Languages: 
A pair of senior academics from WSU’s Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (FEBEIT) has been recently selected to two different editorial positions of what’s shaping up to be one of the country’s most important academic publications in recent times.
Stints of great consequence lie in wait for FEBEIT executive dean, Prof Wellington Didibhuku Thwala and his fellow faculty academic, Built Environment departmental head, Dr Nokulunga Mashwama after the duo were selected as both an editorial advisory board member and deputy editor of the newly-established Development Bank of Southern Africa’s (DBSA) African Journal of Infrastructure Development (DAJID).
“This journal aims to serve as a pre-eminent platform for scholarly discourse, presenting cutting-edge research and analytical insights into the complexities of infrastructure development in the African context. It aspires to bridge the gap between theory and practice, fostering a multidisciplinary dialogue that spans economics, urban planning, engineering, environmental science, finance and public policy, “said Twala.
Affirming the importance of the publication, Prof Thwala further elaborated, saying that the journal is dedicated to examining the multifaceted nature of infrastructure projects, from conceptualization to implementation, including the evaluation of economic impacts, the exploration of innovative financing mechanisms and the assessment of sustainability and governance practice.
Following her appointment, Dr Mashwama has welcomed the challenge with open hands, most notably because it aligns quite “perfectly“ with her academic expertise and passion for interdisciplinary research and problem-solving.
“I feel incredibly honoured and excited about this appointment. It's an opportunity to contribute to a vital discourse on infrastructure development in Africa, a region with immense potential and challenges. This is a chance for me to engage with diverse perspectives, collaborate with experts across various fields and make meaningful contributions to addressing infrastructure gaps and promoting sustainable development,“ she said.
Mashwama, a qualified Professional Candidate Quantity Surveyor, boasts an impressive academic track record in the areas of infrastructure development, built environment and cost monitoring – a record she would argue renders her equal to the task.
“My research background, publication, and contributions to the field have demonstrated my ability to tackle complex issues and generate insights that can inform policy and practice. Additionally, my interdisciplinary approach and collaborative spirit make me well-suited for a role that requires bridging the gap between theory and practice, as well as engaging with diverse stakeholders, “she said.
Dr Mashwama, in her conclusion, noted the importance of academics in being appointed into such bodies and organisations and participating in the subsequent projects.
She said: “It's crucial for academics to serve in positions like this because it allows us to bridge the gap between theory and practice and ensure that our research has real-world relevance and impact. By actively participating in policy discussions, collaborating with practitioners, and disseminating our findings to a broader audience, we can help shape more informed and effective decision-making processes. “
The first ever issue of DAJID was published on 8 April 2024.
By Thando Cezula
