The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) academic impact is felt not only in South Africa but across the globe, through knowledge that drives innovation and creativity that solves real-world problems. Two visionaries, Regis Misheal Muchowe and Patience Mutsvairigwa, have been shaping lives, creating opportunities and building a better future through their doctoral research.
They were bestowed with their Degrees of Doctor of Philosophy in Management Sciences Specialising in Human Resource Management, at the DUT 2026 Autum Gradution ceremony, held at the Olive Convention Centre on Monday, 25 May 2026.
Dr Muchowe and Dr Mutsvairigwa have lived the DUT way, enhancing where the concept of adaptive graduates have come about with their amazing research.
Dr Muchowe’s research looked at motivational strategies for improved performance of multi-generational non-academic staff at a selected state university in Zimbabwe.
He explained that universities in Zimbabwe are facing challenges related to enrolment, service delivery, and declining revenue. “These challenges have partly been attributed to low levels of motivation among non-academic staff. This study aimed to investigate motivational strategies of multi-generational non-academic staff performance. It developed a framework for motivation and performance among multi-generational non-academic staff, using the Zimbabwe Open University as a case study,” he said.
Dr Muchow indicated that the study implies that universities should adopt differentiated motivational strategies for different generational cohorts. Specifically, universities should provide extrinsic motivators for Generation X, intrinsic motivators for Generation Z, and a combination of both intrinsic and extrinsic motivators for Generation Y,” he shared.
Continuing problem -solving, Dr Mutsvairigwa’s thesis contributes towards the improvement of the lives and livelihoods of the broader society.
Her dissertation focused on the framework for the training needs of writing centre staff supporting the development of postgraduate students at selected UOTS in KZN .
“The study highlights the transformative effect of well-trained tutors in enhancing postgraduate writing support and contributing to broader higher education goals. The insights and recommendations derived from this research provide a vital resource for fostering academic support excellence and empowering postgraduate students to maximise their potential,” she said.
The dynamic doctors who have adorned the academic gowns have showcased the power of education to changing lives. They have proven that the future will not be built by words alone but built by people who are willing to take responsibility, to act and to lead.
Pictured: Dr Regis Misheal Muchowe and Dr Patience Mutsvairigwa.
Waheeda Peters
