Dr. Nolwazi M.R Qumbisa through her research project on A multi-level framework for evaluating the functionality, sustainability and affordability performance of IBT-enabled affordable housing in South Africa, was awarded the DHET University Staff Doctoral Programme: Junior Research Fellowship, aimed at supporting grant recipients over a maximum period of two years to increase their research productivity.

During the fellowship, Dr Qumbisa will conduct research aimed at developing a multi-level evaluation framework to assess the functionality, sustainability, and affordability of housing enabled by Innovative Building Technologies (IBTs) in South Africa.

The research is driven by the urgent need to address housing shortages, rapid urbanisation, and the growing impact of climate change on vulnerable communities. The study will integrate stakeholder perspectives, including those of residents, policymakers, and developers to identify satisfaction drivers and key performance indicators. Through a mixed-methods approach involving systematic literature review, expert panels using the Delphi method, real-world case studies, and focus group discussions, the research will generate a robust framework tailored to the South African context.

When elaborating on her research study, Dr Qumbisa said the framework will serve as a practical, evidence-based tool for evaluating IBT-enabled housing solutions, promoting informed decision-making and greater societal acceptance of these technologies. She added that it will further support the university’s research strategy by aligning with national and global development goals, particularly the National Development Plan (NDP) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “This project contributes to CUT’s focus on digital innovation and sustainable infrastructure by advancing knowledge within the Centre for Sustainable SMART Cities and Construction Technology cluster. Ultimately, the research will strengthen our role in shaping inclusive, sustainable, and technologically advanced human settlements in South Africa,” she said.

Dr. Nolwazi M.R Qumbisa is a lecturer and the Head of Department in the Built Environment Department, Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology. Her principal research interest lies in affordable housing, sustainable human settlements, urban development, construction education focused on inclusive education and internationalisation.  She holds a Doctorate in Construction Management from Nelson Mandela University. The subject of her doctoral degree research was on alternative housing solutions in South Africa with a primary focus on self-help housing. She is an associate Human Settlement Practitioner recognised with the Institute of Human Settlement Practitioners South Africa (IHSP-SA). Additionally, she holds a position on the IHSP-SA Board of Directors as the Secretary of the Academics Forum.

Uploaded: 12 May 2025