Research took centre stage at the Faculty of Management Sciences as scholars, supervisors and innovators gathered for the Faculty’s first-ever Postgraduate Research Symposium, themed “Empowering Research for Impact and Innovation.” The landmark event brought together Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s and Doctoral candidates who showcased their work through oral and poster presentations - creating a vibrant platform for academic exchange, collaboration and inspiration.
Postgraduate research symposiums like this play a vital role in shaping South Africa’s research landscape. They not only help emerging scholars refine their ideas and methodologies but also foster a culture of inquiry that fuels innovation, policy development and real-world impact. Such events serve as incubators for solutions to pressing social and economic challenges while strengthening the bridge between academia, industry and government.
In his opening remarks, Dr Edgar Nesamvuni, Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences (left), described the symposium as “a landmark initiative that strengthens our mission of cultivating a vibrant and impactful research culture.” He emphasised that the event represents more than a showcase of student work—it is a commitment to nurturing future scholars whose research directly contributes to South Africa’s developmental priorities.
Dr Hamilton Mphidi, Director of Technology Transfer at the University of Johannesburg
Setting an inspiring tone for the day, Dr Hamilton Mphidi, Director of Technology Transfer at the University of Johannesburg, delivered the keynote address on “Empowering Research for Impact and Innovation.” He challenged postgraduate researchers to view their studies as transformative tools capable of driving tangible change in society. “Our research must move beyond publications and citations—it should transform communities, industries, and lives,” he said.
Dr Mphidi’s message strongly aligned with TUT’s vision of producing research that is socially responsive, industry-relevant, and globally competitive. His address inspired attendees to think boldly about the purpose and power of applied research in addressing inequality, sustainability, and economic growth.
The symposium also featured a distinguished panel of academics (picture below) from across TUT’s faculties, underscoring the University’s focus on cross-disciplinary collaboration. Among the participants were Dr Johnny Mthimunye, Dr Sabryna Mambadja, Dr Glory Chiloane, Dr Maria Mushathoni, and Prof Bongazana Dondolo from the Faculty of Humanities; Dr Lesego Phetlhe from the Faculty of Science; and Ms Molebogeng Makofane, Ms Sally Ledwaba, Ms Tsholofelo Tladi, and Dr Henry Igugu from the Faculty of Engineering.
Dr Sharol Mkhomazi, Assistant Dean for Research, led the Faculty Research Team that organised the event. She described the symposium as “a developmental platform that builds confidence, fosters collaboration and equips our postgraduate students to become thought leaders and change agents.”
She added that such forums are critical for helping students develop scholarly independence while receiving valuable feedback from peers and mentors.
Dr Sharol Mkhomazi, Assistant Dean for Research
Outstanding participants were recognised with awards for best oral and poster presentations across postgraduate categories, celebrating excellence, creativity, and research impact.
As the day concluded, there was a shared sense of pride and purpose. The 2025 Postgraduate Research Symposium set a new standard for research engagement within the Faculty of Management Sciences, laying the groundwork for an annual tradition that celebrates intellectual achievement, inspires innovation and reinforces TUT’s role as a hub of knowledge creation and societal progress.
“This symposium is just the beginning,” said Dr Nesamvuni. “It marks our commitment to growing a generation of scholars whose ideas will shape the future of our country.”