by Kgothatso Monono
Head of the Department of Computer Science at the Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FoICT), Dr Robert Hans, has received a C3 rating from the National Research Foundation (NRF). This recognition marks a significant achievement in his career and highlights his role as a leading figure in advancing technological education and research at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
Dr Robert Hans
For Dr Hans, the rating is not just a personal accolade but a reflection of his commitment to contributing meaningfully to the field of Computer Science and to furthering the University’s research outputs.
“I see the NRF C3 rating as a significant milestone in aligning my work with TUT’s broader vision of becoming a leader in technological education. This recognition is a clear indication that my research has made a positive impact in my field, while it also validates the importance of my area of study," he explained.
According to him, such ratings will encourage more students and staff to engage in research, strengthening the University’s research culture and enriching the educational experience within the Department of Computer Science.
The recognition has definitely motivated Dr Hans to advance his research ambitions, including seeking additional research funding and setting his sights on earning an even higher research rating in the future.
Reflecting on his academic and professional journey, Dr Hans identified important moments that contributed to his success, the most important of these was earning his PhD in 2021. It marked a significant personal achievement and helped him to establish a focused research niche.
“The many publications that I produced during my doctoral studies laid the foundation for my C3 rating, with each publication contributing to the body of knowledge in my specialised field of research,” he said.
Dr Hans is convinced that this recognition will encourage postgraduate students to become involved in research opportunities that could have a lasting impact on both academia and society. He has identified various research areas to pursue further and is eager to involve students and the Faculty in these exciting new opportunities.
Interdisciplinary collaboration, according to Dr Hans, plays a critical role in driving innovation. "Computer Science is about creating technological solutions for real-world problems and solving these problems often requires drawing from a broad range of perspectives," he said.
Echoing the advice of his mentor, the late Prof Manoj Lall, Dr Hans offers valuable advice to younger academics and researchers aspiring to achieve similar recognition. "Be focused on your research, pick a specific area and become an expert in it. Research is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires patience, endurance and the ability to stay motivated through challenges. My ‘can do’ attitude and the support of colleagues and mentors played an important role during my journey towards receiving the NRF C3 rating ."
As the Head of the Department of Computer Science, Dr Hans is dedicated to advancing the University's research and ensuring that TUT remains at the forefront of technological education and innovation in South Africa and beyond our borders.