Following the landmark launch of the Centre for the Advancement of Rural and Inclusive Education and Research (CARIER) on Day 3, the fourth day of Research Week 2025 comprised the Annual Postgraduate Research Conference. This important academic event gave postgraduate students the opportunity to showcase their research, engage with peers and receive critical feedback from experts.
The programme opened with Dr Lebogang Mahlo from the Faculty of Education, who explored the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in postgraduate research. While he highlighted opportunities for access, data analysis and global engagement, he also cautioned against over-reliance, warning that uncritical use could silence African voices and widen the digital divide.
This was followed by an interactive session with Ms Monica Boland, Manager: Innovation and Technology Transfer, who unpacked the essentials of Intellectual Property. She explained categories ranging from patents and plant breeders’ rights to trademarks and copyright, encouraging students to use SPU’s IP disclosure process to protect their work and consider opportunities for commercialisation.
Dr Simbarashe Jombo, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Physical and Earth Sciences, urged postgraduate students to see their dissertations as the beginning of their publishing journey. Drawing on his own experience, he emphasised that publications provide visibility, career advancement and impact, whether in academia, industry or policy.
The keynote address was delivered by Ms Refilwe Ditlholelo, Lecturer in the Faculty of Humanities and proud SPU alumna. She shared her journey from undergraduate to postgraduate studies, describing the shift from structured learning to self-directed research. She acknowledged the challenges of balancing full-time work with her studies but reflected on the resilience and growth it produced.
The panel comprised Dr Lebogang Mahlo and four postdoctoral fellows from the University: Dr Simbarashe Jombo, Dr Phetole Ramatsoma, Dr Dominique De Verk and Dr Darlington Chizema. Together they evaluated the presentations, provided constructive feedback and recognised the most outstanding research projects.
Recognition was given to the top performers. First position was a tie between Moshalagae Dhladhla and Nhlanhla Rihlamphu, who shared a prize of R10 000. Second place went to Jared Salo, who received R7 500, and third place was shared by Jacqued Horne and Tshepiso Leballo, who received R5 000. Each of the winners was commended for the quality, impact and relevance of their work.
The Annual Postgraduate Research Conference stood out as a key event of Research Week, advancing SPU’s strategic goal of strengthening postgraduate research and innovation. Well done to all postgraduate students who participated, and congratulations to this year’s winners.
