Durban University of Technology (DUT) lecturers Ewell Xaba, Cleopatra Matli and Tessa Reddy from the Department of Marketing in the Faculty of Management Sciences, made significant academic contributions as key representatives of South Africa, at the recently concluded 9th World Conference on Media and Mass Communication 2024 (MEDCOM 2024) in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
The trio formed part of more than 100 international researchers representing at least 75 universities from more than 25 countries participating in the prestigious hybrid international gathering organised by the International Institute of Knowledge Management (TIIKM) and aimed at fostering global dialogue and collaboration in the media and communication fields.
The DUT delegation represented the country and the institution well as they were awarded for their significant contributions. They received a token of appreciation for being a strategic partner, with Xaba being recognised as the Country Coordinator for South Africa while Matli won the award for Most Engagement on Social Media, and Reddy received an award for Best Oral Presentation in the Social Media category. Xaba also successfully chaired a session online, as he did not attend the conference in person.
The conference sought to advance research, share best practices, and explore the latest trends and challenges while creating opportunities for networking and partnerships among academics, industry professionals, and policymakers. The delegation engaged in various activities, including presenting research papers in person and online, participating in panel discussions, and attending keynote sessions.
Speaking on behalf of her team, Reddy said the participation of DUT in MEDCOM 2024 was to enhance their academic and professional engagement in the global media and communication landscape and that the overall experience was enriching and provided valuable insights and opportunities for professional growth.
“The successful participation in MEDCOM 2024 is a source of pride for DUT and its delegates and will have significant benefits for the institution, particularly the Faculty of Management Sciences. It will enhance the faculty’s academic reputation, foster international research collaborations, and provide students and staff with exposure to global best practices in media and communication,” said Reddy.
She applauded Xaba’s role as the Country Coordinator for South Africa and acknowledged the contribution of DUT’s internationalisation efforts and ENVISION2030 goals in their participation.
“Xaba was instrumental in facilitating this engagement. His leadership and coordination efforts were crucial in ensuring that DUT’s participation was impactful and well-organised,” she said.
“Our participation contributes to DUT’s internationalisation efforts by establishing global academic connections and collaborations and aligns with DUT ENVISION2030 goals by promoting academic excellence, enhancing research capabilities, and fostering a global perspective among students and staff,” said Reddy.
She added that after the successful participation of Xaba, in MEDCOM 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand, and given the positive outcomes in 2024, the Department plans to continue contributing to future conferences, establishing a long-term presence and influence in the global media and communication community.
Pictured: DUT’s Tessa Reddy and Cleopatra Matli are excited recipients of awards at the 9th World Conference on Media and Mass Communication 2024.
Zandile Mahlabo
