The Research and Postgraduate Support Unit at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) proudly hosted the Institutional Research Ethics Committee (IREC) Reviewers Awards Ceremony, celebrating peer reviewers who uphold research excellence and ethical integrity. The event was held at the DUT Hotel School Conference Centre, Ritson Campus, Durban, on Tuesday, 17 February 2026.
In his welcome remarks, IREC Chairperson and DUT Business School Director, Professor Pfano Mashau, highlighted that last year the committee received a large volume of applications, with the number tripling compared to 2024.
“There is a clear message from the university community: researchers now feel confident engaging with the committee. Our improved turnaround times reflect this trust, and it is exciting to see more people actively involved in research. It is important to start the year by celebrating last year’s achievements,” said Prof Mashau, extending his appreciation to all IREC members. He added that by December 2025, all proposals had been reviewed and shared plans to recruit more members and host Peer Review Workshops to further improve review turnaround times.
Distinguished guests at the IREC Reviewers Awards Ceremony.
The Interim Director: Research and Postgraduate Support, Dr Nomcebo Mthombeni, commended the reviewers for their often unseen yet essential work. She noted that their meticulous assessments strengthen the quality of academic research and reinforce DUT’s commitment to responsible innovation and societal impact in alignment with the ENVISION2030 strategy.
“Thank you for ensuring that the entire research ecosystem operates smoothly. Your commitment is evident in your turnaround times and reflects DUT’s core values. We hope your dedication inspires others. Change is never easy, but this committee has embraced it, demonstrating the excellence we can all aspire to,” said Dr Mthombeni.
The Deputy Chairperson of IREC and Head of the Department of Radiography, Prof Thandokuhle Khoza, shared that in 2025, IREC reviewed 767 proposals, a significant increase from 330 in 2024 and 247 in 2023. By the third and fourth quarters, backlogs had been cleared. Strengthened governance and process optimisation led to faster decisions, higher completion rates, and improved compliance. Challenges included increased submission volumes and varying review availability across faculties, but IREC staff demonstrated strong adaptability and commitment.
“To address these challenges, we plan to strengthen administrative capacity, recruit additional reviewers per faculty, and host Reviewer Training Workshops to improve consistency and quality. Structured mechanisms will streamline workflow and turnaround times, and all meetings in 2026 will be in-person to enhance engagement and effectiveness,” explained Prof Khoza.
Sharing her excitement as the IREC Top Reviewer, Dr Itumeleng Maome, lecturer in the Department of Entrepreneurial Studies and Management, said: “I never anticipated receiving this recognition. It required sacrifices, including early mornings to review proposals, but I am grateful for the acknowledgement of my efforts.” In addition to supervising Master’s and PhD students, Dr Maome remains committed to contributing to IREC.
In closing, Prof Mashau applauded all reviewers and committee members for their outstanding contributions. He noted that although his personal publication count has decreased since taking office, it gives him great satisfaction to see DUT researchers thriving and making a meaningful societal impact through their research.
The awards ceremony served as a celebration of dedication and a reaffirmation of DUT’s research culture, grounded in accountability, transparency, and academic excellence. By recognising IREC reviewers, DUT continues to foster a research ecosystem built on integrity and societal impact.
Pictured: IREC Chairperson and DUT Business School Director, Professor Pfano Mashau with the IREC Top Reviewer, Dr Itumeleng Maome, who is a lecturer in the Department of Entrepreneurial Studies and Management.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile.
Simangele Zuma
