Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy towards Women’s Development
As the country celebrates Women's Month, the Department of Science and Innovation is proud to introduce the phenomenal women scientists and researchers who are finalists in its annual South African Women in Science Awards.
Meet Prof. Sisanda Nkoala, a finalist in the Humanities and Social Sciences – Distinguished Young Woman Researchers category.
Prof. Nkoala is a distinguished researcher and leader in rhetoric and media studies. Prof Nkoala is vice-president of the South African Communications Association and secretary-general of the African Journalism Educators' Network. Her expertise has led to various significant roles, including vice chair of the Media Education Research Section of the International Association of Media and Communications Research, the Board of Brand South Africa, and the Film and Publications Board Tribunal. She has also been a visiting scholar at North Carolina State University and trained AU Media Fellows.
Prof. Nkoala holds a Y2 rating from the NRF and has authored over 30 peer-reviewed publications in leading international journals. She has presented at more than 30 conferences, securing over R1 million in research grants. Her research primarily focuses on rhetoric, media, and digital technologies, with an emphasis on using digital tools for social engagement, multilingualism in journalism education, and the impact of technology on traditional media. She is dedicated to decolonising knowledge production and has received several awards for her work on digitising the Early South African Black Press texts.
Prof. Nkoala leads a multi-country research project titled "Bridging the Academic-Journalistic Gap in African Media: A Multi-Case Study" and a multi-state research project titled "An Underexplored Interplay: Emotions and Radio News in Africa". These projects examine the relationship between academic research and journalistic practice in Africa and the interplay of radio, emotions and news in the African context.
A former award-winning journalist, Prof. Nkoala now serves as a public representative on the South African Press Council and is a member of the Education and Training Committee of the South African National Editors' Forum. She is committed to community engagement and has organised numerous workshops and webinars on media ethics, science communication, and inclusivity in South African news media. Her expertise has led to interviews with various media outlets, including the SABC, Cape Talk, Radio 702, Sunday Times, and Newzroom Afrika.
