By Kgothatso Monono
With immense pride, the Faculty of ICT (FoICT) congratulates a Computer Science student, Kearabetswe Tau, for receiving the prestigious Chancellor’s Award in November 2023. In the quick-paced field of information and communication technology (ICT), where innovation shapes the future, Kearabetswe's incredible journey through the complex world of technology has not only established a standard, but is also an example of commitment, perseverance and intellectual ability.
The Chancellor’s Award is annually conferred on the overall best student, per Faculty, who performs exceptionally well during their academic years. The event, hosted by the Chancellor or his designate, is celebrated annually after the spring graduations with the awardees’ parents, guests and partners.
“The Faculty of Information and Communication Technology, has magnificence and excellence personified in one, Kearabetswe Dinah Tau. Academically she pursued her Advanced Diploma in Computer Science, with the discipline of Karate being her favourite sport. She may not have a black belt in Karate yet, but she has certainly conquered the Advanced Diploma in Computer Science. When Kearabetswe enters the Computer Science job market, the market will not know what has hit them,” said Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, TUT Vice Chancellor and Principal.
As the recipient of the Chancellor's Award, Kearabetswe Tau is an example for aspiring ICT professionals. This honour is not merely an individual achievement, but a reflection of the collaborative efforts, mentorship and support received from lecturers, mentors and the broader academic community. It underscores the importance of fostering an environment that nurtures excellence and encourages students to reach new heights.
Dr Etienne van Wyk, Executive Dean of FoICT Faculty, said what made Kearabetswe’s achievement especially outstanding, was that she enrolled the extended version of the course since she did not meet the admission requirements for the mainstream Diploma in Computer Science. Since joining the Faculty at the Soshanguve Campus, she started excelling in her studies and passed the Advanced Diploma cum laude.
“Being chosen for FoICT’s Chancellor’s Award was a real honour and reward for my dedication to my studies. While I was not the best or smartest student in high school, enrolling at TUT motivated me to excel. therefore, I consistently exceed my potential. Although I currently work as an IT Audit Associate, this award has inspired me to pursue my studies. I plan to enrol for my postgraduate diploma in Computer Science next year, once again aiming for consistent high performance. Although I anticipate challenges in juggling work and studies, I am ready to face them,” said Kearabetswe.
Shalate Davhana, Alumni Relations Manager from the Directorate of Advancement and Partnerships commented: “The strategic collaboration between the University, Industry and Alumni is the key ingredient in ensuring that the necessary resources are mobilised for the benefit of our students and graduates. It is also encouraging to witness the increasing number of TUT Alumni and individuals supporting various programs of the University through donations, mentorships and supporting programmes offered at the University.”
From left is Prof Tinyiko Maluleke Vice Chancellor and Principal, The recipient's Parents and Dr Etienne Van Wyk FoICT Dean