26 March 2025 | Story: Nontobeko Moimane | Photo: Peter Masela.
2 minutes read time.
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) community has a remarkable reason to celebrate. A groundbreaking article on pedagogy by one of our scholars Dr Teboho Pitso the Manager for the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship has reached the esteemed website of the United States (US) Department of Education- ERIC – EJ1403715 – Post-COVID-19 Higher Learning: Towards Telagogy, a Web-Based Learning Experience, IAFOR Journal of Education, 2023, a recognition that marks a historic milestone in the global academic sphere.
This achievement is more than just a personal accolade; it is a powerful statement on the growing impact of research and innovation from developing nations. Traditionally, first-world countries have set the tone for educational discourse, shaping policies and practices worldwide. However, this recognition represents a shift, what is known as reverse innovation, where insights from developing countries inform and influence educational advancements in developed nations.
Dr Pitso expressed deep gratitude for this honour, stating, “This is the highest recognition I have received, not only as an influence in global education but as a challenge to the long-standing notion that first-world nations are the sole providers of ideas. This moment highlights the ability of developing nations to contribute meaningfully to global knowledge.”
Telagogy, a progressive educational approach, continues to gain traction in academic circles for its transformative potential. The fact that such research has found its way to the US Department of Education signifies its relevance and applicability on a global scale. This milestone demonstrates VUT’s growing position as a hub of knowledge production and thought leadership in education.
Dr Simphiwe Nelana the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, Commercialisation and Internationalisation stated that as the VUT community, we take immense pride in this achievement. It is a testament to the dedication, innovation, and intellectual firmness that define our institution. “Let this moment inspire our students, researchers, and academics to continue pushing boundaries, challenging conventions, and contributing to the ever-evolving global education landscape… Congratulations Dr Pisto on this outstanding recognition! May this be the first of many global milestones for VUT scholars,” alluded Dr Nelana.
