UWC is a research-led university responsive to the needs of a changing world through excellence in learning, teaching and research, and the generation and application of new knowledge.
Firmly anchored in its local and sub-regional context and inspired by its distinctive academic role in building a more equitable and dynamic society, the University continues to empower its students, staff and partners to advance its mission of serving the greater public good and searching for humane and sustainable solutions to the challenges of our time. This is pursued through high academic standards, intellectual rigour and productive partnerships and networks beyond the confines of disciplinary and geographic boundaries.
MESSAGE FROM THE CHANCELLOR
HEADER SUB-HEADER
Welcome to this important day in the life of the University of the Western Cape. Today we celebrate you, our graduands, and we honour the discipline and perseverance that have brought you to this point. We also acknowledge those who have supported you along the way, especially your parents, guardians, families, friends and loved ones. Reaching this day has taken sacrifice and determination. For many of you, the journey has not been easy. There were pressures and moments of uncertainty. But you continued, and today we recognise what you have achieved.
You enter the world at a time of great complexity. Across the globe, many societies are living with conflict and socioeconomic strain. Many are also affected by division. Here in South Africa, we continue to face inequality, unemployment and the unfinished work of building a more just and inclusive society. These issues influence the daily lives of millions of people, especially those who continue to live on the margins. Yet there is still hope for humanity in those who continue to care for others and for the world we share.
That is why your education is so important. It is indeed for personal advancement, but it is also for service. It is part of the work of restoring dignity and widening opportunity. It is also for helping to build communities in which people can live with hope. Your degree is an achievement to be proud of, but it also comes with responsibility. As UWC graduates, you are part of a university guided by courage and critical thought. It is also a university with a strong sense of social purpose. Whatever path you follow from here, I hope that will remain with you. Use what you have learned with integrity. Do so with generosity and a clear sense of justice.
Ubuntu recognises that our lives are bound up with those of others. In a time when many people still feel excluded or unheard, that understanding still holds. The world needs graduates who are capable and thoughtful about how they use their knowledge and how their choices affect others. Congratulations on all that you have achieved. May you go forward with confidence and a sense of responsibility to others. God bless.
Welkom by hierdie belangrike dag in die lewe van die Universiteit van Wes-Kaapland. Vandag vier ons julle, ons gegradueerdes, en ons eer die dissipline en deursettingsvermoë wat julle tot op hierdie punt gebring het. Ons erken ook diegene wat julle langs die pad ondersteun het, veral julle ouers, voogde, families, vriende en geliefdes. Om hierdie dag te bereik, het opoffering en vasberadenheid geverg. Vir baie van julle was die reis nie maklik nie. Daar was druk en oomblikke van onsekerheid. Maar julle het voortgegaan, en vandag erken ons wat julle bereik het.
Jy betree die wêreld in ’n tyd van groot kompleksiteit. Regoor die wêreld leef baie samelewings met konflik en sosio-ekonomiese druk. Baie word ook deur verdeeldheid geraak. Hier in Suid-Afrika staar ons steeds ongelykheid, werkloosheid en die onvoltooide werk om ’n meer regverdige en inklusiewe samelewing te bou in die gesig. Hierdie kwessies beïnvloed die daaglikse lewens van miljoene mense, veral diegene wat steeds op die kantlyn leef. Tog is daar steeds hoop vir die mensdom in diegene wat steeds omgee vir ander en vir die wêreld wat ons deel.
Daarom is jou opleiding so belangrik. Dit is inderdaad vir persoonlike bevordering, maar dit is ook vir diens. Dit is deel van die werk om waardigheid te herstel en geleenthede te verbreed. Dit is ook om gemeenskappe te help bou waarin mense met hoop kan leef. Jou graad is ‘n prestasie om trots op te wees, maar dit kom ook met verantwoordelikheid. As UWK-gegradueerde is jy deel van ’n universiteit wat gelei word deur moed en kritiese denke. Dit is ook ’n universiteit met ’n sterk sin vir sosiale doel. Watter pad jy ook al van hier af volg, hoop ek dit sal by jou bly. Gebruik wat jy geleer het met integriteit. Doen dit met vrygewigheid en ‘n duidelike sin vir geregtigheid.
Ubuntu erken dat ons lewens verbind is met dié van ander. In ’n tyd wanneer baie mense steeds uitgesluit of ongehoord voel, geld daardie begrip steeds. Die wêreld het gegradueerdes nodig wat bekwaam en bedagsaam is oor hoe hulle hul kennis gebruik en hoe hul keuses ander beïnvloed. Baie geluk met alles wat jy bereik het. Mag jy vorentoe gaan met selfvertroue en ’n gevoel van verantwoordelikheid teenoor ander. God seën.
AARTSBISKOP THABO MAKGOBA
KANSELIER
UNIVERSITEIT VAN WES-KAAPLAND
Dear Graduands,
MESSAGE FROM THE RECTOR
HEADER SUB-HEADER
Few moments in university life speak more clearly to the purpose of higher education than graduation. It is a time to celebrate achievement. It is also a time to recognise discipline and perseverance, and to acknowledge the support of families, friends, lecturers and mentors who have walked this journey with you.
Your graduation comes at a time when South Africa, and the world, continue to face serious challenges. We are living through a period of socioeconomic pressure and technological change. It is also a period affected by conflict, persistent inequality and climate instability. We are living through a complex time in which public trust and social justice remain urgent concerns. These realities form part of the world you are entering as graduates. Amid these issues, it remains possible to act with purpose and to help build a better future.
For that reason, your qualification is significant both as a personal achievement and as a public good. A university education equips you with knowledge and skills. It also develops your judgement, your ethical sense and your capacity to work with others in addressing the challenges of our time. At UWC, we believe that higher education should prepare graduates who can think critically, act responsibly and contribute meaningfully to society.
You have reached this day through sacrifice and determination. Many of you had to overcome various obstacles. That experience will have influenced what you know and who you are becoming. The strength you have shown in completing this journey will serve you well. As UWC graduates, I hope you will take with you a strong sense of social purpose and thoughtful engagement. Use your education with purpose and in ways that widen opportunity for others. In a society still facing deep inequality, that responsibility should be taken seriously. Congratulations on your achievement. We wish you every success in the years ahead.
PROF ROBERT J. BALFOUR RECTOR AND VICE-CHANCELLOR UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
Min oomblikke in die universiteitslewe spreek duideliker tot die doel van hoër onderwys as graduering. Dit is ’n tyd om prestasie te vier. Dit is ook ’n tyd om dissipline en deursettingsvermoë te erken, en om die ondersteuning van families, vriende, dosente en mentors wat hierdie reis saam met jou gestap het, te erken.
Jou graduering kom in ’n tyd wanneer Suid-Afrika, en die wêreld, steeds ernstige uitdagings in die gesig staar. Ons leef deur ’n tydperk van sosio-ekonomiese druk en tegnologiese verandering. Dit is ook ’n tydperk wat geraak word deur konflik, aanhoudende ongelykheid en klimaatsonstabiliteit. Ons leef deur ’n komplekse tyd waarin openbare vertroue en sosiale geregtigheid dringende bekommernisse bly. Hierdie realiteite vorm deel van die wêreld wat jy as ’n gegradueerder betree. Te midde van hierdie kwessies bly dit moontlik om doelgerig op te tree en te help om ’n beter toekoms te bou.
Om daardie rede is jou kwalifikasie betekenisvol, beide as ’n persoonlike prestasie en as ’n openbare bate. ’n Universiteitsopleiding rus jou toe met kennis en vaardighede. Dit ontwikkel ook jou oordeel, jou etiese sin en jou vermoë om met ander saam te werk om die uitdagings van ons tyd aan te spreek. By UWK glo ons dat hoër onderwys gegradueerdes moet voorberei om krities te kan dink, verantwoordelik te kan optree en betekenisvol tot die samelewing kan bydra.
Julle het hierdie dag deur opoffering en vasberadenheid bereik. Baie van julle moes verskeie struikelblokke oorkom. Daardie ervaring sal beïnvloed het wat julle weet en wie julle word. Die krag wat julle getoon het om hierdie reis te voltooi, sal julle goed te pas kom. As UWK-gegradueerdes hoop ek dat julle ’n sterk gevoel van sosiale doel en nadenkende betrokkenheid sal saamneem. Gebruik julle opleiding doelgerig en op maniere wat geleenthede vir ander vergroot. In ’n samelewing wat steeds diep ongelykheid in die gesig staar, moet daardie verantwoordelikheid ernstig opgeneem word. Baie geluk met julle prestasie. Ons wens julle alle sukses toe in die jare wat voorlê.
PROF ROBERT J. BALFOUR
REKTOR EN VISEKANSELIER
UNIVERSITEIT VAN DIE WES-KAAPLAND
AND FIGURES
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
TOTALSTUDENTPOPULATIONENROLMENT
SUCCESSRATE
HEADER
HISTORIC MILESTONES
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
1960: The University College of the Western Cape opens its doors.
1970: The institution gains independent university status and is allowed to award its own degrees and diplomas.
1975: Prof Richard van der Ross is appointed as UWC’s first black Rector.
1978: UWC’s Cape Flats Nature Reserve is declared a National Monument (now known as a provincial heritage site).
1987: New Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Jakes Gerwel, declares UWC as the ‘university of the left’. The University deracialises and opens its doors to African students.
UWC inaugurates its longest-serving Chancellor, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who would serve for more than 25 years.
1990: UWC becomes the first university to award the late President Mandela an honorary doctorate upon his release from prison.
1994: Many academics from UWC join President Mandela’s government and are appointed to ministerial and advisory positions, including its Rector, Prof Gerwel, who became the Director-General in the Presidency.
SUB-HEADER
1994: UWC’s leadership takes part in writing the higher education policy for the incoming government. The South African interim Constitution and final Constitution are drafted at UWC.
1995: UWC launches its first website – joining the internet age before other universities in the Mother City.
UWC launches the Institute for Poverty, Land and Agrarian Studies (PLAAS) to engage in research, training, policy development and advocacy in relation to land reform, rural governance and natural resource management.
2002: Under the leadership of Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Brian O’Connell, UWC successfully resists being merged. Instead, its Dentistry Faculty is merged with that of the University of Stellenbosch, making UWC the only dentistry faculty in the Western Cape.
2010: 10 SARChI chairs awarded to UWC, the highest number awarded to any university in SA that year (as of 2018, UWC hosts 17 SARChI Chairs).
2012: UWC launches its Technology Transfer Office to help promote the development and protection of the intellectual property of the University’s research community, staff and students.
HISTORIC MILESTONES
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
2012: UWC is declared Africa’s Greenest Campus in the inaugural African Green Campus Initiative Challenge.
2013: UWC signs the Berlin Declaration on Open Access in the Sciences and Humanities, joining hundreds of institutions around the world dedicated to supporting the principles of open access and working to achieve openness in publicly funded projects.
2015: Prof Tyrone Pretorius is inaugurated as the new Rector and Vice-Chancellor.
2016: UWC’s Centre for Humanities Research is awarded the Flagship on Critical Thought in African Humanities by the NRF.
UWC is ranked number 1 in Physical Science – not just in South Africa, but for Africa as a whole – in the 2016 Nature Index.
2017: A group of UWC students, led by Prof Nico Orce, conduct the second major African-led experiment at the CERN laboratory in Switzerland.
UWC’s former Vice-Chancellor, Prof Brian O’Connell, receives the National Research Foundation’s highest honour, the NRF Lifetime Achievement Award.
2018: The Faculty of Dentistry launches a state-of-the-art video conferencing system that allows students to watch live surgeries in class or at home – a first for South Africa.
HEADER
SUB-HEADER
2018: UWC Choir made its debut at the World Choir Games. The choir came first in its category, bringing home the gold medal and the titleWorld Champions.
2019: UWC Rugby makes its historical debut in the Varsity Cup, by becoming the first team from an historically disadvantaged institution to qualify for the competition.
2020: UWC’s South African National Bioinformatics Institute (SANBI), in collaboration with researchers from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), sequenced the first SARS-COV-2 genome in South Africa, providing a genetic “fingerprint” helped us understand - and contain - the spread of COVID-19.
UWC celebrates its 60th anniversary.
2022: Professor Russell H Kaschula is appointed as the Research Chair in Forensic Linguistics and Multilingualism – a first in Africa.
The UWC Main Hall is renamed the Jakes Gerwel Hall to honour this iconic leader.
2023: Professor Marion Keim is appointed as the UNESCO Chair for Sport, Development, Peace and Olympic Education – the first ever awarded UNESCO Chair in Sport in Africa
HISTORIC MILESTONES
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
2023: Four significant infrastructure projects are completed in 2022 and 2023, including the Education Faculty building on the main campus, the 2700-bed Unibell Residence complex in Belhar, the Centre for Humanities Research building in Woodstock, and the UWC Innovation Hub in Parow.
2024: The first year of the full implementation of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme, which provides full bursaries to 250 undergraduate and 250 Master’s students as part of a seven-year agreement.
HEADER SUB-HEADER
2024: UWC is the first and only university team to compete in the inaugural CAF Women’s Champions LeagueAfrica’s premier club competition for women’s football.
2025: Prof Robert John Balfour is inaugurated as the 8th Rector and Vice-Chancellor
OFFICE BEARERS
OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
CHANCELLOR
The Most Reverend Dr TC Makgoba (PhD, Doctorate of Divinity: Hon. Causa)
CHAIR OF COUNCIL
HEADER
SUB-HEADER
Ms X Mpongoshe (Dipl. Juris, B. Proc, Cert in Compliance Management, Cert. CRO (Euromoney London))
RECTOR AND VICE-CHANCELLOR
Prof R Balfour (BA, BA (Hons), HDE, MA, PhD)
VICE-RECTORS AND DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLORS
Prof MK Ralarala (HDE (Arts), BA (Hons), MA, DLitt, PhD)
Prof P Baker - Acting (BSc, BSc (Hons), MSc, PhD)
Prof M Madiba (BA (Paed), B.Ed (Hons), B.Ed (Hons), BA (Hons) (English), MA Linguistics (Applied Studies), PhD)
REGISTRAR
Dr N Lawton-Misra (BA, BEd, MEd (Educational Psychology), PhD (Educational Psychology))
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
Mr ME Magida (BProc, LLB, LLM)
Mr M Regal (BCom (Hons), CA (SA), M Dev Studies)
HEADER SUB-HEADER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
Prof F Moola (BA Hons, MA, PhD)
DEANS
Prof A Padmanabhanunni (BA Hons (Psych), MA (Counselling Psych), PhD)
Prof V Yengopal (BChD, BSc (Hons), PGDip, MChD, PhD)
Prof MV Esau (BAdmin, BAdmin (Hons), MAdmin, PhD)
Prof R Govender (BSc; BSc Honours (Mathematics); MEd and PHD (Mathematics Education))
Prof JR De Ville (BCom, LLB, LLD)
Prof D Holgate (BSc, BSc (Hons), MSc, PhD)
SUB-HEADER
FACULTY OF ARTS AND HUMANITIES FACULTY OF ECONOMIC AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
ORDER OF PROCEEDINGS
1. Academic Procession (THE AUDIENCE IS REQUESTED TO STAND AS THE PROCESSION ENTERS THE HALL)
2. The Chancellor / Vice-Chancellor constitutes the congregation
3. National Anthem
4. Address: SRC
5. Address: Rector and Vice-Chancellor
6. Item in song
7. Presentation of Graduands to the Chancellor / Vice-Chancellor
8. The Chancellor / Vice-Chancellor dissolves the congregation
9. The Academic Procession leaves the hall
NB: THE AUDIENCE IS REQUESTED TO REMAIN STANDING UNTIL THE PROCESSION HAS LEFT THE HALL.
Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso, O fedise dintwa le matshwenyeho, O se boloke, O se boloke setjhaba sa heso, Setjhaba sa South Afrika – South Afrika.
Uit die blou van onse hemel, Uit die diepte van ons see, Oor ons ewige gebergtes, Waar die kranse antwoord gee,
Sounds the call to come together, And united we shall stand, Let us live and strive for freedom, In South Africa our land.
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
WILLIAM WILBERFORCE AMOAH
SCHOOL OF NURSING
Supervisor: DR F AKIMANIMPAYE
Co-supervisor: PROF P MAYERS
Thesis:
Development of a Guideline for Professional Nurses in Ghana to Support Self-Management in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease
Description:
This doctoral research developed a guideline to help professional nurses in Ghana better support patients living with end-stage renal disease in managing their condition. Through a multi-phase mixed-methods study, the research gave voice to patients’ experiences, examined nurses’ perspectives through a quantitative survey, and drew on international best-practice evidence through a scoping review. These findings informed the development of a context-specific guideline, which was subsequently validated through a Delphi technique with experts in the field. This important contribution strengthens nursing practice, enhances patient support and education, and advances the quality of care and health outcomes for patients living with kidney disease in resource-limited settings.
BARENNISE ARRIES
SCHOOL OF NURSING
Supervisor: PROF M WILLIAMS
Co-supervisor: PROF P MAYERS
Thesis:
A best practice guideline for nurses to facilitate the management of HIV-positive patients undergoing haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in the Western Cape
Description:
This three phase study explored nurses’ experiences in caring for people living with HIV, haematology cancer and undergoing haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and reviewed the best international practices for managing these patients. Using the findings from the substudies and based on Virginia Henderson’s theory of need, which emphasises the basic human needs and how nurses can meet those needs, a draft set of guidelines was developed. After expert panel review, the guidelines were refined and finalised. The guidelines, after pilot testing, implementation and evaluation, will be available to support and guide nurses working in this specialised field of health care.
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S
DEGREES DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
IVO NCHENDIA AZIA
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR A NYEMBEZI
Co-supervisors: PROF S CARELSE, PROF F MUKUMBANG
Thesis:
The role of religious beliefs on adherence to antiretroviral therapy in the Cape Town Metropole
Description:
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is widely recognised as the cornerstone of effective HIV management. Ivo Azia conducted a multi-phased, mixed-methods study to explore and describe adherence to ART among Pentecostal Christians living with HIV (PCLH) in the Cape Town Metropole. This research included a systematic review of the impact of religious beliefs on ART adherence in sub-Saharan Africa, followed by sequential qualitative studies involving pastors, PCLH and healthcare workers. His thesis revealed that religious beliefs are prevalent among PCLH and exert a dual influence, serving as barriers to ART adherence for some while facilitating for others. These findings informed the development of faithsensitive ART adherence guidelines through a Nominal Group Technique workshop, which involved experts in the field of HIV and religious beliefs.
KAYLA LEE CALVERT
Department: PSYCHOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF A PADMANABHANUNNI
Co-supervisor: DR T ADONIS
Thesis:
A digital mental health intervention to enhance mental health and resilience among school teachers working in under-resourced schools in the Western Cape Province
Description:
This study examined the mental health of teachers working in under-resourced schools in the Western Cape and evaluated the My Possible Self digital mental health application as a potential support tool. Using a three-phase triangulation design, the research found high levels of stress, depression, anxiety and trauma-related symptoms among teachers, alongside significant systemic and emotional challenges in their work environments. The digital application did not yield significant improvements in mental health or resilience. The study makes an important contribution by showing how digital interventions function in realworld, low-resource school settings and by identifying key considerations for their contextual relevance, design and implementation.
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
JABULANI CHITANGA
Department: PSYCHOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF M SMITH
Co-supervisor: PROF E MUNNIK
Thesis:
The development of an evaluation tool to assess doctoral research supervision at a South African University
Description:
The Doctoral Supervision Research Evaluation Tool (DoSET) was developed in response to the need to evaluate supervision. The construction followed explicit steps to establish a sound theoretical base and conceptual frame complimented with operationalised scale decisions. The DoSET is a self-report tool that evaluates 5 domains: administrative competencee, research skills, supervisory relationship, graduate attributes, and professional identity. Findings indicate that the scale achieved a high level of conceptual construct validity. The study evidenced a high level of methodological rigour and coherence using conceptual frameworks, construction theory, and validation practices that can be considered a best practice model. The study provides a basis to evaluate the experience of supervision.
ILHAAM ESSA
SCHOOL OF NURSING
Supervisor: PROF K JOOSTE
Thesis:
Towards a transformative learning framework to develop leadership capacities in undergraduate nursing students at a university in the Western Cape
Description:
A transformative learning framework on leadership in undergraduate nursing students is created through critical engagement, dialogue and action. She underlines that health outcome reports in South Africa reflect a failure in public healthcare linked to poor visionary leadership. She believes that transformative learning in health professions education develops leaders as change agents in society. ADDIE’s model integrates Cranton’s (2002) assumptions for programme design; Cranton and Carusetta’s (2004) authentic teaching model ties educators and students in a nursing programme; McCawley’s (2001) logic model outlines inputs, outputs, outcomes driving the framework. The practice-oriented theory (Dickoff et al. 1968) integrates concepts from a mixed-methods design within a pragmatic paradigm into a unique framework.
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
NOKWANDA GIBIXEGO
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR V MATHEWS
Co-supervisor: PROF R VAN NIEKERK
Thesis:
The design of a psycho-educational intervention programme to address the psychological risk factors associated with biomarkers of non-communicable diseases among adolescents in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality and Amatole District, Eastern Cape
Description:
Fifty percent of all lifetime psychological health conditions originate during adolescence. South Africa, where socioeconomic disparities and historical legacies persist, is burdened with a high prevalence of psychological risk factors among adolescents, including emotional distress, stressful life events, self-harm behaviour, and suicidal ideation. Nokwanda’s study utilised a mixed-method sequential exploratory research design and revealed that most adolescents had psychological risk factors with one to four biomarkers for Non-Communicable Diseases. Nokwanda designed a psycho-educational intervention programme to address the psychological risk factors associated with the biomarkers of Non-Communicable Diseases among adolescents using the Rothman and Thomas intervention design model.
LINDOKUHLE PRECIOUS HLATSHWAYO
Department: SOCIAL WORK
Supervisor: PROF M VAN DER WESTHUIZEN
Thesis:
Guidelines for social work practitioners and service users to engage in responsive e-social work practices
Description:
Grounded within Critical Social Work and the Crisis Intervention Model, this qualitative study explored the experiences and perspectives of 12 social workers and 16 service users. Social workers highlighted ways of reaching out to service users during disasters and crises, how technology has supported them, and their strategies for crisis intervention. The service users described how they used technologies to connect with social workers, the advantages and challenges of technology during crises, and suitable technologies in e-social work. Both groups emphasised ethical considerations. Through member checking, the participants became co-designers of the guideline for responsive e-social work practices. This study contributed to the continued development of e-social work as an essential component of blended social work practice.
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
MOGHAMAD PHADIEL HOOSEN
CENTRE FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES OF CHILDREN, FAMILIES AND SOCIETY
Supervisor: PROF S SAVAHL
Co-supervisor: DR S ADAMS
Thesis:
Exploring the psychological well-being of children in South Africa in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: A eudaimonic perspective
Description:
Moghamad Phadiel Hoosen’s doctoral research examined children’s psychological wellbeing in South Africa from a eudaimonic perspective, with particular attention to disruptions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. This theoretically robust study employed a multimethod design, integrating a systematic review, nationally representative quantitative analyses, and a qualitative exploration of children’s lived experiences. The findings indicate that children’s well-being reflects a complex interplay between internal capacities and external conditions, including social relationships, parental support, and socio-economic adversity. The study advances a child-centred understanding of psychological well-being and offers insights for policy and practice in South Africa and the Global South.
NGCWALISA JAMA
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: PROF U LEHMANN-GRUBE
Co-supervisor: DR A NYEMBEZI
Thesis:
An exploration of emerging collaboration models between traditional health practitioners and mental health practitioners in South Africa
Description:
Ms Jama’s PhD thesis examined progress in collaboration between traditional health practitioners (THPs) and biomedical health practitioners (BHPs), especially in mental health care where the role of THPs is significant. Such collaboration is advocated nationally and globally, yet little empirical evidence of collaboration models exists. Ms Jama’s engagement with practitioners and policy processes found numerous regulatory, structural and paradigmatic barriers standing in the way of meaningful collaboration, but also found that collaboration, although rare, is possible when grounded in mutual respect and shared values. She concluded that genuine collaboration demands a critical examination of the dominance of Western paradigms in health policy and the decolonisation of mental health education.
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
KAALA MOOMBA
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: PROF B VAN WYK
Co-supervisor: PROF T CROWLEY
Thesis:
Leave no one behind: Optimizing service delivery and treatment outcomes for adolescents accessing antiretroviral therapy in Lusaka, Zambia
Description:
Adolescents growing up with HIV are challenged to remain engaged and adhere to treatment care protocols. Kaala conducted a multi-phased, mixed methods study which included a baseline assessment of treatment outcomes, an exploration of healthcare challenges and experiences of adolescents living with HIV and their caregivers, an assessment of the adequacy of health policy and regulations, as well as the adequacy of health information systems to manage adolescents on HIV treatment. His doctoral work makes recommendations on how Zambian health systems can optimize service delivery for adolescents living with HIV to improve treatment outcomes. His PhD produced four peer-reviewed journal publications.
KEZIA RUTH OCTOBER
CENTRE FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES OF CHILDREN, FAMILIES AND SOCIETY
Supervisor: PROF N ROMAN
Co-supervisor: PROF E RICH
Thesis:
Family determinants of social cohesion: The development of a logic model of change
Description:
Social cohesion, defined by trust and civic engagement, is deeply influenced by family systems which shape community dynamics. This study identifies family-level factors affecting social cohesion and develops a specific logic model through a mixed-methods convergent design. The research incorporates a scoping review, policy review, surveys, interviews, and community asset mapping. It identifies eight key family determinants of social cohesion: relational, developmental, historical and intergenerational, cultural, structural and economic, institutional, community and social networks, and environmental. These findings form a family-centered evidence base for interventions aimed at enhancing social cohesion, advocating for a focus on family-centered strategies in South African communities.
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
CANDICE LITESA SEALE
CENTRE FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES OF CHILDREN, FAMILIES AND SOCIETY
Supervisor: PROF N ROMAN
Thesis:
The development of a mental health intervention for students at a higher education institution
Description:
Student mental health, particularly depression, anxiety, and stress, are increasingly prevalent in higher education globally, and especially at South Africa’s Historically Disadvantaged Institutions (HDIs) facing unique pressures. This study developed a mental health intervention using a mixed methods design, comprising two phases: the first phase assessed and explored the problem, while the second involved a consensus workshop with stakeholders to refine the Contextual Institutional Care Response (CICR) intervention. The CICR focuses on mental health literacy, training, peer support, stigma reduction, resource navigation, and policy alignment, aiming to integrate mental health support into institutional planning and policy for more equitable responses in South Africa’s higher education system.
THANDAZILE SIBINDI
SCHOOL OF NURSING
Supervisor: PROF J CHIPPS
Co-supervisor: PROF T CROWLEY
Thesis:
Development of an eco-nursing competency framework for nurses working in primary health care in South Africa
Description:
In response to the current concerns about climate change and the impact on health care, Ms Sibindi used a multi-phased approach to develop an eco-nursing competency framework for nurses working in PHC in South Africa. Using the CHANT framework, she published a paper on evidence on current eco-nursing competencies for nurses, measured the knowledge, motivation, and behaviour of nurses working in PHC and explored the views of key stakeholders on climate change. The study provided a novel eco-nursing competency framework for PHC nurses in South Africa which complements the SANC Specialist Nurses frameworks for Primary Care and Community Health Nurses and addresses an important gap by aligning ecological principles with nursing roles in education, practice, and policy.
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
WILLIE MUSARAVA SIDUNA
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR H BRADLEY
Co-supervisor: PROF R LAING
Thesis:
Understanding the factors affecting the management of asthma in Eswatini
Description:
2026
Asthma is a common chronic respiratory condition and despite global guidelines recommending the regular use of inhaled corticosteroids their underuse results in poor asthma control. Willie Siduna used several methodologies to evaluate asthma management in Eswatini. He found significant gaps between current practice and evidence-based recommendations, including lack of a step-wise approach to assess asthma severity. Asthma prescribing and consumption patterns indicated a high level of salbutamol use in comparison to the recommended inhaled corticosteroids. Low inhaled corticosteroids availability at primary-level and unaffordable treatment costs in the private sector created barriers to care. Study findings were presented to key stakeholders and recommendations to improve quality of care emerged.
LYNETTE MATSHEPE SIKHAKHANE
CENTRE FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES OF CHILDREN, FAMILIES AND SOCIETY
Supervisor: PROF N ROMAN
Thesis:
The development of a conceptual model to promote the communication of emotions in the family
Description:
Emotions and their expression are fundamental to healthy family functioning. They enable connection, intimacy, and resilience. Suppressed expression leads to conflict and compromised mental health. In South Africa, families navigate a multicultural context shaped by Ubuntu, cultural norms, gender roles, and intergenerational differences. This three-stage qualitative study developed a model to promote emotion communication in families. Focus groups and stakeholder interviews formed the basis of the model. The findings highlight emotion literacy, cultural barriers and facilitators, and the role emotions play in family relationships. The model offers culturally relevant interventions for practitioners, educators, and families across diverse populations, contributing to our understanding of emotional dynamics in South African families.
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
MANYA NAIR VAN RYNEVELD
SCHOOL
OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: PROF H SCHNEIDER
Thesis:
Life sustaining responses and everyday care work during the HIV/AIDS and Covid-19 crises in Cape Town, South Africa
Description:
The Covid-19 pandemic and the earlier HIV/AIDS epidemic were crises of social reproduction in South Africa, revealing the fragility of household capacities to absorb care responsibilities amidst inequalities and gaps in social protection. This thesis draws on the candidate’s involvement as observer-participant in the Community Action Networks of COVID-19, examining the pandemic as revelatory of unmet needs and the burdensome distribution of care labour, while also highlighting the prefigurative potential of collectivised, solidaristic forms of care. Tracing the historical evolution of community care systems in response to HIV/ AIDS as setting the stage for care experiences during COVID-19, the thesis advances key claims about the politics, value and future of community care in South Africa.
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2026
MASTER OF ARTS IN SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
KOLOBE SIYABONGA CRAIG
Thesis:
The Provision and Management of Rural-Based Sports and Recreational Facilities in South African Local Municipalities
Department: SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
Supervisor: DR M MALEMA
Co-supervisor: MR P MULIBANA
MOEKETSE KELELLO NTSOAKI
Thesis:
Exploring the lived experiences of female leaders at professional soccer clubs in the Western Cape
Department: SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
Supervisor: PROF S TITUS
NZWOBI HANGWELANI
Thesis:
Leisure Education as a means to promote inclusive activity participation among youth with and without disabilities in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province
Department: SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
Supervisor: DR M MALEMA
Co-supervisor: MR P MULIBANA
MAHLALELA PHINDILE ENGEL
Summa Cum Laude
Thesis:
The influence of campus recreation on students’ wellness and academic success – A scoping review
Department: SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
Supervisor: DR M MALEMA
Co-supervisors: PROF M YOUNG, MR S GAWULAYO
MUSANDIWA PFUNZO PEARL
Magna Cum Laude
Thesis:
Exploring the current practices on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion on leisure and recreational facilities and programs in the Western Cape, South Africa
Department: SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
Supervisor: DR M MALEMA
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2026
MASTER OF ARTS IN PSYCHOLOGY
MOODLEY MICHE SHAMANI
Thesis:
A systematic review reporting on the psychometric properties of instruments used to diagnose post stroke depression
Department: PSYCHOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF M SMITH
MASTER OF ARTS IN BIOKINETICS
NELSON ANGELO GRANT
Thesis:
Determining the accumulative physical demands on university rugby players during the Varsity Cup rugby tournament
Department: SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
Supervisor: PROF L LEACH
Co-supervisor: PROF B ANDREWS
SILJEUR RICARDO
Thesis:
The relationship between relative age effect, biological maturation and physical performance in 12 and 13 year old male soccer players
Department: SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
Supervisor: PROF L LEACH
Co-supervisor: MR G SMITHDORF
MASTER OF ARTS IN PSYCHOLOGY
Thesis:
An exploration of educators’ perceptions of their psychosocial well-being in primary school contexts in the Eastern Cape
Department: PSYCHOLOGY
Supervisor: DR T ADONIS
Co-supervisor: MRS C RAATS
MONAKALI KWANGA SIBABALWE
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2026
MASTER OF ARTS IN CHILD AND FAMILY STUDIES
PETERSEN SANDY CHARLENE
Thesis:
Exploring the provision of learning support for adolescents with special needs within an educational setting
CENTRE FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES OF CHILDREN, FAMILIES AND SOCIETY
Supervisor: PROF C ERASMUS
WIPPENAAR MELISSA
Thesis:
Exploring identity construction among adolescents attending former Model C schools and residing in low-income communities in Cape Town
CENTRE FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES OF CHILDREN, FAMILIES AND SOCIETY
Supervisor: DR Z YASSIN-BURNS
Co-supervisor: PROF S SAVAHL
SASI ABDULBASET BAHIR M
Thesis:
The relationship between ART nonadherence and the quality of life, psychological distress and coping strategies of persons living with HIV/AIDS and their families in Tripoli, Libya
CENTRE FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES OF CHILDREN, FAMILIES AND SOCIETY
Supervisor: PROF N ROMAN
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2026
MASTER OF NURSING
AMUKWAYA HILKA NAAMBO NDESHIHAFELA
Thesis:
Nurses’ experiences regarding the care of patients with Covid- 19 in a respiratory unit of Intermediate Hospital Katutura, Namibia
SCHOOL OF NURSING
Supervisor: DR L VAN DER BERG
Co-supervisor: DR K MINNIE
KHOBO FUNANANI MICHELLE
Thesis:
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of undergraduate nursing students regarding the use of contraceptive methods at a university in Venda
SCHOOL OF NURSING
Supervisor: DR J WILLEMSE
Co-supervisor: DR P BIMRAY
MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY IN SPORT FOR DEVELOPMENT
BOWERS LANCE ANDREW
Thesis:
Exploring the influence of community after school programs on the learner’s development in the City of Cape Town, Western Cape
Department: SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
Supervisor: DR M MALEMA
NDUMO SANDILE INNOCENT
Thesis:
Factors that contribute to the academic performances of student-athletes who are on Sports Merit Awards Bursaries at a University in the Western Cape
Department: SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
Supervisor: DR M MALEMA
LOTTERING ANTHONY
Thesis:
Teachers’ Perceptions of Physical Education for children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder at a special needs Primary school within the Cape Winelands District
Department: SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
Supervisor: DR M MALEMA
NEILSON RAILIEN
Thesis:
An exploration of foreign national coaching practices at a community sports club on the Cape Flats, Western Cape Province, South Africa
Department: SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
Supervisor: PROF V MCGHIE
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2026
MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY IN SPORT FOR DEVELOPMENT
NYANGIWE SIMAMKELE
Thesis:
Female student-athletes’ experiences and perceptions on leadership in competitive university sports
Department: SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
Supervisor: DR M MALEMA
Co-supervisor: MS K MOEKETSE
MASTER OF PSYCHOLOGY
HOON NADIA
Thesis:
Exploring pre-school teachers’ perceptions and experiences of social and emotional competence: The usefulness and adoptability of the E3SR
Department: PSYCHOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF E MUNNIK
SIGWABE ZINTLE
Thesis:
Akalali umntu ozali inkwenkwe: The experiences of Mothers whose sons have been through Ulwaluko in the Xhosa culture
Department: PSYCHOLOGY
Supervisor: DR L TUCKER
Co-supervisor: DR K JACKSON
KEKANA GOITSEONE
Thesis:
The relationship between stress, coping, perceived social support and mental health among university students within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic
Department: PSYCHOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF N SOMHLABA
SIYONZANA SIYAMTHANDA
Thesis:
PTSD among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic: A scoping review
Department: PSYCHOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF A PADMANABHANUNNI
2026
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES
MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH
ADAMS WYNONA WHITNEY
Thesis:
The experiences of unemployed pregnant women referred to the next level of care for non-urgent referral within the public health system, Cape Town, South Africa
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: MS N SCHAAY
BARNES CLAIRE
Thesis:
Factors associated with hospital length of stay in patients with chronic kidney disease in three private hospitals in Cape Town, South Africa
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR A NYEMBEZI
Co-supervisor: DR L SHURO
CILLIE JOHANNA
Thesis:
Implementing the ideal hospital program in two rural district hospitals in the West Coast District, Western Cape Province, South Africa: A qualitative study of staff perspectives
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: PROF A GEORGE
Co-supervisor: DR M KINNEY
GOMO SIMBARASHE BLESSED
Thesis:
An exploration of factors contributing to non-adherence among patients on antiretroviral treatment in Goromonzi district, Zimbabwe
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR A NYEMBEZI
Thesis:
Exploring patient’s perceptions of tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes mellitus (DM) dual diagnosis in a tertiary hospital in Eswatini
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR L TSOLEKILE
Thesis:
The prevalence and risk factors associated with pulmonary arterial hypertension among HIV-Infected individuals in a tertiary hospital in Durban
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR L TSOLEKILE
DLAMINI NONHLANHLA KHANYISILE
GWALA THEMBELIHLE ROSELINE
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2026
MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH
JACOBS HEIN
Thesis:
Understanding reasons for treatment defaulting among mental health patients at a District Hospital in Mossel Bay, South Africa
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR T MATHOLE
MAXHAKANA INATHI
Thesis:
Cash transfers and child health: Understanding the barriers and facilitators to early application and receipt of the child support grant in Langa Township, Cape Town
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR T MATHOLE
Co-supervisor: DR W ZEMBE-MKABILE
MPOTLA NTHABISENG MERRIAM
Thesis:
Clinician-based factors affecting TB case identification in children under five in Sedibeng
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR W AMDE
Co-supervisor: DR F MUKINDA
MATSENJWA GCINEKILE
Thesis:
Factors associated with precancerous cervical lesions in HIV-Positive women: A retrospective cross-sectional study at a clinic in Eswatini
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR M LEMBANI
MCPHERSON-RESANDT MARILYN CHINELIZE
Thesis:
Access and use of Termination of Pregnancy (TOP) services: Perspectives of women and healthcare providers in the Western Cape Province, South Africa
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR W AMDE
Co-supervisor: DR P OWARE
MSSEEMMAA DAVID LENANA
Thesis:
Quantifying factors associated with resilience among migrant adolescent girls and young women in Hai Referendum, South Sudan
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR S MIANDA
Co-supervisor: PROF O AKINTOLA
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES
MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH
MTHEMBU LINDOKUHLE NOMZAMO
Thesis:
Factors associated with contraceptive use intentions among pregnant adolescents girls in rural Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: PROF O AKINTOLA
Co-supervisor: DR N GWELO
MUTIRIKWI GIVEMORE
Thesis:
Knowledge, attitudes and practices of contraceptives among college students at a tertiary institution in Harare, Zimbabwe
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: PROF H TABANA
Co-supervisor: DR F MUKINDA
NDLOVU NKOSANA
Thesis:
Prevalence and correlates of syphilis among ART-initiated patients in Eswatini: A retrospective cross-sectional study
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR W AMDE
Co-supervisor: DR R ROOMANEY
MUMBO ANGELINE
Thesis:
An exploration of the factors that influence health seeking behaviour for childhood diarrhoea amongst peri-urban caregivers in Kolwa Central Location, Kisumu County, Kenya
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: MS N SCHAAY
NDLOVU MXOLISI REGINALD
Thesis:
Exploring patients’ lived experiences of essential medicine stock-outs in public hospitals of Sekhukhune District, Limpopo province, South Africa
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR N NCUBE
OMONY JEANNE
Thesis:
Perceptions and acceptance of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare among nursing students at an academic institution in the Western Cape, South Africa
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR V SCOTT
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2026
MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH
POOE MARELEBOGILE CECILIA
Thesis:
Determining the prevalence, predictors and patterns of transfusion transmissible infections among blood donors in Lesotho – A retrospective cross-sectional study between 2013 – 2023
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR V MATHEWS
TSOTSA ASISIPHO INNOCENTIA
Thesis:
Exploring the perceptions of mental health among young black isiXhosa-speaking people living in Nelson Mandela Bay
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR M DE JONG
Co-supervisor: DR L SHURO
TAKAWIRA NESISA
Thesis:
Factors influencing the uptake and retention of ART among people living with HIV in a district in Zimbabwe
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Supervisor: DR V MATHEWS
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
FORTUNE KAMEELA
Thesis:
A qualitative enquiry into the benefits of an occupational therapy programme in facilitating community integration for stroke survivors in Dubai
Department: OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
Supervisor: PROF M SOEKER
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PHYSIOTHERAPY
HUNT KEEGAN JANE
Thesis:
University going high performance athlete’s perceptions of psychological strategies recommended by high performance physiotherapists for return to play readiness
Department: PHYSIOTHERAPY
Supervisor: DR D HESS
Co-supervisor: MRS S GAMIET
NICKALL HILDEGARDE DAWN
Thesis:
Experiences of patients with blunt and penetrating trunk trauma of their acute and post-discharge recovery in the Cape Metropole
Department: PHYSIOTHERAPY
Supervisor: PROF F KARACHI
MATSHINGWANE KATLEGO
Thesis:
The perceptions of adolescents with cerebral palsy regarding physical activity
Department: PHYSIOTHERAPY
Supervisor: DR D HESS
Co-supervisor: MS V MADASA
PINTO CHANDRE
Thesis:
Reaction Time Training in Netball Players using Virtual Reality: A Randomized Controlled Study
Department: PHYSIOTHERAPY
Supervisor: MR T YU
Co-supervisor: PROF N MLENZANA
Thesis:
Physiotherapists’ perception of spirituality in patient care
Department: PHYSIOTHERAPY
Supervisor: PROF J FRANTZ
Co-supervisor: DR L AFRICA
ROMAN OLIVIA
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2026
MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK
ABDEROOF AIESHA
Thesis:
Exploring the experiences of postpartum depression of first-time mothers in Cape Metropole and the effects on themselves, their baby and family
Department: SOCIAL WORK Supervisor: PROF G DYKES
JEFTHA JASON
Thesis:
An exploration of the experiences of treatment services and family reintegration of clients involved in a substance abuse treatment process
Department: SOCIAL WORK Supervisor: DR N LUKELELO Co-supervisor: PROF S CARELSE
DANIELS NATASHA
Thesis:
An exploration of Psychosocial Intervention Services to families that have experienced divorce
Department: SOCIAL WORK Supervisor: PROF S CARELSE
VAN RENSBURG CHANDRE
Thesis:
Exploring the causal factors of alcohol misuse amongst youth in communities and the effects on families
Department: SOCIAL WORK Supervisor: DR A HUMAN
2026
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
HONOURS’ DEGREES
BACHELOR OF ARTS HONOURS IN SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
ABELGAS CHAD
HESS BIANCA
ILUNGA MULEKA
LAWSON JADE LEIGH
MATYA MZIKAZI
MTHETHWA ZIYANDA
NKOSI AKHONA ASTER
PEDDY GIANNO
POKPAS ROBYN ASHLEE
SAFODIEN AMMAAR
SAMAAI IMRAAN
SECONDS DWAYNE REAGON
WITBOOI MATTHEW
BACHELOR OF ARTS HONOURS IN BIOKINETICS
DOS SANTOS DEMARCO MIGUEL
EBRAHIM RAMEEZ
HOHO LUYANDA
HOHO LWANELE
KRIEL TERBLANCHE ARNOLD
SAUNDERS LETHU SIYAMTHANDA
SINENTLANTLA
SHARP DYLAN
BACHELOR OF ARTS HONOURS IN PSYCHOLOGY
FURRER ANJA
Cum Laude
JACOBS JORDAN ANDREW
Cum Laude
MATLALA KHOMOTSO FREDAH
Cum Laude
STAMPE SHANNON ROSE
Cum Laude
UJRA MOHAMMED OSAMA
Cum Laude
VAN WYK INGE
Cum Laude
BALOYI SOPHEY TSAKANE
BANTAM VALENTINA
BARDIN JULIET CLAIRE
BENJAMIN SAABIRAH
BROWN EUNICIA KAYLINE
CANHAM ANNISA
CELE MBALI
CHALICE RILEY LEANDER
BERTRAM
CORNELISSEN ETHAN
DAMBULA TAMIA
DUTYWA VUYOLWETHU
DUVAL EUDINE
HENDRICKS ALANIS
JAFFER AQEELAH
KARRIEM MUMTAAZ
LEVY IMAN
MADWAYI ASANDA
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
HONOURS’
DEGREES 2026
BACHELOR OF ARTS HONOURS IN PSYCHOLOGY
MAKOPELA MOSA
MALOBA DIMAKATSO PRUDENCE
MANZINI NQOBILE NOTHANDO
MASHIANE PHEGELELO EMUCATE
MCDAVIDS NAASIGAH
MGQALELO BONGA
MHLONGO CHARLIZE NOMAZULU
MNISI ZINHLE
MOYCE ASHLEIGH
NKONWANA SURVIVE
NOORDIEN LAEEQAH
RAYNERS GIDEONAY ELIZANNE
URSULA
SALIE ME AAD
SAUNDERS LUNGISILE BONELE LULAMA
SIPHOSETHU SESMANE
SMIT ANASTACIA MARIA
TOUMILOVITCH ALICIA
VAN DER VELDE LARA-BO
WEHMEYER CHRISNA
WILLIAMS LEAH
ZOLEKA MBALI PRECIOUS
ZULU KHETHIWE SAMANTA
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE HONOURS PHYSIOTHERAPY
MUSUKWA ANNIE CHILANGA
SAMUTUMWA NAMUCHANA
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE HONOURS IN BIOKINETICS
BOOYSEN OBOIKANYO
CHUMANLALL AARYA
MOTHAPO PABALLO
WESSELS ABIGAIL KIRSTEN ZANDBERG MIEKE
2026
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMAS
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN SPORT FOR DEVELOPMENT
COKOTO SIXOLILE
DYASI SIYAVUYA
GAMALITSHOYO NOSIPHO
LOKOTO SIPHOSETHU
MAPHUKATHA SIHLE
MAPUKATA SINETEMBA
MHLAKAZA BABA SIMNIKIWE
MNCWANGO BONGINKOSI JUNIOR
MOKHANTSO KARABO
MOSHUSHU AZANIA
SHIBANE SIBABALWE
THOBEJANE ALIDA SHIYA
ZIBULA REJOICE HLENGIWE
ZONGO SINGATA
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN INTERPROFESSIONAL EDUCATION IN HEALTH
DAZANA ONKE
LOLWANA LULAMA
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN NURSING EDUCATION
BEKELEPI NTOMBIYAKHE
JOSEPH TRACEY-LEE
MAGADLELA CAROLINE
SPIRIDIO YVAN SIYANDA
SYME BEVERDENE
WAPO KHAYALETHU
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN MIDWIFERY
MUKWEVHO PFUNZO
Cum Laude
APRIL SAMANTHA WINIFRED
CHONCO ZOLA PAMELLA
CROY CHANDRE
DANIELS TARYN
DAVIDS JOHNNY JOEWANIE
JACO
DETAJOUD ROSE IRENE
GQAKAZA LWAZI
HALU-KALENI SINAKO
JACOBS CISKA DOROTHEA
JAMELA MHINI NCEDEKA
JIBHA AZAKHIWE
KUBHEKA THOKOZANI
LLOYD LIEZEL IZELLE
MAHLATSHANA THULISA
MAHLOMBE NOMNONELELI CYNTHIA
MAKAMBA APHIWE
MALEFANE AUGUSTINA
MALESHWANE
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMAS 2026
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN MIDWIFERY
MOOI LINDIWE YVONNE
MTHETHWA KUSASALETHU
MTUKE SIPHESIHLE
MYEZA NOSIPHO MATHAPELO
NDADZA TSHINONDIWA
NGANGE-STUURMAN NELISWA
NYAKA NTOMBESIKOLO
PLAATJIES MANDISA RUTH
SINXI-BOMELA NWABISA
TAFENI UBUBELE HELEN
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN PUBLIC HEALTH
MANO OSCAR
Magna Cum Laude
DANTU CHANDRE
Cum Laude
CLAASEN LEIGHTON FEOLIN
JARYL
DE JAGER MALCOLM
DLADLA MBONGWA ELMON
DLUDLU TEMATIMA TIVUMILE
DYAKOPHI ANATHI
FAKU SIPHELELE
FIELIES FEROZA LOUISE
GANDIWA TUNGAMIRAI
GWEBANI NDIMPHIWE BONANI
SHEREEN
HALL RÉHAN
IILONGA SELMA
KHAN MUMTAZ
KHOTSO-LIMAPE PULENG JUSTINA
LESUPI MOTSELISI
MBOMBO NKOSIPHENDULO
PEZI
MFUNZI NONKOSI EUGENIA
MJACU SIKHULISE
MOKOENA BONOLO
MTSHENI UNATHI
NANTSELO YANDISWA
NGATANE IKANENG LERATO SYLVIA
NGCONGO WANDA
SHININGE BELINDA ANGELLA NDAMONA
SINUKA LITHETHA NKOHLA
SMITH ELISABETH
SOLOMONS CRISTAL
ZUNGU ZABA NKOSIKHONA
2026
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN SPORT RECREATION AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
VEER RYAN NOLAN
Magna Cum Laude
ZULU NTOMBIZODWA PRECIOUS
Magna Cum Laude
GOGELA SINENTLANTLA
Cum Laude
NTLOKO NEO
Cum Laude
THIPA THABO
Cum Laude
TIEMIE IKEAM
Cum Laude
VAN DER ROSS KRISTIN MARGARET
Cum Laude
ADAMS EMILY SYBIL
COETZEE ROBYN
DAAMES JAYDEN
DE BRUYN ALEX
DE KOCK JASON ALRICHO
DUBE ARNOLD BAFANA
FARO DUVAN JADE
FORTUNE DIEGO CHAD
GAMES MOGAMAD YUSUF
BACHELOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
GEBE PETRO NQOBILE
HARTZENBERG MATTHEW
HUMAN CHLOE
KEMP CHRISTOPHER DEAN
KEWANA SIYAVUYA
LAND ST.JOHN MATTHEW DEREK
LINKS SHAKIRA
MAIVHA TSHINAKAHO LERATO
MAQUBELA SINOXOLO
MATHISO SIMAMKELE
MJACU ASENATHI
MKHWANAZI SBULELO
MLOTYWA SIYAMTHANDA OYAMA
MUZANARGWO GODFREY TAPIWA
NGOZI ASEMAHLE
NICHOLAS ASHWIN
PHILANDER SHAZIA
SMITH TARRYN
TIELING SAIGE
WILLIAMS REECE GIAN
ZULU SIYAMTHANDA
NDLEBE THANDO FORTUIN ZOHETH
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES 2026
BACHELOR OF COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE NATUROPATHY
LESUHLO THATO JACQUELINE
BACHELOR OF COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE CHINESE MEDICINE AND ACUPUNCTURE
MAGADANI MUNEIWA MALEGO
VAN NIEKERK MELANIE JOY
BACHELOR OF NURSING
ADONIS JOSHUA
ASHENDEN CHANELLE LOUISE
BENANI ANESIPHO
CLAASSEN CHERNIQUE ALIJAH
DIEDERICKS BRONWYNN
DREYER REBEKAH
DUBE DANA NONTSIKELELO
GCANGA LIHLE
GOLIATH CHANDRÉ LUCILLE
GOVUZA VUYOKAZI
HENDA SANGE ONA
ISAACS ATHRAA
LUNGUZA IMITHA
MABASO NONHLAHLA
MABE ZIKHONA PATRICIA
MASWANA ANELE
MATSHEGO OMPHILE MOTHONYANA
MAVURA REGINA TARISAI
MEESTERMAN ROBYN
MGOGO OKUHLE
MLOMO SIBULELE SAMANTHA
MNTUNGWA MFANAFUTHI CHRISTIAN
MOLOI KARABO CAROLINE
MORRILY CASSIDI SUSAN
MULUH MERCY WEPONG
NDLOVU SIYAMBONGA ELITE
NGUMLA APHELELE
NJALO ZANELE
NTLANGA YONELA
NTLANTLU NONTSIKELELO
RAWENI ANDISIWE
SCHOLTZ CAITLIN
SHABALALA AYANDA SIYABONGA
SIKHAKHANE VUMELANI NOZINHLE
SIKO ATHENKOSI
SOLOMONS KAYLEEN CHARNE
TOLWANA ZEKHAYA
VAN DER MERWE AMARAH
WEWERS ABBY MEECAH
XHAKWE AFIKA
XULU PHUMULA
YAKOBI LIYABONA
2026
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SPORT AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
LOUW KAYLEN
Magna Cum Laude
MOSTERT CHANTE
Cum Laude
ALLIE KEERON
CHAPMAN-
THOMPSON ASHLEIGH ZOE
CONA LILITHA EVIWE
CUPIDO AMRIN WILFRED
DAFFARN ERIN
DINA KARABO
GREEN KRISTAN-CHELSY
HAAS LEONE MAUDLYNN
JASPRICA NADJA
KOOPMAN ZAIN-AMEEN
LESCH KYLE
MATIMA RELEBOHILE
MATSHAYA AHLUME
MORRIS THARWAH
NDHLANGALALA SIPHESIHLE SIKHUMBUZO
NEL DIAN
PALMER JESSICA
PARKER MARDIA
PETERSEN DANTE ASHLEIGH
PETERSEN MOEGAMAT ILYAAS
SHANI PICK
SMITH CIARAN KARL
THOMAS CAM’RON JADEN
WILLEMSE ELKAN
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PHYSIOTHERAPY
PHILLIPS BIANCA LEANDRA
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN DIETETICS
APPOLLIS TYRA JADE
MKHABELE SINGITA TANIA
NAKI ZIMI
WAFAI HANNA AMIRA GARCIA
WELFF ERIN
FACULTY OF COMMUNITY AND HEALTH SCIENCES
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES 2026
BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK
ANDREWS TAMRIN LEANDRE
BAILEY EZRA
BARON DEZNAY LEIGH
BONDA ASENATHI
DANI BAVUMA NOMA-INDIA
DANIELS TARRYN
DREYER BERNARD BRADLEY
JUNIOR
FELEZA LUYANDA
KIKA LUNAZO KHANYI PHOEBE
KOSI NOLUVUYO MARIA
LIWANI UNATHI
MABUYA ALIZWA VERONICA
MAQEBA NOMATHAMSANQA
MILLER DEVIN GEORGE
MMANGO AMANDA
MPOTOLOLO LIVE
MURRAY NASHWINNE
MXI JESSICA NOSIPHIWO
NONJIKO MZIWAMADODA
OSBORNE KEESHA-LEIGH
RAWOOT HAFIZA
STEENKAMP JAMIE LEE
TITUS ZIZO
VAN WYK COURTENEY JADE WINDVOGEL ALASCÉ
FACULTY OF ECONOMIC AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2026
MASTER OF COMMERCE
BOWERS DOMINIQUE
Thesis:
Exploring the implementation of artificial intelligence in supply chain management within a higher education institution in the Western Cape
Department: EMS INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Supervisor: PROF A BAYAT
HONORARY DEGREE AWARDEES
1983
S. Motsuenyane, Doctor Commercii
M.C. O’Dowd, Doctor Commercii
1984
E. Theron, Doctor Legum
1987
B. Breytenbach, Doctor Litterarum
R.E. van de Ross, Doctor Educationis
1989
J.C. de Villiers, Doctor Scientiae
G.A.M. Mbeki, Doctor Philosophiae
1990
N.R. Mandela, Doctor Legum
O.R. Tambo, Doctor Legum
1991
R.E. Alexander, Doctor Commercii
G.S. Machel, Doctor Legum
D. Mitterand, Doctor Litterarum
D. Zihlangu, Doctor Educationis
1993
G. Boonzaaier, Doctor Litterarum
B. Head, Doctor Litterarum (posthumous)
A. Ibrahim, Doctor Litterarum
E. Mancoba, Doctor Litterarum
1995
G.J. Gerwel, Doctor Educationis
P.M. Sonn, Doctor Legum
1996
G.H. Brundtland, Doctor Legum
T.N. Chapman, Doctor Commercii
J.J.F. Durand, Doctor Philosophiae
P. Gorvalla, Doctor Commercii
HEADER SUB-HEADER
1997
B. Davidson, Doctor Litterarum
E.L. King, Doctor Theologiae
I. Mohamed, Doctor Scientiae
F.B. Naude, Doctor Theologiae
J.N. Scholten, Doctor Legum
R. Turner, Doctor Educationis
1998
J. Derrida, Doctor Litterarum
M. Nuttall, Doctor Theologiae
M.A Oduyoye, Doctor Theologiae
J. Reddy, Doctor Educationis
2001
V.H. Faigle, Doctor Theologiae
G. ‘t Hooft, Doctor Scientiae
P.N. Langa, Doctor Legum
A. Small, Doctor Litterarum
2002
W.H. Gray III, Doctor Philosophiae
C.L.R.Hirschsohn, Doctor Philosophiae
T. Manuel, Doctor Commercii
D. Philip, Doctor Litterarum
M. Philip, Doctor Litterarum
D.M.B. Tutu, Doctor Legum
2003
K. Mokhele, Doctor Scientiae
T. D. Fredericks, Doctor Educationis
P.D. Uys, Doctor Educationis
2004
K. Asmal, Doctor Legum
E. de Keyser, Doctor Commercii
G. Fitzgerald, Doctor Litterarum
A. Omar, Doctor Legum (posthumous)
A. Sachs, Doctor Litterarum
A. Sisulu, Doctor Curationis
W. Sisulu, Doctor Legum (posthumous)
HONORARY DEGREE AWARDEES
2005
A. Achmat, Doctor Philosophiae
C.J Bundy, Doctor Philosophiae
E.K.M. Dido, Doctor Litterarum
T. Jones, Doctor Philosophiae
J. Fagan, Doctor Legum
I. Mahomed, Doctor Legum (posthumous)
2006
F. Ginwala, Doctor Administrationis
2007
E. Abrahams, Doctor Philosophiae
E. Braune, Doctor Philosophiae
A. Chaskalson, Doctor Legum
D. Jordaan, Doctor Philosophiae
R. Kadalie, Doctor Litterarum
P. Mlambo-Ngcuka, Philosophiae Doctor
Y. Mokgoro, Doctor Legum
V.G. Shubin, Doctor Philosophiae
2008
W.E. Morrow, Doctor Educationis
2009
P. Govender, Doctor Legum
2010
A. Adebajo, Doctor Philosophiae
M.S. Dien, Philosophiae Doctor (posthumous)
B.L. Fanaroff, Doctor Philosophiae
P. Olumfemi-Kayode, Doctor Philosophiae
R. Simonsen, Doctor Philosophiae
P.K. Tergat, Doctor Philosophiae
D. Tulu, Doctor Philosophiae
2011
S.B. Biko, Doctor Philosophiae (posthumous)
S.B.A. Isaacs, Doctor Educationis
P. Magrath, Doctor Litterarum
M. Shear, Doctor Philosophiae
M. Temmerman, Doctor Philosophiae
R.B. Wolf, Doctor Philosophiae
2012
B. Gawanas, Doctor Legum
E. Moosa, Doctor Legum
R.E. Reddock, Doctor Philosophiae
H. Shaper, Doctor Philosophiae (posthumous)
A. Sheiham, Doctor Philosophiae
2013
H. Howa, Doctor Philosophiae
T. Jones, Doctor Philosophiae
J. Matthews, Doctor Philosophiae
G. Merino O.P, Doctor Theologiae
2014
A. Haron, Doctor Philosophiae (posthumous)
2015
A. Jedaar, Doctor Philosophiae
2016
H. Adams, Doctor Philosophiae
F. Robertson, Doctor Philosophiae
M. Tsedu, Doctor Philosophiae
2017
M. Lapsley, Doctor Philosophiae
2018
Z Skweyiya, Doctor Philosophiae (posthumous)
2021
Z. Wicomb, Doctor Philosophiae
A.A. Boesak, Doctor Philosophiae
W. Kentridge, (jointly awarded with Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Ghent University)
2022
K.K. Prah, Doctor Philosophiae
I. Sooliman, Doctor Philosophiae
HONORARY DEGREE AWARDEES
SUB-HEADER 1983-2024
2023
C. Hani, Doctor Philosophiae (posthumous)
D.E. Moseneke, Doctor Philosophiae
S.Z. Zotwana, Doctor Philosophiae
2024
M.Y. Choi, Doctor Philosophiae
H. Kummeling, Doctor Philosophiae
C. Pauwels, Doctor Philosophiae (posthumous)
2018
Ebrahim Rhoha
2021
AB Mahomed
Derek Joubert
Peter Takelo
HEADER SUB-HEADER 2018-2024 GOLD MEDALISTS
2022
Sean Patrick Lance
Peter Wilson
Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka
2024
Albert Lois Sachs
UWC GRADUATION ATTIRE
MEANING AND SYMBOLISM
HEADER SUB-HEADER
The three proteas symbolise Teaching, Culture and Education.
The stepped pattern represents the steps that lead to the Greek temple. This is the international symbol for academia and our recognition that we are a part of it.
The laurel leaves indicate competition and victory.
The diamond-shaped protea petal represents strength of character, ethics and faithfulness to oneself and others.
The continuous pattern that extends from the front to the back speaks to Respice Prospice, which means to look back, to look forward. Take what is good from the past and build the future.
The beaded effect is meant to reflect African craft and creativity.
The colours that make up the band are derived from those that represent the seven Faculties that make up the University.
CAP Black John Knox cap with silver tassel.
Peony red edged with silver trim.
THE CAP
Black John Knox cap with gold tassel. BACK OF THE YOKE
Black edged with gold trim.
THE SLEEVE
Open sleeves, looped up with gold cord and lined with gold satin.
THE GOWN
Black with full facings of gold and trimmed yoke.
Black John Knox cap with silver tassel.
Black edged with silver trim.
SLEEVE
Open sleeves, looped up with silver cord and lined with empire blue satin.
GOWN
Black with full facings of empire blue.
GRADUATION ATTIRE
AND HOODS GOWN
1 THE GOWN
Black (all degrees, diplomas and certificates, except Doctoral degrees)
Arts and Humanities
Community and Health Sciences
Dentistry
Economic and Management
Sciences
Education
Law
Natural Sciences
THE MOTIF
Black, edged with symbolic print in the Faculty colour.
THE COWL
Trimmed based on the type of qualification being conferred.
THE NECKBAND
The neckband emblazoned with the protea in the Faculty colour.
THE HOOD
Full hood in black.
2
CERTIFICATES AND DIPLOMAS
(NQF LEVEL 5 AND 6)
Black, with gold and blue strips.
GRADUATION ATTIRE
HOODS
3 BACHELORS
(NQF LEVEL 7)
Black, edged with symbolic print in the Faculty colour; the neckband emblazoned with the protea in the Faculty colour.
Degrees: BA, BSc, BCom, BAdmin, BA (SRES), BSc (Complementary Health Sciences), BOH, PGCE
5
ADVANCED BACHELORS
(NQF LEVEL 8)
Black, edged with symbolic print in the Faculty colour and trimmed on the cowl with cord in platinum colour; the neckband emblazoned with the protea in the Faculty colour.
Degrees and Diplomas: All Honours degrees and Postgraduate Diplomas
4
PROFESSIONAL/SENIOR BACHELORS
(NQF LEVEL 8)
Black, edged with symbolic print in the Faculty colour and trimmed on the cowl with cord in gold colour; the neckband emblazoned with the protea in the Faculty colour.
Black, lined with the Faculty colour, edged with symbolic print in the Faculty colour and trimmed on the cowl with cord in the Faculty colour; the neckband emblazoned with the protea in the Faculty colour.
