“VUT’s Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences celebrated staff excellence at its 2026 recognition ceremony, honouring research, innovation, collaboration and service.”
04 August 2026 | Story by: Nontobeko Moimane | Picture: Keitumetse Mokgope
4 minutes read time.
For one afternoon, the usual rhythm of lectures, laboratory work, research deadlines and postgraduate supervision gave way to applause, reflection and celebration. At Emerald Casino on 31 July 2026, the Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences (FACS) at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) gathered to honour the people whose dedication quietly drives its progress.
The 2026 FACS Staff Recognition Ceremony brought together academics, researchers, professional staff and retired colleagues to recognise the long hours behind publications, the persistence behind funded projects and the collaboration that turns academic ideas into meaningful outcomes.
Against the backdrop of VUT’s 60th anniversary, the event became a reminder that the University’s legacy is not only found in its history, but is built daily by those teaching, researching, mentoring and innovating within its faculties.
Welcoming guests and award recipients, Acting Executive Dean of FACS, Professor Solly Lebelo, acknowledged the staff members whose commitment continues to shape the Faculty’s growth. “We really want to appreciate the hard work that we have been doing,” he said.
Research Professor in FACS, Professor Tranos Zuva, reflected on the demanding reality behind research excellence, including the perseverance required to publish, secure funding, supervise postgraduate students and meet teaching responsibilities. “Today is the day of appreciation,” he said, urging colleagues to continue supporting one another.
Professor Zuva also highlighted progress in research output and postgraduate qualifications, including growth in master’s and doctoral completions between 2024 and 2025. He stressed that recognition should not be reserved only for major achievements, as every contribution strengthens the Faculty’s collective mission.
The conversation then shifted from achievement to impact. Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, Commercialisation and Internationalisation (RICI), Professor Simphiwe Nelana, challenged researchers to consider what happens after a study is completed or a paper is published.
He urged staff to create stronger connections between research, industry and communities, particularly within a university of technology. Research, he said, should help solve real-world problems, create opportunities and contribute to economic and social development.
For Executive Director for Technology Transfer and Innovation (TTI), Mr Ayanda Noma, that journey begins when researchers look beyond publication and consider the practical potential of their work. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate the excellence within the Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences,” he said.
Mr Noma encouraged academics to explore how their research could become products, services and solutions. Through technology transfer, researchers can protect intellectual property, develop prototypes, engage industry and commercialise innovations that serve communities and strengthen the University’s contribution to society.
The celebratory mood was deepened by Professor Susanna Burger, Associate Professor in the Department of Tourism and Integrated Communication in VUT’s Faculty of Human Sciences. “Today, we gather not only to present awards but also to recognise the dedication, innovation, perseverance and passion that define outstanding researchers,” she said.
Professor Burger reminded the audience that academic achievement rarely belongs to one person alone. She acknowledged the contribution of supervisors, collaborators, research teams, families and support staff, and encouraged those who did not receive awards to draw inspiration from their colleagues’ achievements.
For Veterans and Trailblazer Award recipient Professor Martha Pinkoane, the recognition carried a deeply personal meaning. She expressed appreciation to Professor Lebelo and the FACS team for recognising retired staff and ensuring that their connection to the broader VUT community remains intact.
“Being recognised for the work we contributed during our years of service is deeply motivating and serves as a reminder that our contributions continue to have value,” Professor Pinkoane said. She added that research outputs should increasingly become products and solutions that reach the market, strengthen the University and contribute to community upliftment.
As applause filled the venue, the ceremony affirmed a simple truth: academic excellence is not created in isolation. It grows through curiosity, collaboration, rigorous work and a shared belief that knowledge can improve lives.
The 2026 FACS Staff Recognition Ceremony honoured individual achievement, but it also celebrated a Faculty looking ahead. As VUT marks six decades of advancing technology, knowledge and opportunity, FACS remains central to its ability to respond to South Africa’s changing technological, economic and social needs.
Congratulations to all the 2026 FACS Staff Recognition Award recipients. Your dedication strengthens FACS, advances VUT and adds meaning to the University’s enduring legacy.