Introduction to the New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP)

The University of Cape Town (UCT) has responded to the New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP), an initiative by the Department of Higher Education (DHET) aimed at building a new generation of black South African academics. The DHET's 2015 vision document proposes a suite of initiatives to address the challenge, with nGAP being the major instrument to increase the numbers of black South African academics.

Programme Overview

The nGAP involves the recruitment of highly capable scholars as new academics, against carefully designed and balanced equity considerations and in light of the disciplinary areas of greatest need. The nGAP scholars are appointed into permanent positions where their conditions are customized to ensure their successful induction into the ranks of established academics.

Programme Structure

The DHET provides funding over a six-year period to support the appointment of an nGAP lecturer, and their time is protected to provide the best possible opportunity for the completion of a doctorate degree in the shortest possible time. Once the degree is completed, the nGAP lecturer's teaching commitments are steadily increased until they shoulder a full teaching load.

UCT's nGAP Programme

Since the first advertisement for nGAP posts in 2015, UCT has been awarded 32 nGAP positions, distributed across all faculties. The nGAP scholars operate as a single cohort, managed and coordinated by Associate Professor Langutani Mary Masehela. Lecturers meet for informal monthly meetings, writing retreats, and various capacity-building activities designed to support the completion of postgraduate qualifications (particularly doctorates) and to develop records of achievement that will testify to their emergence as self-standing, excellent academics.

Mentorship and Support

Each lecturer is mentored by a senior scholar, who provides support and guidance on the challenges that routinely face academics. The nGAP coordinator emphasizes building the cohesion of the cohort and encouraging the establishment of new UCT networks while producing a collaborative, mutually supportive, and embracing work culture.

Location and Team

The nGAP programme is located in the Centre for Higher Education Development Faculty (CHED) at UCT. The nGAP office is led by Prof Langutani Mary Masehela as the coordinator and Ms Claudia Petersen as the administrator of the programme.

nGAP Team

• A/Prof Mary Masehela (Coordinator)
• Claudia Petersen (Administrator)

Vision and Impact

According to Dr Morrell, former UCT nGAP manager, "This group of academics will lead UCT in 15 to 20 years' time... Their vision of excellence, of being African and South African, of serving a wider community and producing knowledge for the planet, the continent, and the country, will power UCT in years to come."

University of Cape Town: A Summary

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Overview:

The University of Cape Town (UCT) is a globally recognized university located in South Africa. It is committed to unleashing human potential to create a fair and just society, with a focus on transformation, sustainability, and excellence. UCT is known for its strong academic programs, research initiatives, and commitment to social responsibility.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The provided context does not offer specific details about student life and campus experiences at UCT. However, it highlights the university's commitment to creating a supportive environment for students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

International Recognition:

UCT graduates hold qualifications that are recognized globally.

Social Justice Focus:

The university emphasizes values of engaged citizenship and social justice.

Research Excellence:

UCT is a leading research institution in Africa, contributing to new knowledge and addressing global challenges.

Sustainable Development Goals:

UCT is committed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and plays a critical role in addressing global challenges through research.

Transformative Initiatives:

UCT is actively involved in initiatives like the African Paediatric Fellowship Programme and the 100UP programme, which aim to address critical issues in healthcare and education access.

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Academic Programs:

The context mentions the university's commitment to generating new knowledge in, for, and from Africa. It also highlights specific research achievements, such as identifying a new heart-attack gene and a landmark restitution of human remains. However, it does not provide a detailed list of academic programs offered at UCT.

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Other:

UCT is ranked among the top 1.3% of universities worldwide by the Center for World University Rankings (CWUR). The university is actively involved in various initiatives to address global challenges, including climate change and healthcare access.