Dr Xolani Khohliso, Director: Curriculum and Academic Staff Development (CASD) and Head of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL), at the 12^th International Conference on Education (ICEDU) held in Bali.

The Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) is celebrating a significant international achievement by Dr Xolani Khohliso, Director of the Curriculum and Academic Staff Development (CASD) Unit and Head of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL), following his outstanding participation at the 12^th International Conference on Education (ICEDU) held in Bali, Indonesia, from 26-28 March 2026.

Dr Khohliso presented a paper titled “Amplifying Student Voice as a Curriculum Practice through Artificial Intelligence in a South African University of Technology,” which earned him the prestigious Best Paper Presentation Award. The recognition highlights his scholarly astuteness and continued contribution to advancing curriculum innovation and pedagogical research within the higher education sector.

The award is noteworthy as it reflects both the relevance and methodological rigor of his work, which situates student voice not merely as feedback, but as an embedded curriculum practice enhanced through the strategic use of artificial intelligence. His research aligns strongly with contemporary discourses on curriculum transformation, epistemic access, and the integration of emerging technologies in teaching and learning.

Dr Khohliso’s recent research trajectory further reinforces this achievement. In 2025 alone, he published more than ten scholarly articles both as a sole author and in collaboration with mentees and colleagues. In 2026, he has already published one paper, with three additional manuscripts accepted and currently in press.

Reflecting on the recognition, Dr Khohliso noted that the award serves as a meaningful morale boost, as ICEDU marked his first conference engagement for 2026.

Beyond presenting his research, he leveraged the global platform to promote the university’s SoTL conference (the 12th Annual International SoTL Conference), scheduled to take place from 7-9 October 2026. In his capacity as Chair of the conference, he extended invitations to international colleagues and scholars to participate in this growing platform for scholarly exchange and pedagogical innovation.

Abstract submissions for the conference are currently open and will close on 9 May 2026, in line with the official Call for Abstracts for 12th International Conference on SoTL