In its resolve to form a free-standing Transformation and Language unit, Walter Sisulu University has brought in trailblazing researcher and technology enthusiast, Dr Maria Madiope as the unit’s incoming Director.
Madiope, whose vast research areas include Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Transformation, as well as curriculum design and development, took the reigns in
April 2023.
As she forges towards establishing the Transformation and Languages unit, the seasoned scholar expressed great vehemence to contributing to the growth of the institution.
“I really do not take this appointment for granted. There is a lot at hand that really needs a clear vision and goals which must be implemented in a very humane and ethical manner for the benefits of our students and WSU,” said Madiope.
Madiope has outlined a myriad of activities which will form part of her vision for the unit.
Amongst these she mentioned Transformation of the Institutional Culture(that will comprise customer service, culture barometer and the call centre); Promotion of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; promotion of Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Languages (editing services, translation, African heritage promotion and glossary project and integrating African languages in teaching and research) and Digital transformation and Curriculum transformation (that will ensure the use of digital tools to improve business processes).
“My vision is to establish a leading Transformation and Language unit within the university and the African continent. We also need to actively explore innovative ways to support WSU management, staff and students to transform epistemology, knowledge and scholarship; changing institutional culture; rethinking systems and policies; as well as promoting a discourse for change,” said Madiope.
Dr Maria Madiope holds a Bachelor of Arts, as well as a Bachelor of Education from the then Turfloop University, currently University of Limpopo; Masters in Computer Based Instruction from the University of Johannesburg; as well as a PhD from the University of South Africa.
During her decorated career she has obtained multiple accolades which include the AUDA-NEPAD Women in Science and Technology 2021; the 2013 UNISA Developing Researcher Award, as well as an award for Gender Activism and Promotion of Women’s Rights.
From 6 to 7 June 2023, Walter Sisulu University will be hosting its second Transformation Indaba, spearheaded by Madiope.
Under the current strategic vision of the University - an Impactful, Technology-Infused African University, the attendees will engage on the transformation agenda for the next five to ten years, and outline and agree on the Institutional Transformation plan.
Attendees will also focus on areas of Diversity, Inclusion and equity, Curriculum Transformation, Multilingualism, Internationalization and Quality.
By Yanga Ziwele