NOVEMBER - DECEMBER Nendila 2017 NEWSLETTER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VENDA University of Venda

University of Venda @Univenofficial universityofvenda University of Venda Official

Univen staff celebrates Read inside Education first, the rest will Prof Mbati as a man of honour follow - Ndifhedzo Munyai 2 Univen staff gave outgoing Vice Chancellor and investment in infrastructure from the Department made us proud as a nation,” said Univen’s NEHAWU Africa the richest, yet its Principal, Prof Peter Mbati, a heartfelt send-off of Higher Education and Training was received. Chairperson, Alfred Mutoti. “Your mark will remain people are the poorest 2 recently. Other achievements include approximately R84 forever in the history of Univen. We wish you the “On 1 February 2008 the University of Venda million from Council-controlled funds towards best wherever you wish to go.” How to assure the authenticity community entrusted me with the responsibility of infrastructure projects, a R300 million DBSA loan for “You dramatically improved Univen’s graduation and integrity of data 3 serving this great institution as its Vice Chancellor student residences and growth of bandwidth from output and today we produce more than 2 000 and Principal. I was not sure what awaited me. I 08mg/sec to 10gigs/sec. The rollout of staff laptops, graduates in every graduation ceremony,” said Mr Green economy is the can now tell you that it was lot of hard work that student tablets and Black board was also achieved. Dongola on behalf of admin staff members. future economy 3 needed well thought out strategies, collective The student leadership model was implemented “Long service awards and online registration and and various unqualified audits followed. wisdom, the buy-in of Council and staff at all applications are but a few of the advantages he Health and safety essential levels, the unions, the SRC and the general student Mbati said the future, though fraught with introduced. Today Univen plays a big role in the in the workplace 4 populace,” said Mbati. uncertainties, especially funding and sustainability development of Thohoyandou.” of universities due to factors such as inflation, global Israel continues to impose The highlights of Mbati’s ten-year tenure include “He is a man of integrity, goal-orientated and made performance of the Rand and the #FeesMustFall apartheid on Palestinian academic re-engineering, increased programme Univen a university of choice,” said Mrs Malehu campaign, presents exciting possibilities. relevance, a viability exercise and clean programme Maluleke on behalf of academic staff. people - Dajani 4 quality management results, as well as exponential “Univen will need to reimagine its governance “Through his leadership, we witnessed calmness growth in research outputs – from 0.12 per capita and leadership to align itself to the new realities CETA already invested more and leadership at the university. We will miss your units to 0.94. that demand increased third stream income than R36m in Univen emotional intelligence.” 4 The university’s new flagship programme, the funding. This relates to new and relevant curricula Dr Thizwilondi Mudau described Prof Mbati as an LGBTI+Q people should be Bachelor of Accounting Sciences degree, currently that repositions us into the new status of a top ten South African university. Most importantly, authentic leader and approachable. offered through the Univen/Thuthuka project to loved, not discriminated 5 it strengthens cohesion and unity of purpose train chartered accountants, was also established. “Univen is now a force to be reckoned with,” said between all the stakeholders to ensure a prosperous The Agricultural Engineering programme is the Deputy Vice Chancellor: Academic, Prof Jan Sharon Mashau leaves Univen 5 and successful Univen. Crafford. accredited and is now offered in the School of Media Studies students learn to Agriculture. In addition, increased leverage on “You translated the vision and dreams that I had as “You have made us believe that a small university internationalisation, linkages and partnerships Vice Chancellor into the successes that we see all could transcend its history and disadvantage to the face the corporate world 5 around us,” he said. in implementing the strategic vision proved to extent that it is competing with universities that are Indigenous languages are be successful and approximately R2,3 billion “You lifted Univen to its greatest heights - you more than 100 years old.” African heritage 6 Prof Makatu elected as co-chair of SA Young Academy of Science 6 Univen alumnus receives Mexican citation plaque 6 Agriculture students get entrepreneurship advice 7 Government never gave customary law full recognition 7

“You translated my vision and Partnership with HAWK University dreams into the successes that we “You made us proud as “We will miss your emotional “Univen is now a force to be continues to flourish 8 see all around us” - Mbati. a nation” - Mutoti. intelligence” – Maluleke. reckoned with” – Crafford. Takalani Nyelisani new president of CEIA 8 Univen acknowledge retirees Univen embraces cultural diversity 9 Univen recently acknowledged the university’s to work at the institution. retirees. Ethics committee commits to “We thank Univen for the opportunity to serve principles of excellence “Through your contribution, you’ve made the at this special institution,” said Prof Agnes Musyoki 9 university what it is today,” said the Director of on behalf of the retiring academic staff members. Univen staff makes headlines 9 Human Resources, Justice Manenzhe. “We wish “It has been a time of great transformation and you a good retirement life.” reflection, not only at the university, but in the Psychological Society of SA elects On behalf of the service staff, Shumani country as a whole. We are pleased to have been Prof Mashamba 9 Nthambeleni, thanked Univen for the opportunity part of these changes. We have played our part and “You made the “We are pleased to university what it is have been part of the Senior Prof Ekosse appointed today” - Manenzhe. changes” - Musyoki. to property rights office 9

contributed to teaching, research and community BRICS appointment for work. Senior Prof Ekosse 9 “We have developed our intellectual capacity and contributed to changing the future of many students Univen supports people and colleagues. Students in turn contributed to our living with disabilities 10 growth by sharing ideas and knowledge - at times challenging our views but leading us to share a Mbati receives RUFORUM better understanding of our fields of study. We IMPRESSA Award for 2017 10 are happy that as we retire, Univen is on the right trajectory for success as a university of choice, both Univen and Wageningen nationally and internationally.” host supervision training 10 · See the January 2018 edition of Nendila for information on long service awards. Workshop empowers emerging researchers 10 A line up of retirees.

NENDILA NEWSLETTER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VENDA 1 Education first, the rest will follow - Ndifhedzo Munyai Girls between 14 and 18 from schools in Ha- “You should never allow your friends and boyfriends Makuya, Tshikondeni and surrounding villages to force or rob you to engage into sex. Be careful of recently attended the 6th Annual International day older men who do not want relationships but who of Girl Child on the Univen campus. wish to use you for sexual pleasure.” The summit, hosted by Univen’s Community Lalumbe Makuya, Project Director of the Naledi Engagement Directorate and the SheReigns Foundation, encouraged girls to always carry and Naledi Foundation, encouraged girls to handbags with the necessary accessories needed be independent thinkers and self-learners. It during an emergency. She advised them to delay introduced them to the importance of technology entering sexual relationships. and to increased support of tribal authorities in the “Focus on education first and the rest will follow,” development of a girl child. said a grade eight learner of the Fhetani Secondary “Focus on education, because sexual activities will School, Ndifhedzo Munyai. delay your dreams,” said third year nursing student, Speaking during the summary session, Munyai said Mukonazwothe Netshifhefhe. she will now help educate other girls in her village. “It will minimise the chances of having cervical “I am amazed at the level of understanding of cancer, HIV and AIDS infections, pregnancy and young girls,” said third year BCoM Accounting sexual transmitted infections. student and SheReigns President, Mercy Sasunhwa. “Be able to control your feelings. I won’t encourage “They seem to have a great understanding of how 100 girls from different schools and villages learnt how to take care of themselves. you to use condoms because girls at your age are women should conduct themselves.” not expected to be engaging in such activities. “Learners see possibilities, they are able to visualise Family planning is not for girls of your age, but for the future they imagine,” said Univen’s Director those who are about to start families. of Community Engagement, Prof Vhonani Netshandama. “If 13 Univen students each inspire 100 girls, 1 300 girls will be inspired and the future of the supposedly marginalised girls will be brighter. Univen then becomes more accessible and contributes towards learning outside of the classroom. She said that an engaged university is largely a responsive university. “Most leaners had never been to “Never allow anyone “Always have your “Education first and “Visualise the future any university, let alone interacted to rob you to engage cell phone with you” - the rest shall follow” - you imagine” – with university students. This will into sexual activities” Makuya. Munyai. Netshandama. Games as part of education. make an impact in their lives.” - Netshifhefhe. Thanking the mentors - Prof Netshandama, the girls and mentors.

Africa the richest, yet its people are the poorest

“Africa is the richest continent in the world, but Act, Univen has established an Office of Technology the poorest people reside in it,” says the Deputy Transfer in the Directorate of Research and Director General of the Department of Science and Innovation,” said the Director of Research and Technology, Mmboneni Muofhe. Innovation, Senior Prof Georges Ekosse.

Speaking at Univen’s first Technology Transfer Naomi Ngoasheng of the National Intellectual “Understanding the role Forum, Muofhe said: “We need to reclaim what Property Management Office said this office “South African researchers “The importance of a of the National Intellectual belongs to us. identified, protected and commercialised should use solar power” - Technology Transfer Office” Property Management “Food like rooibos tea does not grow anywhere else intellectual property for the benefit of South Africa. Muofhe. - Ekosse. Office” - Ngoasheng. but in Africa, but the people who have the rights to this food are not citizens of this continent. African people are jobless, yet people from abroad continue to patent properties and ideas of Africans. “South Africans complain about load shedding but there are areas which are extremely hot throughout the year. People should start thinking how to generate electricity, using solar power to supply villages. This could create employment and boost the economy of this country.” The forum strategised possibilities to assist South African researchers to start businesses which will create jobs and boost the country’s economy. “As required by the Intellectual Property Rights from Publicly Financed Research and Development

Getting together - Univen staff members and stakeholders from partnering organisations.

2 NENDILA NEWSLETTER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VENDA How to assure the authenticity and integrity of data “Data should be stored in a manner that ensures its authenticity and integrity and meets all legal and confidentiality requirements,” says a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Built Environment at the Central University of Technology, Dr Bankole. Speaking at the recent Univen Research Data Management workshop, Bankole said the effective management of research data increases research impact by maximising the visibility of data and promoting transparency in research. It also prevents the unauthorised use by addressing privacy and confidentiality issues throughout the research project.” “Data is the lowest level of abstraction from which information and knowledge are derived,” said Univen’s Research Professor in the School “The researcher must make efforts to ensure the “Research data should be freely “We have to reduce poverty through of Management Sciences, Prof Nixon Muganda validity of data” - Bankole. accessible” - Ochara. research” - Nemaangani. Ochara. “Research data is recorded and factual material commonly retained by and accepted in the community as necessary to validate research findings, although the majority of such data is created in digital format. All research data is included, irrespective of the format in which it is created. “The levels of managing data include documenting the research, structure file and use of metadata tools. The research data cycle involves creating data, processing data, analysing data, preserving data, giving access to data and re-using data. “Data is meant to be shared. Research data should be freely accessible so that the same data can be re- used. You have to protect your data before making it available to the public.” “A lot of research needs to be conducted to improve the economy of the province,” said Priscilla Nemaangani, Univen’s Research Administration Officer. “We have to alleviate poverty through research - your research should benefit communities.” Researchers came in numbers to grasp information about research data management. Green economy is the future economy The Universal Greening Organisation, in partnership Deputy Director General of the Department of “The biggest obstacle for a local entrepreneur or Department of Social Development, Noncedo Univen and the Tshikovha graduates, hosted the 3rd Environmental Affairs, Shonisani Munzhedzi. businessperson is a lack of business skills,” said the Zonke. Annual Green Economy conference recently. “The Universal Greening Organisation is doing Director of Tshikovha Graduates Academy, Moudy “There is an increase in school and university The conference was held under the theme a sterling job which serves as an inspiration to Mudzielwana. drop-out rates, a growing labour force and a ‘Business opportunities in the bioprospecting and others. South Africa’s rich biodiversity can unlock “These skills enable people to nurture ideas from shrinking economy – all causing unemployment. wildlife economy’. The conference is also a tool to the economic potential of the bioprospecting of concept to sustain their businesses. Most emerging We need more conferences such as this with facilitate an enabling environment for students and wildlife economies. Academic institutions like businesspeople lack business skills and focus on leaders who inspire the South African youth. We community members to access the job market and Univen should take part in research that advances pitching skills instead of actual business ideas. need targets for youth and women participation in entrepreneurial opportunities. entrepreneurship in business development at local Business is a platform to make profit where you enviropreneurship and the green economy.” level.” have identified a gap. It can either be providing In the formal sector of bioprospecting, black “People should analyse their current business participation is very low, while in the informal sector services or selling products. Be a specialist in what “Our programme educates citizens about the models,” said Ellis Levember of the South African the traditional medicine market is mostly blacks. you do and make customers always want to come environmental challenges and we create an back to your company.” Essential Oil Business Incubator. In wildlife economy, only 2,5 percent are black. environment for students and graduates to “We test the oils for cosmetics so that they can be There is thus great opportunity for emerging young participate in the economy,” said the Executive “Black rural women are the face of poverty in commercialised. We also test oils for the CSIR, the black entrepreneurs in the field of environment to Chairperson of the Universal Greening Organisation, South Africa and youth unemployment is at crisis proportions,” said the Director of Youth Tshwane University of Technology and the University participate in this sector. Talifhani Tshitwamulomoni. “The focus must be to empower and encourage Mobilisation and Development Support in the of the Free State and for commercial farmers.” “We also engage in cleaning campaigns, more women and young entrepreneurs to recognise environmental education and careers exhibitions. existing potential,” said the Executive Mayor of the Everyone must play a role in protecting the Vhembe District Municipality, Florence Radzilani. environment.” Officially opening the conference, Radzilani said the “The biodiversity economy of South Africa conference should boost entrepreneurial potential encompasses the business and economic activities,” among the youth. said the Chief Director at the Department of “We need home-grown, alternative solutions Environmental Affairs, Khorommbi Matibe. to the current challenges of healthcare, energy, food security, agriculture, water shortages and “These either directly depend on biodiversity for sanitation. The green economy is the future their core business or contribute to conservation economy. It must assist in achieving sustainable of biodiversity through their activities. Limpopo development as envisaged in the national is set to benefit immensely since it is home to a development plan. It must help reduce poverty, skill number of species, including but not limited to young people to create their own jobs and generate Ximenia Caffra (sour plum or Mutanzwa), Trichilia much needed employment. It must protect our emetic (Mutshikili) and Adansonia digitate (baobab- natural ecosystems against degradation, whilst Muvhuyu). maximising tourism benefits. It must mitigate the “There is a need to unlock the potential of small, negative effects of climate change by reducing medium and micro enterprises, cooperatives and the carbon footprint through cleaner and greener township enterprises. There are products in the local energy and technology.” and international market such as rooibos and aloe “It is exciting to see young people taking initiatives ferox with similar properties to indigenous plants that contribute to the improvement of people’s that could substitute to grow the market. Take care livelihoods, particularly at a local level,” said the of the environment for future generations.” Invitation to the conference.

“Green economy “A sterling job and “Acquire information “Let’s plant “Let’s take care of “Be a specialist in “National exposure “Testing oils for must help us reduce an inspiration” - from experts” - indigenous trees the environment for what you do” - inspires the youth” - commercialisation” - poverty”- Radzilani. Munzhedzi. Maraganedzha. across South Africa” - future generations” Mudzielwana. Zonke. Levember. Tshitwamulomoni. - Matibe.

NENDILA NEWSLETTER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VENDA 3 Health and safety essential in the workplace

To make employers and employees aware of their on the hazards they are exposed to. “Employers should provide a healthy and safe “Report incidents as soon as possible” - health and safety in the workplace, Univen’s Human “Employers should not allow anybody to work work environment” - Mthethwa. Nemasetoni. Resources Department coordinated the recent in unsafe or unhealthy conditions. Give workers health and safety workshop in Thohoyandou. precautionary measures to follow. It is the duty “Everyone in the workplace is responsible for of employees to report unsafe and unhealthy dilapidated building, lack of water in the building “This also includes death cases resulting from such ensuring safety,” says Occupational Health and conditions. Take care of everyone’s safety. Carry and working long hours without taking breaks.” injuries or diseases and paying reasonable medical Safety Specialist at the Department of Labour, Carol out lawful orders and obey health and safety rules “The Compensation Fund, a public entity that expenses incurred.” Mthethwa. and instructions. Always report incidents to the reports to the Department of Labour, compensates The fund is administered by the Compensation for “The duties of an employer are to provide a healthy employer as soon as possible. employees who are injured or contract diseases Occupational Injuries Diseases Act of 130/1993. and safe work environment, identify all hazards, “In most cases the causes of incidents in the through the course of their employment,” said “Employers must register with the compensation assess and minimize employee exposure to risks and workplace result from failure to maintain machines the Assistant Director of the Department, Vincent fund. Employers must report an accident within to inform, instruct, supervise and train employees and equipment, working alone in a field or in a Nemasetoni. seven days and an occupational disease within 14 days. They must also provide free transport for the employee to see the doctor and grant special sick leave with full pay on an accepted claim. “The employee must report an accident to the supervisor immediately, either verbally or in writing. Furthermore, the employee must consult specialists for examination and treatment by the doctor of his or her choice. The doctor must also assist the employer in obtaining medical reports.

Univen employees and delegates get together. Delegates participating in group activities. Israel continues to impose apartheid on Palestinian people - Dajani “The situation of the Palestinian people under the which constitutes punishment prohibited under “When some of the steps were taken towards by Western domination have become discursively Israeli occupation remains dire due to repressive, international law.” peaceful resolutions, people from all over the world linked to appeals for solidarity between South destructive and colonial policies and practices.” Dajani said approximately 7 000 Palestinians are were already easing a sigh of relief as Israel agreed Africa and Palestine. So said the Ambassador of the State of Palestine in the prisons of Israel and many Palestinians are to compensate the Turkish citizens killed by Israeli “Solidarity politics in Palestine and South Africa forces. to South Africa, Hashem Dajani, at a recent public being killed. are ultimately an effect of global power relations “There should be a way through peaceful lecture at Univen. “Palestinian people seek to obtain their freedom and struggles in both countries, located within the negotiations - and not war or violence - that can “Israeli continues to perpetrate Palestinians with its and independence in their homeland. The United broader discursive economy through which global bring about the much-coveted solutions to this colonial policies in deliberate systematic and grave Nations Security Council is required to establish power and authority are exercised. crisis. It is my wish and candid opinion to see this violation of international laws. The international a special regime of international protection for war coming to an end. I wish Palestine and Israel “Anticolonial social movements in Palestine and community continues to fail to hold Israel Palestinian people. fruitful deliberations and a positive outcome for a South Africa are a product of the widespread accountable in accordance with the law. “On behalf of Palestinians I thank South Africa for solution to the problem.” regional belief that sovereignty and self-government cannot be achieved within the Western-dominated “The situation has deepened the sense of insecurity the role that it plays in leading the international “The Israeli invasion of Palestine and apartheid regional order,” said Nkondo. among the Palestinian people. Furthermore, Israel solidarity with the Palestinian people.” settler colonialism raise important questions about continues to destroy Palestinian cities and villages “Many people have compared the ongoing impasse the sovereignty of states,” said the Former Vice The National Coordinator of the Boycott Divestment and it holds thousands of Palestinians in its prisons. between Palestine and Israel and others have Chancellor of Univen, Prof Muxe Nkondo. and Sanctions Movement, Muhammed Desai, said that Palestinian people assisted South Africans “Israel persists with its illegal and immoral blockage taken sides based on sentiments, while others “The fear of Western domination is the main on Gaza, which continues to gravely impact about are indifferent even though lives are being lost,” concern, particularly after the disintegration of during South African apartheid era. two million Palestinian civilians. They are suffering said Univen’s Chief Administrative Officer in the the Eastern bloc, which has created a monopoly “Therefore, South Africans should return the favour a dire socio-economic and humanitarian crisis, Directorate of International Relations, Dr Segun capitalist global system controlled by the United and support Palestinians to solve their issues with despite the repeated calls to end the blockage Obadire. States. These concerns about the threats posed Israel.” CETA already invested more than R36m in Univen To ensure effective implementation and monitoring “CETA’s continuous support plays a pivotal role in of the Construction Education and Training transforming our university into the best that it can Authority’s (CETA) funded projects of more than be,” said Mbati. R36 million at Univen, a planning session was held The planning session was concluded by signing recently. a three-year implementation plan. The plan The Univen delegation was led by Vice Chancellor comprises programmes which include Infrastructure and Principal, Prof Peter Mbati, while CETA Development, Research and Development, participants were led by the Chairperson of the Lecturer Development, Qualification Development, Board, Raymond Cele and CETA Chief Executive Officer, Sonja Pilusa. Programme Development, Learning Pathways and accreditation of the Univen Innovative Growth “We do not regret being associated with Univen Company to offer CETA programmes. and the presence of Prof Mbati demonstrates the university’s commitment to the CETA-funded To ensure effective implementation of all the projects,’ said Cele. programmes and to achieve better results, a joint “Univen could become CETA’s implementing arm project management team comprising of CETA and help us to achieve our objectives. Through this and Univen representatives has been elevated to partnership we have consistently been receiving the CETA head office. Both parties expressed their clean audits.” satisfaction with a very fruitful engagement. CETA and Univen delegates.

4 NENDILA NEWSLETTER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VENDA LGBTI+Q people should be loved, not discriminated “Being human starts by showing humanity to stereotype and prejudice. others - you do not choose who to love if you really Univen’s Director of Community Engagement, know what love is,” says Univen’s Deputy Vice Prof Vhonani Netshandama, raised participants’ Traditional healers, pastors and community members at the LGBTI+Q symposium. Chancellor: Academic Prof Jan Crafford. eyebrows when she said that there are transgender Crafford officially opened the 2nd annual people who spend a lot of time and energy saving of fear of discrimination and stigmatisation,” said one who chooses to put their life at stake if being Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, Transgender, Intersex and money so that their organs can be operated and be Prof Azwihangwisi Mavhandu-Mudzusi of Health gay was a choice,” he said. aligned to what they feel inside of themselves. Questioning or Queer (LGBTIQ) symposium recently. Sciences at Unisa. Malethabo Sedibe, a Univen student, said there is “It is not acceptable if students who identify “Therefore, as human beings, instead of judging, “During pre-test counselling I would often ask a marked improvement in terms of being ridiculed themselves as LGBTIQ find it difficult to learn rather let us seek to understand. The methodology about the sexual partner of a student or anyone and obvious discrimination since she started her and sometimes drop out or fail to pursue their that they chose to employ is one that compels who sought testing. That’s when I realised that degree four years ago. studies because of being ridiculed or discriminated them to shift power, question themselves on a there is a need to engage further on the issues and “When I was referred to as lesbian in the beginning, against.” whole array of subjects, stereotype, prejudices and to educate people about the dangers of supressing sometimes senseless, hurtful behaviour towards I did not even understand what that meant. I only The symposium focussed on a conversation with others.” other human beings. People, young and old, should understood at a later stage.” community leaders about providing a benevolent be reflective, search themselves and introspect Lekgowe Thipe, student counsellor at Unisa, said A renowned gospel singer and councillor, Mbilu leadership amidst communities struggling with because freeing oneself that she has lived half her life the way she did not Rambuwani, said that everyone is created in the from prejudice takes like, due to society’s expectations. image of God. time.” “If I had to choose between being a male and “Churches are places where people should run to “As a coordinator of female, I would have chosen to be male. I am that and not be discriminated against, irrespective of the HIV and AIDS pro- kind of a female who likes driving big trucks and their sexual orientation. It is a blessing that the gramme on campus I playing soccer, which the society suggests to be for pastors and traditional leaders have come together interacted with many males. I love kids. My partner and I are planning to to fight for rights of the LGBTI+Q community.” students who subjected have kids soon. Sometimes I struggle with people’s The symposium was attended by Univen staff themselves to risky sex- obsession with labels and categorisation.” members, students, local community leaders, ual behaviour because “Being gay is inevitable to those that are gay - I did traditional leaders, traditional healers, religious not choose to be one,” said Thohoyandou Victim leaders, pastors and the LGBTIQ community. Also “The LGBTI+Q Empowerment Programme activist, Victor Raedani. community is attending were delegates of the University of “We should have the “As time changes, discriminated against “I was once assaulted as a result of being gay and the Witwatersrand, Unisa, the Nelson Mandela sense of Ubuntu” - people’s perspectives in many spheres” - nearly lost my life. There is no-one who chooses to University and the Universities of Namibia and Crafford. change” - Netshandama. Mavhandu-Mudzusi. put their Christian family into disrepute. There is no- Malawi.

Lekgowe ‘Nono’ Thipe is “Being gay is not a “I don’t care what “Create a safe space “I wish you well” - “People are created by “Media should be “Thank you to attracted to females. choice” - Raedani. other people say for everyone” - Hobyane. God” - Ramatshimbila. engaged” - Dima. Univen for creating about me” - Sedibe. Thovhogi. this opportunity” - Rambuwani. Sharon Mashau Media Studies students learn leaves Univen to face the corporate world Staff from the Department of Communications and Marketing, friends, The Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa (PRISA), in information.” colleagues and family members recently gathered to bid farewell to the Head collaboration with Univen’s Communications and Marketing “Do not craft long CVs because of Communications and Marketing, Sharon Mashau. Department, recently hosted the 2017 Limpopo Student recruiters do not have time to read “In life, one needs to grow. I think I have learned as much as I needed,” said Conference to equip Media Studies students. them,” said the Human Resources Mashau. The conference familiarised students with the corporate world, Manager of the SABC’s Limpopo “Like a bird, it is time for me to spread my wings. I am not leaving Univen educated them about crafting a winning curriculum vitae and Region, Ronny Mphephu. taught them how to survive in the corporate world. for good, I just need to learn other things, to explore a bit and to learn how “Show confidence when you walk Thank you to Univen other organisations’ corporate cultures are conducted. I believe this will add “You should be unique from others,” said PRISA Chairperson, into the interview. Familiarize yourself for hosting us - Sadiki. value to Univen when I come back.” Phuti Mothapo. with companies or potential employers when you are shortlisted. Mashau told the interns in the Department of Communications and “Communication is not only about becoming a journalist or being Marketing to use the skills that they are taught at Univen, as they are very a television or radio presenter, there are more opportunities in this “Have thorough knowledge about that company to show them valuable and will take them far. field. Claim the opportunities that are available.” that you are interested in working for them. Do not be late for an interview. Avoid wearing revealing clothes and bright colours “A team that is committed and dedicated makes the line manager to be “Writing remains important, especially in the digital age,” said the when going for an interview as this could make panellists judge competent. Working with a team which is committed at all times made my spokesperson for the Limpopo Premier’s Office, Kenny Mathivha. job easier. Continue travelling on the same footprint because this will take you before they start allocating scores.” “If there is a communicator who does not have a twitter account, the department very far.” Established in 1957, the Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa that person is in the wrong field. Nowadays elections are won represents professionals in public relations and communication “When you joined Univen I thought you were on social media as politicians and celebrities gain popularity on management throughout the southern African region. It has coming to work for Univen until your retirement,” social media platforms. Social media has influenced and is still registered practitioners in said the Director of Communications and influencing our routine lifestyles. Both digital and print media are Marketing, Takalani Dzaga. Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, relevant in this digital age but most people prefer to read the news Swaziland and South Africa. “Little did I know that you would leave very through digital media because the information will still be fresh. soon. The loyalty and attitude that you have The news on digital media is in most cases instant and timeous. PRISA is a founding member of the Global Alliance for Public displayed during your stay was splendid and we “Good communicators are those who communicate visually and are happy to have worked with you. Relations and Communication reduce too much text, those who communicate in a linear way. Management and initiated the “Thank you for assuming leadership and Communicators should be interactive and dynamic, able to engage formation of the Council for “In life, one needs to congratulations on your new job – you were a their audience and must always be transparent. Information grow” - Mashau. Communication Management in valued team member.” seekers of today believe in transparency. Never lie or twist South Africa. The council is the coordinating body representing various groupings of professionals in South Africa. PRISA plays a leading role in uniting professionals and driving transformation. As the recognised leader of the public relations and communication management profession in southern Africa and Lindokuhle Zwane rendering beyond, it provides the southern “You were a valued her poem related to the African industry with the local team member” - Dzaga. Mashau bids farewell to interns. Students came in large numbers and filled the venue. topics of the conference. professional advantage.

NENDILA NEWSLETTER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VENDA 5 Indigenous languages are African heritage

“Collaboration works much better than working “Among deaf communities, a clash in language individually,” says the Head of the Department use exists where some members are considered to of Sport, Arts and Culture in Limpopo, Mortimer be using the signs that are either old or compose Mannya. non-standard varieties even though they do serve Speaking at Univen’s recent language seminar, meaningful communicative functions among the Mannya said his department is responsible for speakers of South African sign language.” promoting all the official languages in Limpopo. The Limpopo Department of Education’s “However, we realise that alone we will not achieve spokesperson, Dr Naledzani Rasila, presented the desired results. on ‘Government’s lack of effective planning to promote own languages: Indigenous languages are “Limpopo is rich in heritage, talent and resources. heritage in danger in South Africa’. People of this province are the most culturally “Writing and publishing in indigenous languages diverse. Our languages are our heritage and we is facing many challenges in South Africa. Some need to make sure that our languages are growing. parents prefer their learners in urban schools not Languages are becoming more of an economic to learn home languages as their own and first commodity than just a means of communication.” “We are grateful to be part of “We want more research “Proverbs seem to be vanishing languages, but second or additional languages. the seminar” - Mannya. about indigenous languages” - from the Vhavenda community” The seminar was part of Heritage Month They use English as the first and home languages Madiba. - Raphalalani. celebrations and was presented in partnership with as additional. the Limpopo Department of Sport, Arts and Culture “Government lacks a deliberate approach to and the Pan South African Language Board. promote indigenous languages. This also results “The seminar needs to gather information about in the continuous domination of the English and indigenous languages,” said PanSALB Senior Afrikaans languages over African indigenous Provincial Manager, Mapula Madiba. languages,” said Rasila. “This will assist in developing and promoting the University of Limpopo student, Dimakatso Kgwadi, indigenous languages to reach the standard of who presented on ‘Translation of subtitles in English and Afrikaans.” selected SABC soapies: The case of Northern Sotho’ A lecturer at the MER Mathivha Centre for said the translation of subtitles plays an important African Languages, Arts and Culture, Dr Tshinetise role in multilingual countries such as South Africa. Raphalalani’s presentation focused on ‘The “It is important for translators to translate significance and appropriateness of Tshivenda relevant information to their viewers as the wrong proverbs in the new South Africa’. translation will mislead the viewers.” “Some parents prefer urban “Cultural norms and values among the Vhavenda The seminar was also attended by the Chairperson school learners not to learn “Translators should translate community used to be transmitted from one of the Limpopo House of Traditional Leaders, “There is language clash among home languages as first relevant information to their generation to another through verbal means. Kgoshi Malesela Dikgale. deaf communities” – Sadiki. languages” - Rasila. audience” - Kgwadi. Communication was implemented through oral tradition or folklore. Folklore is an expressive genre which consists of legends, music, oral history, proverbs, jokes, popular beliefs, fairy tales, stories, riddles, ceremonies and rituals. “The post-apartheid era in South Africa is characterised by a new legal order where the constitution is the supreme law of the country. Forms of oral tradition or folklore, particularly proverbs, seem to be vanishing among the Vhavenda community. The vanishing of this important genre seems to be negatively impacting the moral fibre of the entire South African society and the Vhavenda community in particular.” “Most complex linguistic phenomenons emanate from the belief that some languages, together with their lexicon and grammars, are primitive,” said a lecturer at Univen’s Department of Communication and Applied Language Studies, Dr Masindi Sadiki. “Therefore, they are considered as not appropriate for use within specific communities.” Sadiki presented on ‘Deafness and identity: Some linguistic varieties in South African sign language.’ Participants in the language seminar. Prof Makatu elected as co-chair Univen alumnus receives of SA Young Academy of Science Mexican citation plaque Following a two-year stint as an executive Nomination of candidates who deviate from committee member of the South African this expected profile requires additional Univen alumnus, Prof Sylvester Mpandeli, made the University of Venda proud when he received a citation plaque Young Academy of Science, Prof Makondelele motivation. Anyone can nominate an emerging during the 23rd International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage and the 68th International Executive Council Makatu, Associate Professor in Univen’s young scientist for membership. meeting in Mexico City recently. Department of Psychology, was re-elected as a Makatu achieved her doctoral degree in He became the first black South African to be awarded with a citation plaque since South Africa joined the co-chair until 2018. psychology at the University of Pretoria. She organisation in 1993. The academy is the voice of young scientists in is also a member of the Organisation for Mpandeli obtained his first degree, a Bachelor of Agriculture, from the University of Venda in 1997. South Africa. It contributes towards solutions Women in Science for the Developing World. He received the citation for his sterling work and achievements made during his tenure as the chairperson of the to national and global challenges facing society Her research interest is in youth and women organisation’s African Regional Working Group from 2013 to 2016. and provides a platform for young scientists to psychology. influence policy decisions. It also contributes Some of the achievements include developing a capacity building strategy for Africa on agricultural water manage- She trains students at both undergraduate ment and securing funding for a short training course from the Chinese National Committee on Irrigation and Drain- towards the development of scientific and postgraduate levels. She has published capacity in South Africa through mentoring age. The course was presented in Cairo, Egypt in 2016. He was also part of the team that developed a road map a considerable number of articles in both to ICID Vision 2030 which is going to be implemented by more than 100 countries across the globe. and role-modelling of future scientists and national and international peer reviewed and fosters opportunities for interdisciplinary accredited journals. Mpandeli is part of the agriculture expert team that is providing capacity building and technology transfer to global collaborations among young scientists. young professionals on water issues across the globe. The organisation has a very close relationship “I am coordinating and facilitating the establishment of the young professionals with the Academy of Science of South on the African continent. Moreover, I am tasked by the African countries to Africa and the Department of Science and finalise a strategy on the Green Revolution in Africa by 2018. With other former Technology. Every year it calls for nomination Univen students, we are making positive contributions across the globe on of young scientists. To qualify for nomination, sustainable millennium development goals such as zero hunger, clean water and a candidate should meet criteria like a doctoral sanitation and affordable and clean energy. I became one of the representatives degree in any field of scientific enquiry where and negotiators of the South African government on climate change adaptation science is defined broadly as encompassing negotiations at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change natural sciences, social sciences and from 2006 to 2013.” humanities, medical sciences and engineering. He has been requested by the African member countries and the International Other criteria are evidence of scientific Commission on Irrigation and Drainage to co-chair the African Regional Working excellence through an established publications Group until 2020, with Dr Wabha from Egypt. record, receipt of honours and awards, a After completing a Bachelor of Agriculture degree at Univen, he went to the National Research Foundation rating, evidence University of Pretoria where he obtained two honours degrees, one in 1998 of activities demonstrating service to society, specialising in floriculture and the other in 2002 specialising in land use planning. willingness to volunteer time and effort to organisation activities, be under the age of 40 Again, at the University of Pretoria, he completed a master’s degree, specialising years and within seven years from receipt of in irrigation and agronomy. In 2006, Mpandeli completed a PhD degree at the a doctoral degree at the time of nomination. University of the Witwatersrand, specialising in climate change adaptation issues. Making Univen proud - Prof Mpandeli with the citation from He is a renowned scholar who published more than 26 scientific papers, 75 peer Prof Makatu is now a co-chair of the the International Commission reviewed conference proceedings, published five book chapters and is an external South African Young Academy of Science. on Irrigation and Drainage. examiner of postgraduate students at different universities in South Africa.

6 NENDILA NEWSLETTER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VENDA Agriculture students get entrepreneurship advice To link students with businesspeople to discuss “Agriculture controls the global economy but it is muringa plants. their own businesses before completing their entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector, Univen’s not everyone who wants to be an entrepreneur,” “We are planting muringa and exporting the studies. School of Agriculture held its first ever networking said the President of the Limpopo Farmers products to Europe. Start businesses and plant “The little knowledge you have from class will help dinner recently. Association, Tshianeo Mathidi. muringa trees, as there is a worldwide demand. you to start smaller gardens which do not need a “South African agricultural graduates should be “Some people want to be employed by government We are working with more than 40 farmers, lot of money. It is a matter of starting with a garden ready to use the land to produce products that or the private sector, while others want to be including Univen, and wish to increase the number in the backyard at home, then you will grow from can also be exported,” said the chairperson of the academics. In farming, without the land, you will of farmers. there.” not survive. If you want to be an entrepreneur, you school, Munyaradzi Makoto. “We produce healthcare products, pills and skincare Tshilidzi Mathidi, one of the youngest South African need to erase the lazy mentality and start to think farm owners who studied marketing, encouraged Officially opening the networking event, Makoto products. We also help farmers to distribute their about what you can do to earn a living.” students who want to be in business to tackle the said students should not only study to pass, but products, as long as they are producing healthy Phumudzo Maphila, a 4th year BSc Plant Production field where they see a gap. learn how to practice their skills. products that are cultivated on healthy land.” student, said statistics show an incline in the “Our company creates networks among “Everything is possible as long as you are dedicated “Be ready to overcome the challenges. This will not unemployment rate. to what you want to achieve. Put your money communities, entrepreneurs and farmers,” said the only eradicate the scarcity of employment, but will “New graduates should start to think about how where you want your future. In life, if you want to Managing Director of Vhembe Agriculture Hub and boost the country’s economy. People are fighting to to create jobs rather than to look for jobs. Do not make it, work hard. Let your dream be driven and Chemistry Supply, Luvhengo Nyelisani. reclaim their land, but is the country ready to utilise be selfish - work together by starting agriculture- accompanied by hard work.” the land after winning the battle of land reform? “We train emerging farmers to survive in this field. related businesses. There is a gap in this sector In his moral support message, Talifhani “South Africa should not be in a situation where we which needs to be filled and that is where we We also buy and sell agricultural products”. Tshitwamulomoni, Executive Chairperson of have land that is not used. The agricultural sector is should come in. Government alone cannot create Alwin Makhale, a mechanical engineering graduate the Universal Greening Organisation, advised the number one employer in South Africa - without jobs for all, it needs our intervention.” and an entrepreneur in the field of agriculture, businesspeople who graduated from Univen to its presence people will starve.” Rene Munya of Afrinest presented on the use of advised students to start thinking about opening employ graduates of the university.

“South African graduates must be “Not all graduates want to be “New graduates should start their “Students should get into the “Train students on how to start skilled on how to use land” - Makoto. entrepreneurs” - Mathidi. own businesses” - Maphila. muringa business” - Munya. businesses” – Nyelisani.

“Start businesses before you “Businesspeople who graduated complete your studies” - from Univen should train students” Tshitwamulomoni. - Makhale. Networking at the dinner. Government never gave customary law full recognition The South African government never gave customary law full career spanning over three decades of research, writing, teaching, “Attorneys should be equipped so that they can give proper justice. and proper recognition - recognition is driven by the state’s need public service and social activism. He is a former senior Deputy Vice Customary law governs many people in our lives.” to be secured when dealing with indigenous people and their Chancellor of the University of Cape Town. “Customary law is a very important aspect of the law,” said the systems. Customary law expert and lecturer at Univen, Zama Mopai, said Deputy Dean in Univen’s School of Law, Puleng Letuka. Recently Univen, in partnership with the National Association of customary law is about the customs and usages of tradition observed “The African way of doing things is very important. We should have an Democratic Lawyers, hosted a Customary Law seminar focusing on by the indigenous people of South Africa. important discourse on it.” customary marriages, tribal authority and African jurisprudence. “Customary law is part of people’s daily lives. Sometimes we are “Matters that involve customary law are difficult to deal with because Prof Thandabantu Nhlapo said sections 39 (2) and (3) of the forced to look customary law as inferior because of colonialism. Every they are not written,” said Justice Ramafalo of Legal Aid South Africa. constitution provide for judicial developments of customary law and African should understand customary law. It is difficult to separate recognise the rights or freedom conferred by customary law. customs from belief. “There is a lack of proper documents that support customary law. We face this challenge every day in our practice.” “The issue of marriage is fascinating because it leads to family “There are two types of customary law - living and official customary and family is the building block of society. Family is important in law. Living customary law evolves as communities change their values, A lecturer in the English Department, Dr Godani Mashau, said that every culture. African culture is very pro-marriage and pro-children. whereas official customary law easily changes and it is written and cases of witchcraft are difficult to deal with because it is also not Customary marriages must be recognised and celebrated. The captured in statutes, judicial precedents and books.” written anywhere. requirement for customary marriage is that the prospective spouses “At the National Association of Democratic Lawyers we want to “Until the government defines the role of traditional leaders, there must be above the age of 18.” make sure that everyone has access to justice,” said the association’s will always be a conflict between traditional leaders and elected Nhlapo is a renowned customary law expert with an academic Memory Sosibo. government leaders.”

“Family is important in every “Because of colonialism, “Attorneys should be equipped “Customary law is important” “We encounter challenges “Government should define culture” - Nhlapo. customary law sometimes with customary law” - Sosibo. - Letuka. when dealing with customary the role of traditional leaders” seems inferior” - Mopai. law” - Ramafalo. - Mashau.

NENDILA NEWSLETTER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VENDA 7 Partnership with HAWK University continues to flourish Univen’s Department of Social Work recently hosted the welcoming function of a HAWK University delegation of three staff members and 12 students. Art Gallery Co-ordinator, Dr Elelwani Ramaite- Mafadza, advised the delegation that they will be expected to have a code of respect for the elders. “You have to add the prefix Vho- to the name of an adult person to show respect. You also have to respect royalty. You should know how to communicate when you go to these villages,” she said. Caroline Elisabeth Maas of HAWK University said Neo Ramabula guiding this year they decided to focus on clients with “You should have respect Expressing the importance “No one can take the “Disabled or not, together students on policies and disabilities. for elders” - Ramaite. of Univen and HAWK knowledge that you we are a family” - legislation concerning people “We are here for the fourth time and we feel collaboration - Maas. have” - Baloyi. Lekganyane. with disabilities. welcomed. We want to keep this collaboration alive because it is important to both partnering universities.” The Chairperson of the Social Work Student Association, Wisani Baloyi, encouraged students to use the opportunity as a way of knowledge exchange. “Living with a disability is not a sin or a punishment,” said Dr Glory Lekganyane, a Lecturer at Univen’s Department of Social Work. “Let us not deny those living with disabilities the latitude to live a normal and protected life, just like everyone else. It is in your hands to change the bad ideology of the community towards disabled people. Exchange ideas to accommodate disabled people.” Neo Ramabula, a second year student of Bachelor of Arts Social Work at Univen, requested students to assist those who need to learn about the rights of and legislation related to people living with disabilities. In the past there were no policies protecting the rights of people with disabilities. However, now we have policies and “Let’s empower disabled “Never give up helping legislation - let us guide them towards the practice of their rights.” people with leadership HAWK students during the presentation about disability and those who need help” - Derrick Khosa, a Univen social work student, encouraged participants to develop their skills” - Khosa. implementation of policies. Schmieta. communities through sensitisation and awareness campaigns. “Let us empower disabled people with leadership skills. This is the time to help those who are discouraged by stigma to discover their creativity and skills. Social workers, let us play our role effectively and help those in need.” Prof Maike Schmieta, a lecturer and researcher from HAWK University’s Social Work Department, expressed her great gratitude to Univen and Hawk University students, social work lecturers and everyone who contributed to the success of the programme.

A good team - lecturers, social work students and HAWK University delegates. Takalani Nyelisani new president of CEIA The Careers Exhibition and Information Association’s comfortably in a globalised and international members expressed their vote of confidence in the setting. They would then be able to work in Univen Schools Liaison Officer, Takalani Nyelisani, by foreign places and do business with people from electing him the new president of the association at diverse cultures. We should shape our children into the recent Annual General Meeting and congress. globalised citizens with a broad range of skills and This year’s event, hosted in Durban, was themed knowledge to apply anywhere in the world.” ‘Education tariff intolerance: how it affects basic “Student performance is critical in the funding of and higher education’. higher education institutions,” said the Dean of “Let us work together in the interest of higher the Faculty of Natural Sciences at the Mangosuthu education and the association,” Nyelisani said in his University of Technology, Prof Msomi. acceptance speech. “Universities need to find students who can excel “Let us start with those little things that do not in the programmes and environment they offer. A new president - Takalani Nyelisani mean much, because that is where solid relations in We need to develop sound relationships with faculty members in the development of recruitment receives the certificate of appreciation for A new exco - The new executive committee and the newly-elected an organisation start. They build strong foundations hosting the 2017 careers exhibition. President, Takalani Nyelisani (front row, second from right). for collaborations and referrals. Whilst one would strategies.” understand that we work for different institutions “South Africa has experienced a dramatic increase and have different targets, let us remember that in the amount of protest actions in the last few our sole purpose is to serve the learner - an African years,” said the Director for Communications and child. Marketing of the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences “Our organisation will soon embody institutions University, Dr Pule. that are beyond the Southern African Development “Our country is still struggling to win the battle Community - I envisage that our membership will against academic and financial exclusions of grow and our service will spread throughout Africa students. Students who fall victim are those coming soon. Most of us have national and international from disadvantaged backgrounds. According to strategies to position our institutions. We need to Universities South Africa, student enrolment has start building effective relations among ourselves so almost tripled since 1994 and the student body is “In the wake of How student Academic and that we can go out and be heard,” he said. more demographically representative. globalisation recruitment remains financial exclusion “The Southern African Development Community “National Student Financial Aid Scheme allocations, universities have relevant in the midst and how it affects Newly-elected President Takalani Protocol on Higher Education has appealed despite increases, are not adequate to meet the a pivotal role to of higher education the education Nyelisani and outgoing President to universities to accommodate five percent needs of eligible students. This raises the question of play” - Mahaye. fees intolerance – landscape - Pule. Bonginkosi Dladlama. international students. We have also seen a host of how increased enrolments were to be funded. Clear Msomi. foreign institutions already setting themselves up partnerships between university management, to operate on our turf. We will need to brighten students, private entities, the government and the our presence to ensure sustainability. This will community in general can come up with various require our vigilance to ensure sustainability of our fundraising strategies to accommodate more institutions.” students at various institutions,” said Pule. The association currently has membership from Representing the Department of Education, Umlazi South African universities, technical vocational District, Bheki Ntuli was impressed by the work education and training colleges, private colleges done by schools liaison officers and recruitment and departments of education nationally as well officers. as in Southern African Development Community “We are aware of the bad conditions under which countries such as Swaziland and Lesotho. you work sometimes to access learners, especially “In the wake of globalisation universities have in the rural areas. Even in some urban areas, you a pivotal role to play,” said Dr Ngogi Mahaye, encounter school principals who do not give Regional Director for the KwaZulu-Natal you easy access to learners, but you persist. We Department of Education Provincial Interventions. will continue to support the work done by your “Our institutions of Higher Learning should assist association because we believe that you are adding to produce learners who are able to interact value to the future of our learners by giving them “You are adding value to the future hope and exposure.” of our learners” - Ntuli. Consulting and lobbying - delegates at the conference.

8 NENDILA NEWSLETTER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VENDA Univen embraces cultural diversity Univen recently hosted a student cultural event in a diversity should not be a key for people to hate one unique and exciting way. another, but a glue to stick us together.” Comprised of students and staff members “The heritage that we preserve in our country is from various countries in Africa, the university also about wildlife,” said Jeremiah Machavi of accommodates students with diverse cultural South African National Parks. backgrounds. “We offer different careers which include park “We are practising what we do in the lecture halls,” manager, nature conservator, conservation planner, said a lecturer in the Department of Tourism and field ranger, law enforcement officer, wildlife Hospitality Management, Fhatuwani Sumbana. veterinarian and social ecologist. “As part of the curriculum, we celebrate cultural “You must know what you want. When you diversity in the school. Culture can be an attraction choose careers, know your interest, personality and - somebody can develop a business by attracting values,” said Machavi tourists through culture.” Tshimangadzo Maphaha of Ivory Route Tours said “We have inherited a noble culture which we need careers in tourism are all about information. to preserve for generations to come,” said Rev “Research tourism for your own benefit as this will Dean Dr Alunamutwe Rannditsheni. help you shape your future.” “Whatever we inherited from our fore-parents There were cultural presentations, food testing, and should not end with this generation. We need to cultural performances from Indian, Muslim, Maasai pass this to the next generation - but in a good and Nigerian cultures. Showcasing the Maasai culture. and better shape than the form in which we have received it. A nation without its past is a nation treading to the drain and it will be difficult to restore. “Univen is obliged and required to live according to the theory of Ubuntu which advocates togetherness and working as one, although we differ in one way or another. Without Ubuntu, this university will not be able to produce people who are solution-orientated but people who will cause harm, disorder and wipe out everything our fore- parents have achieved during their time. “Events like these “We are required to “South African “Always strive to “A university community that does not hold to are part of the live according to the National Parks offers know more about the principle of Ubuntu finds itself in a situation Tasting food - judges and participants in curriculum” - Sumbana. theory of Ubuntu” - many career opportu- tourism” - Maphaha. where people are fighting with each other. Cultural line to taste. Rannditsheni. nities” - Machavi. Ethics committee commits Senior Prof Ekosse appointed to principles of excellence to property rights office Research Ethics Committee. These actions Univen’s Research Ethics Committee is committed The Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Soil Science Society of Southern Africa and the to upholding the highest ethical standards in a determine its business, standards, policies and Pandor, has appointed Senior Prof Ekosse as International Association for the Study of Clays. research community. It is committed to quality procedures. a member of the panel for the Review of the Ekosse is Deputy Chairperson of the Limpopo and excellence, accountability, transparency, “The audit provides research ethics committees Intellectual Property Rights from Publicly Financed Research Forum and a National Research Founda- integrity, respect, diversity and social responsibility, with recommendations that assist to improve Research and Development Act and the National tion C2 rated researcher 2007-2012, 2013-2018 community engagement and Ubuntu. operations in the committee. The audit team Intellectual Property Management Office. with expert knowledge in the chemistry of clay The Directorate of Research and Innovation recently included the council’s Prof Brink, Dr Sikweyiya and Ekosse is Senior Professor of Applied Clay minerals, applied clay mineralogy, environmental hosted a delegation from the National Health Mr Maluleke of the council’s secretariat. Mineralogy and Environmental Geology. He is a geology, environmental health, extraction Research Ethics Council of the Department of The meeting was attended by Univen’s Senior metallurgy, soil mineralogy and environmental Health for the annual Research Ethics Committees Fellow and the immediate past secretary general Prof Georges Ekosse, Research Ethics Committee of the African Academy of Sciences and member geochemistry. compliance audit. members Prof Nwafor, Dr Ndlovu, Prof Maputle, Prof of its Advisory Committee on Space, Earth and He has authored/co-authored over 300 publications. The council’s Dr Sikweyiya said the audit reviewed Barnhoorn, Mrs Obida, Research Administration Environmental Sciences. the planned and systematic actions and processes Coordinator, Mrs Sigama and Univen Research Ekosse is a leader with excellent skills and insight that are established and carried out by Univen’s Ethics Committee Secretariat, Ms Khoza. He is a Life Member of the Geological Society in exponential growth and transformation of of Africa and the Association of Geoscientists university research, innovation and postgraduate for International Development, a member of the studies. Univen staff makes headlines Prof Pascal Bessong inducted into the Academy of Science of South BRICS appointment for Senior Prof Ekosse Africa: A first for Univen The Department of Higher Education and Training and the University of Venda. All 26 South African Prof Pascal Bessong was recently inducted into the Academy of Science of has appointed Senior Prof Ekosse as National universities should enjoy benefits derived from the South Africa. Convener of the Ecology and Climate Change participation of the 12 selected ones. The academy honours the country’s most outstanding scholars by electing them Thematic Group of the BRICS Network University. as members in recognition of scholarly achievement. Members are the core The BRICS Network University facilitates cooperation asset of the academy and give their time and expertise voluntarily in the service and collaboration among BRICS universities. These of society. universities provide high quality life-long learning Bessong did his doctoral training in South Africa and France, and postdoctoral through education such as traditional academic programmes, short-term programmes and modular We would training in the United States. He is a Research Professor of Microbiology and Global Health and Head of the HIV/AIDS and Global Health Research courses. Programme in Univen’s School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences. They also facilitate sustainable development of His research interests include antimicrobial resistance, specifically on the burden of drug resistant HIV, the BRICS countries through joint research and like to hear markers of antibiotic resistance at the population level and the interactions of gut microbiota, gut function, educational activities in among others, natural vaccine response, growth and development. and social sciences, humanities and engineering. Furthermore, these universities provide training Bessong has trained about 40 masters and doctoral students and published more than 120 peer reviewed from you! for professionals of BRICS countries by expanding scientific articles. He is a collaborator on the Global Burden of Disease project and the South Africa lead students’ access to methods, forms and education investigator for the MAL-ED Network. Nendila is your communications channel. technologies of the BRICS Network University Nendila editorial committee – On an ad hoc basis he reviews research grant proposals for the government of Hong Kong Health and educational programmes. Medical Research Fund, the Canadian Institute for Health Research, the Medical Research Council and the There are six priority areas – energy, computer Mr Takalani Dzaga – Chief editor National Research Foundation of South Africa. science and information security, ecology and Ms Welheminah Mabogo – Coordinator climate change, water resources and pollution treatment, economics and BRICS studies. Mr Peter Mashishi – Contributor Each BRICS country has its National Coordinating Ridovhona Mbulaheni (Intern) Psychological Society of Committee which oversees and coordinates the work of the thematic groups. The BRICS Network Mphinyana Nemasitoni (Intern) University International Governing Board directs Ms Mushoni Mulaudzi – Preservation (Library) SA elects Prof Mashamba the work of the BRICS Network University. It comprises three representatives of each BRICS Send your contributions to: Prof Mashamba was elected as an executive University in the United States of America. country as well as a representative from the Ministry Welheminah Mabogo, member of the Psychological Society of South She is currently heading the Department of of Education. Nendila Coordinator Africa during the recent Pan African Psychology Psychology and is also Vice Dean of the School of University of Venda, Each BRICS country has up to 12 universities that are Union meeting in Durban. Health Sciences. Private Bag X5050, formal members of the BRICS Network University. Thohoyandou, 0950 She was also elected as a member of the Her research interests include Indigenous The South African members are the University South African National Committee for the Knowledge and Health Systems, Mental Health, HIV of the Witwatersrand, the Tshwane University of Tel 015 962 8525, Fax 015 962 8494 International Union of Psychological Sciences in and AIDs, and Health Psychology. Technology, the University of Johannesburg, the Cape Town. Mashamba has trained students at both University of Cape Town, the Central University e-mail: [email protected] Mashamba did her doctoral degree in Psychology masters and doctoral levels and has published of Technology, Rhodes University, the University Office number 24, first floor at the University of Venda and her postdoctoral articles in both national and international peer of Pretoria, North West University, Stellenbosch Main administration building Master of Science in Epidemiology at the Columbia reviewed journals. University, the Durban University of Technology

NENDILA NEWSLETTER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VENDA 9 Univen supports people Mbati receives RUFORUM living with disabilities IMPRESSA Award for 2017 Univen’s Vice Chancellor and Principal, Prof Peter Univen staff members recently supported disabled Sekgweni is doing his internship at Univen’s Mbati was awarded as the first runner-up of the students during the 2017 Disability Indaba that was Department of Information Technology Services. RUFORUM IMPRESSA award recently in Lilongwe, organised by the Univen Disabled Student Unit. “The government has been and is still developing Malawi. The indaba started with a fun walk from the programmes for young and disabled people of this He was recognised for excellence in research, university’s main administration building to the country,” said the Acting Chief Operating Officer of institutional transformation and building Africa’s sports hall. the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, Victor human resource capacity. The award comprised of a “The university community should be aware that Rambau. trophy, a certificate and US$15,000.00. there are disabled people on this campus,” says “Disabled people who have applied for NSFAS do Present were Bright Msaka, Malawian Minister Vice Chancellor and Principal, Prof Peter Mbati. not have to apply again the following year. Funding of Education, Science and Technology, George “Despite the fact that a lot has been achieved, for them will automatically be taken as a bursary Kronnisanyon Werner, Liberian Minister of access for the disabled into university buildings instead of a loan. They do not have to repay it when Education, Dr Muyingo John Chrysostom, Ugandan is not enough. Holding a cane with my eyes they complete their studies. Minister of State for Higher Education and over blindfolded has made me realise how blind people “NSFAS is trying to fund all disabled people. 300 participants that included vice chancellors need assistive devises at all times. It is not easy Universities should provide the names of the representing the 66 member universities, to walk without seeing where you are going. Let students living with disabilities before the closing development partners and other dignitaries. us help these people to access all these buildings date for the 2018 academic year.” Vice chancellors, rectors, principals and deans from which will also assist them to live the life that Members of the University community filled the 35 African countries, with development partners all students live. The university will increase the university streets to participate in the disability from Africa and abroad and recipients of the various Bright Msaka hands the RUFORUM Impressa number of disabled employees,” he said. awareness fun walk. RUFORUM 2017 awards. award to Prof Mbati. Travel With Flair donated a brand new technologically advanced wheelchair to Mpho Sekgweni, a Univen student who is physically challenged. The company’s Cathy Koele said she Workshop empowers was deeply touched when she heard that there is a student who sometimes fails to do things just because his wheelchair no longer functions properly. emerging researchers “I know the difficulties faced by disabled people Research and knowledge creation are defining the relevant people. You have to publish your work and most of them do not want to be other people’s characteristics of a university. The absence so that it can be used by the coming generation.” burdens, yet they need help. It is not nice to ask or severe decrease of this aspect in a higher people to push you to get to places where you Univen’s Research Coordinator, Dr Owen Nkosinathi learning institution spells an imminent loss for want to go.” Sotshangane, said that academics are emplored to “Tuition fees for that institution. either publish or perish. “I am very happy because the university and the disabled people will Themed ‘Carving the way forward in research and donor heard my plea - hence my prayers were “It is not nice to ask automatically be taken “This workshop will help you to overcome barriers innovation at Univen’, the Directorate of Research answered today. I wish the same could be done for people to push you to as a bursary not a to writing for publication. This will not only benefit and Innovation recently hosted an ‘article writing all students living with disabilities.” get to places” - Koele. loan” - Rambau. you but will also contribute in improving research for publication’ workshop. productivity for Univen and the country as a whole. The workshop taught researchers, including “Postgraduate students are often expected to write academics, postdoctoral research fellows and manuscripts worthy of publication without being postgraduate students how to write manuscripts taught how to achieve this goal. It is assumed that for publication. It was attended by 80 research once someone has a PhD, that person can write participants to provide hands-on coaching and publishable articles.” mentorship to emerging researchers. The workshop provided hands-on coaching and Prof Antoine Mulaba-Bafubiandi, Head of the mentoring of emerging researchers. Based on Mineral Processing and Technology Research Centre calculations of publication units, universities are at the University of Johannesburg, said scientific provided with research subsidies by the Department writing is a science and it follows some logical and of Higher Education and Training. Univen was rational rules. allocated 0.94 units for the 2016 publications and Testing the new wheelchair - from “The elements of a scientific paper include as a result, it is well placed to meet the target of left, Prof Peter Mbati seated on Mpho’s introduction, methodology, presentation and 1.25 units that was set by the Minister of Higher Prof Peter Mbati holding a mobility cane, participating in new wheelchair (vrrr-pha) and Cathy discussion of the findings, integration of the Education and Training for 2019. The call for blind activities. Koele from Travel With Flair. literature in the discussion, conclusion and participation was meant for participants who had recommendations and references. draft manuscripts which would then be worked on “Contextualise the content of the paper in the and submitted for publication. introduction. Give the motivation and the rationale Univen and Wageningen of the work reported. At times, mention the gap in the body of knowledge literature.” On methodology, Mulaba-Bafubiandi told host supervision training participants to account for the type of research they are conducting. Also describe the research tools Univen and Wageningen University jointly hosted academics, the heart of communication, scientific used for data collection, equipment, questionnaire, a postgraduate supervision workshop, focusing on writing and publishing. experimental, field and observation. Indicate the population and the sample or material. effective academic development, competence and The workshop was facilitated by experts from skills for PhD supervisors and academic staff. the Wageningen University in the Netherlands, “The abstract should summarise the discussion of main results and its comparison with the literature.” The workshop was attended by 30 staff members comprising of Dr Claudius van de Vijver, the PhD and postdoctoral students from different schools Programme Coordinator at the CT de WIT Graduate “A researcher should have a hunger for publishing,” Prof Mulaba-Bafubiandi “Workshops like these and departments. Highlights of the training School for Production Ecology and Research said Univen’s Director of Research and Innovation, taught emerging help researchers to included the seven habits of highly effective Conservation, Barend van de Broek and Dr Lennart Senior Professor Georges Ekosse. researchers how to improve their writing Suselbeek, PhD Programme “Univen sees the need for research to be done conduct research. skills” - Sotshangane. Coordinator at the same and disseminated appropriately. We have to put graduate school. Univen on the map of scholarship. You must The facilitators paid a courtesy combine wisdom with the knowledge that you have call to Univen’s Vice Chancellor generated to benefit the society. Be a researcher and Principal, Prof Peter Mbati, with a difference and you must know how to who thanked the Wageningen publish. You should develop yourself to be a scholar University colleagues for their of high integrity and an internationally acclaimed consistent support. scholar.” The workshop was coordinated “Univen has increased its research output,” said Univen’s Dr Sinah Sekhula. A good get-together - from left, Dr Lennart Suselbeek, Barend van de by the Directorate of Interna- Broek, Dr Segun Obadire, Prof Jan Crafford and Dr Claudius van de Vijver. tional Relations. “Therefore, masters and PhD students should not graduate without any publication. Emerging “Univen has researchers’ research findings should not sit in the “Have a hunger to increased research publish” – Ekosse. output” - Sekhula. library. It should benefit the society and researchers should find ways of disseminating these findings to Participants at the workshop.

Participants in one of the group activities. Facilitators with Prof Peter Mbati.

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10 NENDILA NEWSLETTER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VENDA