Dr Moabi Saul Kompi’s doctoral journey stands as a testament to perseverance and unwavering dedication to academic excellence. As an nGAP Lecturer under Phase 2 and a member of the programme’s inaugural cohort since its inception in 2016–2017, his accomplishment marks not only personal success but also the fulfilment of a long-term vision shaped by dedication and sacrifice.

The New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP) is a prestigious programme under the Department of Higher Education and Training (the Department) which involves the recruitment of highly capable scholars as new academics.

On 20 March 2026, Dr Kompi was conferred with a PhD in Information Technology by the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) Welkom Campus, completing his doctoral studies and formally exiting the nGAP Programme after fulfilling the required six years, along with an additional two years of plough-back service as stipulated by the programme’s Standard Operating Procedure. His achievement reflects years of focused effort, discipline, and a steadfast belief in the value of education and innovation.

His research contributed meaningfully to the field of Information Technology through the development of a Smartness Assessment Framework designed to evaluate the readiness of South African municipalities to transition into smart cities. By integrating digital solutions, sustainability, and community-driven approaches, his work not only addressed real-world challenges in waste management and service delivery but also demonstrated the transformative role of technology in improving the quality of life.

Kompi’s journey, however, was not without its challenges. Balancing academic responsibilities with professional demands required constant adaptation, while personal hardships, including the devastating loss of his home to a fire, tested his mental and emotional strength. Despite these setbacks, Dr Kompi remained resolute, drawing motivation from his aspirations and the support of his academic network, mentors, and peers. His ability to endure and rise above these obstacles speaks to the depth of his determination.

Throughout his doctoral journey, the nGAP Programme played a pivotal role in supporting his development by providing resources such as dedicated research time, financial assistance, mentorship opportunities, and access to academic workshops and conferences. While the programme faced initial structural challenges in its early phases, its evolution into a more coordinated and supportive system ultimately contributed to his success.

Today, Dr Kompi’s achievement is more than the completion of a degree, it is a celebration of perseverance, growth, and purpose. His journey serves as an inspiration to current and future nGAP scholars, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, persistence and belief in one’s goals can lead to extraordinary outcomes. As he steps forward into the next phase of his academic career, he carries with him not only knowledge and expertise but also a powerful story of resilience that will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.