Home-Grown Excellence: Dr Given Selowa Completes Doctor of Education at 33

In a proud moment for the Tshwane University of Technology, Dr Given Selowa graduates today with his Doctor of Education (EdD) at the age of 33, crowning a remarkable journey that began when he first joined the university as a student in 2013.

Dr Selowa’s achievement forms part of the university’s Spring Graduation, which commenced today, 5 October 2026. His decade-long path from award-winning undergraduate to respected lecturer and now doctoral graduate stands as a powerful example of home-grown academic excellence.

Reflecting on the milestone, Dr Selowa said:
“Receiving my Doctor of Education today is both humbling and deeply meaningful. TUT has been my academic home since 2013, and every award, every classroom moment, and every challenge has shaped me into the educator and researcher I am today. I am proud to give back to the same institution that believed in me from the very beginning.”

From the outset, Dr Selowa’s undergraduate years were marked by an unprecedented streak of individual excellence. He earned the Best First-Year Student award in 2013, Best Second-Year Student in 2014, and both Best Third-Year and Best Overall Student awards in 2015. That same year, he received the Dean’s Award as Best National Diploma Student and the prestigious Chancellor’s Medal as the Best Graduate in the Faculty. He completed his B-Tech studies by claiming the Best B-Tech Student award in 2016.

These early achievements laid the foundation for a seamless transition into academia. As a full-time lecturer in the Department of Educational Foundation, Dr Selowa carried the same standard of excellence into the classroom. He was named Faculty Lecturer of the Year for 2019/2020 and later received two Merit Awards for Lecturer of the Year (2020/2021 and 2023/2024).

His scholarly impact continues to grow. Following a national conference presentation, his doctoral research in Physical Education has already secured two peer-reviewed journal publications scheduled for September and December 2026.

As he turns 33 this November, TUT proudly celebrates a home-bred scholar whose journey-from award-winning student to influential educator and emerging researcher—continues to shape the future of education in South Africa.