“The Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences at Vaal University of Technology (VUT) honoured outstanding student research achievements at the 2025 Student Research Awards. Key speakers highlighted the importance of research, innovation, and intellectual property, inspiring postgraduate students to pursue impactful academic and industry contributions.”
29 July 2025 | Story By: Gracious Ngomane | Picture: Sifiso Nomzaza
3 minutes read time.
On 23 July 2025, the Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences (FACS) at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) proudly hosted the Student Research Awards ceremony at the African Languages Auditorium within the Centre for Academic Development (CAD). The event celebrated the exceptional research achievements of students, showcasing innovative projects and nurturing a spirit of academic excellence and collaboration within the faculty.
Senior Lecturer in Biotechnology Dr Tara Walmsley delivered a warm and purposeful welcoming address. She encouraged students to embrace their postgraduate journey with enthusiasm, reminding them that as they develop into researchers and ultimately transition into industry, they have the potential to convert their passion into practical solutions for real-world challenges.
Mr Ranoshweu Solomon, Head of the Department of Applied Physical Sciences, emphasised the vital role of research as the cornerstone of innovation. He explained that research entails gathering information, expanding current knowledge, and introducing new perspectives within a given field. Differentiating between master’s and doctoral research, he noted that while the former builds upon existing understanding, the latter is about generating original insights and pioneering breakthroughs. “You must always research at your own pace to fully enjoy your journey,” he advised.
Professor Tranos Zuva, a research professor in the Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences, remarked, “You cannot simply carry your master’s or postgraduate certificates and expect recognition. It is through the dissemination of your research that you gain visibility, particularly in today’s digitally connected world. You may hold qualifications, but you will remain unknown unless you publish. If people wish to learn about you, they must be able to find you online.”
Mr Maemo Kobe, Acting Executive Director for Technology Transfer and Innovation (TTI), added that whether you have published a paper or are still developing your ideas or results, you can approach the TTI office based at the VUT Southern Gauteng Science & Technology Park in Sebokeng with intellectual property (IP) disclosure. By disclosing your IP, you establish ownership, allowing TTI to conduct a search to verify the originality of your idea. If it proves to be unique, you may then choose how and where to market it, with TTI providing protection and support throughout the process.
Further inspiration was offered by Mr Thabang Mkhuma, Technical Advisor for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) division at the Media Information Communications and Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICTSETA). He shared the work MICTSETA has undertaken to support research and development, highlighting the establishment of a dedicated 4IR division tasked with leading skills development and innovation in this emerging domain. In addition to providing learnerships and internships, the division has two further mandates: to spearhead research on 4IR and to cultivate innovation within the sector.
Dr Mohau Phiri from the Department of Natural Sciences encouraged students to conduct their research at their own pace, cautioning them against comparing their progress with that of others who may have completed earlier.
Professor Rene Van Eck, leader of the Information and Communication Technology Research Group, reminded attendees that 4IR at VUT is not solely about new technologies but about their convergence and the ways in which they are reshaping society and influencing us as human beings.
The ceremony concluded with the awarding of certificates, each accompanied by a voucher redeemable at the maVUTi shop. Certificates of Acknowledgement were presented to two recipients, while the Top Research Award honoured three master’s students and five doctoral candidates.