Exploring the future of online postgraduate programmes at Rhodes University
The Rhodes University Umkhombandlela (Institutional Development Plan 2023-2028) notes the need for strengthened digital pedagogical capability and capacity. Part of this is planned to be achieved through the development of online programmes at postgraduate level.
[RUResearch] Enhancing teaching with reflective prompts: a PhD student’s mission to optimise EdTech use
In a world where education must adapt to technological and societal changes, Rhodes University is taking bold steps to lead the way. PhD candidate in Education, Warda Abrahams, is bringing this mission to life through her research into the effective use of digital technology platforms in pre-service teacher training.
Psychology in democratic South Africa: new book explores a post-apartheid journey
When apartheid ended in 1994, South Africa underwent significant social and political transformation. A key aspect of this shift was the push for greater inclusion and representation of Black South Africans across all sectors – including psychology.
Rhodes University partners with global institutions to enhance doctoral education
The EU-funded Enhancing Doctoral Education (EDE) project was recently launched at the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (Stias) during a workshop held from 22 to 24 January.
Over 200 local students register at Rhodes University this year
In 2015, Rhodes University's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sizwe Mabizela, promised the community to revitalise public education in Makhanda. This commitment marked a significant turning point in the University's relationship with the local community. By acknowledging that the university is "of and for this town," Professor Mabizela reaffirmed Rhodes University's dedication to improving the lives of Makhanda's residents.
[RUResearch] Bridging economics and ecology to bolster food security in Africa
PhD student Botlhale Modisaotsile is striving to boost the local economy by addressing agricultural pests. His research focuses on combating the cassava mealybug, a small yet devastating insect endangering one of Africa's key staple crops.
Literary works of PhD student honoured with two prestigious awards
Sithembele Isaac Xhegwana, a PhD student at Rhodes University’s Critical Studies in Sexualities and Reproduction (CSSR), has been recognised with two respected literary awards. With academic qualifications including a BSocSci (Honours) in Sociology and an MA in English (Creative Writing) from the University of Cape Town, Xhegwana exemplifies the fusion of rigorous scholarship and artistic creativity. His recent accolades, particularly for his poetry collection Dark Lines of History, reflect the profound impact of his work on South Africa’s literary and cultural landscape.
Rhodes University student excels in National Entrepreneurship Competition
Towards the end of 2024, Rhodes University student Bridget Mtetwa, a Pharmacy Masters student, achieved a significant milestone at the 2024 EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity Competition. Bridget secured 2nd place in the Social Impact category, earning national recognition for her innovative business, Bridget’s Learning Hub.
[ISIVIVANE INSPIRATION] Amanda Luthuli: Pursuing a dream in healthcare with the Hillensberg Trust Bursary
At just 19 years old, Amanda Luthuli from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, embodies determination and resilience. Raised in a family deeply rooted in cultural and religious values, she carries with her the wisdom of her mother’s words: “Yonk’ into oyenzayo uzenzela wena”—“Whatever you do, do it for yourself.” This guiding mantra has shaped Amanda’s outlook on life, fostering a sense of responsibility and a commitment to forging her own path.
[OPINION] Universities must teach students what freedom is – a South African course is trying to do just that
A typical student wants a university degree as a ticket to a salary. For this young person, education is a journey towards “having”. And the way to complete the journey is mainly to remember, repeat or reproduce what the teacher says and does.
‘Forever chemicals’ are polluting African waters: Lake Victoria, South Africa’s Vaal and Kenya’s Nairobi rivers are hotspots
It’s clear from our findings that forever chemical contamination, while under-reported compared to industrialised countries, is a widespread, pressing environmental issue on the continent.
Rhodes University celebrates national teaching award for Dr Boudina McConnachie
Rhodes University is ending the year on a celebratory note as Dr Boudina McConnachie, Head of the Department of Music and Musicology at Rhodes University, has been honoured with the prestigious National University Teaching Award (NUTA) for 2024. This accolade recognises her exceptional contributions to music education and her innovative approaches to integrating indigenous African musical arts into academic curricula.
Teaching and Learning Showcase explores Transformative Pedagogies in Changing Times
Rhodes University hosted its much-anticipated Teaching and Learning Showcase on 21 November 2024 under the theme "Transformative Pedagogies in Changing Times." The event, organised by the Centre for Higher Education Research, Teaching and Learning (CHERTL), brought lecturers, researchers and students together to explore transformative teaching methods and share ideas for adapting to the ever-changing educational environment.
Rhodes University celebrates 120 years of excellence with Distinguished Alumni Awards dinner
On 20 November 2024, Rhodes University marked its 120th anniversary celebrations with a prestigious Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner. The event honoured alumni who have made exceptional contributions across various fields and reaffirmed the University’s legacy of producing leaders and innovators.
ILAM’s music heritage archive project emphasises accessibility and community ownership
The rich musical heritage of Keiskammahoek has been preserved and made accessible through a collaborative cataloguing project, led by the International Library of African Music (ILAM) at Rhodes University. This initiative is the first in South Africa to catalogue a collection in isiXhosa and English, highlighting a significant step towards inclusive and representative music heritage preservation.
Rhodes University LLB student Oyama Mzayidume earns a Rhodes Scholarship
Final-year law student Oyama Mzayidume has been awarded the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship for 2025. She was selected from 22 finalists drawn from the highest number of applications in eight years, received in 2024 by the selection committee from the combined Eastern Cape and Free State region.
Rhodes University’s Prof. Janice Limson's SARChI Chair upgraded to Tier 1 with renewed funding for five years
Rhodes University has achieved a significant milestone with the upgrading, in October, of Professor Janice Limson’s South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) Chair in Biotechnology Innovation and Engagement.
Rhodes University’s Distinguished Professor Heila Lotz-Sisitka honoured with prestigious SAERA education research award
Distinguished Professor Heila Lotz-Sisitka, a leading figure in environmental education, was recently awarded the 2024 SAERA Research Honours Award by the South African Education Research Association (SAERA), at their annual conference in Bloemfontein.
Rhodes University’s Education Faculty secures significant funding from Oppenheimer Memorial Trust
Rhodes University, located in Makhanda, South Africa, is committed to academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement. With a rich history dating back to 1904, the university has established itself as a leading institution of higher learning, producing graduates who make a positive impact in their chosen fields.
Science for the people: Rhodes University leads in South African Journal of Science edition focused on sustainability science engagement
Both Rhodes University and the South African Journal of Science celebrate their 120th anniversary in 2024, marking their significant contributions to the scholarly community. Questions about who is involved in scientific research, and who the research is for, come into sharp focus as South Africa also celebrates its 30th year of democracy.