IIE Research Profiles

Yadhna Gosai

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 06:17:14 GMT

Head of Programme - Law

Research Interests

Bioethics
Medical Law
Legal Education
AI

Brief Bio

Yadhna is an admitted attorney who holds an LLB, an LLM with specialisation in Medical Law and is currently pursuing her PHD studies through UKZN. She has supervised undergraduate research students over the course of 9 years.

Over the course of 10 years in academia, Yadhna has occupied numerous roles which included lecturer, post graduate academic leader, programme manager and head of school.

She has engaged actively in international conferences, with her focus being on legal education and AI and she plans to further expand her research interests by researching topics within the field of medical law and bioethics.

Ilhaam Khan

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 06:14:06 GMT

Head of Programme

Research Interests

Cyber Law
AI
Intellectual Property

Brief Bio

Ilhaam Khan is a legal academic with a specialization in tax law and intellectual property. She currently serves as Head of Programme: Law at the Independent Institute of Education.

With over five years of tertiary teaching experience, she has lectured a broad range of legal subjects—including Cyber Law, Civil Procedure, International Law, and Advanced Tax—at institutions such as Varsity College, IIE MSA, and the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Ilhaam has played a key role in curriculum and assessment development and has supervised honours research.

Her academic qualifications include an LLM in Business Law, awarded with distinction for Advanced Tax and IP, and she has a keen research interest in the intersection of taxation and intellectual property law

Dr Giscard Binini

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 13:14:38 GMT

Lecturer - Engineering, Science & Health

Research Interests

Energy management
Renewable energy
Smart grids
Energy efficiency

Brief Bio

Campus Engineering Manager : Faculty of Engineering, Science and Health
Educationcation: DEng Electrical EngineeringGiscard Binini holds a DEng in Electrical Engineering from the Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, and an MSc in Electrical Engineering from ESIEE-Paris, earned through the French South African Technology Institute (FSATI).

Passionate about energy management, renewable energy, and

energy efficiency, he champions greater grid integration of renewable and sustainable energy sources.

His work on numerous energy projects and studies with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), the South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), and the national electrical utility has provided him with deep expertise in the South African energy sector. He has contributed to the fi eld by leading energy-related research and development projects for Eskom's Integrated Demand Management (IDM) program and supporting the DMRE's energy efficiency and renewable energy programs His extensive experience in the energy field led him to pursue and obtain the Energy Manager Certification from the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) in Atlanta, USA.

Dr Pieter le Roux

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 12:14:13 GMT

Senior Lecturer - Research

Research Interests

Design of lower-limb prosthetics components
Intelligent Machining of Titanium alloys
Finite Element Analysis Simulations
Fatigue Testing and Surface Integrity Analysis
Machine design

Brief Bio

Dr. Pieter le Roux is a lecturer and Senior Head of Programme in Mechanical Engineering at IIE MSA. A skilled academic and researcher, he holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Johannesburg, where his doctoral research focused on enhancing fatigue life in titanium alloys through optimized machining.

Dr. le Roux has broad teaching experience across subjects like fluid dynamics

and machine design and serves as course coordinator for The IIE Engineering capstone projects. He also chairs the Engineering Research, Ethics, and Quality Assurance Committee and has led industry projects with companies such as Anglo-American and BMW, with several publications to his name.

Linda Downsborough

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 12:05:06 GMT

Head of Environmental Science

Research Interests

Water and Environment
Natural Resource Management
Social Ecological Systems
Citizen Science
Learning
Social Networks
Communities of Practice and Transdisciplinary Research

Brief Bio

Linda is the Head of Environmental Science at IIE MSA and a lecturer specialising in water management. She has been integral to establishing and co-ordinating water related education programmes at IIE MSA and lectures and

supervises on the Master of Philosophy in Integrated Water Management. She is currently developing and coordinating the design of a new undergraduate qualifi cation in Science, a BSc in Environmental Science.

She holds a Master’s degree in Education, specialising in Environmental Education, and is currently undertaking her Doctorate in Education at Rhodes University. She has worked on a number of externally funded research grants including a 5-year project on water security funded by the Lloyds Register Foundation, a 3 year USAID research grant and two Water Research Commission grants.

She is passionate about learning, social networks and communities of practice all within a natural resource management context and has a number of publications in these fi elds. Her other research interests include;Transdisciplinary researchSocial ecological systemsCitizen scienceSustainability and the SDG’s

Wihann van Reenen

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 11:41:00 GMT

Head of Engineering

Research Interests

Hydraulic Engineering
Water Management
Engineering Management
Engineering Education

Brief Bio

Current Position: Head of Engineering (National)

Qualifications: BIng (Civil); MEng (Civil)

Holding a B.Ing (Civil) and MEng (Civil) from the University of Johannesburg (UJ), Wihann’s main focus areas include Hydraulic Engineering, Water Management, Engineering Management and Engineering Education. Wihann is a candidate Engineer with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) and a member of the South African Institutionof Civil Engineering (SAICE), the Water Institute of SouthernAfrica (WISA) and the International Water Association (IWA).

He has published and presented at conferences both locally and internationally.

Themba Hleza

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 10:21:30 GMT

Lecturer - Law

Research Interests

Failure s & defects in Law

Brief Bio

I am a full-time lecturer in the School of Law at Varsity College.

Warren Bowles

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 10:14:35 GMT

Head of Programme

Research Interests

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Law
Cyber Law
Law and Technology Advancements
Human Rights Law
Constitutional Law
Criminal and Civil Court Practice
Criminal Law
Environmental Law and Ocean Conservation
Tourism Law
Hospitality Law
Media and Communications Law
Jurisprudence (Legal Philosophy) and Legal Ethics
Legal Education

Brief Bio

Warren graduated with his BA Journalism degree in 2004 from the former Rand Afrikaans University (RAU). He went on to graduate with his BA in Law in 2009, a postgraduate LLB in 2011 and his LLM (Master of Laws) in 2014, specialising in Human Rights Law and passed with distinction. He obtained all of his law qualifications at the University of Johannesburg (UJ).

He completed his articles of clerkship as a candidate attorney with the University of Johannesburg Law Clinic in 2016 and in 2017, he was admitted as an attorney of the High Court of South Africa. He has worked in academia since 2007 as a tutor, mentor, lecturer, programme manager and now, Head of Programme.

He has published in the fields of Labour Law and Human Rights Law, and he has attended various local and international conferences, delivering papers on a diverse array of legal topics. He has acted as a supervisor for final – year law students completing their research component on the University of the Free State (UFS) Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and he also represents the faculty in all matters concerning research and postgraduate affairs within the IIE.

Natalie Martin

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 10:10:35 GMT

Head of Programme

Research Interests

Child labour
Labour Law
Human Rights
International Law
Child law and Business Law

Brief Bio

Riyaadh Young

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 10:07:19 GMT

Head of Programme

Research Interests

Criminology
Public law
Reintegrative and rehabilitative measures in the criminal justice system

Brief Bio

Riyaadh has completed the following degrees: Bachelor of Laws (LLB), master’s in Criminology, Law, and Society (LLM) and is currently completing his Doctor of Laws (LLD) in public law (Stell).

His LLM research focused on the rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-inmates into society. He conducted face to face interviews with incarcerated inmates across various prisons in Cape Town.

Riyaadh’s LLD research will expand on his theoretical approach to reducing recidivism rates within South Africa.

Amanda Kinners

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 10:04:07 GMT

Senior Head of Programme

Research Interests

Race,
Identity and the Law
Race
Law and Society
Nonracialism
Non-racialism
Legal practice and education
Transformative Constitutionalism
Non-racialism and Education

Brief Bio

Amanda completed her B.Proc in 2003 at the University of South Africa. Prior to completion of the undergraduate qualification, Amanda spent many years working in legal administration which included the Black Lawyers Legal Education Centre (Law Clinic), the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the Land Claims Commission.

Post-masters, Amanda was employed at the Centre for Critical Research on Race and Identity, contributing towards several research projects as well financial administration. Amanda joined IIE VC Sandton as a full-time lecturer in 2014 and CAT as a Head of Programme for Law in 2018. Amanda was promoted to Senior Head of Programme for Law in February 2020.

She has acted as a supervisor for final – year law students completing their research component on the University of the Free State (UFS) Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and is also the faculty's teaching and learning champion.

Lethola Tshikose

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 07:01:16 GMT

Lecturer - ICT

Research Interests

Healthcare Informatics
Cybersecurity trends
Natuaral Language Processing (NLP) - (Text-to-Speech and Speech-to-Text)

Brief Bio

Lethola is an ICT lecturer at IIE Rosebank College with a strong academic background, holding a BCom in Information Systems, BCom Honours in Information Systems, and a Master of Commerce in Information Systems, all from the University of Fort Hare.

Specializing in Software Engineering, Databases, and Information Systems, Lethola brings practical expertise in web design, cybersecurity, and data management.

Their research is focused on using Natural Language Processing (NLP) to improve healthcare data quality and service delivery in rural areas, aiming to drive impactful changes in healthcare technology.

Fiona Kaplan

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 06:52:12 GMT

Dean - Faculty of Law

Research Interests

Business Rescue
Insolvency Law
Company Law
Legal Education

Brief Bio

Fiona completed her Bachelor of Arts in 1993 and her LLB degree at the erstwhile University of Natal, Durban. She completed her LLM in Mercantile Law in 2017 at the University of Free State. She is also currently a PhD candidate in at the University of the Witwatersrand and is on the practising roll of legal practitioners in South Africa.

Fiona completed her Articles of Clerkship in Durban and was admitted as an Attorney in 1998. She worked in the London Square Mile in the field of Investment Management from 1998 to 2004.

She began her legal academic career at the Applied Law department of the Durban University of Technology in 2005. She started her career at the IIE Varsity College as a part-time lecturer in 2006. She began managing the Law programme nationally from 2007 and was appointed as the Head of School: Law at the IIE Varsity College in 2015. She is currently employed as the Dean: IIE Varsity College and IIE MSA School of Law.

Fiona has presented at both national and international law conferences in the field of Insolvency Law, Business Rescue and Company Law and has a keen interest in these areas. She is also currently supervising final year IIE LLB students.

She established the IIE Varsity College Community Law Clinic in 2022 and acted as the Director of the Law Clinic.

She is a recent past President of the Society for Law Teachers of Southern Africa and also served on the Executive as Vice-President of the Society.

Areas of teaching and research include Legal Education, Social Justice and Insolvency Law with a particular interest in business rescue.

IIE Inaugural International Conference 2024 - 21-22 November (Cape Town)

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 11:50:01 GMT

21-22 November 2024 (Cape Town)

When?

21-22 November 2024

What?

IIE Inaugural International Conference, 21-22 November 2024 in Cape Town

Lindelihle Bhebhe

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 12:21:54 GMT

Lecturer - Communication Design

Research Interests

Multicultural Design Education
Work-based Learning for graphic design education
Experiential learning
Connected Curriculum Frameworks

Brief Bio

I am an avid questioner of the status quo and always curious about why things are done one way and not differently.

My interests lie in understanding the narrative of design in Africa.

My first research output deriving from my Master's study, which is also my pride and joy, is a book Chapter in a Cambridge Publication edited by Russell H. Kaschula and H. Ekkehard Wolff.

Maretha Geyser

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 12:19:10 GMT

Head of Interior Design

Research Interests

Curriculum Design
Teaching and Learning
Design Education
Authentic Assessment

Brief Bio

Maretha Geyser holds an BSc Honours degree in Interior Architecture from the University of Pretoria.

She started her career in 2006 as a junior Interior Design lecturer at the Design School Southern Africa.

In 2008 she pursued a career as an Interior Architect working on a variety of high-end residential design projects, both as designer and project manager.

In 2013 she was appointed as head for the Interior Design department at the Independent Institute of Education VEGA (IIE Vega) and she is now the Programme Manager for the Interior Design degree at IIE Vega.

In 2019 she completed her Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education at the Independent Institute of Education.

She is currently serving on the Design Educators Forum of Southern Africa (DEFSA) committee and the IID's tertiary education committee.

Mathew Mjindi

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 12:16:22 GMT

Lecturer - Experience Design

Research Interests

User experience design

Brief Bio

Design Navigator at Vega Bordeaux.

Mandy Speechly

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 12:14:29 GMT

Head of Copywriting

Research Interests

Writing for digital media
Creative advertising
Copywriting
Conceptual thinking
Brand communication
Reader-response theory
Human-computer interaction
Teaching methodologies for creative communication

Brief Bio

Mandy Speechly is the national head of programme and lecturer in copywriting at IIE-Vega.

She has a master’s in media studies from the University of Cape Town, specialising in writing for mobile media.

She has an interest in the impact of digital technology on user behaviour and the influences of language and writing techniques on the interpretation of content on different channels.

She is also interested in conceptual thinking with a current focus on teaching methodologies for creativity in the context of advertising, brand communication, and copywriting.

Emile Le Roux

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 12:10:06 GMT

Lecturer - Communication Design

Research Interests

Design Thinking

Brief Bio

MA in CBL (2016)

Kyle Smith

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 12:08:01 GMT

Lecturer - Experience Design and Game Design

Research Interests

Experience Design
User Experience Design
Design; Design Education
Interaction Design
Human-Centred Design
Artificial Intelligence
Extended Reality
Fourth Industrial Revolution
Fifth Industrial Revolution
Psychology
Neuroscience
Innovation
Technology

Brief Bio

Design Lecturer, Researcher, Practitioner and Consultant with a passion for creative problem solving, creating meaningful experiences, and design education. I am on a lifelong mission to inspire, guide and develop THE FUTURE OF DESIGN.

Theresa Mofana

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 12:03:59 GMT

Information Centre Manager

Research Interests

Information literacy
Digital literacy
Academic writing interventions
Knowledge management

Brief Bio

I am the Information Centre Manager for The IIE’s Vega School. I am responsible for the leadership and support of the brand’s five decentralised campus libraries.

I hold a master’s degree in information and library science from The University of Cape Town (UCT) and The IIE’s Post Graduate Diploma in Higher Education.

I am an active member of Library & Information Association of South Africa (LIASA) and serve as the national Secretary for Higher Education Libraries Interest Group (HELIG).

Farrell West

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:57:54 GMT

Lecturer - Experience Design

Research Interests

Design Education
Digital Divide
Education and ITCs
Learn Management Systems (LMS)

Brief Bio

Farrell West is a dedicated tertiary educator and scholar, currently serving as a Digital Design and Graphic Design Lecturer at the IIE Vega in Johannesburg, South Africa. With an undergraduate degree in Multimedia Design and an honors degree in Animation, Farrell brings a unique blend of creativity and technical acumen to the educational sphere.

At IIE Vega, Farrell is celebrated for designing innovative curricula that foster a dynamic learning environment. Her instructional methods are aimed at cultivating critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and collaborative skills in students, integrating these competencies seamlessly with practical applications within the digital design space.

Currently enrolled in a Master's of Education program with a specialization in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), Farrell is committed to exploring how technology can facilitate pedagogical innovation, thereby enhancing educational outcomes across various learning landscapes.

Courtney De Villiers

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:52:18 GMT

Lecturer - Interdisciplinary Design and Research

Research Interests

Media Ecology
Visual Culture
Jungian Studies
Learning Theories
Instructional Design
Art/Design History

Brief Bio

Courtney de Villiers is a full time lecturer at Vega School Pretoria. She has worked in both public and private tertiary education institutions since 2016 in various roles including lecturing, moderation, postgraduate supervision and research coordination, courseware development and instructional design.

She is currently enrolled as a PhD candidate in Information Design at the University of Pretoria. Additionally, she holds a Masters degree in Information Design, an Honours degree in Fine Art and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education specialising in Further Education and Training.

Her research navigates meaning-making at the intersection of metaphysics, education and visual culture.

Christiaan Graaff

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:49:33 GMT

Head of Communication Design

Research Interests

Education
Design & Branding

Brief Bio

I have been involved in education at Vega School for the last 10 years. From 2021 I have made the jump from Graphic Design Lecturer to National Programme Manager for Graphic and Communication Design.

I have been involved in research through my qualifications which include an Honours in Information Design at the University of Pretoria, an Honours degree in Brand Leadership at Vega, a Post Graduate Diploma in Higher Education at the IIE and at present I am finishing my master's in creative Brand Communications from Vega. In 2023 I have co-authored an article called Flipping the Script: Using Artificial Inteligent's to Design Assessment Rubrics for DEFSA.

Jana Santilhano

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:47:32 GMT

Head - Academic

Research Interests

Anything education related
Visual communication
Semiotics
Visual literacy

Brief Bio

Novice researcher, I love to collaborate with others. I have not published any papers yet, but I am keen to get going.

I have presented at a number of symposiums, so I am ready for the next step.

Anli Grobler

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:44:30 GMT

Head of Strategic Brand Communication

Research Interests

Brand
Person Brand
Positioning
Education

Brief Bio

I am a curios person that loves learning. I have studied a variety of courses, most notably a Masters in Corporate Communications, a Post Graduate Certificate in Education and Bristish Sign Language Level 1 & 2, and hope to continue studying further.

Andale Visser

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:41:16 GMT

Lecturer - Game Design & Development

Research Interests

Gamers and Ethics: Why real-world consequences are important
The future of AI and games
Playtime Vs. Game Sales: What do gamers buy Vs. What do they actually play
Gamification: How to Ethically Gamify
Educational Games: The Science of Making Learning Fun
Can Technology lead to depression: Lack of Meaningful Experiences and Skills.

Brief Bio

Game and Interative Design Lecturer

I am a dedicated lecturer with a background in 3D animation and game design.

I am committed to merging innovation and ethics in game and interactive design.

Marili Jefferies

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:38:02 GMT

Head of Instructional Design

Research Interests

Design education: drawing, sketching, creative development, process, ideation
Practice-led research: Fine Art, Collaborative creation, Relational Theory
Learning Design: Studio practice in blended learning, educational technology, Social Constructivism, learning by doing, project based learning

Brief Bio

I am an Academic Programme Manager with more than 7 years' experience in Instructional Design, and 14 years’ experience in higher education.

Currently, I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Technology from the University of Cape Town and a Master’s degree in Fine Art which was achieved at the University of Pretoria in 2019.

As a lecturer and content developer I have managed to engage learners of various ages and backgrounds.

Developing and sharing learning content is currently the biggest component of my position as Academic Programme Manager, and the approaches that underpin these daily activities aim to engage students with innovative and frequently experimental tactics to encourage deep engagement with learning content.

I am enthusiastic about the possibilities of online learning and have designed several courses. I am self-driven and work independently towards set goals, but comfortably slot in with team projects as well. In the teaching environment, I meet learners at their level, and we collaboratively build their understanding through experience.

Amalia van Schalkwyk

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:33:28 GMT

Head of Brand & Communication

Research Interests

Brand Hate
Anti-consumption
Image incongruence
Ideological incompatibility
Functional incongruence
Brand avoidance
Negative word of mouth
Negative e-word of mouth
Brand retaliation
Non-repurchase intention
Switching
Customer involvement

Brief Bio

Senior Academic Navigator and Researcher with a passion for Branding and Marketing. Areas of expertise: Consumer-Brand Relationships and Consumer Behaviour; with a specific interest in the antecedents and outcomes of brand hate, and customer involvement.

Michele O'Hara

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:29:13 GMT

Deputy Dean - Brand Communication

Research Interests

Brand Strategy
Consumer Behaviour and Insights
Sustainable and Ethical Brand and Business Practice

Brief Bio

BA (Psych), LL.B., MBA in Strategic Marketing, F.Dip.Ed.,

Brand and Marketing Consultant and Lecturer, Programme Portfolio Manager, Brand and Human Rights Activist.

Jody Simpson

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:26:25 GMT

Senior Lecturer - Interdisciplinary Research

Research Interests

Design thinking
Visual mapping
Architecture
Visual design
City brand building
Creative collaboration
Mapping

Brief Bio

I have always been the guy coming up with the strategic ideas and concepts that go places – but haven’t taken the credit.

It’s only recently – through teaching at Vega that I’ve realised where my strong skill set actually lies.

My undergraduate degree is in architecture and I love the built environment and thinking in terms of (real) three dimensional spaces.

My recent master's study in creative brand leadership was an attempt to marry my undergraduate degree with my current role and involvement in the world of brand.... next stop Phd.

Lizette Carstens

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:23:26 GMT

Deputy Dean - Design

Research Interests

Co-design
UX and user-centered design
Design thinking and innovation
Curriculum design
Design and technology

Brief Bio

I started my career as a communication designer working on voter education material for the Independent Electoral Committee for South Africa's first democratic elections.

My career migrated organically into Digital and UX Design after joining Qmuzik Technologies - a subsidiary of QData and Comparex where I was responsible for designing interactive training material and strategically managing brand collateral.

In 2002, I founded my own digital design agency working for such diverse clients as Anglo American Health Services and Crazy Crafts Art Materials.

After completing my MA degree in Information Design at UP, I joined the IIE Vega as part-time lecturer and supervisor on the BA Honour in Graphic Design qualification.

In 2016, I was appointed as Programme Navigator for Creative Brand Communication and Gamification responsible for the curriculum design of the programmes in Graphic Design, Digital Design and Creative Brand Communication (Copywriting) and working with the Accreditation and Quality Assurance team on several new qualifications.

I am currently National Portfolio Manager of the IIE Vega's Design qualifications. I am busy with my Doctoral Degree in Innovation and Technology at the Da Vinci Business School with a dissertation exploring how South African SMMES use design thinking to innovate.

Dr Lailah Imandin

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:19:11 GMT

Deputy Dean - Research

Research Interests

Innovative assessment practices in higher education
Innovation in teaching and learning
Employee engagement

Brief Bio

Lailah is the National Research Manager at IIE Vega and is highly accomplished as both an Academic as well as a senior manager in higher education, with an intrinsic understanding of assessment governance in higher education.

Lailah obtained her Master of Commerce in Management from the University of Natal (UKZN) Durban (Howard College) and her PhD in Business Administration from the North-West University (Potchefstroom).

She began her career as a lecturer at UKZN and proceeded to work for MANCOSA as a senior Academic and Academic Manager of PG programmes with a special focus on Academic Learning and Development.

With more than 18 years of experience as an Academic, Lailah has supervised Master’s dissertations and is an External Examiner for Master’s and MBA dissertations at various universities and also serves as a reviewer for the annual International Business Conference(IBC).

Dr Wilhelm Neuland

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:15:30 GMT

Deputy Dean - Brand Management

Research Interests

Strategic Management
Leadership
Management
Small Business Management
Resource-based View

Brief Bio

Dr. Wilhelm Neuland started his career as a Combat Officer in the South African Navy in 2001.

He obtained a BMil (Stellenbosch) degree in 2005, after which he served as Assistant Weapons Officer and Navigation Officer on Strike Craft until 2011.

In 2007-2008 he served as an exchange officer with the French Navy onboard the helicopter carrier Jeanne d’Arc, specializing in anti-submarine warfare.

From 2011-2014 he was a Navigational Instructor at Maritime Warfare Training Centre in Simon’s Town.

He resigned his commission in 2014 and in 2015 became primary lecturer for Strategic Management (Hons) at UNISA, also obtaining his MBL (UNISA) during the same year.

During 2018-2019 he was Head Business Coach at Siyakha Implementation Partners. He is currently the National Portfolio Manager of Brand and Business at IIEVega. He obtained his Doctorate in Business Leadership from the Unisa Graduate School of Business Leadership in 2022.

His thesis is titled “Reformed Curatorship as a strategic approach to resource vulnerability reduction in the South African wine industry.”

Dr Ria van Zyl

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:09:09 GMT

Dean - Vega School

Research Interests

Development design research and post-graduate studies in South Africa
Interdisciplinary collaboration
Design for social good
Design management and entrepreneurship

Brief Bio

Ria van Zyl started her career in 1985 as a communication designer and product developer. After this, she spent time at Woolworths, a South African retailer, in the capacity of Packaging Co-ordinator and Technologist before starting her own communication design consultancy.

Ria joined the University of Pretoria in 1999 as senior design lecturer and researcher.

She completed her Master’s Degree at the University of Pretoria with a dissertation on the development of a service quality framework for the communication design industry.

She published several articles and conference papers, and wrote a “pocket” book in 2007 aimed at the SMME market and entrepreneur: Brand your business. Looks are important.

In 2014 she developed the academic contents of the Independent Institute of Education (IIE)’s Design School Southern Africa’s (DSSA) courses. DSSA has since then integrated with IIE-Vega where Ria is now academic programme manager in the design department and national post-graduate research co-ordinator.

In 2018 she completed a Doctorate at the Da Vinci Institute, looking at the development of post-graduate capacity in communication design education and also served on the Design Educators Forum of Southern Africa (DEFSA) committee.

Call for Papers - Higher Education Conference 26 - 28 February 2025

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 11:41:49 GMT

When?

26 - 28 February 2025

What?

Dr Ayanda Simelane

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 11:20:22 GMT

Head of Programme

Research Interests

Parenting Challenges
Developmental Challenges
Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Brief Bio

Dr Ayanda P Letsoalo is a lecturer and researcher specialising in developmental psychology, neurodevelopmental disorders, mental health challenges of parenthood. She is currently working as a Lecturer in Psychology, School of Social Science, IIE MSA, Johannesburg, South Africa. Dr Letsoalo obtained her Doctorate Degree (2021) from the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa.

Prior to that, she earned her Bachelor’s and Honours Degree from the University of KwaZulu Natal (2010-2013) and a Master’s degree from the University of the Witwatersrand (2014) in Psychology.

Dr Simelane has extensive experience in lecturing/teaching, and mentorship. Her research interests are autism spectrum disorders, and parenting. She is an established researcher, with over 5 years of experience in the field.

Cebelihle Sokhela

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 11:12:39 GMT

Instructional Designer

Research Interests

Instructional and Learning Design
Higher Education
Educational Technology

Brief Bio

With over 10 years of experience in Higher Education, I am dedicated to driving innovation in teaching and learning. Currently serving as an Instructional and Learning Designer at The Independent Institute of Education, I play a pivotal role in shaping impactful learning experiences. My journey began as a Peer Tutor and evolved through roles such as Senior Learning Designer at the University of the Free State (UFS), where I led curriculum design, client relations, and training development in the Faculty of Law.

My academic background includes a work in progress Master of Higher Education and completed a BA Honours in Sociology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education, providing a solid foundation for my commitment to student and staff development. I have been actively involved in various student development initiatives at UFS, showcasing my passion for educational technology, tutoring, mentorship, research, and the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL).

Beyond my current role, I am also the Digital Intelligence Consultant and Co-Founder of Fomo Enterprise, contributing to entrepreneurial endeavours. Additionally, I serve as a Digital Marketing Consultant at Bhiyoza Publishers, where I leverage my skills to enhance online presence and engagement. An advocate for linguistic diversity, I am an author engaged in creative writing in my mother tongue, IsiZulu. My commitment to excellence has been recognized, earning me the Second Place in Innovative Methods in Student Engagement and Learning at the University of the Free State's Centre for Teaching and Learning awards.

Cymbeline Harilal

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 11:02:12 GMT

Instructional Designer

Research Interests

Education
Teaching and Learning
Educational technology

Brief Bio

Cymbeline Harilal is an instructional designer at the Independent Institute of Education. She completed her Masters in Education (ICT) in 2024 (to be conferred). Cymbeline's areas of research are technological education as a means to eradicate unemployment in South Africa.

Cymbeline is a South African registered educator approaching the PhD phase in STEM as her goal to be achieved by 2027.

Michelle Wolfswinkel

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:53:08 GMT

IC - Lecturer

Research Interests

Brand management
Employer brand
Talent attraction and retention
Brand positioning
Employer brand positioning, brand purpose

Brief Bio

Michelle Wolfswinkel is a PhD candidate with Stellenbosch Business School and a Stellenbosch University merit scholarship recipient. She holds an MA in Brand Leadership (cum laude) from the IIE Vega School, where she is a research associate and postgraduate research supervisor.

Her lecturing and learning design portfolio spans business management domains across several tertiary institutions.

Dr Carla Enslin

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:48:47 GMT

Director Postgraduate & Research Centre

Research Interests

Brand identity strategy and brand alignment
Leadership and brand building
Brands and communities
Transdiciplinarity and learning

Brief Bio

Carla’s interest and experience in brand building include the design and implementation of brand identity systems, brand alignment, and contact strategies.

She lectures widely in Africa and abroad and conducts corporate training, consulting, and coaching. Carla is also a keen researcher and manages the Master of Arts and the Doctorate in Brand Leadership at Vega.

Fathima Jogiat

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:44:42 GMT

Head of Finance & Accounting

Research Interests

Accounting Education
Game-based Learning
Audit Technology
Ethics of Accounting
Financial Literacy
Financial Reporting
Governance

Brief Bio

Fathima Jogiat is a CA(SA) passionate about exploring innovative teaching methods within accounting education. With a Master of Commerce, specialising in Financial Reporting, Analysis and Governance from the University of Cape Town, she is eager to contribute to innovative solutions that address real-word teaching and learning challenges.

Driven by curiosity and a desire to make a positive difference, Fathima is committed to leveraging her skills in accounting and finance, teaching experience, and qualitative research to create meaningful and accessible solutions. She looks forward to contributing to the advancement of knowledge through her research endeavors.

Lauren Williams

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:41:26 GMT

Lecturer - Management

Research Interests

Economics
Ethical leadership

Brief Bio

I am currently completing my Masters in Business Leadership. I have already completed all coursework-based modules with only my research module remaining. My focus will be in ethical leadership.

A self-motivated and driven professional offers extensive experience providing administrative, operational and customer service support across the education industry. Wish me luck!

Alvira Prakash

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:38:03 GMT

Lecturer - Education

Research Interests

Life Sciences Education
Technology Integration into Teaching
Online Teaching

Brief Bio

My name is Alvira Prakash and I am a Full Time Lecturer for Education at Varsity College Pretoria. I am currently in the process of submitting my Masters dissertation in Life Sciences Education, where I explored teaching on online platforms in a university and school context.

In the past I have obtained a B.Ed. Honours in Life Sciences Education, a PGCE and a BSc in Human Genetics. My goal is to strengthen my research skills and publish articles in the field of Education. I also hope to enroll for a PhD in the near future.

Lesego Marule

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:34:12 GMT

Head of Programme

Research Interests

Hospitality Management
Food and Beverage studies
Lodging and Accommodation
Teaching and Learning of Hospitality Management qualifications
Sustainability within the Hospitality Management Industry

Brief Bio

Currently a Head of Programme for the IIE, Lesego joined the hospitality industry having been inspired by one's relationship of and experimentation with food. Lesego has followed her passion into the foodservice industry at large; she further engages with the general management within hospitality industry segments and matters related to both education and teaching and learning.

With over 10+ years of industry and academic experience, Lesego completed her Masters in Consumer Science and will further her PhD Studies, in the Consumer Science (Hospitality Management) with particular focus towards sustainability related topics.

A journey from being a “display” chef, a cost controller, food and beverage management and product development, Lesego changed her direction to becoming more hands-on in the training space of the industry and is now fully committed to the education and development within the Commerce space at the IIE. Lesego strongly believes that those who wish to grow within this industry need to be aware of the numerous and broader career opportunities and also seek to pursue research within the academic field.

The hospitality industry extends beyond food, lodging and accommodation and other commonly related businesses; so much is untouched and merging with/alongside other industries as well as exploration of enhancing future expertise is still to be explored.

Candice Wepener

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:30:18 GMT

Head of Humanities

Research Interests

Social inclusion,
Productive work and study spaces (design psychology perspectives)
Socially inclusive spaces (design psychology perspectives)
Lived experiences of working individuals
Lived experiences of students

Brief Bio

Candice Wepener is the Head of Humanities at the IIE’s Varsity College Pretoria Campus. Her research passions are situated within the broad fields of social inclusion, community psychology, and design psychology.

Candice has explored various schools of thought in the field of psychology by studying her honours in psychology at North West University and is completing her second masters in psychology at the University of Pretoria.

Prof Bradley Smith

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:25:40 GMT

Senior Researcher

Research Interests

Family law
Trust law

Brief Bio

After matriculating from Grey College Bloemfontein in 1996, Bradley Smith obtained his B Com degree (cum laude) in 2000, his LLB (cum laude) in 2003, and his LLM (cum laude) in 2007. He was the recipient of the Dean’s Medal for the best LLB student in 2003, and also received the same award for the best LLM student in 2007.

He completed his doctoral thesis (LLD), with the title “The development of South African matrimonial law with specific reference to the need for and application of a domestic partnership rubric”, in 2009 under the guidance of Judge of Appeal (and Extraordinary Professor of Private Law at the UFS) FDJ Brand and Professor JA Robinson (NW University).

He held a full-time position at the Department of Private Law as from January 2003 until December 2022, rising to the rank of Professor in 2017. During this time, he taught Family Law and the Law of Trusts at under- and postgraduate levels. He also served as the editor of the Journal for Juridical Science (JJS) (2019 - 2022).

In January 2023 he took up a full-time appointment as Senior Lecturer: Research at the IIE`s Varsity College, and simultaneously was appointed as Extraordinary Professor in the Department of Private Law at the UFS. He has delivered a number of papers at both national and international conferences, has (co-)authored numerous accredited research publications and textbooks (published both nationally and internationally) and also delivers guest lectures at other South African and foreign universities from time to time.

He is a member of the South African Academy of Science and Arts (Suid-Afrikaanse Akademie vir Wetenskap en Kuns) and the Society of Law Teachers of Southern Africa. His research has been cited in a number of leading judgments of the South African courts, including the Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court of Appeal.

Notable examples include PAF v SCF 2022 (6) SA 162 (SCA); Bwanya v The Master of the High Court and Others 2022 (3) SA 250 (CC); Laubscher NO v Duplan 2017 (2) SA 264 (CC) and Paixão v Road Accident Fund 2012 (6) SA 377 (SCA). He is rated as an established researcher (C2) by the National Research Foundation.

Deerdré le Roux

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:22:34 GMT

Lecturer - Education

Research Interests

Resilience
Mental health
Coping strategies
Burnout prevention
Stress management in higher education

Brief Bio

I am a Novice researcher entering the field of academic research and publishing.

Dr Shani Steyn

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:18:51 GMT

Head of Education

Research Interests

Multicultural education in SA
Anxiety amongst student teachers
Numeracy skills in SA teachers
Motivating genZ students

Brief Bio

I am the Faculty Head fo Edcuation on the IIE Varsity College Cape Town campus.I have a PhD in Curriculum Studies,with specifc research in multicultural education in SA. With a deep commitment to fostering inclusive and critical learning environments, I actively contribute to the fi eld of education through my research on brave spaces, transformative conversations, and

educational diversity.

I had my first book puiblished in 2024, "Currere from Apartheid to Inclusion". I serve on the IIE ethics clearance committee, and sit on the editorial board of a journal called "Currere and Praxis", where I peer-review scholarly work. I have a book chapter being published in 2025. My passion for student development, has secured me a leading position in the new GRIT3sixT program to be launched nationally in 2025.

I have presented research at an international educational research conference in Cambridge UK. I also supervise post-grad educational students with their research projects.

Meghan Simpson

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:14:48 GMT

Lecturer - Humanities and Social Sciences

Research Interests

Decolonial thought and education
Literature
Film and media studies
Identity performance
The monstrous
Othering and orientalism
Gender and intersectional identity
Organisational communication
Conflict communication

Brief Bio

My name is Meghan Simpson, and I am currently a full-time lecturer within the Faculty of Humanities. I am a novice researcher developing my research profile across a wide range of research interests.

My current work and publications have been centered on decolonial thought and practice in education, gender performance, intersectional identity and identity fragmentation in literary texts, identity in the digital space, conflict and effective communication in the workplace, and the notions of othering and the monstrous in literary, media and film texts.

Ultimately, my research goal is to provide a voice to those issues not always tackled and to ensure that continuous learning occurs within the fields of study I operate in. There are never enough questions to ask and answer within the contemporary world.

Tammy Vermaak

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:08:30 GMT

Head of Management Studies

Research Interests

Graduate attributes
Employability
Tertiary education
Skills development

Brief Bio

I am a novice researcher who is awaiting confirmation of Masters completion and now looking to develop the right skill set for publish worthy journal articles.

I have an undergraduate and extensive lecturing experience in the Commerce faculty whilst a passion for education led to an interest in teaching and learning and postgraduate studies in education (PGDHE) and education management (awaiting master's in educational management).

I am interested in the value of education in the development of the graduate attributes and the subsequent value of these in the graduate's ability to contribute meaningfully to both the economy and society.

Dr. Rika Swanzen

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:04:57 GMT

Deputy Dean - Research

Research Interests

Social network analysis / community profiling
Ecometrics (measuring person-environment fit)

Brief Bio

Dr. Rika Swanzen is the Deputy Dean of Research at the Independent Institute of Education.

From 2015-2018 Rika held the position of Adjunct Associate Professor with the Caulfield campus of Monash University in Australia and from mid-2016 to mid-2022 she served as ministerial appointee on the South African Council for Social Service Professions, to represent education and training.

Swanzen served as one of the main editors of the Relational Child and Youth Care Practice journal from 2015 to 2022 and was a member of the scientific committee for the 2021 ASASWEI conference, while acting as session chair for various international and national conferences.

Dr. Swanzen authored 24 peer reviewed publications and delivered 28 conference presentations from 2007 to 2023. Her citation score at January 2024 is 295 with an h-index of 7 and an i10-index of 5.

While managing various academic departments since 2010, she developed curriculum, lectured, supervised and externally examined postgraduate students.

Marilee Swart

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:59:05 GMT

Head of Management Studies

Research Interests

Marketing
Social Media Marketing
Consumer Behaviour
Digital Marketing

Brief Bio

Head of Management Studies for IIEs Varsity College Pretoria Campus. I have a passion for Marketing Management, which I dedicated myself towards to obtain my MCom in Marketing Management at the University of Pretoria. I focused my Masters research on Social Media Marketing with constructs including Brand Love, Brand Loyalty and eWOM.

I am submitting to Journals in the field of Marketing. Article writing for Journals are my main focus. I love collaborating on articles and eager to learn from other disciplines and see how Marketing always find a way to fit into them.

Adv Murray Zimbler

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:54:56 GMT

Lecturer - Law

Research Interests

Legal and c riminal justice

Brief Bio

Lecturer at VC for past 18 years. Former State Advocate and practicing independent advocate.

Dr. Marchant van der Schyff

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:44:14 GMT

Head of Humanities and Senior Lecturer

Research Interests

Technology
Adult Education
Gender
Media
Communication
Lifelong learning

Brief Bio

Marchant is interested in the relationships within society and his research interests incorporate this value.

He achieved his undergraduate degree through the Tshwane University of Technology, and his post-graduate degrees through UNISA, University of KwaZulu-Natal, and is currently diversifying his fields of inquiry through Stellenbosch University, while dabbling in Coding and Robotics short-courses.

Dr Nicolene van Vuuren

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:39:15 GMT

Head - Academic

Research Interests

Psychology
Education
Criminology

Brief Bio

Nicolené van Vuuren currently serves as the Head Academic at The IIE's Varsity College Cape Town.

Prior to this role, she worked at Pearson Institute of Higher Education as a Professional Development Consultant, overseeing the professional academic development of all academic staff members.

Her research focuses on the fields of Psychology, Education, and Criminology.

Dr. Malcolm Sande

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:33:55 GMT

Lecturer - Engineering, Science & Health

Research Interests

Wireless Communications,
Machine Learning Applications

Brief Bio

Dr. Malcolm Sande is a lecturer and head of programme in electrical & electronic engineering at IIEMSA. He obtained his PhD in Electronic Engineering from University of Pretoria in 2023.

He currently chairs the Engineering Learning Centres & Engineering Societies Committee in the Faculty of Engineering, Science and Health. His research interests are in wireless communications as well as applications of machine learning techniques.

Yeshika Chetty

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:27:34 GMT

Lecturer - Law

Research Interests

Human rights
International law
Environmental law
Multidisciplinary approach

Brief Bio

Yeshika Chetty holds an LLB degree from the University of South Africa and an LLM in Multidisciplinary Human Rights from the University of Pretoria. She has over ten years of legal experience in Contract Law gained from her prior employment as a Public Servant. Yeshika’s research interests and passion lies in Human Rights and Environmental Law.

She is a member of the Environmental Law Society of South Africa and the South African Women Lawyers Association. Yeshika currently lectures full-time at the Varsity College Pretoria campus.

Michelle Coates

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:24:38 GMT

Information Specialist

Research Interests

Information Literacy

Brief Bio

Information Specialist at Varsity College Nelson Mandela Bay

Simangele Mkhize

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:20:48 GMT

Lecturer - Humanities and Social Sciences

Research Interests

Cyber-crimes
Social media
Gender-based violence
LGBTQI+
Victimology

Brief Bio

Simangele Mkhize is a full-time lecturer at the IIE Varsity College, Pretoria campus, School of Humanities. She is a PhD candidate at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She completed her, master’s degree in Criminology and Forensic Studies and a Bachelor of Social Work degree at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She has published five research articles and one book chapter.

She is a Golden Key member and has been recognized with the best mentor certificate. Her research interests include cybercrimes, social media and crime, victimisation of vulnerable groups, gender-based violence, anti-LGBTQI+ offenses, and the South African criminal justice system.

Basil Sherinda

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:16:25 GMT

Lecturer - Law

Research Interests

Public law
Constitutional law
Jurisprudence
Immigration
Human rights
Socioeconomic rights

Brief Bio

I am Currently a LLD Candidate in Constitutional law with a critique on liberal constitutionalism and socioeconomic rights.

Currently working on research into immigration, constitutional philosophy and decoloniality.

Lieza van der Vyver

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:12:19 GMT

Head - Academic

Research Interests

Strategic Management
Strategic Leadership
Business Leadership
Higher Education
Private Higher Education

Brief Bio

Lieza van der Vyver is Head: Academic at The IIE's Varsity College, Pretoria campus. Lieza's research focuses on strategic leadership in Higher Education, and various applications of strategic management concepts to Private Higher Education.

Lieza completed her Master of Business Leadership at the UNISA Graduate School of Business Leadership with her dissertation titled “The perceived quality of strategic leadership within a private higher education institution”. The quantitative analysis focused on the perception employees have regarding the quality of strategic leadership in private higher education.

As a result of the complex matrix system adopted to deal with the growth of student numbers in private higher education and to ensure student success, the researcher explored how the perceptions influence the daily operations of employees.

In addition to her current position, Lieza supervises postgraduate students and lectures on the Post Graduate Diploma in Management.

Lonwabo Sanda

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:06:08 GMT

Research Interests

African Psychology,
African Epistemologies
Health Psychology

Brief Bio

Young Decolonial scholar, a psych fundi and aspiring researcher.

Ines De Almeida

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:02:39 GMT

Head of Education

Research Interests

Initial teacher development
Educational technology
Virtual Teaching Experience
Reflective skill development
Teaching Geography

Brief Bio

My name is Ines De Almeida - I was an educator at a high school for 5 years.

I joined VC as an Educational Technologist

Susan Snyman

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:59:24 GMT

Head of Computer Science

Research Interests

Cyber Warfare
Psychological Warfare
Malware
Harmful Cyber Challenges

Brief Bio

I obtained my BCom Honours in Information Systems from the University of Pretoria in 2004 with a focus on the psychology of perception and how it influences our understanding of our client’s needs when developing Information Systems.

Since then I have developed a special interest in the security aspects of various online platforms, specifically focusing on the psychological impact of cyber security breaches and predatory behavior on the safety of children, teenagers and young adults.

Further to this, I also have a keen interest in cyber warfare and how malware can be used as a force-multiplier in kinetic war efforts.

Dr Shamola Pramjeeth

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:56:17 GMT

Deputy Dean - School of Management Studies

Research Interests

Management
Leadership
Marketing
Higher Education
Sustainability

Brief Bio

Dr Shamola Pramjeeth is the Deputy Dean: Management Studies at the IIE’s Varsity College, a brand of the Independent Institute of Education (IIE). She is responsible for the academic management of the higher certificate and postgraduate qualifications within the school across 9 campuses. Shamola is a seasoned academic with over 18 years of experience in academia.

Her career spans across both academia and industry, allowing her to bring a wealth of industry knowledge and practical experience into her classroom. Her qualifications include a Bachelor of Commerce Degree in Marketing and Business Management (University of KwaZulu Natal), a Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Marketing (University of KwaZulu Natal), a Master of Commerce in Management (University of KwaZulu Natal), and a PhD in Leadership with the University of KwaZulu Natal. Shamola is a published author, lecturer, supervisor, and external examiner for Honours and Masters dissertations and a reviewer for academic conferences and two accredited DHET journals.

Shamola contributes to the body of knowledge in Management, Marketing, Leadership, and Teaching and Learning in Higher Education fields through the development of academic qualifications, curriculum development, authoring of textbook chapters and peer-reviewed publications, and postgraduate supervision. Shamola’s research interests include management, marketing, leadership, sustainability, higher education teaching, learning, and assessments.

Dr Ilze Breedt

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:51:30 GMT

Teaching and Learning Specialist

Research Interests

Education Management and Leadership
Higher Education
Education Law and Policy
Teaching and Learning

Brief Bio

Dr Ilze Breedt have a passion to support and help educators / lecturers to grow and develop to support learners and students to become the best version. She has a PhD in Education Management Law and Policy and her thesis focused on the governance in independent schools.

She has 25 years of experience in the field of education both school-based and Higher Education Institutions. As the Teaching and Learning Specialist on the IIE Varsity College Pretoria, she focusses on the developing of lecturers in all the different schools and assure quality lecturing takes place in all faculties. She is passionate about research and enjoy collaborating with colleagues and discuss various fields of research.

Her research inters include leadership and management as well as technology and the development of educators.

Dr Timothy Aduojo Obaje

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:44:14 GMT

Teaching and Learning Specialist

Research Interests

Teaching and Learning
Academic Integrity and Quality Assurance
Conflict Resolution
Peacebuilding
Student Engagement
Entrepreneurial Education
Teaching Pedagogy

Brief Bio

Dr. Obaje currently serves as Teaching and Learning Specialist at Varsity College. He has multiple years of research and managerial experiences with over ten years of academic and lecturing proficiencies.

Dr. Obaje’s research interest encompasses Academic Integrity and Quality Assurance, continuous Professional Development of Academic Staff; Curriculum Development; Student Academic Development and Success; Political Sciences and International Relations, Public Administration and Development Studies and Research Methodology. He is a passionate scholar, researcher, and leader.

His ideas are widely shared at international conferences, conference proceedings, policy briefs, and peer-reviewed journals.

Nina Rossouw

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:40:13 GMT

Senior Lecturer - Teaching & Learning

Research Interests

Philosophy of education
Curriculum design
Pedagogy
Skills development
Business ethics
Ethics education

Brief Bio

Nina Rossouw is a Senior Lecturer: Teaching and Learning at the Independent Institute of Education, Varsity College Cape Town. She holds qualifications in Accounting, Law as well as a Master of Philosophy in Higher Education, where she cultivated a specific interest in philosophy of education, curriculum design, and skills development.

She has published research articles in this field as well as presented at various conferences. She is currently pursuing further postgraduate studies in Philosophy at the Centre for Applied Ethics (Business Ethics) at Stellenbosch University, and it is with business ethics education that her current research projects lie.

Rosann Chantel Naidoo

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:35:44 GMT

Senior Lecturer - Teaching & Learning

Research Interests

Teacher Training in Higher Education
STEM education in primary schools
Technology and 4IR
Coding and Robotics

Brief Bio

Rosann is a Senior Lecturer Teaching and Learning, Lead Apple Teacher Innovator and emerging researcher at the IIE Varsity College. She has developed a growth mindset in science, technology, engineering and mathematics research and innovation for 21st century teaching and learning.

She has gained over 20 years of experience and expertise in Teaching and Learning and is a PhD student in the Science and Technology cluster at the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal. Rosann is also a co-trustee for the Epsilon Pi Tau Pan African Chapter and recipient of the Warner Research Graduate Award in 2022 which is situated in the United States of America.

Liesl Scheepers

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:30:26 GMT

Manager: Online Teaching and Learning

Research Interests

Open Distance Learning (ODL)

Brief Bio

I have been involved with the IIE's VC Online Centre since 2016, in the role of Manger of Online T&L. My M.Ed focused on the provision of affective support in an online learning environment, with 2 subsequent articles addressing the impact of this support mechanism during the global pandemic. I am currently working on my PhD which looks at lecturer self-efficacy and burnout during times of crisis.

Celeste McKenzie

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:25:38 GMT

Head of Video & Photography

Research Interests

Ethnography
Anthropology
Documentaries
Photography

Brief Bio

I am an academic, a photographer, and a video producer with a documentary-style undertone. Cultures and people are a passion and I have been exploring the Khomani San Bushmen in the Kalahari since 2015. This became a visual ethnography study over 5 years ending in 2019. The project attracted attention from ANFASA and the Norwegian Government and I received a grant to help with funding.

This developed further into a Practice-Based exhibition in 2022. Lecturing in the field of multimedia has given rise to many social documentary projects on poverty, recycling, and living on a landfill site in Pretoria, South Africa.

I want to apply my knowledge and skillset to NGOs that work with relief aid, indigenous and minority groups, or humanitarian aid. I have 30 years of experience in the Multimedia Communications sector, print, PR, video, and photography.

Some highlights: 2022 - Practice-Based Research Exhibition - Blood, Culture, Origin - Khomani San Bushmen Kallitype Portraits and Infrared Landscapes. 2021 - Academic Conference Design as Common Good - Switzerland - Online 2021 - Asian conference on Cultural studies 2020 - Academic conference presenter - Liverpool University UK (online) 2015- 2019 Visual Ethnographic Social Documentary - Khomani San Bushmen 2018- 2019 Travel Documentary Namibia & Botswana 2011- 2014 – Investigative Journalism, Social Documentaries on Post Apartheid Poverty

Marlene Bogaards

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:21:09 GMT

Deputy Director - Post Graduate & Reseach Centre

Research Interests

Marketing and Sales
Consumer Insights
Digital media
Cross-cultural communication

Brief Bio

Marlene Bogaards is the Head of School: Research and Postgraduate Studies Unit at the IIE Varsity College National Office. Her academic career spans over 13 years with specific focus on lecturing in the fields of Marketing Management, Business Management, Entrepreneurship, Retail Business Management, Innovative Selling and Cross-Cultural Management Communication at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Marlene holds a Master’s degree in Marketing Management (cum Laude) with a focus on the networking practices of Gauteng Businesswomen. She has published in numerous national and international journals as well as presented at various national and international conferences within the discipline field of Marketing Management.

Annie Kirsten

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:17:05 GMT

Academic Lead - Education

Research Interests

Play-based learning
ICT integration
Cognitive development of children
Early Childhood

Brief Bio

I am employed as a full-time lecturer in the School of Education at the IIE MSA. I primarily lecture within the foundation phase band and have a keen interest in languages, movement, mathematics, art education, and in particular learner support in the early years.

I was formerly a Foundation Phase Teacher in the public basic education sector. I bring a wealth of knowledge to the higher education sector to equip students in their initial teacher training. I have obtained my Master’s degree in Learner Support and I am a registered Ph.D. student specializing in special needs education.

Diana Robertson

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:12:34 GMT

Head of Education

Research Interests

Science and Technology Education
Computer-integrated Education

Brief Bio

Diana Robertson is a passionate leader in the field of education, currently serving as the Head of Education at the IIE MSA campus, a private higher education institution based in Johannesburg, South Africa. With a dual master’s degree in education and business administration, Diana Robertson brings a unique blend of pedagogical expertise and strategic thinking to their role.

Driven by a deep interest in Natural Science and Technology Education, is committed to fostering transformative learning experiences that integrate technology effectively. The research delves into this area, seeking to uncover innovative approaches that empower students to engage meaningfully with science and technology in a 21st-century context.

Currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Pretoria, Diana Robertson demonstrates a dedication to continuous learning and scholarly exploration. This pursuit, coupled with their leadership experience, makes her a sought-after speaker and consultant on educational technology and future-focused teaching practices.

Dr Quraisha Dawood

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:06:04 GMT

Deputy Dean - Research

Research Interests

The world of work
Identity
Gender
Religion

Brief Bio

Dr Quraisha Dawood (PhD) is a Deputy Dean of Research at the IIE's Varsity College. She received her PhD in Sociology from the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal in 2016. She is a member of the International Sociological Association (RC 52) and the Development Studies Association.

Her interests lie in intersectionality, employment, gender and religion. Most recently she has published ‘Stirring the Pot’ (Penguin), which was based on her Masters thesis on ‘madams and maids.’ She has also published an autobiographical account of motherhood and postpartum depression entitled 'Almost Me,' published by YIZ publishers.

Nicole Mason

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:01:18 GMT

Lecturer - Interior Design

Research Interests

Design
Curriculum design
Neurodivergency

Brief Bio

Nicole Mason graduated from Wits in 1993 with a degree in Architecture. She practiced as an architect for 17 years before embarking on an MBA with The Gordon Institute of Business Science. Her research for her Masters was entitled The Management of Creative Design Professionals, however after graduating she changed career to become a lecturer at the IIE VEGA School of Interior Design.

She currently teaches Design and History of Architecture as well as supervising honours students and lecturing in Research Methodology and Design Leadership. She has developed a number of modules and assessments for the Interior Design curriculum. She lives in Johannesburg with her husband and two daughters.

Annatjie J M Pretorius

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 07:52:19 GMT

Teaching and Learning Specialist

Research Interests

Interactional learning
Conversational learning
Student engagement
Autonomy support
Mentoring

Brief Bio

Annatjie's research interest and publications to date, pivots around Teaching and Learning in higher education, with specific interest in how pedagogical goals are achieved in mentoring interactions, as a learning space. Her current research explores autonomy support within developmental academic advising.

Shaina Matthew

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 07:45:31 GMT

Counsellor

Research Interests

Wellness in terms mental health
Depression
Anxiety
Stress management
Effective counselling intervention in terms of addressing mental health

Brief Bio

I have a dedicated passion for holistic wellness in organisations, with a keen interest in student and employee wellness. I have a BA Social Work degree, a diploma in HR and have recently completed a master’s degree in social work. My research focus is in the area of mental health, specifically anxiety and depression amongst university students and people development. I have 30 years of work experience across various different sectors from social work, to Corporate Social Investments (CSI) and HR and and currently student wellness.

Tiisetso Mofokeng

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 07:41:03 GMT

Lecturer - Interior Design

Research Interests

Gender Urbanism
Public Spaces & Interior Urbanism
Exploring interior spaces as an abstraction of the city

Brief Bio

I studied Architecture at the Tshwane University of Technology and City and Regional Planning at the University of Cape Town. My masters research focused on an investigation into the safety of public spaces from a gender-sensitive perspective. I am particularly interested in women empowerment and I use both architecture and urban planning to help bridge the gap of gender inequality and promote safety in cities through placemaking, spatial planning and design especially those of public spaces.

I am also interested in spatial design education where I again use my skills obtained from architecture and urban planning to explore interior spaces as an abstraction of the city, adding new knowledge and probing new ways of thinking within the educational space of spatial design and the built environment addressing city-scale issues through the lens of urban interiors and contributing to the remodeling and reimagining concepts of the spatial design curricular.

I am a former committee member of the Young Urbanists South Africa, former student member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (UK), former member of the Young Professional Forum of the Gauteng Institute for Architecture, instructor at the Architecture is Free Foundation, contributor to the Interior Editorial and Make Space For Girls blogging, committee member of Girls Make the City (GMTC), researcher for the Public Space Global (PSG) forum, a spatial design full-time lecturer within the interior design department at Vega School Cape Town, have facilitated and guest lectured urban planning techniques and studio tutored local area planning (honours) at the University of Cape Town and lastly I am the founder of a knowledge storehouse named THE HUE.

Dr Bronwyn Le-Ann Batchelor

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 07:12:39 GMT

Head of Faculty - Faculty of Law

Research Interests

Family Law
Commercial Law
Education
Constitutional Law

Brief Bio

Bronwyn Le-Ann Batchelor is the Head of Faculty of Law, which position she took occupation of in March 2021. She holds a BComm (Law), LLB, LLM and LLD. After several years in practice, first as a partner in a law firm and then as a Director of her own firm, as an attorney, certified mediator, notary and conveyancer, Bronwyn moved into academia at a public University where she ran the Extended Curriculum Programme for Law for 5 years and then became Head of Department: Public Law.

Bronwyn has published articles in her research interest areas of family law, constitutional law and commercial law. Bronwyn’s passion and commitment to teaching and learning in Higher Education saw her complete a UK Teaching Fellowship under the UK Professional Standards Framework in 2020 and be awarded the title of Senior Fellow. Bronwyn was also awarded The IIE CAT Emerging Researcher of the Year Award in 2023. Bronwyn has examined LLMs externally and supervised LLM and LLB research students.

Dr Rufaro Audrey Mavunga

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 06:49:40 GMT

Senior Head of Programme

Research Interests

Child Labour
Labour Law
Human Rights
International Law
Child Law
Business Law

Brief Bio

Rufaro has completed the following three degrees: Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Masters in Labour Law (LLM) and a Doctor of Laws (LLD) all at the University of Pretoria.

Her LLD research focused on a child protection area, specifically focusing on the economic exploitation of children. Rufaro has authored several articles that have been published in Department of Higher Education accredited journals.

Dr Sheethal Tom

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 11:11:58 GMT

Lecturer -Computer Science

Research Interests

Software development
Human-computer interaction
Computer vision
Image processing
Mobile computing
ICT4D
Health informatics

Brief Bio

Dr. Sheethal Tom is a distinguished professional in the field of Information Technology, with an extensive background in both academia and industry.

Her academic journey includes earning a PhD in Information Technology from the Central University of Technology, South Africa, as well as a Master's degree in Computer Science and Engineering from Amrita University, India, and a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Engineering from Toc H Institute of Science and Technology, India.

Throughout her career, Dr. Tom's primary focus areas in teaching and research have encompassed software development, human-computer interaction (HCI), computer vision, image processing, mobile computing, ICT4D and health informatics.

Dr. Tom has earned a reputation as an adept supervisor and mentor, guiding postgraduate students in their research endeavors.

Dr. Tom's journey in academia is complemented by her extensive industry experience as a software developer.

This interdisciplinary approach enables her to bridge the gap between theory and practice, nurturing the next generation of IT professionals and researchers.

Jacqui Meyer

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 11:05:32 GMT

Head of Law

Research Interests

Entrepreneurship
Digital Transformation
Sustainable Technologies
SMEs
Business Models

Brief Bio

Jacqui Meyer Subsequent to obtaining her Master’s Degree in Law in 2007, Jacqui pursued a career in academics on tertiary level. She is the Campus Faculty Head: Law at The IIE’s Varsity College, Pretoria campus. She has published articles and presented papers on Labour Law, Cyber law and Criminology pertaining to Law Enforcement.

Dr Chanté Botha

dudaadmin@advtech.co.za (ADvTECH Group) — Sat, 29 Apr 2023 13:30:10 GMT

Head of Management Studies

Research Interests

Entrepreneurship
Digital Transformation
Sustainable Technologies
SMEs
Business Models

Brief Bio

Dr. Chanté Botha is an accomplished Head of Management Studies and Lecturer from the Independent Institute of Education at IIE MSA.

She holds a BCom Degree in Entrepreneurship, a BCom Honours Strategic Management, an MCom in Strategic Management from the University of Johannesburg and she completed a joint PhD in Business Management with the University of Johannesburg and Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam.

Chanté is passionate about lecturing and specialises in entrepreneurship, business management, technology, and innovation.

Chanté strongly believes that technology should be incorporated everywhere, from the classroom to the business environment, developing digital competence among individuals.