Wits Library Staff Publications
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Item Academic Libraries as Catalysts: Amplifying Research Visibility and SDGs Impact in South African Higher Education(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025-09) Matizirofa, Lazarus GallantLibraries are no longer just repositories - they are strategic enablers of research excellence. In the context of South Africa’s development goals and global SDGs, libraries play a pivotal role in shaping research visibility and societal impact.Item Positioning Data Ethics within the Wits Graduate Online Learning and Development (GOLD) RDM Strategy at the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025-09) Matizirofa, Lazarus Gallant; Selematsela, DaisyThis presentation explores the integration of data ethics into the Research Data Management (RDM) Framework strategy at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), South Africa. The case study focuses on the rollout of the Wits Graduate Online Learning and Development (GOLD) Programme, aimed at promoting Open and FAIR Data Principles among postgraduate students in alignment with the Wits RDM policy. The study sought to influence the development, adoption, and implementation of the RDM Framework as a strategic tool to enhance the submission of Data Management Plans (DMPs) and research datasets supporting theses and dissertations. Using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model, data was collected through a mixed-methods approach from master's and doctoral students across five faculties: Health Sciences, Education, Science, Commerce, Law, and Engineering and the Built Environment. Key findings will be used to facilitate conditions (FC), performance expectancy (PE), digital skills, and social influence (SI) which should significantly shape students’ understanding and engagement with RDM principles. The study will also identify the roles of various stakeholders in the RDM research cycle and highlighted the tools and skills necessary for successful implementation of the university’s RDM framework. Analysis of questionnaire and interview data will be collected online and facilitated by faculty librarians. This survey will be used to gather information and give a comprehensive review of the Wits RDM policy and its impact on postgraduate studies at the University of Witwatersrand. Recommendations would include the development of a robust roadmap for faculty-level RDM activities, investment in infrastructure, and enhanced support for library-led RDM initiatives and Research Commons Hub services. In conclusion, the study seeks to underscores the importance of equipping postgraduate students with RDM competencies and fostering a culture of open data sharing. It advocates for continuous RDM education and policy-driven alignment of RDM practices, particularly data ethics, Open Data FAIR/CARE Principles before the thesis/dissertation and datasets submissions to the institutional open repositories. This will also establish the library’s Scholarly Communication division if positioned as a key driver in advancing the postgraduate research cycle through the formulation and implementation of a sustainable RDM framework in the University.Item South African HE Libraries as Catalysts for SDG Impact: Strategies for Access, Collaboration, and Societal Engagement(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025-08) Matizirofa, Lazarus GallantHigher Education Institutions (HEIs), libraries, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a nexus where innovation meets purpose.Item Wits Libraries - Research Visibility and Open Scholarship(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025-08) Mphuti, BongiNot available.Item The Analytics of Global Impact of Wits Research Datasets(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025-07) Mphuti, BongiNot available.Item Implementation of the Wits Data Vault (repository) as part of ensuring digital cooperation: a case of the Wits University(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025-07) Matizirofa, Lazarus Gallant; Selematsela, DaisyAt the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), several challenges hinder effective Research Data Management (RDM), particularly in the life sciences and postgraduate research domains. Here are the key issues identified: 1. Lack of a Formal RDM Policy 2. Limited Awareness and Training 3. Infrastructure Gaps 4. Data Format and Integration Challenges 5. Fragmented Support Services 6. Need for Cultural Change 7. Digital Skills Gaps and 8. Security and Privacy Risks Fears.Item State of Johannesburg City Archives(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2025-06) Wits Archives; Wits Historical Papers; Wits LibrariesStacks of files piled floor on the hidden in darkness welcome to the Johannesburg city archives as the City of Johannesburg prepares to host the g20 summit in November status the of its buildings and infrastructure into sharp have come focus suddenly it's time up to clean which is ironic because the plans to rejuvenate needed the city stored in the centre behind metro me are in a state absolute of chaos we were sent these videos pictures and by a source they show state the shocking of an archive held by the Joburg municipality at the metro centre in Braamfontein been in vain. Gabriele Mohale is an archivist of Historical Papers at Wits university looking at metro centre how the building has been dealt with and the archives there. How would she think affects governance in the City of Johannesburg, they know what they records have in terms of if they get enquiries to write if they have reports accountable if they have to be for mismanagement of this and that archives provide evidence to our activities. The Wits Archive is well looked after with controlled access and monitored by smoke detectors for early fire warning. Gabriele Mohale shows architectural drawings are meant to be stored in a traditional way of storing large format items.