Dr Lerato Ndaka
The colloquium, hosted by Nelson Mandela University, in collaboration with the Department of Higher Education and Training, is a congratulatory event for candidates who have successfully participated in the programme's national initiatives.
These are the New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP) coordinated by Mandela University, the Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme (NESP) by Rhodes University; and the University Staff Doctoral Programme (USDP) at the University of Pretoria.
“The graduates of the UCDP programmes are poised to make a remarkable contribution to both the South African higher education sector and society at large. As highly skilled academics, researchers, and thought leaders, you will play a crucial role in shaping the future of our universities by driving innovative teaching, cutting-edge research, and progressive leadership,” said Professor Azwinndini Muronga, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Internationalisation, in his opening address.
The colloquium emphasised Nelson Mandela University’s commitment to the DHET’s goals, which align closely with the University's Vision 2030. This vision emphasises innovation, equity, and inclusion within the academic sector.
As the University continues to support the DHET as an implementation support partner, it remains dedicated to fostering a diverse academic environment that drives societal transformation and nurtures a more inclusive South African higher education landscape.
During his address at the colloquium, DHET’s Chief Director for Teaching, Learning and Research Development Phillip Tshabalala, said that a focused renewal and expansion of the academic profession is vital for the long-term sustainability of high-quality public higher education in South Africa.
He added that in the attempt to address any challenges in this regard, the Department of Higher Education and Training introduced the UCDP programme.
Tshabalala said that because the programme takes time and investment, aside from transformation, the various graduate attributes they wish to see, are graduates with:
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deep discipline and knowledge,
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creative, critical thinking and problem-solving
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teamwork, communications skills, professionalism and leadership reediness
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high ethics
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self-awareness and emotional intelligence
Close to 90 candidates made up this year’s cohort, participating in the UCDP programme, which focuses on developing capacity in the areas of student support, staff development, and curriculum development.
The colloquium attended by 229 delegates at the Boardwalk Convention Centre in Gqeberha, was a powerful reminder of the critically important role transformation programmes can play in shaping South Africa’s academic landscape.
It was inspiring to see how the programme has created pathways to empower talented individuals. This event was not just a celebration of achievements but also a call to continue building a diverse and inclusive academic profession that responds to the needs of our country.
A few of the graduates were asked to share their experiences of the programme, encouraging those aspiring to participate in future.
nGAP
“I applied for the nGAP programme because I saw it as an unparalleled opportunity to establish myself as a socially responsible academic,” said North-West University’s Dr Lerato Mdaka.
She said that the emphasis on developing young scholars, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, is what deeply resonated with her desire to grow both professionally and personally.
“The holistic support structure of nGAP was exactly what I needed to enhance my teaching capabilities, strengthen my research profile, and contribute meaningfully to the transformation of higher education in South Africa,” said senior lecturer Dr Mdaka.
Dr Madaka said she was also motivated by the programme's commitment to community engagement and its potential to influence not only academic spaces but also societal development.
“My next focus is on deepening my research impact, particularly in the areas of social entrepreneurship and community development, while ensuring that my work remains relevant to both academia and society at large.
“I intend to expand my community engagement initiatives to further bridge the gap between university research and real-world social challenges. Ultimately, I see myself stepping into a leadership role where I can mentor the next generation of academics, just as I was mentored, and continue contributing to the transformation of higher education in South Africa,” said Dr Mdaka.
USDP
Senior lecturer at UWC, Dr Makhaya Malema described this experience of the USDP programme as very positive.
“I was able to expand my horizons and get involved in a community of other scholars, who shared similar journeys and experiences. I was supported in my development and career aspirations through a well-coordinated and structured programme with growth opportunities,” said Dr Makhaya, who holds a PhD in Sport and Exercise Science.
“This is a wonderful programme, which bridges the gap created by the isolation of doing a PhD, which has been associated with a lonely journey.
NESP
Wits lecturer and PhD researcher in the School of Construction Economics and Management Faranan Gethe, said that NESP, aligned perfectly with his goals and aspirations.
“I was exploring a career transition from industry to academia, and the NESP programme provided an ideal opportunity at a time when I was seeking guidance on making this shift,” said Gethe.
He encouraged young academics to consider NESP, as a valuable opportunity, providing a solid foundation and support network for those transitioning into academia and aspiring to contribute to knowledge creation