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In 2025, thousands of South African students faced the harsh reality of limited university placements. Despite 348,212 students earning a Bachelor’s pass and qualifying for admission, the country’s 26 public universities could only accommodate about 202,000 new students. This left over 114,000 qualified learners without access to higher education, according to the Daily Maverick. 

This shortage of university placements worsens the already critical challenges in South Africa’s job market. According to a Stats SA report for the fourth quarter of 2024, the official unemployment rate stood at 31.9%, with youth unemployment alarmingly high at 44.6% for individuals aged 15 to 34. 

Addressing Unemployment and Limited University Spaces

To address both unemployment and the lack of spaces at universities, the Free State government invited higher learning institutions to participate in the Free State Career Development Services EXPO. The event took place in the Lejweleputswa District, in Welkom at Kopano Sports Centre, attracting a diverse audience, including parents, teachers, post-matriculants, unemployed youth, and individuals seeking opportunities to develop their skills and further their studies 

The DaVinci Institute participated as an exhibitor, presenting courses that young people could consider applying for. TT100, a nonprofit company that has been running a business innovation awards programme for organisations and individuals since 1991, was also represented at the event by its Project Manager, Tebogo Thabethe. 

Dr Sam February’s Inspiring Speech 

Our engagement at the Welkom event on 4 March was highly successful, generating significant interest from students, parents, and educators. The enthusiasm from the youth was evident from the start, particularly after Dr Sam February’s talk, which captivated their attention and sparked meaningful discussions about their future in higher education. 

Dr Sam opened his speech by welcoming attendees: “Thank you for joining us here in Welkom, Free State.” He went on to highlight the evolving nature of careers in fields such as supply chain, procurement, marketing, finance, and inventory management, stating that “the way these roles are performed is rapidly evolving, driven by groundbreaking advancements in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Big Data.” 

He emphasised the importance of aligning education with technological advancements, saying, “To keep pace, it is essential that our upskilling and development efforts align with these emerging technologies.” He elaborated on how The DaVinci Institute plays a role in this transformation by offering undergraduate and postgraduate programmes designed to equip students with “critical thinking, leadership, and innovation skills needed in the digital age.” 

A key focus of Dr Sam’s speech was DaVinci’s TIPS™ framework, which he explained as centering on “the Management of Technology, the Management of Innovation, and the Management of People.” He encouraged attendees to embrace continuous learning and apply technology-driven solutions to stay relevant in a rapidly changing job market. 

In addition to technical skills, Dr Sam urged students to pursue careers that align with their personal ambitions, noting that “this alignment will not only guide your motivation and fulfilment, but also empower you to contribute meaningfully to an ever-changing workplace.” He concluded by inspiring students to “stay curious, adapt swiftly, and invest in your growth. The future holds remarkable possibilities for those who align their personal development with technological progress.” 

Student Interest and Engagement 

Many students approached us afterwards, eager to learn more about the opportunities available at DaVinci. A notable number of these students had obtained a Bachelor’s pass in matric, demonstrating strong academic capability and a readiness to transition into higher education. 

In total, at least 240 young people enquired about our programmes and expressed genuine interest in pursuing further studies with us. This represents a strong pool of potential leads that could translate into enrolments, provided that we can offer viable pathways to funding. 

The Financial Barrier to Higher Education 

A key challenge that emerged in Sasolburg repeated itself in Welkom as well—the overwhelming concern regarding financial constraints. Approximately 99% of young people we interacted with cited funding as a major obstacle to pursuing higher education. While their interest in our programmes was high, the lack of accessible funding options was a common concern. This highlights the critical need for institutions like ours to explore sustainable funding solutions, scholarships, or strategic partnerships that can support financially constrained but capable students in accessing quality education. 

The DaVinci Institute recently participated in a dynamic engagement in Sasolburg, where we connected with students, parents, and educators eager to explore higher education opportunities. The event was a resounding success, with an overwhelming level of interest in our programmes and an inspiring energy from the students in attendance.

Prof. Bennie Anderson, our CEO, delivered a thought-provoking address that captivated students and sparked meaningful discussions about their future in higher education. His insights resonated deeply, prompting a wave of curiosity and enthusiasm as students eagerly approached our team to learn more about the opportunities available at DaVinci. Many of these students had obtained a Bachelor’s pass in matric, demonstrating their academic readiness and commitment to further studies.

However, what made this event truly stand out was the level of parental involvement. Parents not only accompanied their children but also actively engaged in discussions, asking key questions about the credibility of our qualifications, employability prospects, and funding options. As Jeremy Jeffrey, head of strategic support, noted:

“Parental support is a crucial factor in student success. Seeing such strong engagement from parents reinforces the importance of making higher education more accessible and equipping students with the right tools to succeed.”

One of the most pressing concerns that emerged from our conversations was funding. A staggering 99% of the students we engaged with cited financial constraints as a significant barrier to higher education. While their interest in DaVinci’s programmes was strong, the lack of accessible funding options remains a challenge. This underscores the urgent need for sustainable funding solutions, scholarships, and strategic partnerships that can help academically capable students overcome financial obstacles.

A Unique Advantage in a Competitive Landscape

Another key takeaway from the event was DaVinci’s distinct positioning in the higher education landscape. While several training providers were present, most focused on vocational training or industry-specific certifications. The DaVinci Institute stood out as the only dedicated higher education institution at the event, offering degree-level qualifications that integrate academic learning with real-world industry application through our Mode 2 learning methodology. This innovative approach was particularly well received by students eager to gain practical, career-relevant skills that align with the evolving demands of the modern workplace.

In total, we engaged with 209 students who expressed a keen interest in pursuing further studies with us. This represents a significant pool of potential future DaVincians—students who are eager to embrace a transformative education journey but require support in accessing funding.

Looking Ahead

The Sasolburg event reaffirmed the growing demand for quality higher education and highlighted the barriers that must be addressed to make it more accessible. Moving forward, The DaVinci Institute remains committed to exploring funding solutions and strengthening our engagement efforts to ensure that ambitious students have the opportunity to realise their full potential.

This is just the beginning of many more impactful engagements to come!

Education should spark transformation, not merely transfer information. In today’s fast-paced world, professional success demands more than textbook theories: it requires the dynamic capability to innovate, adapt, and lead with vision. At The DaVinci Institute, our Higher Certificate in Management of Technology and Innovation is designed to redefine your future, turning everyday challenges into stepping stones for groundbreaking success.

Forget the old model of traditional learning that struggles to bridge theory with practice. We champion Mode 2 learning, an immersive, real-world approach that moulds you into a proactive problem-solver, an inventive thinker, and an inspiring leader. This programme is meticulously crafted for professionals who are determined to rise above the conventional, amplifying their leadership prowess, and driving impactful change within their organisations.

The curriculum of our Higher Certificate in Management of Technology and Innovation, underpinned by our unique TIPS® framework, fuses technology, innovation, and human-centric management in a systemic manner to empower you to tackle today’s complex business landscapes. You will emerge as an agile, strategic leader, perfectly equipped to navigate the challenges of the 5th Industrial Revolution.

Designed with flexibility in mind, our online distance learning format ensures that your career progression continues uninterrupted. This Higher Certificate isn’t just a credential; it’s the launchpad for your advancement towards a bachelor’s degree and a transformative career trajectory.

Learning should be a catalyst for change, challenging, inspiring, and relentlessly action-oriented. At DaVinci Institute, we don’t just graduate students; we forge visionary leaders ready to leave their mark on the world.

At The DaVinci Institute, we take immense pride in celebrating the achievements of our alumni, who embody the spirit of innovation, creativity, and visionary leadership. Today, we shine the spotlight on the remarkable Dr Indira Bhagaloo, a trailblazer in human capital development and a true ambassador of transformational leadership.

Dr Bhagaloo recently made waves on the global stage at the prestigious Brandon Hall Group™ HCM Excellence Awards in West Palm Beach, Florida, when she received an award for herself and her team. Representing a leading human capital solutions provider, she accepted the award for their groundbreaking #FutureShift Programme—a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and visionary execution.

Her achievements in the professional realm are matched by her academic excellence. Dr Bhagaloo earned her Doctor of Management in Technology and Innovation from The DaVinci Institute with a thesis titled “Evaluating the Transfer of Learning through a Collaborative Learning Framework: A Case Study of a South African Retail Bank.” This research deepens our understanding of collaborative learning frameworks and highlights her commitment to creating practical, scalable solutions that bridge the gap between learning and measurable outcomes.

As Director of Strategic Relations and Education at the leading human capital solutions provider, Dr Bhagaloo continues redefining what it means to lead in the space of human capital transformation. Her focus on academic and vocational strategy, business development, and scalable delivery capabilities speaks to her dedication to shaping the future of learning and leadership. Reflecting on the global recognition of the #FutureShift Programme, Dr Bhagaloo eloquently shared:

“The amazing experience of receiving this prestigious award on a global stage will forever be etched in my heart. It proves that through collaboration, we can achieve remarkable things that can only be translated through great partnerships.”

Her words resonate deeply with DaVinci’s ethos of co-creation. The success of the #FutureShift Programme is not just about delivering innovative learning solutions—it’s a testament to the trust, vision, and alignment of values shared with a leading African bank.

Dr Bhagaloo’s journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. She exemplifies DaVinci’s mission to nurture leaders who innovate, inspire, and transform societies. Through her work at her current organisation, she is empowering organisations to adapt to change, fostering environments that elicit behavioural transformation, and creating agile learning solutions for tomorrow’s workforce. As we celebrate Dr Bhagaloo’s success, we are reminded of the profound impact of a curious mind and a relentless commitment to excellence. She is living proof of what it means to be remarkable—not just for personal growth but for the betterment of communities and organisations.

Here’s to honouring Dr Indira Bhagaloo and celebrating the countless individuals and teams who are inspired by her leadership. We look forward to witnessing more milestones as she continues to shape the future of learning, leadership, and human capital development.

By Dr Raymond Toga, Learning Coordinator: Doctoral Programmes

Pursuing a doctoral degree isn’t a casual commitment. It’s a test of perseverance, resilience, and intellectual curiosity. With about half of doctoral students abandoning the journey, deciding to embark on this path requires serious introspection. Are you ready to transition from the structured academic ladder to the unpredictable, chaotic waters of doctoral research? Let’s break down how to mentally gear up to craft a strong doctoral or PhD proposal and embark on this transformative journey.

A doctoral degree is not for everyone. Is it for you?

Before you dive in, pause and ask yourself if you are passionate about your research topic, willing to embrace years of uncertainty, hard work, and intellectual challenges and if you have the grit to withstand setbacks and the stamina to see it through. The doctoral journey is not about blending in with the crowd; it’s about standing out. It’s time to decide if you’re ready to forge your unique path.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, so break it down into manageable tasks. Learn the basics by honing your critical thinking, research, writing, and reflection skills. Focus on the present. Don’t get lost dreaming about graduation. Your immediate goal is crafting a clear, concise, and compelling proposal.

Doctoral students see the world differently

Develop a mindset that thrives on curiosity. Jot down peculiar ideas, out-of-the-box thoughts, and observations that defy norms. Embrace your “weirdness”—it’s what makes groundbreaking research possible.

Time management is the backbone of a successful doctoral degree

Plan your week and focus on survival. Complete sections or chapters methodically and stay on track to earn your doctorate within a realistic timeframe. Use tools like a Personal Development Plan or Personal Learning Network to navigate unexpected challenges.

Be your harshest critic

Question why you want to write this proposal. Ask yourself if your research topic is relevant and significant. Reflect on why anyone should care about your findings and what gaps exist in current knowledge that your research will address. Thriving on skepticism helps you dig deeper and uncover profound insights.

Rejection, criticism, and failure are inevitable.

Embrace rejection, criticism and failure as learning opportunities. Understand that success is built on the lessons failure provides. Cultivate resilience—the more you endure, the stronger you’ll become.

Your doctoral supervisor, support system and mindset

One of the leading causes of attrition among doctoral students is poor supervisor relationships. Choose a mentor who genuinely cares about your progress. Don’t hesitate to invest in additional support if needed. Your success is worth it.

A growth mindset can make or break your doctoral experience. Balance intense research hours with activities that recharge your energy. Incorporate moments of joy and silliness into your routine to spark creativity. Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques to maintain mental clarity and resilience.

Your doctoral proposal is more than just a document; it’s a test of your determination and mental endurance. If you’re willing to commit, the rewards—both intellectual and personal—will last a lifetime. It’s time to stop dreaming and start drafting. Are you ready to bet on yourself?

About the Author

Dr Raymond Toga is the Learning Coordinator for Doctoral Studies at The DaVinci Institute and a proud doctoral alumnus. With over 15 years in higher education, he is passionate about enhancing the student experience and fostering transformative learning.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of South African matrics celebrate completing Grade 12 and passing their National Senior Certificate exams. But for many, the journey doesn’t end with their results—it’s just the start of a new challenge. With over 337,000 learners achieving a bachelor’s pass in 2024 and only 202,000 places available at public universities, the demand for spaces far outweighs the supply.

And it’s not just those with bachelor’s passes facing this issue. Matrics with a diploma or higher certificate pass also navigate a competitive landscape as they search for further study opportunities.

If you’re unsure about your next steps, don’t worry—you’re not alone and have options.

What Are the Alternatives?

Public universities aren’t the only route to higher education. Whether you’ve achieved a bachelor’s, diploma, or higher certificate pass, a private higher education institution, like The DaVinci Institute, offers pathways to help you achieve your goals.

Here’s why private higher education might work for you:

1. Study on Your Terms: At The DaVinci Institute, you don’t have to choose between studying and managing your responsibilities. Our online and distance learning programmes are flexible, allowing you to study at your own pace, wherever you are.
2. Practical, Real-World Learning: Our approach isn’t just about classroom theories. We focus on solving real-world problems, meaning you’ll gain skills you can use immediately in the workplace or your business.
3. Qualifications for Every Level: Whether you’re ready for a Higher Certificate, Bachelor’s degree, or even a Postgraduate programme, The DaVinci Institute has accredited qualifications tailored to your academic level and career ambitions.
4. Funding Options: While NSFAS funding is only available for public universities and TVET colleges, we work with partners like Student Hero to help you explore private funding options, such as loans and bursaries. We also offer flexible payment plans to help make private education more accessible.

NSFAS funding is only available for public universities and TVET colleges

Why Consider Private Education?

Private institutions like The Da Vinci Institute play a crucial role in South Africa’s education landscape, providing opportunities for students who may not have secured a place in public universities.

Here’s what sets The DaVinci Institute apart:

• Smaller Classes, More Support: At Da Vinci, you’re more than just a number. Our smaller classes mean your lecturers know your name and are there to help you every step of the way.
• Skills That Work in Real Life: Our TIPS™ Framework helps you learn about Technology, Innovation, People, and Systems—the four things that make businesses work. You’ll learn how to solve problems, manage people, and use technology to achieve your goals. These are the skills employers want, no matter where you work.
• Learn by Doing: At Da Vinci, you don’t just sit in lectures. You’ll work on real-world challenges—the same kinds of problems businesses deal with every day. For example, you could come up with ways to make a company run smoother or find new solutions for customer issues. This hands-on experience means you’ll graduate ready for the workplace.
• Study at Your Own Pace: Life doesn’t stop when you start studying, and we get that. Whether you’re working, helping at home, or need time for other responsibilities, our online and distance learning options let you study when it suits you.
• Programmes Built for the Job Market: We work closely with industry experts to make sure our programmes teach you the skills that are in demand right now. That means what you learn will actually help you get ahead in your career.

Private education is an investment in your future, offering practical skills and qualifications that employers value. Focusing on personalised learning and real-world experience prepares you for a successful career, ensuring long-term benefits beyond the classroom.

Don’t Lose Hope

If you didn’t secure a spot at a public university, it’s not the end of your journey. Whether you’ve earned a bachelor’s pass, a diploma pass, or a higher certificate pass, there’s a path forward. Private institutions like The Da Vinci Institute offer flexible, high-quality options to help you achieve your dreams.

Take the next step, explore your options, and keep moving forward.

Your future is waiting. Let’s co-create it together.

As we move into 2025, the economic landscape of South Africa is bound to shape the future of businesses, entrepreneurs, and everyday citizens alike. What can we expect? In a recent Kaya FM interview hosted by Gugulethu Mfuphi, Ndumiso Kubheka, award-winning economist and DaVinci’s Chair of the Board, shares his predictions and the key trends to watch for this year.

Key Insights from Ndumiso Kubheka’s Economic Outlook for 2025

1. Resilience Amid Global Uncertainty: With global challenges such as inflation, shifting trade dynamics, and economic uncertainty, resilience will be key. As Kubheka explained, businesses must be agile—ready to pivot, innovate, and adapt to a rapidly evolving landscape. Will your business be ready to thrive?

2. The Rise of Digital Transformation: South Africa’s economic recovery hinges on embracing technology. Digital transformation isn’t just a trend; it’s the future of business. Kubheka underscores the importance of leaders who understand how digital solutions will shape the economy and how industries function.

3. Local Entrepreneurs as Economic Drivers: South Africa’s entrepreneurs continue to shine with resilience and creativity despite economic pressures. Kubheka believes that fostering local entrepreneurship will be critical in driving economic growth. It’s an exciting time for South African innovators—how will you contribute?

4. Global Collaborations: A Path Forward: Kubheka sees global partnerships as the way forward in an interconnected world. South Africa must leverage international knowledge, resources, and technology to secure a sustainable future. Strategic collaborations across borders are not just beneficial—they’re essential.

Watch the Interview: Ndumiso Kubheka’s 2025 Economic Outlook

You can watch the full interview on Kaya FM below for a deeper dive into Ndumiso Kubheka’s insights on South Africa’s economic future.

Who is Ndumiso Kubheka?

Ndumiso Kubheka is a globally respected economist with a wealth of experience in macroeconomic research, strategy development, and corporate governance. As the Chief Executive of KH Equity Partners, he leads a research-driven advisory and private equity firm focused on ICT and healthcare. He is also an Independent Non-Executive Director on Moody’s South African Board and a Working Group Member of Innovation Management at the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS).

As Chair of the Board of The DaVinci Institute, Ndumiso leads governance and works closely with board members and the CEO, Prof Benjamin Anderson, to align our business school with its goals. They ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance while representing the organisation externally and overseeing long-term planning and risk management.

Looking Ahead with The DaVinci Institute

At The Da Vinci Institute, we are dedicated to helping our students, alumni, corporate clients, and stakeholders thrive in the face of these challenges.

Our Mode 2 approach ensures that learning is grounded in real-world, practical experience, preparing you to lead confidently. Our propriety managerial leadership framework – Management of Technology, Innovation and People and Systematic Thinking (TIPS®) framework – equips you with the tools to think systematically, manage technology, lead people, and drive innovation—key skills for tomorrow’s leaders.

As we look toward 2025, we agree that success in the future requires a focus on resilience and collaboration. At DaVinci, we’re committed to preparing you for the challenges ahead and empowering you to lead South Africa’s transformation. Join our community of forward-thinking leaders and visionaries today.

In a world where technology and humanity intersect, digital identity has become far more than a credential—it reflects who we are in the virtual age.

At DaVinci Business School’s recent Masterclass and Curiosita sessions yesterday, Dawid Jacobs, an expert in forensic identity management, inspired us to think deeply about the identity revolution.

Jacobs, whose career spans groundbreaking work in forensic identity verification and digital innovation, shared insights that challenge us to reconsider what it means to protect, authenticate, and empower digital identities. His message resonated with DaVinci’s core principle: “being curious”—a commitment to asking bold questions and seeking transformational solutions.

The Threat of Synthetic Identities and Deepfakes

The rise of synthetic identities and deepfake fraud poses unprecedented challenges to trust in the digital era. Jacobs revealed startling realities:

• 42.5% of fraud attempts are AI-driven, with nearly a third succeeding.
• Deepfake scams have surged by 2137% in three years, infiltrating trusted systems and enabling crimes like financial fraud, disinformation, and election interference.

As Jacobs emphasised, “The question is no longer whether these threats exist—but how we respond.”

Redefining Digital Identity Verification

Jacobs highlighted vulnerabilities in current identity verification systems that hinder their ability to keep pace with advancing threats:

1. Compromised Databases: Breached data allows synthetic identities to pass as legitimate.
2. AI-Generated Identities: Deepfakes evade traditional detection.
3. Absence of Proof-of-Life Verification: Systems verify data but not the existence of a living individual.
4. Lagging AI Policing: Fraud detection tools fall behind sophisticated AI-generated forgeries.

These challenges demand leadership driven by curiosity and innovation—hallmarks of DaVinci’s approach to nurturing visionary thinkers.

Forensic Identity Management: A Revolutionary Approach

Jacobs introduced Forensic Identity Management, a solution that transforms identity verification into a tool for trust and empowerment.

• Forensic Onboarding: Using biometrics like fingerprints and facial recognition to verify a living individual.
• Digital Twin Connection: Establishing an unbreakable link between a person and their digital identity.
• Data Protection and Privacy: Ensuring global compliance and consent-driven data sharing.
• Future-Proof Management: Securing personal data with advanced safeguards.

This approach redefines identity as evidence of existence, blending technological precision with a human-centered ethos.

Web 4.0: Unlocking the Future

Jacobs also explored the transformative potential of Web 4.0, positioning it as the foundation of secure and scalable digital ecosystems:

• Cost Reduction: Streamlining infrastructure to reduce computational expenses.
• Scalable Innovation: Creating platforms that adapt to evolving needs.
• Interoperability: Enabling seamless collaboration across digital frameworks.

Web 4.0 represents a leap forward, integrating technological advances with a commitment to ethical, sustainable growth.

Curiosity as a Catalyst for Leadership

Jacobs’ presentation embodied DaVinci’s ethos of curiosity, truth-seeking, and interconnectedness. He challenged us to rethink identity as not just a digital construct but as a tool for fostering trust, empowering individuals, and co-creating sustainable societies.

What does it mean to secure your identity in a world shaped by AI? The answer lies in asking bold questions, seeking innovative solutions, and leading with purpose.

Join Us in Shaping the Future

At DaVinci Business School, we don’t just prepare you for the future—we empower you to co-create it. Stay tuned for our next Curiosita session and explore how curiosity and leadership can transform the world.

DaVinci Business School proudly announces the launch of the book Integral Research and Societal Regeneration in Africa, authored by renowned DaVinci scholars and thought leaders Professor Ronnie Lessem, Prof Anselm Adodo, and Professor Alexander Schieffer.

This groundbreaking book, published on 15 October 2024, offers a visionary roadmap for transforming Africa’s social innovation landscape, weaving together Africa’s rich cultural heritage, participatory research methodologies, and authentic storytelling.

Unveiled at the Inaugural Societal Regenerative Conference

The launch of this influential work coincided with the Inaugural Societal Regenerative Conference, held at DaVinci Business School from 21–22 October 2024.

Under the theme “Societal Healing and Societal Regeneration,” the conference, led by DaVinci Professor Ronnie Lessem, provided the ideal platform to introduce this essential resource. The event brought together global leaders, innovators, and changemakers to discuss and co-create solutions to promote integral healing, focusing on the Global South.

What Can You Expect from the Book?

Across five engaging parts, the authors explore key concepts designed to reshape Africa’s future:

• Communitalism: A revolutionary alternative to capitalism that prioritizes communal values and collective well-being over individualism.
• Communiversity: A transformative learning framework that integrates communities into the academic sphere for impactful social innovation.
• African Phenomenology: A localized approach to research that challenges traditional Western perspectives and centres the African experience.
• Critical Realism: An empirical philosophy transcending positivism, offering a richer understanding of African socio-political contexts.

These concepts, grounded in African philosophy and participatory action research, provide valuable tools for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners committed to driving Africa’s future toward a more equitable and sustainable path.

A Call for Change

The authors—Professor Ronnie Lessem, a pioneer in integral development; Prof Anselm Adodo, a holistic medicine advocate and DaVinci doctoral alumnus; and Professor Alexander Schieffer, a social innovator and DaVinci faculty member—have long been at the forefront of societal regeneration. Their contributions through this book offer new paradigms for understanding and addressing Africa’s social and economic challenges.

Continuing the Dialogue

While the book Integral Research and Societal Regeneration in Africa was a focal point at the conference, the conversations and ideas generated there continue to resonate. As the conference concluded, delegates were encouraged to reflect on these frameworks’ practical application and actively contribute to societal healing and regeneration.

The book of abstracts from the conference is now available to all participants, and a full compilation of the presented papers will be published in the coming months, allowing these rich discussions to further impact change across Africa and beyond.

DaVinci Business School remains committed to fostering innovative ecosystems and sustainable, transformational societies, and this book is a pivotal tool in shaping Africa’s regenerative future.

About the Book

In this groundbreaking work, the concept of “Communiversity” takes centre stage—an innovative space where communities come together to learn, grow, and tackle the pressing challenges of our time. This book reimagines research by moving beyond traditional methods to embrace a localized, African-centered perspective.

Through an exploration of phenomenology, cooperative inquiry, hermeneutics, epistemology, Afrikology, and the case stories approach, the book weaves together theory and real-world examples, offering a holistic framework for social innovation. By bridging Western and African intellectual traditions, it emphasises

key concepts like ubuntu, feminism, participatory action research, and critical realism, creating a more inclusive understanding of knowledge production. One of the unique features of this book is its case stories approach, which brings research to life by grounding complex theories in real African contexts.

These stories provide powerful insights into how communities apply these methodologies to solve local problems and drive meaningful change. Ideal for scholars, researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners, this book offers fresh, actionable frameworks for advancing social innovation in Africa. Whether focused on African studies, social justice, or community development, this essential resource will inspire and empower you to transform research into action.

As the DaVinci Institute prepares for tomorrow’s graduation ceremony, we will introduce three exceptional doctoral candidates in Management in Technology and Innovation. But before they walk across the stage, we celebrate their groundbreaking achievements in a unique and prestigious event—The President’s Dinner, hosted tonight by Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, our business school’s president and the esteemed Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS).

This exclusive gathering is a rare honour in the private higher education space, as very few institutions offer such a formal and distinguished introduction of their doctoral candidates to society. DaVinci is one of the few to uphold this tradition, and it is a testament to our commitment to co-creating realities and celebrating visionary leadership. With one of the largest doctoral cohorts in South Africa, both in terms of current candidates and alumni, DaVinci proudly showcases the impact and excellence of our doctoral community at this special event.

A Moment of Recognition and Impact

The President’s Dinner is not just an occasion—it is a statement of our school’s values and our belief in the transformative power of knowledge. This intimate gathering allows our esteemed graduates to be introduced to society as leaders whose research holds the potential to change industries, communities, and the world. It is an acknowledgement of their journey as scholars and co-creators of innovative solutions that address the pressing challenges of our time. Tonight, we shine a spotlight on the visionary work of:

Jane Blanche Mackenzie: A Quantum Approach to Well-being

Jane Blanche Mackenzie’s groundbreaking work at the Global Holistic Quantum Well-being Centre introduces the HELO framework, which integrates quantum physics, Taoist philosophy, and modern biology to revolutionize our understanding of well-being.

Her research moves beyond reductionist approaches, providing a holistic, multidimensional perspective that holds great promise for health practitioners, business leaders, and broader society.

Hester Catarina Welman: Driving Economic Transformation in South Africa

Hester Welman’s research critically examines the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Compliance Framework (B-BBEE-CF) and its effectiveness in driving ownership transformation in South Africa. By developing a conceptual framework that promotes meaningful and sustainable transformation, Hester’s work contributes to South Africa’s vision for a more inclusive and equitable economy.

Isheunesu Amon Chaka: Reimagining Higher Education for Africa

Isheunesu Chaka’s doctoral research redefines higher education through the lens of decoloniality, pioneering the Communiversity model. His work challenges the traditional academic structures in Africa, integrating indigenous knowledge systems and advocating for social justice. As the Dean of Student Services at Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences, Isheunesu’s research fosters a new generation of graduates empowered to become transformative change agents.

A Night to Remember: The President’s Dinner

Hosted by Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, tonight’s President’s Dinner is a platform for these exceptional graduates to share their visionary research with industry leaders, academic luminaries, and distinguished guests. In the presence of peers and mentors, they will be formally introduced as doctoral graduates who are thought leaders in their fields and drivers of meaningful change in South Africa and beyond.

This dinner symbolises DaVinci’s belief in honouring excellence and acknowledging impact, marking the beginning of these graduates’ journey as they step into society as innovators, disruptors, and co-creators of a more sustainable future.

A Tradition of Excellence

The President’s Dinner is a unique tradition that underscores DaVinci’s commitment to visionary leadership. Few private institutions provide such an esteemed platform for doctoral candidates, and even fewer can boast of the size and influence of DaVinci’s doctoral community. With one of the largest cohorts of doctoral candidates and alumni in South Africa, we are proud to continue fostering holistic, innovative leaders who co-create lasting impact.

As we look forward to tomorrow’s graduation, tonight’s celebration reminds us why DaVinci stands at the forefront of higher education—committed to excellence, creativity, and transformation.

Congratulations to Isheunesu Chaka, Jane Blanche Mackenzie, and Hester Catarina Welman. Your work embodies the spirit of remarkable leadership that DaVinci Business School champions, and we are honoured to present you to society at this prestigious event.