Open Access Seminar

Dr Thokozani Xaba a senior lecturer at VUT in the Department of Chemistry

Dieketseng Motsepe

On the 26 of October 2018, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Library hosted the Open Access (OA) Seminar in celebration of the 11^th International Open Access Week with the theme ‘Designing Equitable Foundations for Open Knowledge’. OA means access to scientific and scholarly documents on the internet without the restrictions of fees, tools or licence. The aim behind OA is to ensure maximum dissemination and rapid availability of scholarly knowledge and information.

Information Librarian, Mr Mluleki Siguntu, emphasised that it is the mandate of all libraries to provide information. He went on to explain that Gold OA access refers to final versions of publications that are available directly from the publisher whereas Green OA means that a version is available due to a practice commonly known as self-archiving. This is where the author will make it available in a special repository.

Dr Volkmar Nolting, from the Department of Physics and Non-destructive Testing, shared his views on OA research papers and how online publications get more attention. He said that online publishing is the way to go, but the controversy around OA journals does damage the peer review systems as many OA journals lack the reputation, experience and knowledge of conventional journals.

Mr Sibu Zondi, from Emerald Group Publishing which is a subscription-based publisher, added that they have launched Emerald Reach with the aim of publishing quality research through OA for extended impact.

Dr Thokozani Xaba a senior lecturer at VUT in the Department of Chemistry opened up about her experience in terms of research and how she has balanced her career by doing research and teaching.  “As a researcher, it is important to share your knowledge and not to hog your information as someone out there might be in need of the information you have to offer,’ she said.

The improvement in technology makes it possible for information to be available to everyone. OA makes it easy for researchers to share and also gain knowledge from other researchers and in doing so it increases the opportunity for collaboration and the number of readers.

Some of the staff and students that attended the Open Access seminar

Ms Zodwa Thomas an Information Librarian at VUT shared her views on the use of SMSs and e-mails and the importance of electronic communication within the workplace. She used the case of Jafta vs Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (2008) 10 BLLR 984 (LC) to ask the question of whether an offer of employment sent by e-mail or short message service (SMS) should result in a valid contract.

Dr Ferdi Van der Walt a Research Consultant at VUT spoke about the challenges that postgraduates face when wanting to further their studies. “Studying goes beyond getting an official certificate; it is about picking up life skills. Look at your interests and skills and look at the market that needs you,” he said. “It is important as an individual to make use of the opportunities available and understand where you are and where you see yourself in future.”