Dr Solomon Oupa Makola, Campus Director at CUT’s Welkom campus, became one of the eight award recipients at the 20th congress of the Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA), attended by over 800 delegates in Durban recently. Dr Mokola walked away with two top awards. 

The Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA) is the professional body representing psychology professionals in South Africa. Founded in 1994, the congress, celebrated its 20th anniversary that coincided with South Africa’s 20 years of democracy. Dr Makola’s first award was received for good practice. His hard work and dedication paid off when he was applauded for the role and impact he made on practice and community engagement. In his effort to make psychological knowledge accessible to a wider South African audience, he went the extra mile and conducted psycho-educational work on radio and social media. The second award he received was presented by the Counselling Division of PsySSA for an outstanding Counselling Psychologist who has raised above his/her peers. PsySSA also presented its annual national awards to individuals and groups who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence in various fields of psychological work. 

Other recipients includes,  Prof. Sumaya Laher, for Teaching Excellence; Professors Anthony Pillar, Basil Pillay, and JB Schoeman, for Mentoring and Development; Prof. Kobus Maree, for Science; Dr Ann Watts, for Lifetime Achievement; and Prof. Anthony Pillay, for Public Service.  Dr Makola also chaired a conference slot on community psychology, and presented a research paper titled: ‘Sense of Meaning and Study Persistence and Perseverance in an Institution of Higher Learning in South Africa’.