FACULTY OF APPLIED AND COMPUTER SCIENCES
Welcome to the Department of ICT Postgraduate
Welcome to the dynamic and intellectually stimulating realm of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) postgraduate research programmes. These programmes are dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation, curiosity, and scholarly exploration, enabling students to embark on a transformative journey of discovery and contribute to the frontiers of knowledge in the field of ICT.
At the heart of our programme is a commitment to excellence in research methodology and academic rigor. We provide a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment where students work closely with distinguished faculty members, who are renowned experts in their respective areas of specialization. This collaboration empowers students to develop and refine their research skills, critically analyze existing knowledge, and design innovative approaches to address emerging challenges in the field.
Our programme offers a wide range of research areas spanning various domains of ICT. From artificial intelligence and machine learning to ICT4D, data science, ICT4E, and beyond, students have the opportunity to explore their research interests and make original contributions to their chosen field. We encourage interdisciplinary research and provide a platform for cross-pollination of ideas, fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation.
Our goal is to nurture the next generation of thought leaders and scholars in ICT. As a student in our ICT postgraduate research programmes, you will be part of a vibrant academic community that encourages intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and the pursuit of excellence. You will have the opportunity to publish your research work in journals and, in international and national conference proceedings. You will also be able to participate in conferences, workshops, seminars, and research symposia, enabling you to showcase your work, receive feedback from experts, and engage in meaningful discussions with peers.
By the culmination of our ICT postgraduate research programme, you will emerge as a highly skilled researcher equipped with the knowledge, expertise, and resilience needed to navigate the complexities of the digital era. You will be prepared to make significant contributions to academia, industry, policy-making, and societal development, leveraging ICT as a catalyst for positive change.
We are excited to embark on this research journey with you, where the pursuit of knowledge meets the transformative power of ICT. Together, let us push the boundaries of possibility, challenge conventional wisdom, and shape the future of ICT through ground-breaking research and innovation.
ICT4D (Research Group)
Dr. Rene Van Eck (Research Group Leader) Office: T206 – Tel: 016 950 9899 Email: rene@vut.ac.za
Dr René van Eck obtained her DTech in IT in 2019. Since then she has been actively involved in the supervision of Post graduate diploma research projects and the supervision of Masters and Doctoral students.
She is overseeing the niche area of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for Development. She has a passion for leveraging technological advancements to drive positive social change, with a focus on ICT’s role in advancing sustainable development goals in developing regions.
Prof (Mrs.) Meera K. Joseph
Prof (Mrs.) Meera K. Joseph is currently working as a part-time lecturer at the Independent Institute of Education, South Africa and Adjunct Professor at Vaal University of Technology. She worked at the Milpark Business School as a DBA (doctoral) supervisor in 2021 and has registered doctoral student in 2022/2023.
She earlier worked as the HoD for the School of IT and Business at AIE for the Midrand/Cape Town Campuses till 2021 where she also lectured Python for Data Science Specialization and was involved in the development of the BSc. IT module. She also worked as the Associate Professor at the DFC, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology, School of Electrical Engineering, University of Johannesburg (UJ) till the year 2018 and held various roles at UJ for 18 years.
She is the Professional Member of the Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (PMIITPSA) and Full Member of IEEE Computer Society (CS). She is currently the IEEE Computer Society SA Chapter chair, Senior Member IEEE and Senior Member, SAIEE. She received the degrees of DPhil. Engineering Management (ICT field), UJ in April 2014 (completed while working at UJ), Masters degree in Computer Applications in 1998 from Bangalore University, India and BSc (Physics and Mathematics sub.) from University of Kerala, India.
She has authored 75 research works and has around 22 years lecturing experience in the Computer Engineering / Information and Communication Technology field. Her multidisciplinary research interests are ICT4D (Information and Communication Technology for Development), smart grids, cloud computing, AI/ Machine learning for development, Computer Networks, femtocells, data analytics, ICT for renewable energy research, ICT for Power Engineering research, ICT for empowerment, data analytics, Blockchain in cybersecurity and the use of ICT in Engineering Education. Her research profile is in the Google scholar link: https://scholar.google.co.za/citations?hl=en&user=Ce3jidsAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate
Ms. vivian Mapande
Lecturer
Tel: 016 950 9285
fhatuwanim@vut.ac.za
Office :T006
Ms. Immaculate Sibaya
ICT4E (Research Group)
Prof. A Harmse (Research Group Leader) Office: T108 – Tel: 016 950 9836 – Email: anneke@vut.ac.za
Teaching and learning of Computer Science and Information Systems & ICT for education.
The teaching and learning of computer science and ICT for education are significant and relevant in today’s technology-driven world. I recognize the importance of equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate and excel in the digital landscape. Computer science and ICT education provide students with technical proficiency and foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and creativity.
It is inspiring to witness the transformative impact of these subjects, enabling students to become active participants in an increasingly interconnected society. By facilitating the teaching and learning of computer science and ICT, educators have the opportunity to empower the next generation with the tools they need to succeed in a technology-driven future.
Dr. Naume Sonhera – Email: nqume@vut.ac.za
Dr. Sonhera is an accomplished Senior Lecturer specializing in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) with expertise in the field of Information Systems. With a Ph.D. in Information Systems, Dr. Sonhera possesses a deep understanding of the intersection between technology and business processes.
Work Experience:
- Senior Lecturer in ICT: Vaal University of Technology, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa;
Dr. Sonhera currently holds the position of Senior Lecturer in ICT at a renowned university. In this role, Dr. Sonhera delivers lectures, conducts seminars, and provides mentorship to undergraduate and postgraduate students. Dr. Sonhera’s primary focus is on information systems, where she imparts knowledge and practical skills related to the effective utilization of technology in various organizational contexts.
Areas of Expertise:
- Information Systems: Dr. Sonhera possesses in-depth knowledge of information systems and their impact on organizations. This expertise includes system analysis, system design, system implementation, and system evaluation.
- Business Process Improvement: Dr. Sonhera has a keen interest in optimizing business processes through the effective application of technology. She understands the importance of aligning technology with business goals to enhance efficiency and productivity
- Data Analytics: Dr. Sonhera is proficient in utilizing data analytics techniques to extract meaningful insights from large datasets. This expertise enables her to contribute to decision-making processes by providing data-driven recommendations.
- Emerging Technologies: With a passion for staying at the forefront of technological advancements, Dr. Sonhera keeps a close eye on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain, and their potential applications in various domains.
Publications and Contributions: Dr. Sonhera has made valuable contributions to the field of ICT through research papers published in renowned journals and conference proceedings.
Professional Membership: Member of the Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (IITPSA)
Overall, Dr. Sonhera’s profile reflects a dedicated Senior Lecturer in ICT with a Ph.D. in Information Systems. With a passion for information systems, business process improvement, data analytics, and emerging technologies, Dr. Sonhera brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the academic and research communities.
Machine Learning (Research Group)
Prof T Zuva (Research Group Leader) Office: T106 – Tel: 016 950 7587 – email: tranosz@vut.ac.za
Professor T. Zuva is a distinguished academic and a valuable asset to the Department of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at Vaal University of Technology (VUT) in South Africa. He has made significant contributions to the field of ICT through his scholarly work.
His research interests span a wide range of areas, including but not limited to artificial intelligence, data analytics, recommender systems, and image processing. Professor Zuva has published numerous articles in reputable journals, international and national conference proceedings, garnering recognition and acclaim from peers in the academic community. He has also supervised numerous masters and doctoral students at various universities.
Mr. E Sibanda – Office: T210-A Email: eliass@vut.ac.za
Wireless Communications & Innovation (Research Group)
Prof Moshe T. Masonta (Research Group Leader) E-mail: moshe.masonta@gmail.com
Cell: +27 72 992 5985
Moshe T. Masonta is an Adjunct Professor (since February 2023) for the Department of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences, Vaal University of Technology, South Africa. He co-supervises postgraduate students and deliver guest lecturers within the department.
Prof Masonta is a full-time Principal Researcher and Research Group leader for Spectrum Access and Management Innovation research group at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Pretoria, South Africa.
His research interests are in radio frequency spectrum management and regulations for wireless communications technologies, 5G Open Radio Access Networks, and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) for social innovation and entrepreneurship.
List of publication available from Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?view_op=list_works&hl=en&hl=en&user=PC5ZdHoAAAAJ&pagesize=80
Prof T Zuva Office: T106 – Tel: 016 950 7587 – email: tranosz@vut.ac.za
Masters Students Profiles
Phd’s Students Profiles
