • ‘Multi-objective feeder reconfiguration using discrete particle swarm optimisation’, in Mathematics, 10(3) https://doi.org/10.3390/math10030531 • ‘System-based testing of protection for centre-tapped shunt capacitor banks’, in Energies 2022, 15 https://doi. org/10.3390/en15103791

Postgraduate graduations • Mr Roderick Domingo with thesis ‘The development of new IEC 61850 standard-based logical nodes for monitoring of industrial process applications’, graduated with an MEng in Electrical Engineering summa cum laude, with supervisor Dr Kriger • Mr Chadrack Ntambwe Lubamba with thesis ‘IEC61850 standard-based transformer tap changer control for power system stability’, graduated with an MEng in Electrical Engineering summa cum laude, with supervisor Mr Ratshitanga and co-supervisor Dr Mnguni • Mr Sampi Denis Lumina with thesis ‘Algorithms for voltage stability control in a power system network with integrated microgrids’, graduated with an MEng in Electrical Engineering (Smart Grid), with supervisor Dr Mnguni and co-supervisor Dr Mfoumboulou • Mr Manduleli Alfred Mquqwana with thesis ‘IEC61850 standard-based GOOSE message application for a shunt capacitor banks protection’, graduated with an MEng in Electrical Engineering, with supervisor Dr Krishnamurthy • Mr Sikho Ntshiba with thesis ‘IEC61850 standard-based recloser control schemes for a distribution system’, graduated with an MEng in Electrical Engineering, with supervisor Dr Krishnamurthy

170

4

FOCUS AREA 4 The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability

Introduction by Prof Beatrice Opeolu

opeolub@cput.ac.za

The need for sustainable utilisation of natural resources came to the fore again during the Covid-19 pandemic. The entrenched inequalities in communities across the globe became more evident and pronounced. Critical resources for mitigating the effects of the disease, including necessities such as water, sanitation and shelter, were inadequate or completely absent for many.

Rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, conflicts within and among nations are indicators of climate change and the struggle for survival on planet earth. Sustainable wealth creation using renewable and non-renewable natural resources, sustainable environmental management, and development of innovative ways of production with reduced water and energy footprints are all very important for the health of our climate-changing world.

The Environment, Climate Change and Sustainability Research Focus Area (RFA) actively promotes and supports sustainability-oriented activities. These include research, teaching and learning, community engagement, and gender issues relating to sustainable development and climate change.

Staff and students across disciplines at CPUT are invited to contribute to The Environment, Climate Change and Sustainability Research Focus Area. For more information on how you may be part of the RFA, please feel welcome to contact: Niche Area 1: Climate Change & Sustainable Development Dr Conrad Sparks sparksc@cput.ac.za

Niche Area 2: Climate Change & Sustainable Environment Prof James Odendaal odendaalj@cput.ac.za

Niche Area 3: Cyclical Economy & Design for Sustainability Prof Beatrice Opeolu opeolub@cput.ac.za

171

RESEARCH CHAIR

OCEANS ECONOMY AND CENTRE FOR SUSTAINABLE OCEANS Faculty of Applied Sciences Prof Ken Findlay

Dr Conrad Sparks (Acting)

findlayk@cput.ac.za

sparksc@cput.ac.za

(until March 2023)

(from April 2023)

Introduction The CPUT Research Chair: Oceans Economy and the CPUT Centre for Sustainable Oceans concentrate their endeavours on research that underpins regional and global advancements of oceans economies. They focus on the need for associated ocean governance to balance increased human ocean resource uses and development (the aspects of ocean wealth) with ocean health, and sustainable and inclusive uses.

Informed and evidence-based ocean governance practices are critical in light of three important change areas in the human–ocean nexus – changes that occur across a number of dimensions. a) Increasing coastal human populations are driving countries across the globe to turn to their ocean space resources (and the commons resources beyond these in terms of areas beyond national jurisdiction) as active advancement of ocean economies (Blue Growth, Blue Economy or Ocean Economy programmes) to meet needs for food, energy and other resource security (including employment opportunities). The manner and scale in which humans obtain value from the oceans is changing rapidly. b) Such increases in ocean resource uses elevate stressor/pressure aspects of the human–ocean nexus, resulting in greater potential conflict between resource-users and between resource-users and the environment. The ocean’s ecosystem and direct resources are showing considerable deterioration and depletion, driven by a basket of single and synergistic stressors and pressures of expanding ocean economies across ocean production or consumption activities. These include unstainable extraction, pollution (physical, chemical, noise, etc.), habitat change including critical habitat loss, pressures of carbon-based energy consumption, and associated climate change and alien translocations.

FOCUS AREA 4 The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability

172 c) A third major change in the human–ocean nexus lies in the technological manner in which humans measure and monitor ocean environments, ocean resources, ocean resource-uses, pressures and ocean change, and the allocation of benefits as aspects of economic and social inclusivity.

This research change is largely driven by 4IR technological advances in data collection, storage and analyses, including ocean robotics and gliders, automated data recorders, remote sensing and earth/ocean observation, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics.

Adequate ocean governance is critical within the management of ocean resource uses, and often centres on trade-off decisions that in turn are dependent on ocean utility or valuation metrics.

Ocean economies have historically largely been valued as their gross-value-add contribution of marketed ocean resource-use sectors (such as fisheries, mining and tourism) to national GDP or other national accounting measures, which remain critical measures for macroeconomic development, investment and national strategic planning within a country’s ocean space. However, GDP metrics do not account for natural capital and sustainable use, social access and benefit, non-market uses or any externalities of production or consumption to be measured. Many countries are now turning to Sustainable Ocean Planning that goes beyond GDP to include sustainability (and measures of ocean health and wealth) and inclusivity (as measures of the distribution of economic opportunities, resource-use access, costs, and sharing production proceeds equitably) that allow holistic contributions of oceans to equitable societal wellbeing.

Novel ocean governance tool CPUT’s Centre for Sustainable Oceans (SCO) is a leader in the development of a novel ocean governance tool in ocean accounting. This allows the integration of social (and equity), economic (production and consumption) and environmental (ocean wealth and health through natural capital accounting) data within the human–ocean nexus, and measures and advances ocean sustainable development in this arena. Ocean accounting comprises a complex framework that measure stocks within individual systems and flows between systems thus allowing system integration. The framework draws on both existing and established accounting systems, such as Ocean Economy Satellite Accounts within the System of National Accounting, the System of Environmental Economic Accounts (SEEA) Central and Ecosystem Accounts Frameworks, and novel accounting frameworks involving ocean risk and ocean governance. Regular measures allow benchmarked indicators within and across the relevant domains within Sustainable Ocean Planning.

Global Ocean Accounts Partnership (GOAP) CSO works closely with GOAP, leading the GOAP Africa Community of Practice to advance ecosystem accounts in a number of pilot study areas including Keta Lagoon, Ghana; Table Bay, South Africa; Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique; and Kilifi County, Kenya. The centre also engages with national and regional authorities to advance ocean accounting

as an important ocean governance tool through several Communities of Practice (CoP). These include the Western Indian Ocean Governance Exchange Network (WIOGEN) CoP; the Africa Natural Capital Accounting CoP; as well as a National Research Foundation Oceans Accounting CoP led by NMU. CPUT postdoctoral research fellow, Dr Tainã Loureiro (funded externally by GOAP in 2022), has played an important role in novel account development resulting in a number of academic publications and submissions. Remote sensed earth observation capacity using satellite imagery to identify coastal ecosystem extents through both pixel- and objectbased automated image analyses remains central to this work. Georeferenced Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV, or drone) operations are a critical component for high resolution ground truthing of such information.

Other projects in partnership The centre plays a de facto lead role in the NMU-led NRF CoP Ocean Accounts Frameworks Project.

Phase 1 concentrated on Algoa Bay and leading Work Package Three (accounts structures) and co-leading Work Package Eight (ocean governance aspects arising from ocean accounts). Phase 2 has recently been awarded, and while this was to investigate ocean accounts frameworks in the western Indian Ocean, greater emphasis will be placed on other areas in the South African coastal environment. Phase 1 of the multi-national ‘Whales in a changing climate’ project across the southern hemisphere. This includes partners Griffith University

173 Climate Change Response Programme (Australia), UCT, Stellenbosch University, the Federal University of Rio Grande (Brazil), the Pontific Catholic University of Ecuador, the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (Panama), and the CEQUA Foundation (Chile), and terminates in May 2023. Work on this project was largely led by CPUT postdoctoral research fellow, Dr Elisa Seyboth. Four master’s postgraduate students have been undertaking studies as part of this project, with one graduating in November 2022, while a second has submitted her thesis.

The CPUT–Fisheries Economic Development, Research, Advisory and Training Initiative (FEDRATI) MoA is a strategic partnership agreement between CPUT and the South African Fisheries Development Fund aimed at upskilling the South African small scale fishery sector and coastal communities engaged therein through industry support. The agreement, signed in 2021, aims to build university–industry engagement within South African small-scale fishery co-operatives and communities with respect to skills development. Two master’s students have been funded through this initiative.

Postgraduate students Six master’s students are enrolled within the SCO. One has submitted her dissertation, two are in the final stages of submission, and three have advanced progress. Seven multi-authored academic articles were published and a further three peer-review contributions were submitted for publication in 2022.

Eight technical documents were produced this year.

Seventeen presentations were delivered at international conferences and one international workshop was convened. Conference highlights include the attendance of the UN Ocean Conference by Prof Findlay in June/July which allowed significant exposure of CPUT to the global ocean governance arena.

Publications Peer-reviewed journal articles • ‘Marine spatial planning and ocean accounting: Two synergistic tools enhancing integration in ocean governance’, in Marine Policy, 136 • ‘The emerging intersection between marine spatial planning and ocean accounting: A global review and case studies’, in Marine Policy, 140 • ‘Shared visions for marine planning: Insights from Israel, South Africa, and the United Kingdom’, in Ocean and Coastal Management • ‘Focused and inclusive actions could ensure the persistence of East Africa’s last known viable Dugong subpopulation’, in Conservation Science and Practice, 4(7) • ‘Into the blue: The blue economy model in Operation Phakisa – Unlocking the ocean economy programme’, in South African Journal of Science, 118(11/12) • ‘Every account counts for sustainable development: Lessons from the African CoP to implement ocean accounts in the western Indian Ocean region’, in Western Indian Ocean Journal of Marine Science, Special Issue 1 • ‘Ocean accounts as an approach to foster,

monitor, and report progress towards sustainable development in a changing ocean – The systems and flows model’, in Marine Policy (submitted and reviewed) Technical Papers and Policy Briefs produced and under development • ‘Exploring basic spatial units for the ocean: Identifying challenges and potential solutions’ – London Group on Environmental Accounting • ‘An abridged guide to Ocean Accounts - Part 1: Relevance and description of the framework’ – GOAP Brief • ‘An abridged guide to Ocean Accounts - Part 2: A stepwise guide’ – GOAP Brief • ‘Ocean accounting for western Indian Ocean sustainable development’ – IORA Commemorative Publication • ‘Toolkit for remote sensing for ocean and coastal ecosystem accounts’ – draft under development, including inventory of available global GIS datasets – GOAP Brief • ‘Ocean accounting for ocean governance – System mapping beyond GDP’ – draft under development based on presentation to the 2022 South African NCA Forum in October • ‘An overview of indicators used to assess the health of blue carbon ecosystems and their applicability in ecosystem condition accounts’ – draft under development – Environmental Monitoring and Assessment • ‘The Blue Carbon Ecosystems Condition Assessment Toolkit (CAT)’ – draft under development

FOCUS AREA 4 The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability

174 Conferences and workshops Conference hosting The chair and centre hosted ‘Ocean Accounting to Advance Ocean Sustainable Development and Ocean Governance in the Western Indian Ocean’ – a special session at the Western Indian Ocean Marine Sciences Association 12th Scientific Symposium, in Gqeberha in October.

Conference presentations Prof Findlay presented the following: • Informal presentation about ocean accounting in the Bazaruto Archipelago region to the Mozambique OCPP team (Defra, FCDO, CEFAS, MMO, JNCC), in Vilankulos, Mozambique in [month] • ‘Ocean accounting, ocean economies, blue economies and sustainable ocean development for ocean governance’, at the IOI Ocean Governance Course, in Kirstenbosch in September • ‘A sustainable and inclusive ocean economy: Promoting circular, sustainable, and inclusive ocean economies’, a virtual oral presentation on behalf of the DSI, at the All Atlantic Ocean Research Forum in May/June

• ‘Ocean accounts in ocean governance and the WIO strategic action plan’, a presentation to invited participants, at the Nairobi Convention ROGS Planning Meeting, in Zanzibar in November • ‘Ocean accounts to integrate environmental, social and economic ocean indicators’, an oral presentation made at the World Biodiversity Forum Inspiration for Action Conference, in Davos, Switzerland in July Prof Findlay and colleagues presented the following: • ‘Ocean accounting: Integrating transdisciplinary ocean data to bridge the science-policy gap for ocean sustainable development’, at the virtual International Indian Ocean Science Conference in March • ‘Ocean accounting for ocean governance: System mapping beyond GDP’, at the 2022 South African NCA Forum, Pretoria in October • ‘Assessing the condition of blue carbon ecosystems through earth observation: An overview’, an oral presentation at the Workshop on Earth Observation for Ecosystem Accounting (EO4EA) • ‘Ocean accounting: A framework of systems to capture the relation between humans and the ocean in a changing world’, an oral presentation at the Estuarine Coastal Conference ECS A59, in San Sebastian, Spain in September • ‘Ocean accounting: Making people and nature count in decisions for sustainable ocean development’, at the WIOGEN micro-workshop in [month]

FUNDING SOURCE

AMOUNT

CPUT–Fisheries Economic Development, Research, Advisory and Training Initiative (FEDRATI) – Sea Harvest

2 210 000

Griffith University – Whales and Climate Change

848 808

University of New South Wales – Global Oceans Accounting Partnership Pilot Study Project

4 104 789

TOTAL

7 163 597

175

RESEARCH CHAIR

GOVERNANCE & ECONOMICS FOR WATER & SANITATION INSTITUTIONS (NRF SARCHI CHAIR) AND THE CENTRE FOR WATER AND SANITATION RESEARCH (CWSR) Prof Bongani Ncube ncubeb@cput.ac.za

Introduction CPUT was awarded the SARChI Chair in Governance & Economics for Water & Sanitation Sector Institutions after a competitive review process in 2021, and Prof Bongani Ncube began leading the chair early in 2022. The chair is hosted at the Centre for Water & Sanitation Research (CWSR). In 2022, Prof Ncube assumed both the research chair and acting director responsibilities at CWSR. CWSR was established in the early 2000s with a focus on three main objectives: • Identification and establishment of water-related activities based on regional and national priorities • Facilitation and execution of interdisciplinary research projects which generate outputs, income and postgraduate opportunities • Development and maintenance of regional, national and international partnerships in the water sector on behalf of CPUT

Funding and objectives The SARChI chair is funded through a partnership between the Department of Science & Innovation (DSI), the Water Research Commission (WRC) and the National Research Foundation (NRF).

The research chair focuses on seven main objectives: • Development and implementation of the Research Chair Strategy focusing on governance, financial and economic viability, and security for water sector institutions • Establishment of research partnerships that will advance the programme of the research chair • Supervision of master’s and doctoral degrees • Organisation and facilitation of seminars, colloquia and symposia • Building of staff research capacity, where such development is supportive of the overall research programme of the chair • Development of intellectual and knowledge synergies with the host faculty and department • Support of sectoral knowledge transfer In achieving the research objectives, the research chair explores factors such as the impact of extreme events; financial sustainability models; economic regulation of the water sector in terms of service delivery, pricing, and tariff impacts; as well as financial modelling, data science and benchmarking, with the aim of improving municipal financial systems. The chair is guided by the sustainable development goals (SDGs 2030) of the United Nations; the South African National Development Plan (NDP 2030); the Water Research, Development, and Innovation Roadmap (RDI 2015–2025), and prevailing national policies, legislation and strategies.

FOCUS AREA 4 The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability

176 Partnership development

Highlights for 2022

During 2022, the research chair focused on setting up and establishing partnerships. Prof Ncube was one of the staff who accompanied the VC and DVC to South Africa Higher Education & Research week in France. The visit was used as an opportunity to initiate international partnerships with the French. This culminated with two meetings in December. The first was with Dr Jean Marc Bouvet, the CIRAD Regional Director for Southern Africa and Madagascar, and representative of INRAE. The second meeting was when the DVC: RTIP Dr David Phaho paid a courtesy call to Ms Elisabeth Claverie de Saint Martin, the president and CEO of CIRAD, and Dr Philippe Petithuguenin, the CIRAD Director of Research & Strategy. Both meetings were also attended by Prof Ncube and the RTIP Assistant Deans of FEBE and FAS. A draft partnership document was under review by the end of the year.

Fieldwork was resumed in February 2022 after being suspended the previous two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Fieldwork was continued for the United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) – Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF) project titled ‘Supporting transformative adaptation and building equitable resilience to drought for sustainable development’. The project received a no-cost extension until February 2023.

Partnerships were also explored during the South Africa–Sweden University Forum (SASUF) Goes Digital Science Week during September, where a partnership workshop was presented online.

Locally, an MoU was signed between Overberg Water, CPUT and UWC. The main objective of the MoU is to enable knowledge advancement to contribute to the national discourse of water services management, supply and development, groundwater exploration, alternative sources of energy, capacity building, and focused research.

Other partnerships were in various stages of discussion at the end of the year, with the University of Pretoria, the University of KwaZulu Natal, Stellenbosch University, Unisa, the University of Limpopo and UCT.

A WRC-funded research project titled ‘Water governance, institutions, and infrastructure integration for climate-resilient pathways for smallholder farming systems in the Western Cape, South Africa’ commenced in April, and the inception report was submitted in August.

A book launch for the publication Towards the BlueGreen City: Building Urban Water Resilience was attended at UWC in June. Prof Ncube is one of the editors.

Prof Ncube received ad hominem promotion to Associate Professor.

Prof Ncube was featured in the Water Research Commission Book titled Legacy: Celebrating SA’s Water Pioneers, Pathfinders and Mavericks.

Prof Ncube was invited to give a keynote presentation at the African Farmers Association of South Africa (AFASA) Annual General Meeting and 10th Year Celebration in Durban in October.

Prof Ncube was invited to meetings organised by the National Research Foundation and Science Granting

Councils Initiative during the World Science Forum in December. Other functions and meetings attended during the same week included those organised by the Netherlands Embassy.

Postgraduate graduations Dr Mercy Fanadzo graduated with Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Health. Her thesis was ‘Analysis of smallholder farmer livelihood strategies for coping and adapting to drought in the Western Cape Province, South Africa’, with main supervisor Prof Ncube, and co-supervisors Dr French and Prof Belete.

Mr Kudzai Mugejo graduated with Master’s in Engineering: Civil Engineering cum laude. His thesis was ‘Infrastructure performance and irrigation water governance in Genadendal, Western Cape, South Africa’, with main supervisor Prof Ncube, and cosupervisor Mr Mutsvangwa.

Research outputs DHET-accredited peer-reviewed journal articles • ‘Infrastructure Performance and Irrigation Water Governance in Genadendal, Western Cape, South Africa’, in Sustainability • ‘Coping and adaptation strategies for agricultural water use during drought periods in the Overberg and West Coast Districts, Western Cape, South Africa’, in Water SA • ‘Analysing impediments to the effective distribution of low-income housing in South Africa: The case of the Delft Symphony Community in Cape Town’,

177 in African Journal of Governance & Development • ‘Determinants of water security in smallholder farming systems in South Africa: A review’, in Fundamental and Applied Agriculture • ‘Resilience and sustainability of the water sector during the Covid-19 pandemic’, in Sustainability DHET-accredited peer-reviewed book chapter A chapter titled ‘Indigenous knowledge perspectives on water management and its challenges in South Africa’ was published in Current Directions in Water Scarcity Research.

Conference presentations • ‘Residual effect of zeolite on soil exchangeable cations and cation exchange capacity in sandy soil cultivated with Swiss chard’, at the 35th International Conference on Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering (ICCBEE-22) in November • ‘On-farm assessment of cover crop management effects on plant tissue nutrients and soil pH in the Western Cape Province’, at the 33rd Johannesburg International Conference on Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering (JCBEE-22) in March • Prof Ncube was invited to deliver a presentation ‘Women and water’ at the German– Southern African Summer School 2022, hosted by the University of the Free State in collaboration with the Technical University Dresden • Prof Ncube gave the keynote address ‘Role of civil society in water resource management’ at the Clean Rivers Campaign on Mandela Day 2022, hosted by the Department of Water and Sanitation, Western Cape • Prof Ncube was a panellist for the W12+ Exchange – Dimensions of Water Partnerships and Localisation, hosted by the Institute for Ecological Civilization in San Diego • Prof Ncube lectured on the topic ‘Water security and drought impacts’ as part of International Exchange Lecture Series III, co-hosted by the Hochschule Mainz, Germany: University of Applied Sciences and CPUT • Prof Ncube served as a panel expert for Commission 8: Legislative Framework, at the National Water and Sanitation Summit hosted by the Minister of Water & Sanitation and the Department of Water & Sanitation

FUNDING CLAIM/INVOICE

Project

Institution

IN03/20001589

P13375

Cranfield University, UK

222 895

IN04/20001589

P13376

Cranfield University, UK

49 980

IN05/20001589

P13377

Cranfield University, UK

153 637

N06/20001589

P13378

Cranfield University, UK

103 987

IN10051/ 20000338

C2022/ 2023-00845

Water Research Commission

100 000

SARChI Chair

SARChI Chair

National Research Foundation

1 430 000

TOTAL

2 060 499

RESEARCH OUTPUT 2022 PUBLICATIONS (SUBMITTED TO DHET MAY 2023)

UNITS

Chapters in books (submitted)

0.59

Conference proceedings (submitted)

0.39

Technical report

Journal articles (audited)

2.15

‘Strengthening the knowledge-base and capacity to support the transformation of irrigation boards to water user associations’ was produced for the Water Research Commission.

TOTAL

3.13

178

CIRAD delegation visits CPUT CPUT hosted a Centre de Coopération Internationale en Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement (CIRAD) delegation through the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) Chair in Governance & Economics for Water and Sanitation Sector Institutions during December. In the space of two weeks, CPUT representatives met with two delegations from the French CIRAD. The main objectives of the meetings were to further exchange ideas concerning the Research

Chair led by Prof Bongani Ncube, and to discuss other potential areas of collaboration with CPUT. In the first meeting, CPUT representatives Prof Ncube, Prof Veruscha Fester, Prof Karabo Shale and Dr Elma Maleka met with Dr Jean Marc Bouvet, the CIRAD Regional Director for Southern Africa and Madagascar and INRAE representative, and Prof Damien Jourdain

of CIRAD UMR G-EAU and the University of Pretoria. Prof Ncube said the meeting was a follow up to the development of an institutional partnership, which was already at an advanced stage. Prof Ncube presented about her Research Chair. Prof Fester (FEBE) and Prof Shale (FAS) presented overviews of their respective faculties. Dr Bouvet presented an overview of CIRAD, emphasising the importance of water and how it needs to be well managed. Other potential partnership areas were also discussed. Prof Dina Burger (Director: DRD) joined online and echoed the importance of water, touching on the water– energy links with sustainability, health and economics.

In the second meeting, Dr David Phaho (DVC: RTIP) paid a courtesy call to President and CEO of CIRAD, Ms Elisabeth Claverie de Saint Martin, and CIRAD Director: Research and Strategy, Dr Philippe Petithuguenin.

Dr Phaho was accompanied by Prof Ncube and Prof Shale. Prof Ncube summarised the content of the partnership document that is under development. The meeting received a positive response, with Dr Petithuguenin assuring the CPUT delegation that CIRAD was happy to strengthen collaboration, and that water governance is a relevant topic with a regional dimension, and they gave their support. He said the work fits well with the CIRAD priorities focusing on knowledge, innovation and impact. There were also brief discussions around further collaboration in food technology and food processing and they were happy to facilitate further visits to France.

Prof Bongani Ncube, Prof Damien Jourdain, Dr Elma Maleka, Prof Karabo Shale, Dr Jean Marc Bouvet and Prof Veruscha Fester

179

RESEARCH CENTRE

FLOW PROCESS & RHEOLOGY CENTRE (FPRC) Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Prof Veruscha Fester festerv@cput.ac.za The Flow Process & Rheology Centre (FPRC) was founded in 1995. The centre applies the fundamental principles and techniques of rheology to solve industrial problems such as deformation and flow under different shear, material structure and process flow conditions. Since its inception, FPRC has produced over 100 peer-reviewed publications.

The centre’s core activities include: • Rheological characterisation and modelling of concentrated emulsions, suspensions, solutions and polymer melts and wastewater sludge, and modelling of the phenomena of micro- and nanostructural evaluation involved in the mixing, pumping, transportation and storage processes of multiphase systems • Modelling non-Newtonian flows in pipes, fittings, open channels, tanks and pumps • Instrumentation systems to measure in situ concentration and particle velocity in settling slurry and coarse particle flow, and visualisation in pipes and complex geometries The team members are Prof Veruscha Fester, Dr Morakane Khahledi and Dr Nsenda Tshilumbu, along with two master’s students and two doctoral students.

Highlights for 2022 Rheology is a huge field and holds potential to improve products and processes. FPRC has been a major force in promoting the science of rheology in South Africa over many years.

The centre is extending its footprint to promote rheology at universities and industries in other African countries. An example is the holding of exciting discussions with the University of Lumbubashi. An agreement is currently being developed which will entail capacity building in rheology and the manufacturing of cobalt oxide, student and staff exchange, and internships to equip students with the various techniques and skills required to run accurate rheological tests.

The team was also part of an exciting project on the measurement and modelling of laserfabricated copper nanofluids at ultra-low concentrations. Viscosity of nanofluids plays an important role, especially if used within heat transfer engineering systems, and the team was able to assist with the measurement of these. The nanoparticles were suspended in ethylene glycol. This is expected to become even more interesting with future projects, where hightemperature-resistant oil will be used as a suspending medium. Similar work is being done with nanoparticles produces at CPUT using different synthesis techniques.

The rheology laboratory has offered services to several companies this year, measuring particle size distribution and surface tension in addition to rheology services. We have seen an increase in requests from cosmetic companies. This is an exciting trend.

Investigations relating to the rheological and stability properties of Citrullus lanatus mucosospermus, citroides and Moringa oleifera seed hydrocolloid in oil-in-water emulsion, and the effect of chemical modification on the dynamic rheological properties of Bambara groundnut starches are continuing.

The group completed work and published an article on modified pineapple waste as lowcost biomass for removal of Co(II) from simulated and real treated wastewater in batch and continuous system.

180

FOCUS AREA 4 The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability

RESEARCH GROUP

ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY, TOXICOLOGY & REMEDIATION Faculty of Applied Sciences Prof James Odendaal odendaalj@cput.ac.za

The Environmental Chemistry, Toxicology and Remediation research group focuses on chemical and biological assessment and monitoring of environmental pollution. It also focuses on the development of remediation techniques to manage environmental pollution, as well as environmental and human health risk assessment. The assessment and monitoring research projects focus on the identification, characterisation, monitoring and effects of chemical and microbial pollutants in the environment, while the remediation research projects focus on the development of appropriate techniques to remediate and manage polluted sites.

Various research projects are conducted by staff members and postgraduate students in different academic disciplines. The research projects focus on different aspects of pollution in the aquatic and terrestrial environments. Plants and animals are used as biomonitor organisms to assess the effects of pollution on the biological component of the environment.

One of the student projects on metal pollution of urban rivers, focuses on investigating the influences of seasons and related variables on metal pollution and also researches variations in pollution patterns between samplings that took place about 15

years apart. This will give an indication of temporal dynamics of metal pollution. Another project deals with the impact of various sources of pollution on an estuary in Cape Town.

Other research conducted by this group studies the effects of pollutants on the terrestrial environment. One such project is investigating the impacts of improper waste management in residential areas on the metal and microbial contamination of the soil associated with illegal waste dump sites. A postdoctoral investigation aims to determine the impacts of metal pollutants in afromontane forest pockets, in order to gain an understanding of the possible relationship between metal pollutants in forest pockets and their ability to act as carbon sinks.

This research group aims to contribute to the body of scientific knowledge with regards to a variety of crucial environmental concerns. Its researchers hope that their projects will contribute to the understanding of the impacts of human activities on the functioning of the natural environment. Ultimately, their goal is to eventually, through their research activities and outputs, contribute to the development of environmental policies, legislation and environmental guidelines and standards for South Africa.

181

RESEARCH GROUP

NANOMATERIALS RESEARCH GROUP | Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Prof Veruscha Fester

Dr Mahabubur R Chowdhury

festerv@cput.ac.za

chowdhurym@cput.ac.za

Prof Veruscha Fester

Dr Mahabubur Chowdhury

Principal Investigator (FEBE)

Principal Investigator (FEBE)

Responsible for sub-units: Nanomaterial based environmental remediation Nanomaterial Synthesis Naomateriasl for energy generation

Responsible for sub-units: Functional Nanomaterials Electrochemical Sensors Photoelectrochemical Sensors Fuel Cell

The Nanomaterial Research Group (NRG) is the first established research group at CPUT that focuses on studying both the fundamental and applied aspects of synthesis, characterisation and application of various metal oxide (MOXs) nanomaterials. NRG has developed MOXs to find applications in but not limited to environmental remediation, sensing and energy generation.

The vision and mission of NRG is to transform into a world-leading research hub that develops cuttingedge solutions to societal challenges. The group’s vision, mission and goals are to contribute to society through using nanoscience and nanotechnology tools for the improvement of lives.

Publications from the group can be found via the links below: • Prof Veruscha Fester https://tiny.cc/6o6puz • Dr Mahabubur Chowdhury https://tinyurl.com/5es84suk

182

NanoAfrica 2022 highlights nanoscience and nanotechnology The 8th International Conference on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology in Africa (NanoAfrica 2022) took place in Somerset West in November. It was an opportunity for scientists and engineers to share their research. The conference is part of the South African Nanotechnology Initiative (SANi) and CPUT was chosen to host it. The institution worked closely with neighbouring institutions that served on the local organising committee with UWC, CSIR, HySA and IthembaLabs/Unisa. “We worked very well together as a team,” said Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, Prof Veruscha Fester.

The focus of the conference was to showcase how nanoscience and nanotechnology assist the world in attaining sustainable developmental goals. Apart from cutting-edge research, the conference also provided a platform for emerging researchers to present their work. The three-day scientific programme featured plenary and keynote addresses, presentations, invited talks and poster presentations.

Plenary speakers with ‘h-indices’ of more than 150 focused on addressing SDGs. The three

parallel sessions consisted of Nanomaterials for Energy, Nanomaterials for Water Applications and Nanomaterials for Health, Biomedical and Biotechnology applications, amongst others. Prof Fester said, “We had very highly cited plenary speakers and the rest of South Africa’s up-andcoming nanoscientists.” She also acknowledged the conference sponsors, Unesco, Unisa, DSI, Angstrom, Merck, Sasol, SAASTA, Metrohm SA, and ITLABS/NRF Africa Chair on Nanosciences and Nanotechnology.

This year, NanoAfrica co-hosted the 6th South African Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Summer School, enabling the organisers to bring those at all levels together. “We are also immensely proud that most of our speakers are from South Africa and the African continent. We have ensured that other continents are represented with plenary and keynote speakers from the USA and Europe,” Prof Fester said. The representatives were from: UoTs 10%; traditional universities 80%; business 2%; and research institutions 8%.

The plenary and keynote address came from prestigious institutions, including Prof Mohammad Khaja Nazeeruddin of Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale De Lausanne (Switzerland), Prof Dionysios Dionysiou of University of Cincinnati (USA), Prof Stephan Barcikowski of University of Duisburg-Essen (Germany), Prof Paul van Loosdrecht of University of Cologne (Germany), Prof Suchi Guha of University of Missouri-Columbia (USA), Prof Federico Rosei of University of Du Québec, Varennes (Canada), Dr Artur Braun of EMPA (Switzerland), Prof Fabian Ezema of University of Nigeria, Prof Emmanuel Iwuoha of UWC and Prof Ahmed Mohammed of CPUT. Prof Fester said, “The conference was a great platform to share knowledge in Nanosciences in South Africa and Africa. It provided an opportunity to networking amongst peers.” She added that the conference provided delegates with new ideas for future research on meeting SDGs, such as exploring a catalyst that works in the infrared area and the importance of improving the efficiency of solar panels.

Conference delegates in Somerset West

183

Chemical Engineering professor inducted into prestigious SAYAS A distinguished associate professor of Chemical Engineering, Prof Mahabubur Chowdhury, has been inducted into the esteemed South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS). SAYAS was established in 2011. Each year, it inducts ten young (under 40) vibrant researchers who have made a significant mark in their field. These members form part of various working groups such as policy making, science communication, etc. After five years of service, members become alumni and are replaced by newly elected members.

“This is a stamp of approval for the quality of the research that I have produced so far. This nomination motivates me to strive to improve the quality of science”, said Prof Chowdhury. SAYAS received 31 nominations from the whole country and only ten got inducted this

Prof Mahabubur Chowdhury (right)

year. The process is rigorous. “Your research impact on the field and your overall contribution to the field are assessed by independent assessors. Only the top ten candidates get inducted.”

Prof Chowdhury said the Department of Chemical Engineering was filled with excellent academics. There were only two SAYAS members from CPUT, and both of them were from Chemical Engineering. “It’s great testament to the institution that it is nurturing future leaders in their field,” he continued. “Any prestigious staff achievement is the institution’s achievement, as no staff exist without the institution… It’s very important to do good science. One of my fears is harming science by doing science. Hence, it’s very important that the quality of science we do must be of the highest quality.”

184

5

FOCUS AREA 5 Human, Health & Social Dynamics

Introduction by Dr Dirk Bester The need for sustainable utilisation of natural resources came to the fore again during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The entrenched inequalities in communities across the globe became more evident and pronounced. Critical resources for mitigating the effects of the disease, including necessities such as water, sanitation and shelter, were inadequate or completely absent for many. Rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, conflicts within and among nations are indicators of climate change and the struggle for survival on planet earth. Sustainable wealth creation using renewable and non-renewable natural resources, sustainable environmental management, and development of innovative ways of production with reduced water and energy footprints are all very important for the health of our climate-changing world.

This focus area contributes to greater global understanding and builds knowledge of shifting human, health and social dynamics. This supports trans/multi/interdisciplinary collaborative research, and responds to the needs of our South African society.

Opportunities include the integration of strong theoretical and empirical links, enabling the following multidisciplinary research

besterd@cput.ac.za

approaches to integrate personal, societal and environmental transformation in order to: • Promote humanity and humaneness in the 21st century • Create spaces where researchers collaborate and conduct research in a trans/multi/interdisciplinary manner across disciplines, faculties and units at CPUT • Develop the capacity to deconstruct boundaries and interrogate the ways in which members of society may intersect with and reinforce one another • Create a social and structural justice orientation which enables work towards a transformed society In addition, and more specifically, the word ‘technology’ in our One Smart CPUT brief provides us with a special focus in research into human, health and social dynamics. Technology necessarily entails a close relationship between the university and society, which includes working life and creating a sense of human-centredness. Technology enables this new description.

Human, health and social science research at a UoT would then, firstly, serve to problematise and improve the relationship between

185 university curricula and practices and those of broader society, e.g., through integrated learning initiatives. Secondly, research can highlight how technology and new ideas may be taken up by society in different ways (i.e., accepted, changed, shelved or rejected), and how changes in human, health and social innovations can be harnessed for the benefit of society.

Potential research niche areas • Connecting societies: Crossing boundaries, inside and outside the university, developing and bridging people for well-being and social cohesion - Sustainable Development Goals: 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 16 and 17 - National Development Plan chapters: 8, 9, 10, 12, 13 and 15 • Empowerment: Purposive agency, care and the ethics of care, services and practices, transformation and 21st century innovations such as the 4th Industrial Revolution - Sustainable Development Goals: 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 16 and 17 - National Development Plan chapters: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 15

Preserving South Africa’s diverse heritage The Language Unit and the Department of Biotechnology and Consumer Science hosted a hybrid heritage celebration at the Bellville Campus in September. The aim of this collaborative event was to convey a message to the CPUT community about the importance of preserving South Africa’s diverse heritage.

The event’s theme was ‘Celebrating our rich cross-pollination cultural heritage: Languages, food, music and much more’.

Applied Sciences Faculty Language Co-ordinator, Dr Ignatius Ticha said, “We aimed to demonstrate as a faculty community, an institution, a nation and a human race that we are much closer than we think we are in our practices, beliefs and way of life.” The event was a great success in terms of attendance and YouTube viewership, and in the richness of the presentations and engagements.

Consumer Science Food: Nutrition staff and students entertained the audience with food demonstrations that gave

• Human Rights: Freedom, health, equality, dignity, ubuntu, access to service and justice, and ethics - Sustainable Development Goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 16 and 17 - National Development Plan chapters: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 15 • Health and Well-being: Quality of life, wellness in communities, service delivery, social determinants of health, food security, technology for well-being - Sustainable Development Goals: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 16 and 17 - National Development Plan chapters: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 15

In celebration of our rich cross-pollination culture

audience members a taste of the richly diverse South Africanlinked cuisine. There was also a panel discussion in which staff joined students to engage on important subjects including what it means to decolonise HE, whether they experienced CPUT as an African university or a university in Africa, and how one strikes a balance between scientific fact and some African beliefs that some may qualify as superstitions. Mr Dmitri Jegels, a keynote speaker, reflected on ‘Semiotic and socio-cultural cross-pollination: We are closer than we think’. The address showed synergies and borrowings in South African languages, food and music. There were also entertaining musical renditions

by Ms Chandre Matthee. One of the co-ordinators and ECP lecturer, Ms Theloshni Govender, said, “Our goal was to enlighten our CPUT community on the oneness of our heritage.

It was about showcasing South African diversity in rich culture and cuisine, which allows an opportunity to celebrate food and language.”

186

International Literacy Day celebrated

Wellness tips for 2022 world… This partnership with Drakenstein Correctional Centre to assist Reading and Literacy staff to provide effective and efficient literacy instruction and reading support services to inmates is a wonderful opportunity for the Faculty of Education to make a positive contribution to society and our community. Maybe this initiative can in future be extended to other centres.”

CPUT and DCS advancing literacy development

Academics, literacy educators, language educators and librarians from CPUT and Department of Correctional Services (DCS) correctional centres throughout the Western Cape convened at the 1st Annual Literacy and Reading Symposium, held at Drakenstein Correctional Centre in September. The symposium consisted of four sessions as International Literacy Day was being commemorated. The objective was to stimulate discussions between educators and library staff. It also provided an opportunity for education and development officials to share knowledge and learn from one another and other literacy specialists.

Dr Christa Thornhill, Assistant Dean, Faculty of Education, Mowbray Campus, said literacy was much more than the traditional concept of reading, writing, speaking and counting skills. “Literacy is now understood as a means of identification, understanding, interpretation, creation, and communication in an increasingly digital, textmediated, information-rich and fast-changing

Mr Andile Nelani, DCS Regional Co-ordinator: Education and Training, said the partnership between DCS and CPUT is a strategic one, a partnership that explores benefits from different learning contexts for these institutions and the society at large. Mr Nelani added that the symposium collaboration of these two institutions was amazingly well organised and pitched at a very high level of relevant discussion topics for the benefit of both institutions. “The highlights of the day included a demonstration of how technology can build bridges through an intercontinental live interaction of people. The cherry on top was the interest that our international partners demonstrated through their physical presence in our first symposium.” He added, “This partnership empowered DCS educators, and librarians to understand reading and literacy at a high level and how that should reshape their planning, provisioning and management of offender education and training for quality rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders back into the community as not only law-abiding citizens but socially responsible global citizens.”

DCS Area Co-ordinator: Rehabilitation and Care, Mr Hylton Jumaats, said, “Working on this project allowed us to feel and understand the heartbeat of

partners. This can bolster the prospects of a long and happy marriage.” He added that DCS and CPUT were demonstrating their sincerity to deliver on their mandate to create platforms for social cohesion. Ms Jacqueline Scheepers-Searle, Manager: SLCE Units, said literacy was a social justice issue that requires citizens to be aware of their constitutional rights and legislative responsibilities. She said university students and staff, with its partners, could play a significant role in projects and programmes that respond to the spread of literacy in communities.

Through the establishment of partnerships with government departments like DCS, CPUT can give credence to its Vision 2030. “CPUT remains committed to prioritising education, which is one of the UN’s SDGs, through engaged scholarship and reciprocal activities which benefit all in our society.”

She added that the symposium at Drakenstein was the first of its kind and heralded the beginning of a dynamic partnership to drive literacy development in our society.

In her presentation ‘Breaking the cycle: How can education and reading-for-meaning help reduce recidivism rates?’ Prof Janet Condy, Director: Literacy Development Research Unit, highlighted the challenges faced when trying to transform the DCS to a ‘corrections-focused system’. It included overcrowding, the state of the DCS facilities, institutional ‘prison culture’, training and retraining of members for a new paradigm, and the Covid-19 pandemic. Some of the other presenters were Prof Hanlie Dippenaar, Assistant Dean from CPUT’s Faculty of Education, and Prof Anita Walz, Virginia Tech’s Assistant Director: Open Education and Scholarly Communication Librarian.

“Make your well-being a priority and feed your body healthy food as this is your first wealth.” This is the message from Department of Biotechnology & Consumer Sciences lecturer, Ms Theloshni Govender, who offers wellness tips, which serve as an educational tool to assist students to make informed and healthier food choices.

“There are many opportunities for students to make an informed, healthier decision when it comes to food choices. The wellness tips provided are a start in the right direction,” Ms Govender explains.

Ms Theloshni Govender

187

She offers the following tips: • Make fruit and vegetables part of every meal • Try a new fruit and vegetable weekly • Focus on whole foods and reduce convenience foods • Reduce portion sizes by using a smaller plate at mealtimes • Drink at least six glasses of water daily • Have a vegan or vegetarian meal at least twice a week • Include more sustainable fish in your meal • Consume legumes and lentils at least three times a week • Have your favourite meals in moderation • Limit salt and sugary foods • Use herbs and spices to add flavour to your food • Plan your meals weekly as this will eliminate you indulging in unhealthy foods • Prioritise sleep – at least eight hours a day • Exercise for 30 minutes a day Ms Govender adds that obesity is a global pandemic and a public health problem in South Africa, illustrated by the national health survey results, which show an increase in obesity in young adults. “The main drivers for the increase in obesity include poor eating habits, the marketing of processed foods that are high in fat, sugar-rich beverages, insufficient physical activity and buying unhealthy food.”

She said according to the World Health Organisation, obesity greatly increased the risk of developing chronic diseases, such as type two diabetes, high blood pressure and some cancers. “Also, there are recent studies which show that obese Covid-19 patients have more complications and take longer to recover.” Her favourite quote is by Heather Morgan: “Every time you eat or drink, you are either feeding disease or fighting it.”

For more wellness tips, please contact govendert@cput.ac.za

Urban & Regional Planning Department gives back The Department of Urban & Regional Planning, with the support of FID, hopes to make a long-lasting impact on a Langa-based orphan village. In pursuance of the vision of the institution and faculty, the Dean of FID, Prof Tembisa Ngqondi, tasked the department with conceptualising and implementing a humanitarian initiative in the manner of ‘67-minutes for Mandela’. The resultant programme centred on improving the quality of life of 20 children housed at the Siyaphambili Orphan Village.

With the backing of the faculty, the department decided to adopt the home to ensure that the relationship had a long-term impact, particularly in terms of skills development. Five staff members, an alumnus and 25 Urban & Regional Planning students visited the Siyaphambili Orphan Village in August to deliver various goods, including toiletries, sanitary items, food, clothing, soccer balls and skipping ropes. They also lent a hand in the preparation of the meals for the children and cleaned the house and the yard. Lecturer Ms Kwena Letsoalo said, “This outreach effort serves as a big step towards achieving the objective of forming partnerships between CPUT and communities, and in the process preparing the students for their roles as change agents who enhance the well-being of community members.”

During the handover of the goods, Prof Masilonyane Mokhele, Head of the Department of Urban & Regional Planning, said, “As planners, we always strive to improve the conditions of communities, hence we decided to visit the Siyaphambili Orphanage to share the little that we have. We believe this should not be a one-off event, so today is just the start – we will definitely come back.”

Ms Siphokazi Xameni, manager and caregiver at the orphanage, responded, “Thank you, CPUT. It’s the little things that make a huge difference. I normally tell people that it is not always about material things but just giving your time.

You have blown me away because we really need these, and when I spoke to Mr Mzi (Mzingisi Muluse, Department of Urban & Regional Planning’s technician), he acted as if it’s something small.”

Mr Dominic Stanford, CPUT Urban & Regional Planning alumnus, was delighted and noted, “The outreach initiative was a great success! I believe it provided the students with a sense of purpose. Initiatives like this link back to the essence of our profession – collaborating and improving the lives of community members.

Preparing students for roles as change agents

Like the caregiver at the Siyaphambili Orphan Village said, it is not just about giving out material things, but rather about sharing and giving space to the children.” Speaking on behalf of the third-year students, Ms Siyamthanda Malawana, said, “We were very touched by this experience as we got to know more about the reasons children are placed in the orphanage. As much as we would have loved to spend more time with the children, we were extremely happy and appreciative of the moments we shared with them.”

Second-year student, Ms Khanyisile Jubeju, said, “Providing a clean, safe and secure place for children is very important and I was honoured to be a part of the visit. I helped clean up the place, and seeing the gratitude was eyeopening. I had an amazing experience. In urban and regional planning, there is an emphasis on working with people, and I feel that this was a great way to connect with the community.” First-year student, Ms Zoleka Malamba, was moved by visit. She said, “I had a medley of emotions flowing through my body.

I felt thankful for being part of this initiative. I would like to express my gratitude to the department for such an eye-opening opportunity. From the entire firstyear group, our hearts are singing gratitude, Kwande!”

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FOCUS AREA 5 Human, Health & Social Dynamics

RESEARCH CHAIR

TEACHER EDUCATION AND CENTRE FOR INTERNATIONAL TEACHER EDUCATION (CITE) (NRF SARCHI CHAIR) | Faculty of Education Prof Yusuf Sayed sayedy@cput.ac.za

The SARChI Chair in Teacher Education and CITE, with Prof Yusuf Sayed as its chair and director, was established in 2014. It successfully completed its first phase of operations in 2018, and a second cycle of funding was awarded in 2019. This SARChI chair is funded by the NRF and housed in CPUT’s Faculty of Education.

CITE’s work seeks to: i) develop a knowledge evidence-based form for teacher education and quality and equitable education; ii) develop research capacity in the field of teacher education; and iii) disseminate and share knowledge with academics’ policymakers, teachers and stakeholders.

CITE focuses on generating knowledge about initial teacher education, continuous professional development, public private partnerships, and teaching and learning during crises and disruptions. The centre is invested in the development of research capacity among emerging and established researchers in the faculty, as well as postgraduate students, postdoctoral fellows and research fellows. The centre comprises the research chair and other staff who are involved with research and with the supervision of postgraduate students.

Knowledge generation

The second phase of this SARChI chair builds on the innovative and relevant research agenda established in phase one. The Centre for International Teacher Education continues to contribute to scholarships in the field of teacher education nationally, regionally, and globally. CITE’s research programme encompasses the following key themes: ‘Initial teacher education’; ‘Continuing professional teacher development’; ‘Teacher pedagogy study’; and ‘Public private partnerships and teacher education’.

During 2022, sixteen journal articles were published, and four additional journal articles are under peer review and forthcoming.

One book has also been published, and two books are currently in the process of being published. In addition to this, three chapters have been published and six books are forthcoming.

One monograph and one technical report were also published this year. Lastly, the centre and the chair have contributed to and participated in twenty-six presentations.

Capacity development Eleven post-graduate students completed their theses in 2022: Ms Eltena Rethman, Dr Desire Christian, Ms Melitta Adams (under examination), Dr Godwin Khosa, Dr Fenyiwa Amonoo-Kuofi, Dr Wezi Mwangulube, Ms Ramaite Adivaho, Mr Katsumi Shimmura,

189 Mr Matsai Edallo, Ms Georgia Durkin and Mr Dason Coomer. Four postgraduate students are in the final stages of handing in their theses: Ms Shaheeda Davids, Ms Anastasia Gordon, Mr Toyer Nakidien (who has sadly passed away) and Ms Bridget-Ann Mullins. We have a new cohort of students in 2022, including the following postgraduate students: Ms Loveness Mahwire, Mr Abidi Bihi, Ms Wiedah Khan, Ms Farzana Bardal, Dr Martin Brown, Ms Aditi Desai, Dr Andrew Poole, Ms Ramona Saraoru and Ms Imelda Sari.

In 2022, the centre hosted visitor Prof Amy Stambach from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. For 2022/2023 we also have A-rated Prof Crain Soudien working closely with the centre and research projects.

CITE remains committed to supervising and building the capacity of its enrolled students. Monthly seminars are key to building capacity and development. Students have also been involved in various research projects, presentations and discussions at seminars and conferences. In addition, the centre and chair have been working closely with the British Council and their consultants in the development and implementation of the Teaching for All material and coursework. The course is now available on the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) website for teachers at no cost and includes accredited CPD points. By the end of 2022, WCED had already enrolled 1 325 participants in the Teaching for All programme. Of the 548 teachers who accessed the course: 230 participants completed Unit 1 and are now enrolled in Unit 2; 104 participants completed Unit 2 and are now enrolled in Unit 3; 74 participants completed Unit 3 and are now enrolled in Unit 4; and 48 completed all four units.

Policy impact In 2022, the centre and the chair contributed to the National Institute of Human and Social Sciences Seminar. This was in collaboration with UJ and Tata Institute of Social Sciences in India, where over 1 000 individuals attended virtually. Another highlight worth mentioning is the international symposium hosted by CITE and the chair on Reimagining Teachers, Teaching and Teacher Education Policy in the Global South.

Approximately 300 participants attended virtually. In addition, the centre and chair remain in partnership and collaboration with key stakeholders (e.g., the Department of Basic Education, the Western Cape Education Department, the British Council, UJ, the University of Sussex and CPUT), and continues to contribute to strategic education policies and agendas.

Gender impact Since its inception, CITE has been committed to addressing the legacy of apartheid through privileging black African females, which is broadly defined in its operations. The centre is committed to gender equity, and the majority of its student cohort are broad-based black females. Furthermore, the majority of the core team members of the centre are female, including the centre administration staff. The commitment to gender equity is also evident in our local and international collaborations, which are predominantly female and of colour in the Global South. The centre’s publication and dissemination record also demonstrates a strong

FUNDING SOURCE

AMOUNT

National Research Foundation (NRF): NRF Chairs

2 992 884

female presence, both as main contributors and as co-authors. CITE has an 80% female cohort of staff, students and researchers. In addition, two of the four postdoctoral fellows working in the centre in 2022 were black females. Also, the majority of postgraduate students who graduated during this year were women.

Proposed GITES Research Proposal The GITES Research Proposal was submitted to CPUT’s Senate, Mancom and Council for the establishment of an Institute–Global Institute for Teacher Education and Society (GITES). It gives us great pleasure to announce the approval and wholehearted endorsement by all stakeholders of the proposal for GITES to be expanded and continue the work of CITE into a university-wide institute, increasing its scope and reach. The university has committed to working with the SARChI Chair to create additional resources to support the establishment of GITES.

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FOCUS AREA 5 Human, Health & Social Dynamics

RESEARCH CHAIR

WORK-INTEGRATED LEARNING IN TVET COLLEGES (ETDP SETA WIL CHAIR) Faculty of Education Prof Nothemba Joyce Nduna ndunaj@cput.ac.za

Planned ETDP SETA WIL Chair projects 2022 to 2026 After the ETDP SETA WIL Research Chair achieved all the deliverables of the 2020/21 research project on the practice of the four elements of WIL in the TVET sector, and submitted a winning research proposal, the ETDP SETA awarded CPUT with a further five-year Research Chair. The research proposal aimed at generating an income of R12 million for CPUT through submitting invoices to the ETDP SETA after meeting the specified deliverables of the SETA. The intention of the research was to facilitate the planning of interventions to improve the four elements of WIL which are: i) preparation of students for workplace learning; ii) placement of students in workplaces; iii) monitoring of students’ workplace learning; and iv) assessment of this workplace learning.

Following the Service-Level Agreement that was signed in August 2021, the planned research projects that are reflected in Table 1 below, were presented and discussed at an ETDP SETA national conceptualisation workshop.

Five-year plan for research projects: PROJECT

RESEARCH ACTIVITY

TIMELINE

Project 1

Discussion and validation of research findings of 2020/21 study on current WIL practice with ten TVET colleges that did not participate in the 2020/21 research project, together with their workplace mentors.

15 March to 15 November 2022

Project 2

An in-depth study on barriers preventing ten TVET colleges from conducting four WIL elements effectively and efficiently and a comparative analysis of WIL practice and challenges of TVETs and UoTs.

15 March to 15 November 2023

Project 3

Development and execution of action plans for improving the practice of four WIL elements by ten TVET colleges and associated workplaces.

15 March to 15 November 2024

Project 4

Reflections of ten TVET colleges and associated workplaces on executed action plans for improving the practice of four WIL elements.

17 March to 17 November 2025

Project 5

Re-planning by ten TVET colleges and associated workplaces, based on identified strengths and weaknesses of executed plans and processes of four WIL elements.

16 March to 16 November 2026

191 ETDP SETA WIL Chair research activities 2022 In accordance with the reflected plan in the table above, the 2022 project of the WIL Research Chair discussed and validated the research findings of the 2020/21 research project on the practice of WIL in terms of the four identified areas. This took place with the management and WIL practitioners of the ten TVET colleges selected by DHET and ETDP SETA in nine South African provinces, to serve as centres of excellence in terms of spearheading the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) and WIL. The workplaces mentioned as partners by the TVET colleges were also included in the study to find out how they worked in collaboration with these colleges.

The 2022 study was set against the general literature on WIL as a pedagogy and mechanism to develop graduate attributes and students’ employability skills (DHET 2011, Jackson 2017, OECD 2018 and Harris & Clayton 2019). Other studies also used to guide the study relate to WIL best practices (HEQSF 2012, CHE 2013, Jackson 2017 and Maseko 2018), the importance of forming sustainable WIL partnerships (DHET 2016, ETDP SETA 2017, OECD 2018 and UNESCO 2020), and the use of virtual reality (V-WIL) to prepare students for workplace learning (Siddooi, Janchai & Sawattawee 2018; Zhang, Jiang, Xiao & Cheng 2018 and Impinge, Batholmeus & Pop 2020).

The primary focus of the 2022 research project was to highlight the reflections of TVET college staff and their associated workplace mentors/supervisors on the practice of the four elements of WIL and then compare these reflections with the research findings of the 2020/21 study.

of depth (Yin 2014). This approach was appropriate for the study as it was necessary to get an in-depth understanding of the practice of WIL in each of the colleges, and to compare this with the practice of a wide range of TVET colleges and other stakeholders (i.e., lecturers, students, workplace mentors and trade union representatives) that participated in previous studies.

Research question

Data collection

To achieve the above-mentioned research aim, the following research question was used to guide the study: ‘How do the responses of the workplaces and ten selected TVET colleges compare with the research findings of the 2020/21 study on the practice of four WIL elements in the TVET sector?’

The purpose was to validate the research findings of the 2020/21 study with the current practice of four areas of WIL in ten TVET colleges and associated workplaces, and to identify staff capacity development needs and gaps in practice before any interventions are carried out.

Data collection took place in two phases. During the first phase, a link created for college staff was sent to research co-ordinators who were requested to distribute it the staff.

This was to encourage the research co-ordinators to identify staff involved in work-integrated learning, and to set up their college research teams to ensure that staff responded to the questionnaires. The generated automatic responses on the spreadsheets made data analysis quick and easy to handle.

During the second phase, a second link for the questionnaire was distributed to industry partners who provided workplace learning opportunities for college students. The responses from the questionnaires were followed by telephone interviews with college staff and industry partners to clarify some of their responses.

Research approach

Findings and conclusions

The project adopted an exploratory case study approach to analyse specific WIL-related issues within ten South African TVET colleges selected to become centres of excellence in terms of spearheading 4IR and WIL. This approach was used because case studies are regarded a popular research method to capture the complexities of real-life situations so that the phenomenon can be analysed in greater levels

The research findings highlighted similarities in practice and provided a rationale for interventions to improve the implementation of the four WIL elements ten selected TVET colleges. The findings revealed that these colleges still need support in terms of human resources, capacity building workshops and close working relationships with workplaces to improve the practice of the four WIL processes because:

Research focus

Research objective

FOCUS AREA 5 Human, Health & Social Dynamics

192 • The selected TVET colleges do not have structured work readiness programmes that include an employability improvement programme (EIP). Students only attend induction or orientation workshops. As the selected colleges are also involved in the 4IR Project, it is necessary for them to develop plans to integrate technology with work readiness programmes and use simulated work environments to prepare students for the world of work.

• The human resources for placing students pose a challenge for most of the selected colleges.

Some of the institutions have only one placement officer to assist students across all the campuses.

Students looking for work placements on their own tend to accept any employment opportunity without considering its relevance to their programmes of study. This results in inappropriate work placements and the production of unemployable graduates.

• The monitoring of students’ workplace learning is also a challenge for most of the selected colleges as human resources to place and monitor students are insufficient.

• Assessment processes of workplace learning also need the attention of these colleges if they are to serve as centres of excellence in terms of 4IR and WIL. In summary, there appears to be a need for an improvement plan for WIL practice in terms of preparing, placing, monitoring and assessing students’ workplace learning. An improvement plan is necessary for developing closer working relationships between the selected TVET colleges and workplaces. Based on the research findings, it appears that WIL practice at the ten selected TVET colleges needs urgent attention and intervention by all relevant stakeholders.

Highlights for the ETDP SETA WIL Chair for 2022 • The ETDP SETA WIL Chair generated R2 530 000 through submitting CPUT invoices for four tranche payments by the ETDP SETA during the 2022 project.

• An amount of R72 000 supported a master’s student in the Faculty of Education who was involved in the research chair activities, as per the requirements of the ETDP SETA. • Some of the funds generated were used for CPUT WIL staff to register, travel and participate in the WIL Africa 2022 Conference. The conference was organised by SASCE and held in East London in September.

• Some CPUT staff conducted WIL capacity building workshops for the TVET colleges who participated in the WIL Africa 2022 Conference.

• The research findings on WIL practice at TVET colleges created a platform for these institutions to participate in presentations and discussions at the WIL Africa 2022 Conference.

• Research partnerships between the ETDP SETA, CPUT and TVET colleges were strengthened as college principals signed MoUs with CPUT’s DVC: RTIP and selected research co-ordinators within the colleges to work with CPUT’s core research team.

• TVET colleges expressed interest in participatory action research and indicated at the WIL Africa 2022 Conference that there should be “no research about us without us”.

• Research partnerships were also strengthened with SASCE as the ETDP SETA WIL Research Chair was nominated to serve as a board member and to lead the research and development strategic pillar of SASCE.

All these highlights enhance CPUT’s reputation as a leader in the practice and research of work-integrated learning.

Planning for the 2023 project During the 2022 project, it was realised that it is important to understand all the barriers that are associated with the problem before any intervention is carried out. For this reason, the next phase of the study in 2023 will be to find out what prevents the ten selected TVET colleges and their workplaces from conducting the four WIL elements effectively and efficiently; and also, how UoTs conduct the four WIL elements and address the challenges faced by the TVET sector. It is possible that there are underlying factors that also need intervention at a systemic level.

It is envisaged that a deeper understanding of the problem would give direction and assist all relevant stakeholders in carrying out appropriate interventions.

Research uptake The involvement of the ten selected TVET colleges in research on their WIL practice and in capacity building workshops is an indication of research uptake by the TVET sector. The planned activities from 2024 to 2026 also indicate that interventions will be carried out by various stakeholders as a result of this research. The WIL Research Chair’s focus for the coming years will be to develop a mechanism for CPUT and the ETDP SETA to improve WIL practice in TVET colleges, and to facilitate the development of innovative ways that include the integration of WIL with technologically-driven virtual reality.

193

RESEARCH CHAIR

SOUTH AFRICAN MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL/CAPE PENINSULA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY/CARDIOMETABOLIC HEALTH RESEARCH CENTRE (SAMRC/CPUT/CHRC) Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences Prof Tandi Matsha

Prof Glenda Davison

matshat@cput.ac.za

davisong@cput.ac.za

Chair and Director

Interim Chair and Co-Director

(until August 2022)

Rapid urbanisation and changing lifestyles have led to non-communicable disorders rapidly overtaking infectious disease as the major cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries. Cardiometabolic health and associated disorders including diabetes, hypertension and chronic kidney disease are the largest contributors, with many individuals remaining undiagnosed and not receiving treatment. The SAMRC/CPUT Cardiometabolic Health Research Centre has reported a high prevalence of underdiagnosed and untreated diabetes within the Bellville South community, which has led to the research unit focusing their investigations on the unique risk factors and pathophysiological changes which underly this.

These investigations have revealed that the development of cardiovascular complications in this population are complex. These are most likely due to environmental and lifestyle factors which initiate epigenetic changes, alter genetic expression, and lead to low grade inflammation.

A dysregulated immune response coupled with lifestyle and environmental factors leads to chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and cardiovascular disease. The SAMRC/CPUT/ CHRC therefore aims to further examine the complex mechanisms and pathways which lead to a pro-inflammatory environment, and to propose

strategies that could prevent the development of cardiovascular complications.

Major breakthroughs and highlights during 2022 • The research unit together with partners from Stellenbosch University demonstrated that by combining measurements of glycated albumin and HbA1c, the detection of dysglycaemia in the Bellville South community is substantially improved.

FOCUS AREA 5 Human, Health & Social Dynamics

194 • Significant work, examining the use of MiRNAs to differentiate between individuals with prediabetes and diabetes was concluded. This demonstrated that these small non-coding RNAs could be further developed as a biomarker for the improved diagnosis of diabetes.

• SAMRC/CPUT/CHRC demonstrated an association between periodontal disease and the abnormal expression of several MiRNAs in patients with chronic kidney disease.

• In collaboration with Stellenbosch University, several biochemical markers were shown to predict the severity of Covid-19.

• As part of its mandate, the unit is actively engaged in the development of new emerging researchers and increasing supervisory capacity. During 2022, a researcher within the unit achieved a Y2 NRF rating and two doctoral students and one master’s were supervised to completion. On an institutional level, SAMRC/CPUT/CHRC actively participated in the Black Women’s Academic Programme and the RTIDRD’s Sisonke Supervision Mentorship Programme.

FUNDING SOURCE

AMOUNT

NRF (SARChi Chair)

2 316 745

South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC)

500 000

Covid-19 Rapid Fund

208 074

TOTAL

3 024 819

• An additional highlight for 2022 was the establishment of a partnership with UWC’s School of Dentistry. The aim of this collaboration is to further studies of the oral microbiome and its role in the development of chronic inflammation and activation of the innate immune response.

• Despite recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic, the research unit published thirteen peerreviewed articles in accredited journals, two book chapters and eight conference proceedings.

• The unit currently hosts four postdoctoral fellows.

One has received funding from the SARCHi Chair for a period of one year. One has moved on to a permanent research position within CPUT and the unit.

• Director Prof Tandi Matsha received a CPUT Research Excellence Award for External Funding.

• Co-Director Prof Glenda Davison received The Conversation Africa Award for Most Read Article.

• SAMRC/CPUT/CHRC has successfully hosted undergraduate students from the Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL).

These students learned several skills and completed lab work for a mini project, which formed part of their undergraduate/honors dissertation.

• The unit is in collaboration with UCT, where funding has been received from the NIH D43 Fogarty Grant. This grant enables young researchers to receive training and contributes to the joint supervision of projects focusing on HIVassociated lymphoma.

• The unit is currently working with UFS to develop a bioinformatics course to train staff and students at the unit, as bioinformatics is a very

important skill when considering the 5th Industrial Revolution, which will see greater collaboration between humans and machines.

Conferences and workshops Conference and symposium hosting SAMRC/CPUT/CHRC hosted the 1st Annual International Cardiometabolic Health and Diabetes Africa Congress, South Africa online in February.

Conference speakers and/or poster presentations • Poster and speakers: International Cardiometabolic Health and Diabetes Africa Congress, South Africa, online in February • Poster: International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) Worldlab, in Seoul, South Korea in June • Poster: Africa Health/Medlab Africa, in Johannesburg in October • Poster and speaker: XI CALILAB Congress, in Mar del Plata, Argentina in November • Poster and speaker: 3rd International ELLISRAS Longitudinal Study and Other Non-communicable Study Conference, in Limpopo in November Workshop Members from the research unit participated in Thermofisher/Diplomics CPUT qPCR training workshops. There were two sessions, held in July.

195

RESEARCH INSTITUTE

PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION RESEARCH INSTITUTE (PERI) Including Research Chair: Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) (NRF SARChI Chair) Prof Chris Winberg winbergc@cput.ac.za

The first five-year grant for the NRF SARChI Chair in Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) was for 2016 to 2020.

Following a favourable review of the first five years, a second five-year renewal of the NRF SARChI grant for this Research Chair was approved for 2021 to 2025. The work of the Professional Education Research Group is closely linked to the work of the Research Chair.

The ongoing work of the PERI group includes presenting seminars and workshops to the CPUT community and beyond, as well as the collaborative supervision of doctoral and master’s candidates. PERI also facilitates a writing group, comprising both academic staff and postgraduate students. The writing group meets every Wednesday evening, and has been very helpful in both enabling regular contact between supervisors and candidates in a constructive writing space, as well as progressing both our own and our students’ writing projects.

FUNDING SOURCE

AMOUNT

DHET Publications Subsidy 2020

43 178

National Research Foundation (NRF): PERI

137 376

National Research Foundation (NRF): NRF Chairs

1 624 178

TOTAL

1 804 732

196

FOCUS AREA 5 Human, Health & Social Dynamics

RESEARCH CENTRE

CENTRE FOR TOURISM RESEARCH IN AFRICA (CETRA) Department of Tourism & Events Management | Faculty of Business & Management Sciences Ms Mandisa Silo HOD: Department of Tourism & Events Management and Acting Manager: CETRA

silom@cput.ac.za

Dr Hilary Kennedy Nji Bama

Departmental Research Co-ordinator and Co-ordinator: CETRA

bamah@cput.ac.za

CETRA is part of the Department of Tourism & Events Management and based on the District Six Campus. This research centre is CPUT’s research hub for tourism-related research. Its mandate is to foreground CPUT’s contribution to tourism, events and hospitality research and teaching by: advancing research excellence; facilitating research activities; uniting university researchers and practitioners domestically and internationally to engage in ground-breaking research in the highlighted research focus areas; and providing state-of-the-art innovative research facilities for researchers and students. Despite the challenges faced by the tourism, events and hospitality sectors due to Covid-19-induced regulations between 2020 and 2022, CETRA continued making notable contributions highlighted in this report.

Research collaboration Producing impactful research has become one of the mainstays of the Department of Tourism & Events Management. Such research aims to provide practical and valuable solutions to problems in the context of the Global South generally and, more particularly, in the African context. With CPUT’s RTI Blueprint and V2030 serving as a blueprint of CETRA’s activities, participation in transdisciplinary research endeavours is particularly encouraged for the team, through collaborative research activities and partnerships with industry stakeholders and

colleagues, which continues to enable the growth of this research hub.

Viewing collaboration as critical to its success, CETRA has been involved with colleagues across the institution and external industry stakeholders since June in a multi-year transdisciplinary project.

The title is ‘Developing a community-centred cannabis value chain model for the Western Cape’.

CETRA is participating in the stakeholder mapping and stakeholder analysis phases of the project, as well as in designing the business case and research proposal for institutional ethical approval. Our

197 contribution will guide towards influencing policy debates to encourage the development of cannabis tourism hubs in the Western Cape. Leading the CETRA team on this project is Dr Hilary KN Bama, co-ordinator of the centre’s activities. Sponsorship for this project is currently being finalised. Stakeholder consultations are due to start early in 2023, with CETRA earmarked for participation.

Continuing the centre’s high-value focus on collaboration, CETRA continues to work towards expanding its research collaboration network. Ongoing plans to partner with Mount Kenya University are in effect as the centre finalises budgetary requirements for two of its team members, Dr Hilary Bama and Ms Elhaam Abrahams to visit Mount Kenya University next year. Among the potential outcomes of this visit is the creation of an ecotourism research hub around national parks in Rwanda and South Africa, a collaborative initiative with colleagues from the host institution. Other aims are to foster opportunities for exchange programmes, research excellence capacitation through joint supervision of postgraduate students, staff and student mobilities, and curriculum review and development. Initiated through ongoing conversations with one of our alumni Dr Earnest Safari, strengthening mutually beneficial ties and forging linkages between the Kenyan university and CPUT continue to guide these conversations and planning.

Distinguished international visitors CETRA’s international partnerships have also been strengthened through the establishment of the Visiting Researcher Programme (VRP), which facilitates academic exchange in collaborative research, capacity

enhancement, and collaborative scholarly activity with various international institutional partners. CETRA, in collaboration with RTI-SIP and DRD, was pleased to welcome Prof Dr Ralph Berchtenbreiter (Professor: Digital Marketing & Management) from Hochschule München, University of Applied Sciences, Department of Tourism, Munich in March. Among the highlights of his visit, Prof Dr Berchtenbreiter, engaged with key staff on potential collaborations, discussing his research focus, presenting potential avenues for consideration to initiate joint research endeavours, and enjoying a tour of the District Six Campus.

the opportunity to participate in a three-month exchange programme at DHBW in Ravensburg, Germany between June and September. Key among their activities was the engagement with experienced academics at their host institution in issues around their research studies. Outreach activities such as a visit to the Black Forest were also part of the highlights of the programme.

CETRA also facilitated the application to ConfCom and other related funding for staff and students to participate in national and international conferences, with key developments from these being published in accredited journals and conference proceedings. One such event was the participation of one of our master’s students at the Social Sciences Research International Conference (SSRIC 22) at the Intercontinental Resort in Balaclava, Mauritius.

Here they presented a paper on the effects of Covid-19 on South Africa’s business events sector. The paper has since been published in the accredited conference proceedings, and other outcomes of the studies have been submitted to indexed journals.

Prof Dr Ralph Berchtenbreiter with CPUT staff

Research capacitation and enhancement Capacity development and enhancement programmes afford staff and students opportunities to develop and enhance their scholarship. They interacted and collaborated with academics and researchers in different localities and varying contexts, resulting in distinct benefits such as skills enhancement, collaborative research establishment, and exposure to contemporary trends in research and innovation around issues of tourism, events and hospitality. Three female researchers were afforded

Ms Wendy Magangqaza, Ms Elhaam Abrahams and Ms Zimasa Ndaba with other exchange students and Prof Dr Conny Mayer-Bonde (DHBW)

FOCUS AREA 5 Human, Health & Social Dynamics

198 Research excellence and knowledge creation CETRA and the Department of Tourism & Events Management support staff development programmes arranged by the institution and external parties. The tourism department’s research co-ordinator Dr Hilary Bama was part of the core team that designed and implemented Phase 1 of the Sisonke Supervisor Mentorship Programme, CPUT’s flagship programme aimed at mentoring and developing future cohorts of research supervisors across the institution. This phase saw mentoring of over eighty new supervisors across the institution, including colleagues Mr Nizaam Peck and Dr Cynthia Dube. CETRA and the department are focused on encouraging the enrollment of current and emerging supervisors in Phase 2 of the programme to be implemented in 2023.

Conference participation Staff and students from the centre participated in a cross-section of local, national and international conferences, including the International Conference on Tourism Research, the International Conference on Hospitality and Tourism Management, the 8th Biennial Postgraduate Supervision Conference, and the Atlas Online Africa Conference, where a range of papers and presentations were presented. Some research outputs emanating from these conferences: • ‘Mountain gorilla tourism: An approach to conservation of endangered species’, at the Atlas Online Conference

• ‘Eleganza Extravaganza: Investigating the appeal of drag theatre in South Africa’, in Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Events (ICE 2021), Cape Town • ‘Different strokes for different folks: Segmenting drag cabaret audiences in South Africa’, in Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Tourism Research (ICTR 2022), Porto, Portugal • ‘The Covid-19 pandemic and its effects on the future of study abroad programmes at selected universities in South Africa’, in Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Tourism Research (ICTR 2022), Porto, Portugal • ‘Reflections by participants while co-designing a postgraduate mentorship programme for supervisors at a university of technology in the Western Cape’, at the 8th Biennial Postgraduate Supervision Conference, University of Stellenbosch • ‘Creating a supportive environment for supervisors: Lessons learnt from the development of the Sisonke Supervision Mentorship Programme’, at the 8th Biennial Postgraduate Supervision Conference, University of Stellenbosch • ‘Effects of Covid-19 on the event tourism sector: Views of South African business event stakeholders’, in Proceedings of the Social Sciences International Research Conference (SSIRC 2022), Mauritius • ‘Community-based tourism recovery strategies in the Covid-19 context: Perspectives from the Franschhoek Ront and Bont CBT Route’, at the 9th International Conference on Hospitality and Tourism Management: The International Institute

of Knowledge Management, Sri Lanka and CPUT • ‘Policy responses to the Covid-19 pandemic and governance implications on the domestic tourism sector in South Africa’, at the 9th International Conference on Hospitality and Tourism Management: The International Institute of Knowledge Management, Sri Lanka and CPUT Dr Chris Hattingh continued serving as a review committee member for several national and international DHET-accredited journals, including the International Journal of Humanity & Society and the International Journal of Event and Festival Management. Dr Hilary Bama remained on the scientific committees of DHET-accredited journals African Journal of Tourism Hospitality and Leisure (AJTHL) and Journal for Transdisciplinary Research in Southern Africa. New additions for Dr Hilary Bama were joining the scientific committees of the Journal of Tourism and Development and Studia Periegetica.

Dr Bama further collaborated with colleagues of CETRA and across the institution resulting in four co-authored DHET-accredited journal articles. Staff members also participated in reviewing manuscripts for national and international conferences. A snapshot of some of the outputs during 2022: • ‘Tourism policy development and implementation in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa: does local stakeholder involvement count?’, in Acta Economica, 20(37) • ‘The management of mountain gorilla tourism in Uganda: Are the socio-economic benefits realised?’ in Journal for Transdisciplinary Research in Southern Africa, 18(1)

199 • ‘The impact of strategic marketing elements on the customer relationship programme for a regional tourism organisation’, in The Retail & Marketing Review, 18(2) • ‘What innovations would enable the tourism and hospitality industry in Africa to rebuild?’, in Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, 14(6) • ‘Critical success factors for guided tours in the Western Cape province of South Africa’, in African Journal of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure, 11(4) • ‘Greasing the wheels for sport tourism: Key success factors for participants of the Cape Town Cycle Tour’ in African Journal of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure, 11(SE1) • ‘Who attends drag events and why? A motivation segmentation study of South African audiences’, in Tourism and Hospitality International Journal, 19(1)

The Female International Research Network

VISIT to Hochschule Munchen University of Applied Sciences

Dr Cynthia Dube and Ms Silo are founding members of the FIRE Network. They attended the inaugural FIRE Conference combined with a research forum with FIRE dual partner companies this year. The event was held at the Baden­Wuerttemberg Cooperative State University (DHBW) at various campuses from 11 to 23 September. The project and conference were financed by the Baden-Wuerttemberg Foundation (Baden-Württemberg Stiftung). CETRA also held engagements with DHBW Ravensburg, exploring further opportunities for collaborating on research, student exchanges and staff mobilities.

Ms Silo and Dr Dube visited Hochschule Munchen University (HM) in Germany during September.

Following an MoU signed end 2021, this visit aimed to celebrate and activate this agreement in the interest of enriching the international education and students’ cultural exchanges of the respective tourism departments. The two universities considered several projects and agreed to promote programmes in the following areas: student and staff exchanges; research collaboration; and fund sourcing. The following HM colleagues participated in the discussions: Prof Burkhard von Freyberg, Prof Ralph Berchtenbreiter, Ms Veronika Wäninger-Hardt (HM International Office), and Ms Birgit Dittrich and Ms Cornelia Liem (Tourism International Office). It was agreed that funds would be sourced and that the first student exchange would be activated early next year.

Departmental achievements Supervisors within the department worked tirelessly, and twenty candidates, both staff and students, completed their postgraduate qualifications this year.

Four master’s and two doctoral candidates graduated in December 2022. One of these, Ms Wendy Magangqaza, is the first to complete her master’s through FBMS’s accelerated staff programme.

The remaining twelve master’s and two doctoral candidates are due to graduate in April 2023.

Dr Emmanuel Nsabimana and Dr Malefane Monyane on either side of Ms Mandisa Silo, with other departmental staff and graduates

Dr Cynthia Dube (CPUT), Prof Dr Conny Mayer-Bonde (DHBW) and Ms Mandisa Silo (CPUT) at the FIRE Conference in Germany

200 FOCUSFOCUS AREA 5 AREA Human, 5 Human, Health Health & Social & Dynamics Social Dynamics

RESEARCH CENTRE

CENTRE FOR SPORT BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH (CSBTR) Including Sport Performance Laboratory (SPL) | Faculty of Business & Management Sciences Prof Brendon Knott

Dr Sacha West

Centre for Sport Business & Technology Research

Sport Performance Laboratory

knottb@cput.ac.za

wests@cput.ac.za

The relocation of the Sport Management Department to the new educational site at Newlands Cricket Ground due to take place next year signifies that the department and the Faculty of Business & Management Sciences are affirming important strategic changes to better align and position our research imperative.

Construction of the new CPUT educational and research site at Newlands Cricket Ground (NCG) was completed in 2022 (with the fit out of the Sport Performance Laboratory (SPL), the library and the offices expected to be completed in 2023).

The Centre for Sport Business & Technology Research (CSBTR), physically located within SPL, features world-class testing equipment and dedicated research staff and technicians. The new site at NCG will also have a dedicated postgraduate learning and research space with direct access to the library that will house a specialist selection of sport-themed books and resources. SPL will provide the space and cutting-edge technology to pursue research and enhance education and technical training in terms of human performance in sport and related activities and sport technology, including human factors and ergonomics. CSBTR will have a dedicated office at SPL, and will bring in additional funding and expertise to support the CPUT research programme.

Prof Simeon Davies HOD: Sport Management

daviess@cput.ac.za

The vision of the centre is to be a research entity of outstanding excellence and innovation, in line with ‘One Smart CPUT’, creating leaders in the field of applied sport and leisure research to find solutions to South Africa’s scientific and socioeconomic challenges through sport- and leisure-related research. The CSBTR engages in transdisciplinary research, primarily aligned with two institutional key focus areas, namely, FA 1: Bioeconomy & Biotechnology and FA 2: Human, Health & Social Dynamics.

201 CSBTR’s operational capacity supports the following interrelated research components: • Research promotion, uptake and engagement (with a focus on postgraduate research and staff capacity building); • Sport performance testing and rehabilitation; • Community engagement and internationalisation through research; and • 3rd stream income generation through research activities such as grant/funding applications; conference hosting; equipment/venue usage; and technology development/testing.

Highlighted activities and projects in 2022 The Rooibos Exercise Study continues as a flagship project, which is a collaboration between CSBTR and CPUT’s Applied Microbial & Health Biotechnology Institute (AMHBI).

International collaborations have been strengthened during the post-pandemic period. HAN University, Netherlands and CSBTR are running a joint project where postgraduate students from each university work together using interdisciplinary approaches to assist in sport- and healthrelated projects in Western Cape communities.

As an ongoing part of CSBTR’s strategic research initiatives to initiate and strengthen research capacity, an MoU was signed with Rotterdam University, which further strengthens the centre’s commitment to internationalisation and research collaboration.

CSBTR participated in the iPEPAS project for training with sport and disabilities, a collaboration with several other universities. To find out about iPEPAS please visit: https:// ipepas.com/about-ipepas/

CSBTR forms part of the South African Swedish Forum (SASUF) which aims at promoting research collaboration and internationalisation through student and staff travel between the following universities: CPUT, Malmo, Lundt and UWC. Prof Taliep travelled to Sweden in 2022 to develop this research collaboration.

Prof Davies, Dr Hemmonsbey and Prof Knott were invited to chair commission discussions at the annual Cape of Great Events Seminar. This event is hosted by the Western Cape government and draws together government departments and events industry stakeholders of the province.

Research uptake and industry engagement

An article written by Prof Knott for The Conversation Africa was awarded a certificate of recognition for garnering the most reads on the platform in 2022. The article related Prof Knott’s research from the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The following research grant applications were submitted, linked to CSBTR activities: An HEI Seed-Funding application; the NRF-Protea Grant with Gustave Eiffel University of Paris (Mega-Event Legacy Project); and the British Academy’s Research Writing Retreats Grant (a collaboration with Bournemouth University, UK).

The new site has led to several prestigious conference bids or planned conferences through the CSBTR. Most notably, Prof Brendon Knott (CPUT) and Dr Liandi van den Berg (North-West University) combined to submit a bid to cohost the World Association of Sport Management (WASM) Conference. The bid was selected, with the event to be hosted through the CSBTR in March 2026.

During this year, CSBTR strengthened its relations with regional government. Sport Management staff members attended a full-day workshop with the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) to identify synergies and collaborative projects for further research and community engagement.

CPUT’s Sport Management Department is planning a two-day Women in Sport (WIS) conference for October 2023. This conference is planned in partnership with DCAS. It aims to attract both industry and academia for engaging discussions on critical themes surrounding women in sport.

Two CSBTR researchers served as mentors and one as a participant in the CPUT’s RTI-DRD’s Sisonke Supervision Mentorship Programme.

Prof Taliep was invited to present at the Research and Practice Conference in Johannesburg, presenting on optimal training strategies for the developing cricket batter.

Prof Taliep was also invited to present at the Physical Education Conference hosted by the Department of Education, presenting on physical education as a building block for health, wellness and sporting excellence.

Recognition • Two staff linked to CSBTR gained their doctoral degrees in 2022, namely, Dr Teneille Venter and Dr Udhir Ramnath • Acknowledging his research outputs for 2022, Prof Knott was awarded the FBMS Researcher of the Year Award • Three staff members received NRF ratings: Prof Knott, Dr West and Prof Davies • Prof Taliep was promoted to Associate Professor

202 FOCUS FOCUS AREA AREA 5 Human, 5 Human, Health Health & Social & Social Dynamics Dynamics

TECHNOLOGY STATION

CLOTHING & TEXTILES (TSCT) | Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Mr Shamil Isaacs isaacssh@cput.ac.za techstation@cput.ac.za www.tsct.co.za The Technology Station: Clothing and Textiles (TSCT) is located in the Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment on the Bellville Campus. This technology station was established to provide innovation support to the clothing and textile industry in order to help improve competitiveness.

businesses can use the technology on an appointment basis, and staff at the TSCT also provide advice on the application and use of these machines. Charges are levied for the use of the equipment, but these are largely subsidised.

Product testing and analysis

These specific services are provided to the clothing, textiles and related sectors:

The laboratory at the TSCT provides product testing and an analysis service to the clothing, textile and related industries, as well as clothing- and textile-related consulting services, e.g., advice on material use and care, and fabric specification development.

Manufacturing advisory services

Human capital development

Examples include manufacturing audits and assessment; industrial engineering services for the improvement of productivity, including process layout, optimising sewing methods and work-study; and advice on the acquisition of new or improved technology.

The TSCT regularly hosts interns to work on client projects under supervision so that they may gain industry experience. The TSCT also offers a menu of short learning programmes to the clothing, textile and related industries.

Technology support centre

Product development

The TSCT has a number of specialised technologies available at its Bellville office for research, technology demonstration, prototype development and small-scale manufacturing. Small

Services include clothing product development using CAD software for pattern development; pattern grading (sizing); marker making (maximising the material utilisation before cutting); and

Support offered to local industry

203 3D body scanning and 3D simulation on an avatar using data extracted from the 3D body scanner.

CPUT academics win a prestigious award Highlights for 2022 New SMMEs supported

99

Repeat SMMEs supported

61

Large business supported (full cost)

23

Tests and analysis conducted for business

695

Products developed

19

Covid-19 Rapid Fund

208 074

Income for 2022 Technology Innovation Agency Grant

1 767 500

Technology Innovation Agency Equipment Grant

2 878 631

Cost recovered from clients

1 113 379

Project funding from FP&M SETA, Gauteng government TOTAL

Department of Clothing & Textile Technology lecturer and curriculum officer, Dr Sweta Patnaik, and Manager: Technology Station Clothing & Textiles, Mr Shamil Isaacs, won an international e-learning Excellence Award at the ECEL 2022 21st European Conference on e-Learning. The award ceremony was held at the University of Brighton in the UK, where they were presented with their certificates.

The award is to showcase innovative examples of e-Learning use. These are presented through case histories written by academics, teachers, business professionals or students. Dr Patnaik and Mr Isaacs created an integrated project around sustainability in clothing and textiles and entrepreneurship for exit-level third-year students. They created sustainable consumer-preferred products out of waste i.e., clothing offcuts and fabric swatches. “For this award category we created a Google Sites page from scratch, where all the information shared is of low-tech data for anyone to access and learn,” said Dr Patnaik. https://sites.google.com/view/ makingworthoutofwaste/home

586 492

6 346 002 In celebration of our rich cross-pollination culture

She continued, “We had to create all this and go through three stages to be finally invited as a finalist, and then there at the conference through two rigorous processes to be shortlisted. We had 12 strong competitors from all over the world, including Microsoft USA.” Overall, the project augmented learning in various forms: Self-directed learning; Peer-to-peer learning; Collaborative and constructive learning; Creation of a community of practice; Building of entrepreneurial knowledge.

Reflecting on the accolade, Dr Patnaik said, “Milestones are accomplished over time from achievement after achievement.

I feel very accomplished to have achieved this milestone in my life. It took a lot of work, but I am grateful that we not only achieved this but also touched on a very important aspect that speaks to SDGs such as sustainability. It has also helped in putting our department, faculty and institution in the global arena all over again.”

The first recipient within CPUT to win the DAAD UNILEAD Germany leadership course for the year 2021 and NMU rising star for the year 2020, she added that her students were the reason for her success so all credit goes to them. “If you ask me about my attributes to success then that must be passion, optimism, persistence, creativity, self-discipline, a desire to improve and a commitment to learning.”

Mr Issacs said they were using an e-learning platform and mode of delivery to teach students about entrepreneurship within the framework of environmental sustainability, adding value to waste material. “At the same time, transferring this knowledge to disadvantaged communities as a means for them to generate an income. Hopefully students are spurred on to entrepreneurial endeavours and at the same time have an awareness of sustainability both from an environmental perspective and social/ community perspective. This award gives recognition to the role universities can play in transforming society.”

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FACILITATING CORPORATE ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT Technology Station: Clothing & Textiles MTO Forestry (Pty) Ltd, Mpumalanga SMME: NJ YELLOW PROJECTS

Training/Product Development Workwear: Conti Suit Location: Mpumalanga

Objective: NJ Yellow projects to supply MTO Forestry (Pty) Ltd Lowveld Mpumalanga employees with work wear Services Offered: The TSCT provided training in garment cutting, garment assembly, pattern reading as well as H&S, team relations and productivity. The TSCT supplied the business with a set of graded patterns as per design identified by the SMME, as well as fabrics for the project. Before this advance machine training, the company had only basic domestic sewing machine training. At this stage, only two operators had access to a sewing machine, which limited the company’s production capacity. The TSCT trained an additional six operators to improve output. The seven operators are now able to produce a basic Conti suit.

Envisaged Impact: NJ YELLOW PROJECTS is now engaging MTO to become a supplier of workwear. The company has also been in discussions with mines in the area, with the aim of supplying basic products such as safety vests.

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6

FOCUS AREA 6 The Digital Society

Introduction by Prof Izak van Zyl

vanzyliz@cput.ac.za

The ‘Digital Society’ came to fruition in 2022 as a reality and research focus area. In terms of the former, our university again faced an uncertain year, and in many respects its immediate solace was the digital realm. As the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) permeated our material realities, our students and faculty had little choice but to embrace the possibilities of a digital society for their development. And, as with the previous year, this meant a reliance on emergency remote teaching and learning, itself dependent on bandwidth and access to mobile devices or computers. Additionally, our learners and staff had to persist in a context of a severely disrupted electricity supply and dwindling economic resources. Remarkably, the academic project was completed, and success stories abound.

As a focus area, our studies into the Digital Society helped unpack its various complexities as expressed in our niche areas. Through several centres (BIIC, PLMCC, CCS) and research hubs (BDR), we studied the components of the Digital Society in-depth, as described below. Through these various scientific undertakings, as a university of technology, we build towards a sustainable means of solving complex (or ‘wicked’) real-world problems.

Niche Area 1: Artificial Intelligence and Data Science

solutions. It also considers how people manage, manipulate, extract and interpret knowledge from a tremendous amount of raw data. This could be structured, unstructured, incomplete, skewed or irrelevant data. The critical focus is on deciphering masses of databases and ongoing signals to develop informed and actionable recommendations. This area touches on data generated through the Internet of Things (IoT), social media, big data, the application of machine learning, and statistical and mathematical modelling methods for data analytics.

Niche Area 2: Sharing Economy This niche area embraces broad aspects of artificial intelligence that focus on solving real-world problems or aiding human decision-making. The emphasis is on expert systems. These operate on predefined knowledge and learning systems that emulate human brain functioning to generate machine-constructed

The sharing economy is a new way of distributing goods and services. This differs from the traditional model of corporations hiring employees and selling products to consumers. In the sharing economy, individuals rent or share things like cars, homes,

FOCUS AREA 6 The Digital Society

206 clothing and personal time with others in a peer-to-peer fashion. It enables people to enter the economy, typically using mobile applications. This area is expanding to include the gig economy – a labour market comprising short-term jobs, and contracted or freelance work, instead of permanent, in-house jobs. This is an emerging concept that has a strong focus on social upliftment and bolstering economic growth.

Niche Area 3: Additive Manufacturing This is the process of joining materials to make objects from 3D model data, usually layer upon layer, instead of subtractive manufacturing methodologies, such as traditional machining.

Additive manufacturing embraces rapid prototyping, additive fabrication, layer manufacturing, freeform manufacturing and 3D printing.

Niche Area 4: Distributed Systems A distributed system is a network that consists of autonomous computers and devices connected using distribution middleware. They help share resources and capabilities to provide users with a single, coherent and integrated access experience. This includes connected computers and the management of information from various sources. In Industry 4.0 terms, this is an important integrating factor encompassing the Cloud, IoT, robotics, automated process simulation, blockchain technologies and cybersecurity.

Niche Area 5: Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D) This area focuses on using ICT-based approaches to address complex questions and challenges in society, government and industry to facilitate development. It embraces aspects of digital citizenship that seek to promote ease of user access to information and telecommunication technologies (ICTs) to minimise digital inequalities. It also concerns the ethical and responsible management of IT resources and technologies. ICT for development (ICT4D) focuses on societal upliftment through developing and adopting ICTs. Examples include e-Government, e-Health, Health Informatics, e-Education and e-Learning.

The core elements of the Digital Society include artificial intelligence, the sharing economy, additive manufacturing, distributed systems, and information and communication technologies with development potential. Collectively, the researchers in this focus area work towards understanding and incorporating these aspects to engender inclusive development against the background of a fragile global ecosystem.

Cofimvaba learners with their new tablets

CPUT and BANKSETA enhance quality school education CPUT and BANKSETA once again showed their commitment to equipping students to reach their highest capability when they handed out certificates and tablets to 100 matriculants during December. These learners were part of the Digital Literacy Project at the BANKSETA Skills for Future Awards Ceremony held at Cofimvaba Senior Secondary School.

Earlier this year, CPUT launched the Digital Literacy Project with R1.5 million from BANKSETA. Cofimvaba Senior Secondary School, Eastern Cape was selected because it provided CPUT with 102 students in 2022 (30% of their 2021 matriculants). Advancement Department Director, Mr Calvin Maseko, said the school is CPUT’s biggest feeder school in the Eastern Cape. He said the project provided digital literacy skills to 100 matriculants and that BANKSETA has given CPUT another R1.5 million to continue with the project in 2023.

Mr Maseko said the project was part of BANKSETA’s Skills for the Future Programme. “Skills for the Future aims to provide an opportunity to economically disadvantaged Grade 12 scholars in rural Limpopo and the Eastern Cape to acquire demand-driven skills, such as digital literacy and ICT, to enable them

207

to gain entrance in higher education institutions, to pursue careers that support the scarce and critical skills required in the banking and alternative banking sectors in line with the BANKSETA Sector Skills Plan, to increase employability and respond to the urgent need of 4IR.” The learners acquired skills such as word processing, cybersecurity, digital banking, coding and work readiness. Females made up 71% of the learners. Mr Maseko added that the project was part of CPUT’s effort to increase its footprint in community engagement, whereby the university reaches out to communities and schools where it sources its students to implement community development projects. “CPUT was a project manager, and identified the school, provided the skill and procured the needed material,” Mr Maseko remarked.

Speaking at the event, Dr Kuhle Zwakala, Lecturer: Marketing Department, said CPUT and BANKSETA have a very long relationship. Dr Zwakala said, “We as universities often graduate students who do not get jobs, and BANKSETA plays a pivotal role in closing that gap and making sure that we produce graduates that have skills that are needed by the industry.”

The keynote speaker, Ms Nobuzwe Mangcu, Regional Manager, BANKSETA (Eastern Cape), thanked Mr Maseko and his team for keeping their promise to finish the programme by December. “We are looking forward to next year’s programme. We are available if you need funding.” Ms Mangcu also provided career guidance to learners present at the packed event. Her address focused on choices, alternatives, and possibilities at their disposal. She further urged the learners to stay away from criminal activities while studying as that might negatively affect their future employment ambitions. “Avoid criminal records while studying, otherwise no employment at BANKSETA. Avoid peer pressure and think on your own.

You must respect your parents. Make your parents proud because they have sacrificed a lot for you… I beg you not to give up on life.”

The overwhelmed school principal, Ms Naniswa Sabata, said her transformation values had been boosted by the CPUT and BANKSETA partnership. “They have added another source of values to what I am pursuing, which is social transformation. Now I have other pillars of strength in changing people’s lives for the better.” Addressing the learners, Mr Maseko said, “This programme is not only about education but for community development. We are waiting for you at our university.”

21st century ICT digital skills for students Advancement Department Director, Mr Calvin Maseko, presented certificates to 37 students who graduated from SAP S4 HANA in Sales and Distribution, Human Capital Management, Financial, Accounting and Project Management during the SAP graduation ceremony. The event was hosted by the Centre for Enterprise, Research, Partnership and Innovation in Africa (CERPIA) at the District Six campus.

CERPIA Manager, Mr Jerry Ansen, said CERPIA is a multidisciplinary business design competency centre. It is built on the success of the ERP initiatives in the FBMS. Mr Ansen added that their goal was to educate and build next-generation talents with SAP skills for the intelligent enterprise and the experience economy, engage with SAP events, build industry partnerships, launch graduates into the SAP ecosystem, and inspire young thinkers. The programme is purely depended on funding from the SETAs. In this programme, graduates get to learn 21st century ICT digital skills, and are empowered to take current job opportunities and be competitive in the market space. “Since the launch of SAP at CPUT

Graduates at the SAP ceremony

in 2009, it has been very successful,” Mr Maseko observed. He said CPUT shared its expertise with nine other countries, including Kenya, Nigeria and Namibia, and also other universities in South Africa.

Mr Maseko said the programme had improved the employment opportunities of CPUT graduates. “In one group, for example, all the ten graduates were hired by the Cape Metro and provincial government, shortly after graduation. Over 5 000 students have graduated from the programme since its launch in 2009. It cuts across every faculty and the Advancement Department provides about 50 pre-funded students per annum.

Mr Maseko told the graduates that they had made the right choice and that an extra SAP certificate will improve their employability chances.

“SAP skills are still at the infancy stage in South Africa. The world is moving to digitalisation, technology and data-driven decision-making.

“Therefore, academics who want to be SAP facilitators can be trained starting in 2023 to facilitate SAP skills programme in their curriculum.”

Speaking to the graduates, Mr Ansen said, “Congratulations! I wish you all the best in your professional careers.”

208

FOCUS AREA 6 The Digital Society

RESEARCH CENTRE

CENTRE FOR BUSINESS INNOVATION & INCUBATION (BIIC) Faculty of Business & Management Sciences Prof Michael Twum-Darko Graduate Centre for Management

darkom@cput.ac.za

Introduction

Digital Ecosystem: FinTech Venture Builder

a) Internet of NeedsTM (IoN): This is to build and deliver a new economic model of a ‘Glocal’ (global & local) ecosystem of markets, i.e., a quasi-perpetual mobile and all-inclusive, enabling environment of commercial (Demand & Supply) opportunities where opportunities replace money or financial investment to create more jobs and fight hunger and poverty. b) DropworkTM: This mobile application capitalises on the growing need for easy access to employment by freelancing manual labour. c) MiFudTM: This is an e-commerce platform that allows farmers and food factories to sell their cosmetically challenged or overproduced products at a lower price.

This year, the digital ecosystem was used to assist students/ graduates and township small businesses improve their fundamental concepts with the use of FinTech innovative solution. To this end, the following student/graduate solutions and products are being incubated into business:

Students’ performance predictor: With the use of Machine Learning / AI / Big Data Analytics, this builds a platform for customisation and personalisation of teaching and learning based on the number of clicks a student makes for a given scenario.

eVillageTM / eSpazaTM / eCampusTM: The aim here is to build a digital ecosystem using cyber-physical systems (digital technologies + Internet of Things + Machine-to-Machine communication) to retain wealth in rural areas to rebuild the rural economy:

iTasiTM (a convenient payment system for long-distance minibus taxis): This mobile application uses blockchain via smartphone and USSD to book a long-distance trip using a micro- or mini-bus taxi. Payment is only effected when the passenger disembarks.

During 2022, the BIIC worked on strategies to develop a framework to integrate relevant technology and disruptive innovation ecosystem partners into a collaborative working relationship to develop student and graduate innovative ideas into business ventures. This digital ecosystem is an inclusive industry-linked technopreneurship development infrastructure sponsored by the British Council through the Innovation for African University (IAU) Grant 2021/2022.

209 VerifyTM: With the use of AI, this automated financial reporting mobile app provides real-time online income and expenditure reporting.

LoanMeTM: This digital platform makes use of blockchain technology to loan money via Smart Contract to pay for products and services needed by the needy who have no money to do so.

Co-parentingTM: This is a digital platform implementing the Law of Co-parenting in collaboration with DoJ, Credit Bureaux, the Presidency of South Africa as well as three EU member states, namely, Belgium, Sweden and Denmark.

EcoMojaTM: With the use of blockchain technology, this digital ecosystem provides verifiable and auditable green products and services for consumption.

OnlyFriends Entertainment: This is a digital ecosystem that uses blockchain technology to create a market for companies involved in youth development. It allows access using music festivals as a vehicle.

Conferences • Prof Michael Twum-Darko convened the virtual 8th International Conference on Business and Management Dynamics (ICBMD 2022). The conference was hosted by CPUT with partners Fort Hare University, the University of KwaZulu

Natal, Durban University of Technology, the University of Namibia, Northwest University and the University of Zululand. It was held in September, with 68 participants, 32 presenters, a guest speaker from the USA, and two keynote speakers from Ghana and the UK. • The first British Council-sponsored hybrid Inclusive Technopreneurship Forum (ITF 2022) was held at Cape Town Hotel School, Granger Bay. The forum was convened

by Prof Michael Twum-Darko together with IAU partners – Snake Nation (SA), the Manchester Metropolitan University (UK) and the British Council (SA). The two-day event brought together the regional leadership of the All-African Students Union (AASU), and industries in Africa and Europe. It provided the platform for discussions including graduates’ employability and showcasing CPUT students’ technopreneurship project.

In conclusion Although the above initiatives have been of benefit to BIIC’s postgraduate students and researchers, they have been affected by investment. Nonetheless, these pioneering ideas have been used to innovate and incubate new business ventures. This has resulted in continuous discussions with venture capitalists, funding entities and research grant proposals to bring in funds to sustain the centre in line with BIIC’s objectives.

CPUT hosts successful Best Practice Summit Student Development professionals from several institutions gathered at the Bellville Campus in May for the Best Practice Summit (BPS) of the National Association of Student Development Practitioners (NASDEV). The theme of the live-streamed four-day event was ‘Conceptualising the future of student development in a digital transformation era’. Prof Driekie Hay-Swemmer, Executive Director in the Office of the VC, welcomed the delegates to CPUT and said she believed the sharing of best practices in student development was now more important and relevant than ever before.

NASDEV President Dr Bernard Sebake said that over the past two years, the association had not been able to meet and assess the state of student development in the sector, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic. “We hope that out of this summit we will reflect a bit about our Covid experience, especially as it relates to digital transformation because the new-order HE requires that we adapt some of the practices that we used to have or started during Covid to move with the entire globe in terms of really being smart universities.” Dr Sebake added, “What we hope is to gauge our state as the profession in relation to how we are taking that posture to support students, but look at them beyond the university circles and how they are going to generate and regenerate solutions for challenges that are being faced in society.”

VC Prof Chris Nhlapo, one of the keynote speakers, said one cannot talk about student development in the 21st century without leveraging technology. “This is the only way to satisfy the generation of students connected in the digital age to learn and maintain contact with the outside world and thus be of service to society.” He called for more smart universities across South Africa. “Universities need to incorporate smart technologies to take advantage of their capabilities to transform their processes, efficiencies and drive towards new organisational models and be of service to societies.” Prof Nhlapo added that university leaders play a vital role in readying students to become the new architects of the digital future.

“Therefore, we have no choice but to embrace and endorse digital transformation as a future.”

Dr Bernard Sebake, NASDEV President

210 FOCUSFOCUS AREA 6AREA The Digital 6 The Society Digital Society

RESEARCH CENTRE

CENTRE FOR COMMUNICATION STUDIES (CCS) Faculty of Informatics and Design Prof Nic Theo theolj@cput.ac.za

Introduction

Journal articles

The Centre for Communication Studies (CCS) started its work in January 2021, with the aim of fostering human-centred relevance and excellence in research that is directed at bridging communication theory and practice in the fields of media, design, digital engagement and the arts.

• Dr Kristina Graour wrote ‘Serial communities: The dynamics between individual and collective identity in Orange Is the New Black’, which was published in the Journal of Popular Television • Prof Nic Theo’s ‘Catalysing elastextity in adaptation screenwriting: The motivic chronotope of liminality’ was published in the Journal of Screenwriting • Prof Johannes Cronje and Prof Izak van Zyl authored ‘WhatsApp as a tool for building a learning community’, published in the Electronic Journal of e-Learning

During its second year in 2022, the centre successfully concluded further engagements in pursuance of CPUT’s Vision 2030’s Focus Area 4: The Environment, Climate Change & Sustainability, Focus Area 5: Human, Health & Social Dynamics; and Focus Area 6: Digital Society.

Publications Book chapter Mr Samuel Musungwini, Prof Izak van Zyl and Prof Jan Kroeze contributed the chapter ‘The perceptions of smallholder farmers on the use of mobile technology: A naturalistic inquiry in Zimbabwe’ to the book Advances in Information and Communication: Proceedings of the 2022 Future of Information and Communication Conference (FICC), Volume 2.

Conference papers Prof Theo presented the keynote address at Day 2 of the 2022 Architectuire Media, Politics, Society (AMPS) Conference ‘Representing Pasts Visioning Futures’. His paper was titled ‘The punctum of emptiness as ‘Grenszituation’ – Facing the ‘limit situation’ through urban and architectural photographs of empty spaces in the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns’.

211 Other research highlights

Journal editing

Events hosted and attended

Prof van Zyl served as Chief Editor and Prof Theo served as a member of the Editorial Board for the Journal for Transdisciplinary Research in Southern Africa.

• CCS hosted the 2022 NEMISA 4IR Digital Skills Summit, Colloquium and Postgraduate Symposium – ‘The Future of Work and Digital Skills’, with Prof Theo serving as Programme Director.

• CCS co-hosted, alongside Queens University Belfast and the National University of Singapore, the online Architecture, Media, Politics and Society (AMPS) Conference titled ‘Representing pasts Visioning Futures’.

• Prof Theo served as session chair of the online AMPS Conference ‘(In)tangible Heritage(s)’.

• CCS hosted an online colloquium in partnership with UCT’s Centre for Film and Media Studies and the University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Hanover on African documentary and featuring African documentary makers, scholars and students – ‘African Documentary’. Scholars and students from around Africa participated in the colloquium, which included two roundtable discussions on documentary making and master’s research within a pan-African context.

• Prof van Zyl was part of the steering committee for the Protea SIGCHI Colloquium.

• Prof van Zyl served as Co-chair for Workshops for the Participatory Design Conference 2022.

• CCS co-ordinated sessions on campus for the Nemisa AI Course Pilot Programme.

Postgraduate examination and peer review CCS staff were involved with postgraduate examination and peer review of articles for several universities.

Academic leadership/service Prof Theo served his third year on the DHET Creative Outputs Sub-Panel for Film and Television as a reviewer and credit adjudicator.

He also served as Faculty Representative on the South African Humanities Deans’ Association, and as Faculty Liaison for the National Institute of Human & Social Sciences.

Looking ahead Arrangements were formalised for upcoming projects including special publications, the hosting of conferences and colloquia, training programmes and creative outputs. The Centre for Communication Studies looks forward to reporting on these in next year’s institutional Research Report.

212 FOCUSFOCUS AREA 6AREA The Digital 6 The Society Digital Society

RESEARCH CENTRE

PRODUCT LIFECYCLE MANAGEMENT COMPETENCY CENTRE (PLMCC) Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment Prof Stephen Bosman bosmans@cput.ac.za

Introduction The Product Lifecycle Management Competency Centre (PLMCC) trains students and professionals in the art of system engineering, product design and product lifecycle management. It also hosts and supervises design projects.

The centre was launched in March 2012, as a partnership between the French government, Dassault Systèmes and CPUT. In 2017, the project was extended to include DUT as well. In November 2020, the contract between all four parties was extended for another three years.

The PLMCC partnership The French Ministry of Education seconded a 3D Experience expert, Prof Laurent Marche, to work between the only two PLMC centres located in Africa, one at CPUT and the other at DUT. Prof Marche has introduced one of the most advanced software suites of its kind in the world.

He has spent 40% of his time working with PLMCC on CPUT’s Bellville Campus and the Maritime Department in Granger Bay.

The Dassault Systèmes software brings students an advanced 3D experience for product design that is used mainly in engineering, but can also be used in teaching design and modelling skills across other disciplines in higher education.

Team members The key members are representative of several departments and areas across the Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment: Prof Stephen Bosman (Manager) (Industrial & Systems Engineering) Prof Laurent Marche (3D Experience Specialist, French Ministry of Education) Prof Veruscha Fester (Assistant Dean: RTIP) Mr Bharet Morar (Industrial & Systems Engineering) Mr Donovan Cogan (F’SATI) Mr Robert Daniels (F’SATI) Mr Shane Martin (F’SATI) Mr Gregory Naidoo (F’SATI) Mr Butteur Ntamba Ntamba (Maritime) Mr Michael Peterson (Mechanical) Dr Mohammed Pourbehi (Civil & Geomatics) Mr Adile Thole (Chemical)

213 Research projects PLMCC has a partnership with its neighbouring research facility, the French–South African Institute of Technology (F’SATI), which hosts the African Space Innovation Centre (ASIC). ASIC is where CubeSats are developed for South Africa. Many of the projects run at the centre, and therefore it supports the research and development of CubeSat projects.

ASIC’s mechanical team made use of PLMCC facilities for a majority of the design and development process towards both MDASat-1 and M2MSat CubeSat projects. Both CubeSat projects focus on Automatic Identification System for ship detection around the coast of southern Africa. This supports South Africa’s Operation Phakisa, which aims to expand the maritime domain awareness for the country, as initially demonstrated by ZACube-2 which was launched on 27 December 2018.

in the aid of rapid-design development. These parts were then assembled by PLMCC interns at the facility.

PLMCC’s high-powered simulation PC was used for simulations towards research being conducted for ASIC. A study was conducted to simulate the onorbit thermal heating experienced by ZACube-2 and compare this with actual telemetry from the satellite.

With continual development towards thermal models of current and future CubeSat missions.

PLMCC also boasts a brand-new range of highpowered PCs within the lab that are due to be upgraded early in the new year. These PCs aim to facilitate a seamless learning environment for students and lecturers alike, where both experienced and inexperienced CAD users can work effortlessly and complete their endeavours without any concern for technological capabilities.

The ASIC team has launched a constellation of three identical 2U nanosatellites aptly named the Maritime Domain Awareness Satellite or MDASat1 (a, b and c) into space on 13 January 2022. The constellation was part of a larger SSO rideshare that was launched with Falcon 9’s launch of Transporter-3 from the Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

In addition, PLMCC has been a great resource for the ASIC mechanical team when CPUT was invited to designed and build a payload by the Aerospace System Research Institute (ASRI), formerly known as the Aerospace Systems Research Group (ASReG), hosted by the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The payload was designed by using the inhouse CAD software and fabricated with the use of the FDM 3D printer.

The research centre also facilitates two FDM based 3D printers that belong to ASIC. These specialised printers were used by PLMCC members to print parts to produce replicas of the ZACube-2 CubeSat and

The payload, along with others designed by other local stakeholders within the South African space sector, is due to be launched early next year, aboard the Phoenix-1B Mk II.

Academic research PLMCC hosts several bachelor’s and master’s students conducting research in a range of fields including CubeSat development, additive manufacturing and power plant research.

Prof Laurent Marche has a research focus on partoptimisation within the wider PLMCC group.

Prof Stephen Bosman presented at the Improving Industrial Policy Intervention (IIPI) Workshop in Stellenbosch in October last year. This was an initiative between KU Leuven, Belgium, Stellenbosch University and CPUT. The topic of the presentation was ‘Trends in Industry X.0 and the impact on industrial policy’.

This workshop was attended by delegates from more than 10 countries and was translated into French.

Internships and collaborations A collaboration was with Hochschule Düsseldorf University of Applied Sciences (HSD), was resumed in 2022 after a break due to the Covid-19 lockdowns.

Three students from HSD participated in various activities whilst completing their respective bachelor’s degree. They utilised the facilities at both PLMCC and the Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering and the Department of Mechanical & Mechatronics Engineering.

214 FOCUSFOCUS AREA 6AREA The Digital 6 The Society Digital Society

RESEARCH UNIT

BRAND & DIGITAL RESEARCH (BDR) HUB Marketing Department | Faculty of Business & Management Sciences Dr Pieter Steenkamp

Dr Kuhle Zwakala

steenkamppi@cput.ac.za

zwakalak@cput.ac.za

In line with the VC’s vision of ‘One Smart CPUT’, and to support the institutional focus on research output and supervision throughput, the Marketing Department consolidated its research efforts into a focus area called the Brand and Digital Research (BDR) Hub in October 2019. With the research emanating from the BDR Hub, the department endeavours to positively contribute to economic growth and 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) challenges.

The main objectives of the BDR Hub are: • To support the strategic goals of CPUT and the Faculty of Business & Management Sciences, including focusing on 4IR • To increase awareness of the research projects of the Marketing Department • To explore and develop a pan-Africanist perspective regarding strategic brand and digital media management • To improve the amount of research output • To improve the quality of research output • To attract high-calibre postgraduate students and researchers • To attract high-calibre research projects • To attract internal and external research funding • To increase research and supervision capacity • To foster and leverage industry linkages

Prof Rodney Duffett duffetr@cput.ac.za

Since its launch in 2019, the BDR Hub has so far: • published twenty peer-reviewed academic articles in accredited journals • graduated seven postgraduate students • presented twelve conference papers • published papers in three conference proceedings • published five book chapters

215 The BDR Hub total published research output for the academic year 2022 is 9.17, with 8.0 by academic staff and 1.17 by postgraduate students.

The Brand & Digital Research Hub Symposium took place on 7 October 2022. It was an outstanding showcase for the unit’s research, with the theme ‘Branding services in the digital era’. The event was well attended by postgraduate students, alumni, industry, international guests, and staff.

Prof Rodney Duffett, Dr Pieter Steenkamp, Dr Kuhle Zwakala and Prof Holger J Schmidt at the BDR Hub Symposium

Ms Simone Thomas is a BDR doctoral student who was awarded a bursary and job opportunity in Germany. She began to undertake academic activities at Hochschule Koblenz University of Applied Science (HSK) in 2021, while furthering her doctoral studies through the CPUT–HSK cooperation. Ms Thomas has continued her residency in Germany for 2022.

Acronyms

216 FBMS

Faculty of Business Management Sciences (CPUT)

ConfCom Conference Committee (CPUT)

FAS

Faculty of Applied Sciences (CPUT)

Altitude determination and control system

CPSR

Centre for Power Systems Research (CPUT)

FEBE

Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment (CPUT)

AEL

African Explosives Limited

CPUT

Cape Peninsula University of Technology (SA)

FFRU

Functional Foods Research Unit (CPUT)

AIS

Automatic identification system

CRTDS

Centre for Real-Time Distributed Systems (CPUT)

FHWS

Faculty of Health & Wellness Sciences (CPUT)

AMHBI

Applied Microbial & Health Biotechnology Institute (CPUT) Adaptronics Advanced Manufacturing Technology Laboratory (CPUT)

CSAEMS Centre for Substation Automation & Energy Management Systems (CPUT)

FID

Faculty of Informatics & Design (CPUT)

FPRC

Flow Process & Rheology Centre (CPUT)

F’SATI

French–South African Institute of Technology (SA and CPUT)

4IR

4th Industrial Revolution

CIR

AAC

African Agri Council

ADCS

AMTL

Centre for Instrumentation Research (CPUT)

CSIR

Council for Scientific and Industrial Research

CT

Computed Tomography (CT)

CUT

Central University of Technology (SA)

GBV

Gender-based violence

CWSR

Centre for Water & Sanitation Research (CPUT)

GOAP

Global Oceans Accounting Partnership

DEECE

Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering (CPUT)

HE

Higher Education

HEAIDS

Higher Education and Training HIV/AIDS Programme

HEIs

Higher education institutions

ASIC

Africa Space Innovation Centre (CPUT)

ATS

Agrifood Technology Station (CPUT)

AU

African Union

BDR

Brand & Digital Research Hub (CPUT)

BIIC

Centre for Business Innovation & Incubation (CPUT)

DFST

Department of Food Science & Technology (CPUT)

BioERG

Bioresource Engineering Research Group (CPUT)

DHET

Department of Higher Education & Training (SA)

BYM

Brightest Young Minds (Africa)

DoD

Department of Defence (SA)

HELTASA Higher Education Learning & Teaching Association of South Africa

CDPES

Centre for Distributed Power and Electronic Systems (CPUT)

DSI

Department of Science & Innovation (SA) (formerly DST)

HEQSF

CEO

Chief Executive Officer

DUT

Durban University of Technology (SA)

HERS-SA Higher Education Resource Services South Africa

CERPIA

Centre for Enterprise Research Partnership and Innovation in Africa

DVC

Deputy Vice-Chancellor

HPL

Human Performance Laboratory (CPUT)

Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Technology Innovation & Partnerships

Human Resource Management

Centre for Tourism Research in Africa (CPUT)

DVC: RTIP

HRM

CETRA

Extended curriculum programme

Head of Department

Cape Higher Education Consortium (SA)

ECP

HOD

CHEC CHED

Centre for Higher Education Development (Fundani, CPUT) Cardiometabolic Health Research Centre (SAMRC/ CPUT/CHRC)

EEZ

Exclusive economic zone

HSRC

Human Sciences Research Council (SA)

EMS

Emergency medical services

IT

Information Technology

EPPEI

Eskom Power Plant Energy Institute (SA)

ISSTAA

Innovative Small Satellite Technology & Applications for Africa

CIET

Centre for Innovation in Educational Technology (CPUT)

EU

European Union

JET

Just Energy Transition

CITE

Centre for Initial Teacher Education (CPUT)

EUF

Europa University Flensburg, Germany

KUAS

Koblenz University of Applied Sciences (Germany)

CHRC

Higher Education Qualification Sub Framework (SA)

217 LTA

Learning, Teaching and Assessment

RU

Rhodes University (SA)

TVET

Technical and Vocational Education and Training

MDA

Maritime domain awareness

SA

South Africa

UCGD

University Capacity Development Grant (CPUT)

MOCAA

Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Cape Town)

UCT

University of Cape Town (SA)

MoU

Memorandum of understanding

SAASTA South African Agency for Science & Technology Advancement

UFS

University of the Free State (SA)

MUT

Mangosuthu University of Technology (SA)

UJ

University of Johannesburg (SA)

NDP

National Development Plan (SA)

UKZN

University of KwaZulu Natal (SA)

NGO

Non-governmental organisation

UPEC

University of Paris East Créteil

NMU

Nelson Mandela University (SA)

UN

United Nations

NPC

Non-profit company

Unisa

University of South Africa (SA)

NPO

Non-profit organisation

UoT

University of technology

NQF

National Qualification Framework (SA)

UP

University of Pretoria (SA)

NRF

National Research Foundation (SA)

URF

University Research Fund (CPUT)

NSTF

National Science and Technology Forum (SA)

USAf

Universities South Africa

NWU

North-West University (SA)

UWC

University of the Western Cape (SA)

PERI

Professional Education Research Institute (CPUT)

VC

Vice-Chancellor

PLMCC

Product Lifecycle Management Competency Centre (CPUT)

WHO

World Health Organisation

PMCT

WIL

Work-integrated learning

WITS

University of the Witwatersrand (SA)

WRLC

Wholesale & Retail Leadership Chair (SA)

WSU

Walter Sisulu University (SA)

SABPP

South African Board for People Practices

SADC

Southern African Development Community

SAHRUF South African Human Resource Universities Forum SAMRC

South African Medical Research Council

SANSA

South Africa National Space Agency

SARChI

South African Research Chairs Initiative

SARETEC South African Renewable Energy Centre (CPUT) SASCE

Southern African Society for Co-operative Education

SASUF

South Africa–Sweden University Forum

SDGs

Sustainable Development Goals (UN)

SDR

Software Defined Radio

SL

Service-Learning

SLCE

Service-Learning and Civic Engagement (CPUT)

Post-mortem computed tomography

SIP

Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships

PMMRI

Post-mortem magnetic resonance imaging

SRC

Student Representative Council

R4M

Reading for Meaning (CPUT)

STEM

Science, technology, engineering and maths

R&D

Research & development

SU

Stellenbosch University (SA)

RIFTAL

Research and Innovation Fund for Teaching and Learning (CPUT) Research Innovation in Teaching and Learning Conference

TIA

Technology Innovation Agency (SA)

TTO

Technology Transfer Office (CPUT)

TUT

Tshwane University of Technology (SA)

TSCT

Technology Station: Clothing & Textiles (CPUT)

RITAL RTIP

Research, Technology Innovation & Partnerships (CPUT)

218

DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR: RESEARCH, TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION & PARTNERSHIPS Dr David Phaho Tel: 021 959 6203 Fax: 021 959 6002 Email: phahod@cput.ac.za Room 228, Administration Building, Bellville

Ms Liziwe Poni Secretary to the DVC Tel: 021 959 6242 Fax: 021 959 6002 Email: ponil@cput.ac.za Room 228, Administration Building, Bellville

DIRECTORATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT Director Prof Dina Burger Director: Research

Tel Email Address

021 460 3878 burgerd@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

Ms Edwina Pedro Secretary to the Director

Tel Email Address

021 460 3878 pedroe@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

Dr Hester M Burger Manager: Research Integrity

Tel Email Address

082 873 1484 burgerh@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

Ms Pumza Makaula Manager: Research Grants

Tel Email Address

021 460 3895 makaulap@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

Mr Clement Matasane Manager: Research

Tel Email Address

021 460 3383 matasanec@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

Dr Patricia Smit Manager: Capacity Development

Tel Email Address

021 460 3539/021 959 6249 smitpa@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus and B2.07 New Electrical Engineering Building, Bellville Campus

Managers

219

Co-ordinators

TEAM

Ms Luyolo Oyo Co-ordinator: Research Information Management System (RIMS)

Tel Email Address

021 460 3843 kamatil@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

Ms Phathiswa Swaartbooi Research Finance Administrator

Tel Email Address

021 460 3796/021 959 4489 swartbooip@cput.ac.za CPGS offices, New Library Building, Bellville Campus

Ms Nikeziwe Ngcani Co-ordinator: Finance

Tel Email Address

021 460 3539 ngcanin@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

Ms Elizabeth Gemba Research Assistant Administrator (intern)

Email Address

gembae@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

Ms Lara Lee Smith Co-ordinator: Research Writing, Information & Publications

Tel Email Address

021 460 3328 smithll@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

Ms Zokwanda Ludonga Research Assistant Administrator (intern) (until 31 July 2022)

Email Address

ludongaz@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

Ms Anelisa Mtabateni DSI-HSRC Intern

Email Address

mtabatenia@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

Ms Zuzeka Tshayina Research Assistant Administrator (intern)

Email Address

tshayinaz@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

TEAM Ms Shafeeqa Hendricks Research Finance Administrator

Tel Email Address

021 460 4241 hendrickss@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

Mr Marvin La Meyer Research Finance Administrator

Tel Email Address

021 460 3798 lameyerm@cput.ac.za Room 2.8, Administration Building, District Six Campus

220

CENTRE FOR POSTGRADUATE STUDIES Director 2022 Prof Izak van Zyl Director

TEAM Tel Email Address

021 953 8455 vanzyliz@cput.ac.za Centre for Postgraduate Studies New Library Building, Bellville Campus

INTERIM Manager Dr Corrie Uys Interim CPGS Manager (until 31 March 2023)

Tel Email Address

021 460 3258 uysc@cput.ac.za Centre for Postgraduate Studies New Library Building, Bellville Campus

Co-ordinator Mr Masimba Paradza CPGS Coordinator (until 31 March 2023)

Email Address

paradzam@cput.ac.za Centre for Postgraduate Studies New Library Building, Bellville Campus

Mr Stanley Lekata Co-ordinator: Postgraduate Development (until 31 July 2023)

Email Address

lekatas@cput.ac.za Centre for Postgraduate Studies New Library Building, Bellville Campus

Ms Raquel Lewis Postgraduate & NRF Administrative Assistant (until 31 March 2022)

Tel Email Address

021 959 3719 lewisra@cput.ac.za Centre for Postgraduate Studies New Library Building, Bellville Campus

Ms Zimkhitha Mbunge NRF Administrator (until 28 February 2023)

Email Address

mbungez@cput.ac.za Centre for Postgraduate Studies New Library Building, Bellville Campus

Ms Ethne Mentoor Finance Administrator (until 12 July 2023)

Tel Email Address

021 959 6505 mentoore@cput.ac.za Centre for Postgraduate Studies New Library Building, Bellville Campus

Ms Phaphama Mhlekwa Evaluation & Monitoring Officer

Tel Email Address

021 953 8462 mhlekwap@cput.ac.za Centre for Postgraduate Studies New Library Building, Bellville Campus

Ms Nicole Philander Finance Administrator (until 15 July 2022)

Email Address

philandern@cput.ac.za Centre for Postgraduate Studies New Library Building, Bellville Campus

Ms Mtembukazi Sibindlana Bursary Administrator

Tel Email Address

021 953 8600 sibindlanam@cput.ac.za Centre for Postgraduate Studies New Library Building, Bellville Campus

221

TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER OFFICE TEAM

Director Dr Revel Iyer Director: Technology Transfer Office

Tel Email Address

021 959 6431 iyerr@cput.ac.za Technology Transfer Office Bellville Campus

Ms Halimah Rabiu Tech Transfer Officer: Funding

Tel Email Address

021 959 6879 rabiuh@cput.ac.za Technology Transfer Office Bellville Campus

Ms Karen Martin TTO Secretary

Tel Email Address

021 959 6044 martink@cput.ac.za Technology Transfer Office Bellville Campus

Ms Jayde Barends Senior Tech Transfer Officer: Marketing

Tel Email Address

021 959 5871 barendsj@cput.ac.za Technology Transfer Office Bellville Campus

Ms Veruscha Naidoo Tech Transfer Officer: Contracts

Tel Email Address

021 959 5871 naidoov@cput.ac.za Technology Transfer Office Bellville Campus

Mr Siyabonga Zulu Tech Transfer Officer: IP

Tel Email Address

021 959 5871 zulys@cput.ac.za Technology Transfer Office Bellville Campus

Dr Al Farao Tech Transfer Officer: Business Development

Tel Email Address

021 959 5871 faraoal@cput.ac.za Technology Transfer Office Bellville Campus

Manager Mr Marlin Fransman Tech Transfer Manager: Legal

Tel Email Address

021 959 5605 fransmanm@cput.ac.za Technology Transfer Office Bellville Campus

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RTIP STRATEGIC INITIATIVES & PARTNERSHIPS Director Prof Judy Peter Director: RTIP-SIP

TEAM Tel Email Address

021 959 6405 peterj@cput.ac.za Room 0004, Administration Building, Bellville Campus

Ms Mercia Bosman Administrative Assistant: International Relations

Tel Email Address

021 959 6595 bosmanm@cput.ac.za Room 0004, Administration Building, Bellville Campus

Ms Hlengiwe Nzama Administrative Assistant: Research Uptake

Tel Email Address

021 959 6595 nzamah@cput.ac.za Room 0004, Administration Building, Bellville Campus

Managers Dr Tasmeera Singh Manager: International Relations

Email Address

singht@cput.ac.za Room 0004, Administration Building, Bellville Campus

Ms Xolelwa Bashala Administrator: RTI SIP

Tel Email Address

021 959 4502 bashalax@cput.ac.za Room 0004, Administration Building, Bellville Campus

Dr Elma Maleka Manager: Research Uptake

Email Address

malekae@cput.ac.za Room 0004, Administration Building, Bellville Campus

Mr Dingaan Booi Officer: International Relations

Tel Email Address

021 959 6048 booidi@cput.ac.za Room 0004, Administration Building, Bellville Campus

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The 2022 Research Report is published by the CPUT Directorate Research Development.

The editor acknowledges with thanks the contributions of: • Colleagues from the Directorate Research Development for a variety of input • Mr Aphiwe Boyce, Mr Craig Christians, Mr Kwanele Butana, Ms Ilse Fredericks and Ms Lauren Kansley (Marketing & Communication Department) for news items and photographs retrieved from the CPUT News Archive • Dr André Steenkamp (Faculty of Education) for the Afrikaans translation of the VC’s foreword • Ms Mirriam Nonkazimlo Mdledle (Faculty of Education) for the isiXhosa translation of the VC’s foreword • CPUT researchers, faculties, support units and research institutes for various contributions and assistance with fact-checking • All the helpful staff at the Marketing & Communication Department • Last, but certainly not least, Ms Bridgette Hunt for her design concept and layout and Ms Cheryl Thomson for her co-editing and proof-reading

EDITOR Ms Lara Lee Smith Research Directorate smithll@cput.ac.za Design concept & layout BRIDGETTE HUNT DESIGN bahunt@wol.co.za Proof-reading Ms Cheryl Thomson cherylthomson2@gmail.com

+27 21 959 6767 info@cput.ac.za www.cput.ac.za @cput @wearecput www.facebook.com/cput.ac.za