Sphumelele Sibuta
NESP Scholar, UJ
In 2021, the NESP programme provided me with the opportunity to grow academically while receiving financial and institutional support. One of the major advantages of NESP was the freedom to select a mentor who resonated with my academic interests. This mentorship was essential to my growth, offering guidance in research, academic publishing, and professional development.
The NESP Manager at the University of Johannesburg organized regular check-in meetings, which served as a platform for me to raise any concerns or issues I might have encountered. These meetings were well-structured and ensured that all scholars had the opportunity to report problems and receive guidance. In addition to the support from the program coordinators, my supervisor was incredibly supportive and accessible. When I needed feedback on my research or advice on academic matters, my supervisor was always ready to assist.
As a NESP scholar, I was required to participate in development opportunities at the University of Johannesburg, which significantly enhanced my skills. The teaching development workshops were particularly impactful, helping me design and deliver lessons effectively, manage classroom dynamics, and engage students. These workshops gave me the confidence and tools to step into a teaching role during my internship, where I would later apply these skills in a real-world setting. Equally important were the research development opportunities that deepened my understanding of research methodologies, data analysis, and academic writing. These skills were crucial when it came to preparing a paper for publication based on my Masters study.
My academic internship year, 2023, provided me with a platform to apply the skills I had acquired. During this period, I achieved one of my key goals: preparing and publishing a paper titled Design and Manufacturing of an Air-Filled Travelling-Wave Thermo-Acoustic Generator which was presented at a International Conference on Electrical, Computer and Energy Technologies (ICECET 2023) in Cape Town. I gained significant teaching experience during my internship. I was entrusted with teaching two modules: Mechanical Manufacturing 2A and Engineering Drawing 1B. These responsibilities included preparing lectures, grading assignments, and engaging with students.
Vuledzani Badetswana
NESP Scholar, WSU
The Nurturing Emerging Scholar Program (NESP) was an incredible journey of growth, both as a lecturer and a researcher. My academic internship year provided a transformative experience, combining teaching, mentorship, and the development of my PhD proposal.
One of the most impactful elements of my internship was teaching first-year and final-year students. Each group brought unique challenges and opportunities. Working with first-year students was rewarding as I helped them transition into university life, guiding them through both academic and personal adjustments. It required a nurturing approach to build their confidence and skills.
The guidance I received from senior academics during my internship was another significant aspect of my development. These mentors, experienced in both teaching and research, offered me constructive feedback and helped me navigate the academic world. Their insights not only improved my teaching skills but also helped refine my research ideas and shape my academic path. They taught me the importance of collaboration, the need for continuous learning, and the value of giving back by mentoring future scholars. This holistic mentorship provided a well-rounded perspective on what it means to contribute to the academic community. A major milestone during my internship year was working on my PhD proposal. The balance between teaching and mentorship gave me a fertile environment to develop my research ideas. The process involved extensive reading, critical thinking, and revisions, but it ultimately sharpened my focus and provided me with the skills to articulate clear research objectives.
My academic internship year was a transformative experience. The combination of hands-on teaching, mentorship from esteemed academics, and the opportunity to develop my PhD proposal gave me a strong foundation for the future. I gained confidence as both a lecturer and a researcher, and I look forward to applying these skills in my continued academic career.
