Today marks an extraordinary moment as you turn the page to a brand new chapter in your life story. This day is a celebration of your hard work, resilience, and the unwavering determination that has brought you to this proud milestone. Watching you cross the stage is the highlight of our academic year, and a wonderful tribute to your perseverance.
Pursuing an academic journey is never easy – it takes discipline, grit, and a steadfast commitment to your dreams. From the very moment you earned your place at CPUT (a university that receives over half a million applications each year) you have demonstrated that you have what it takes to succeed. However, this achievement is not yours alone, it is shared with your family, friends, spouses, and children. They have cheered you on, supported you through late nights and early mornings, and never stopped believing in your potential. Let the joyful celebrations in this hall echo the collective pride felt by everyone who has been part of your journey.
BOODSKAP VAN DIE VISEKANSELIER
Vandag word gekenmerk deur ‘n buitengewone oomblik soos elkeen wat gradueer die bladsy omblaai na die begin van ‘n nuwe hoofstuk in julle lewensverhale. Hierdie geleentheid vier julle harde werk, toewyding en volharding. Om te aanskou hoe julle grade ontvang, is die perfekte hoogtepunt van ons akademiese jaar, en getuig van julle vermoë om te volhard.
Die reis om by ‘n universiteit te studeer, is nooit maklik nie, en verg dissipline sowel as veerkragtigheid. Julle het uitstaande toewyding gedemonstreer deur koers te hou en in die toekoms te belê. Hierdie vasbeslote ingesteldheid het sigbaar geword die
oomblik toe elkeen van julle by KSUT – ‘n institusie met jaarliks meer as ‘n halwe miljoen aansoeke – aanvaar is. Hierdie prestasie behoort nie net aan julle nie, maar word gedeel deur die familie-lede, ouers, wederhelftes en kinders wat julle deurlopend ondersteun het. Mag die uitbundige toejuiging wat hierdie saal vul, ons herinner aan hierdie kollektiewe trots van almal wat deel was van julle reis.
Hierdie jaar se reeks gradeplegtighede is besonder betekenisvol, aangesien ons ‘n Ere-doktersgraad toeken aan die uittredende Kommissaris van die Suid-Afrikaanse Inkomstediens, Edward Kieswetter. Hy is
This year’s graduation series is especially meaningful as we award an Honorary Doctorate to the outgoing Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service, Edward Kieswetter. He is one of our very own alumni, and his remarkable career is a shining example of where a CPUT education can lead.
As CPUT approaches its 21-year milestone, we encourage you to stay connected, whether through the Convocation, mentoring, or creating opportunities for future students. Remember, learning is a lifelong endeavour, and today is only the beginning.
Vice-Chancellor
Prof Chris Nhlapo
een van ons eie alumni. Sy merkwaardige loopbaan is ‘n skitterende voorbeeld na waar ‘n KSUT-opleiding mens kan neem.
Terwyl KSUT se 21-jaar mylpaal nader, moedig ons julle aan om betrokke te bly aan die hand van formele strukture soos die Konvokasie, as mentore op te tree, of toekomstige gegradueerdes te ondersteun deur middel van werksgeleenthede. Ten slotte, onthou dat ‘n lewenslange leerproses die sleutel is tot volhoubare sukses –vandag is net die begin.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this book; however, the University reserves the right at any time, if circumstances require, to make changes to any of the published details.
Alles moontlik is gedoen om seker te maak dat die inligting in hierdie boek korrek is. Die Universiteit behou hom egter die reg voor om te eniger tyd, indien die omstandighede dit vereis, veranderinge aan enige van die gepubliseerde besonderhede aan te bring.
The final published versions of the Autumn Graduation 2026 booklets can be found on the CPUT website at: https://www.cput.ac.za/student/quick-links/graduation/graduation-programme
UNIVERSITY COUNCIL
BALKARAN, R (Prof), D. P Admin
BANGISO, A (Mr), SRC Secretary General
CULLINAN, PM (Mr), MA
DONDASHE, N (Ms), BCom Hons, IndPsy
FAKU, S (Mr), MSc
FISA, S (Mr), MBA
GELA, L (Mr), SRC President
GROENEWALD, L (Dr), PhD
GUMBI, D (Mr), LLM; MBA
KRISHNAMURTHY, S (Prof), PhD
MAHARAJ, S (Mr), CA (SA)
MAPENA, WL (Dr), PhD
MAPUKATA, I (Mr), BTech
MASHWANYELA, C (Mr), MTech
MATIWANE, S (Mr), Hons, MBA
UNIVERSITY OFFICE BEARERS
CHANCELLOR
FIGAJI, B (Prof), DLitt; DEd
CHAIRPERSON OF COUNCIL
PLATZKY, L (Dr), PhD
DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF COUNCIL
GUMBI, D (Mr), LLM
VICE-CHANCELLOR
NHLAPO, C (Prof), PhD
FACULTY DEANS
FACULTY OF APPLIED SCIENCES
KIOKO, J (Prof), PhD
FACULTY OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES
MAKHITHA, K (Prof), PhD
DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR: LEARNING AND TEACHING
BALKARAN, R (Prof), D. P Admin
DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR: RESEARCH, TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION AND PARTNERSHIPS
SHELDON, M (Prof), DTech
DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLOR: OPERATIONS
HAY-SWEMMER, H (Prof), PhD (Acting)
McMAHON, I (Mr), NSC
NGQONDI, T (Prof), PhD
NHLAPO, C (Prof), PhD
PLATZKY, L (Dr), PhD
RAJI, A (A/Prof), PhD
SCHREUDER, BK (Mr), MEd
VABAZA-MVANDABA, A (Ms), CA (SA)
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: OFFICE OF THE VICE-CHANCELLOR
HAY-SWEMMER, H (Prof), PhD
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: FINANCE
DACA, M (Mr), CA (SA)
REGISTRAR
MASALA, PP (Dr), PhD
FACULTY OF EDUCATION
MJI, A (Prof), DEd
FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
RAMSUROOP, S (Prof), PhD
FACULTY OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS SCIENCES
BROOKS, N (A/Prof), PhD
FACULTY OF INFORMATICS AND DESIGN
NGQONDI, T (Prof), PhD
The audience is requested to stand while the academic procession enters and leaves the hall.
Volgorde van verrigtinge
Die gehoor word versoek om te staan terwyl die akademiese prosessie die saal binnekom en verlaat.
Title: Design for play for cognitive load management in young adults
Supervisors: Dr V Barnes; Ms R Cilliers
BUSUKU, Bongolethu
Title: A Design toolkit for safe and compliant early childhood development centres: A case study of Samora informal settlement in Philippi, Cape Town
Supervisors: Mr JR Moodley; Dr M Di Ruvo
DAVIDS, Leslie Terence
Title: Advancing urban energy: A transition to segmented micro or macro grid systems via vertical axis wind turbines with integrated energy storage
Supervisor: Dr M Di Ruvo
DREYER, Christelle Liona
Title: A co-design approach to enable dance theatre companies in South Africa to communicate with diverse audiences
Supervisor: Dr B Snaddon
DIPLOMAS AND DEGREES AWARDED
FACULTY OF INFORMATICS AND DESIGN
PUBLIC RELATIONS AND COMMUNICATION MANAGEMENT
KAMBANGULA, Tangeni Priscilla Gretta
Title: An assessment of the stakeholder engagement practices of Namibia’s bulk electricity supplier
Supervisors: Dr A Mbinjama; A/Prof N Bechan
MBIKAHLOBO, Landile
Title: A critical review of organisational communication at a university in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa Supervisors: Ms T Nondzube; Dr A Mbinjama
NIKANOR, Rosa Namupa Magano
Title: Analysing the impact of corporate social responsibility on brand equity: A case study of Nampower and Disability
Sports Namibia
Supervisors: Dr A Mbinjama; A/Prof B Makwambeni
RADEBE, Mfundo Telson
Title: Appropriation of social media into news production processes in selected community radio stations in Gqeberha
Supervisor: A/Prof B Makwambeni
DOCTOR OF APPLIED
ARTS
DESIGN
GEORGE, Peneria Venessa Ansley
Title: An a/r/tographic and arts-based exploration of lived experiences in compromised contexts
Supervisors: A/Prof R De la Harpe; Dr P Wilson; Dr A Venter
KOLISI, Bongiwe
Title: The integration of digital technologies into fashion product development education
Supervisors: Prof JC Cronjé; Dr A Chisin; A/Prof D Smal
FACULTY OF INFORMATICS AND DESIGN
DOCTOR OF APPLIED ARTS IN DESIGN
PENERIA VENESSA ANSLEY GEORGE Master of Technology: Design SUPERVISOR
A/Prof Retha de la Harpe
CO-SUPERVISORS
Dr Paul Wilson; Dr Anja Venter
TITLE: AN A/R/TOGRAPHIC AND ARTS-BASED EXPLORATION OF LIVED EXPERIENCES IN COMPROMISED CONTEXTS
This doctoral study employed an innovative a/r/tographic and arts-based approach to explore the lived experiences of individuals in compromised contexts. Integrating arts-based research, autoethnography, and phenomenology, the study developed a practice-led, co-created methodology that combined creative practice, social science inquiry, and reflective design research. Through this process, the candidate’s professional identity evolved from that of an artist and teacher to that of an artsbased researcher engaging critically with creative practice as a form of inquiry. Conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, the research adapted to lockdown conditions through participatory and online art processes, including sustainable printmaking and body-mapping. Working with NEET youth and men in substanceuse rehabilitation, the study demonstrated how creative engagement fostered identity reflection, belonging, and hope. A distinctive contribution is its dual-mode dissemination strategy, combining rigorous academic writing with visual artistic expression to communicate knowledge in both textual and visual forms.
FACULTY OF INFORMATICS AND DESIGN
DOCTOR OF APPLIED ARTS IN DESIGN
BONGIWE
KOLISI
Master of Technology: Design SUPERVISOR
Prof Johannes C Cronjé
CO-SUPERVISORS
Dr Alettia Chisin; A/Prof Desiree Smal
TITLE: THE INTEGRATION OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES INTO FASHION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION
The study explored the integration of digital technologies into fashion product development education to address the challenges of the fourth industrial revolution in the apparel industry. By comparing teaching practices at South African higher education institutions (HEIs) with industry approaches, and employing qualitative methods informed by posthumanism and actor-network theories, the research develops a conceptual framework to bridge traditional and digital learning. Benchmarking of the HEIs identifies opportunities to align curricula with industry requirements, while acknowledging the enduring value of conventional methods as foundations for digital systems. The research outcomes include the application of findings in the Cape Peninsula University of Technology fashion programme, Faculty of Informatics and Design, effective from 2026, and the preparation of the two accepted scholarly papers for publication locally and internationally. This contribution highlights the coexistence of digital and traditional approaches, advances policy and practice, and prepares fashion design graduates for dynamic careers in the evolving fashion industry.
FACULTY OF INFORMATICS AND DESIGN
DEAN’S MEDAL RECIPIENT
CHIREE BOSMAN
Diploma in Product Design
Originally from the East Rand, Ms Bosman completed her matric through Impact Homeschooling in 2018. She is currently enrolled for the Advanced Diploma in Industrial Design. She served the programme as a class representative for the past two years. As a Product student, her role went beyond class representative to coordinating and curating student exhibitions, and she take pride in fostering a collaborative studio culture by assisting peers with technical issues and project execution. Her approach to design is rooted in craftsmanship and material exploration. She prioritises a hands-on making process, ensuring high-quality finishing and technical precision in every piece. This dedication to the “how” of manufacturing led to her recognition as a national finalist in the 2025 Student Gold Pack Awards, and receipt of the Bowler Award for innovation in injection moulding. She also participated in the DTI Furniture Design Competition. These achievements reflect a consistent drive to push her work beyond standard expectations.
When she is not in the studio, Chiree participates as an active member of the freediving community. She finds great fulfilment in introducing newcomers to the water, teaching snorkelling and freediving basics, and sharing the unique experience of exploring the underwater world.
DIPLOMAS AND DEGREES AWARDED
THE FACULTY OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES
HONORARY DOCTORATE RECIPIENT
EDWARD KIESWETTER
Doctor of Business and Management Sciences in Taxation
Commissioner Edward Kieswetter is one of South Africa’s most respected executive leaders, with more than forty years of experience spanning engineering, education, financial services, and public sector governance. An alumnus of the former Cape Technikon (now CPUT), he returns to his alma mater as a recipient of an Honorary Doctorate in Management Sciences (Taxation).
Commissioner Kieswetter is best known for his transformative leadership at the South African Revenue Service (SARS), where he played a central role in restoring institutional integrity, operational capability, and public trust. Serving in senior executive roles, including Chief Operating Officer, Deputy Commissioner, and Commissioner (2019–2026), he led a comprehensive organisational rebuilding programme that strengthened compliance, modernised tax and customs administration, and improved revenue performance. Under his stewardship, SARS regained credibility, and is recognised as a global benchmark in revenue administration. His leadership influence extends globally. He has served as Chair: World Customs Organization; Chair: African Tax Administration Forum; Co Chair: OECD Africa Initiative; and Vice Chair: OECD Forum on Tax Administration, contributing to policy development, cooperation, and institutional capacity building.
In recognition of his integrity and service, Commissioner Kieswetter received the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation’s Kathy Award in 2025. A committed mentor and advocate for ethical leadership, he grounds his professional life in the belief that leadership is ultimately an act of service. Edward acknowledges the formative influence of his parents, from whom he learnt the ethic of honest work and the conviction that life’s purpose is to be a blessing to others.
His legacy lies in restoring institutional credibility, strengthening democratic governance through effective revenue administration, and cultivating a generation of ethical leaders committed to service, accountability, and the public good.
