7 things PhD candidates should know about the new Wits Doctoral Academy
- Wits University
The programme is more than just an academic opportunity—it’s a transformative journey that recognises that academics have lives outside their research.
On 17 March 2025, Wits launched an initiative designed to enhance the doctoral experience. This new programme provides PhD candidates with structured academic guidance, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a strong focus on student well-being. By offering a supportive and well-resourced environment, it aims to transform the way research is conducted and experienced at the University. For PhD candidates looking to join, here are seven key things to know about the Wits Doctoral Academy:
- A cohort-based model for PhD support
Doctoral studies can often feel isolating, but this academy is here to create a structured, community-driven environment where students journey together through their PhDs. It ensures that candidates have the necessary academic and emotional support throughout their research.
“As part of the inaugural cohort of the Doctoral Academy, I’m looking forward to exploring and journeying through writing my PhD, well-being, and the overall PhD experience. This programme is addressing all the different angles that I was really nervous about coming into PhD. It’s well-designed and valuable.” said, Thokozile Madonko, a PhD candidate from Humanities.
- Cross-disciplinary conversations and collaboration
The academy fosters interdisciplinary engagement, where PhD candidates from different faculties share insights, challenge each other’s perspectives, and enrich their research through discussions that go beyond their fields.
Dhruti Dheda, a PhD candidate from the School of Electrical and Information Engineering, spoke about the impact of this approach,
"I’m excited to be part of this. One of the things that excites me the most is cross-disciplinary discussions and concepts, and just speaking to lots of different people. As an engineer, this makes me think about the social impact of my work and how I can work with communities to co-create solutions that will benefit them positively and also impact my research”
- A structured pathway for PhD progression
Wits Doctoral Academy helps students navigate the three major phases of their doctoral journey:
- Year 1: Writing a research proposal that answers compelling and meaningful questions.
- Year 2: Conducting fieldwork, laboratory research, or archival studies with ethical and methodological rigor.
- Year 3+: Communicating research effectively through publications, conferences, and ultimately, the final thesis and Viva examination.
- Research that connects to the real world
This initiative is not just about academic study—it encourages applied research that addresses real-world problems. Whether in engineering, humanities, or the sciences, students are equipped to engage with communities, industry, and policymakers to ensure their work has a tangible impact.
- Developing essential academic and professional skills
PhD students will gain skills that extend beyond research, including:
- Writing for both academic and public audiences.
- Presenting research in high-impact conferences.
- Ethical research practices.
- Networking and professional development opportunities.
- Access to world-class infrastructure and mentorship
The academy provides candidates with:
- Dedicated research spaces to foster productivity.
- Cutting-edge technology and resources to support research needs.
- Guidance from top scholars and industry experts, creating opportunities for collaboration.
- A holistic approach to student well-being
Speaking at the Doctoral Academy launch, Professor Lynn Morris, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Innovation, said,
“The programme recognises that PhD candidates have lives outside their research. It prioritises mental health, work-life balance, and personal development, ensuring students have the support they need to succeed academically without burnout.”
By creating an integrated, well-supported doctoral experience, this initiative is set to increase PhD completion rates, enhance research impact, and produce future leaders in academia and industry.
“For PhD candidates at Wits, this programme is more than just an academic opportunity—it’s a transformative journey that shapes the next generation of researchers,” said Morris.