TUT research output units show strong upward growth

The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) has attained a significant increase in its accredited research output units for 2024, reflecting steady growth in research productivity and scholarly impact.

Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement “TUT submitted a claim for published research output units amounting to 632.41 units for 2024 across books, conference proceedings, book chapters and journal articles. The 2024 outcome represents a substantial increase of 139.48 units compared to the 461.5192 units awarded for 2023 publications. The upward trend is consistent with TUT’s performance over the past four (4) years, which shows growth from 274 units in 2021 to 453 units in 2022 to 461 units in 2023 and now 601 units in 2024,” said Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement.

Explaining the significance of these figures, Dr Papu-Zamxaka, said: “Accredited research outputs play a critical role in higher education in South Africa and globally. Locally, research output claims submitted to the Department of Higher Education and Training directly influence government subsidy allocations, institutional reputation and the ability of universities to attract postgraduate students, research partners and funding. Globally, research outputs are a key measure of academic credibility, knowledge creation and societal impact and they shape international rankings, collaboration opportunities and innovation outcomes.”

“Within the South African higher education sector, universities are increasingly measured on both the volume and quality of their research outputs. While traditional research-intensive universities continue to dominate in absolute research output numbers, TUT’s consistent growth positions it strongly among universities of technology and comprehensive universities. The steady increase demonstrates improved research capacity, stronger postgraduate supervision and a growing research culture among academic staff,” Dr Papu-Zamxaka continued.

Dr Papu-Zamxaka concluded, saying: “The University is grateful for the progress achieved over the past four years. The results indicate that institutional interventions to improve research output units are effective across all faculties and research entities. The 2024 outcome signals positive momentum as TUT continues to strengthen its research profile, contribute to national knowledge production and enhance its standing in the higher education landscape.”