University of Venda

Prof. Mokgale Makgopa, the Dean of Humanities at the University of Venda (Univen) opened the Campus Lecture Series that was held on 19 October 2010. He highlighted the need to transform and improve academic research output at South African universities and the need to strengthen the partnership between AISA and Univen. Dr Lekgotla Mafisa (AISA Chief Research Specialist), delivered a paper on Critical issues underlying research. He outlined to students the process of conducting research and covered the importance of selecting a good topic; writing the research proposal; research design; discussion and recommendations. Mr Nicacius Achu Check (AISA Research Specialist), presented a paper on The Ivoirian political and security impasse: a causal analysis, focusing on political and security matters and their impact on the upcoming general elections. He was followed by Mr Shingirirai Mutanga (AISA Research Specialist), who focused on Technology intervention as a means of meeting development needs for Africa with Special Reference to Remote Sensing and Geographical Information Systems (GIS). He examined the importance of using technological interventions in multidisciplinary studies and emphasised the potential of trans-disciplinarity in complex social, political and ecological issues. GIS assists in the understanding of land reform by quantifying, distributing, and explaining the process of land use. Ms Azwifaneli Managa (AISA Research Assistant), briefed the audience on the upcoming AISA Young Graduates and Scholars conference and encouraged them to take advantage of it since as it provides an opportunity and platform for young and emerging scholars to debate issues and present their research pertaining to African affairs.