Dr. Harry Moongela | Social Media and Organizational Learning| Young Scientist Award

Doctorate at University of Pretoria, South Africa

Harry Moongela is a seasoned academic and IT professional with a PhD in Information Technology from the University of Pretoria, specializing in the development of social media-supported organizational learning frameworks. With a solid foundation in Information Systems from Rhodes University and Computer Science & IT from the University of Namibia, he has cultivated a robust research portfolio focused on social media in education, organizational learning, and the impact of AI in higher education. He has held various academic roles, including Postdoctoral Fellow and Lecturer, and has published extensively in reputable journals and conferences. His work is driven by a passion for leveraging ICT to solve complex organizational challenges and enhance educational outcomes.

Publication Profile

Scopus

 

🎓 Education

PhD. Information Technology University of Pretoria (2019-2022). Thesis: Towards the Development of a Social Media-Supported Organisational Learning Framework. Supervisor: Professor Marie Hattingh. MSc. Information Systems Rhodes University (2015-2017) Thesis: Students’ Perceptions Towards the Influences of Social Media on Students’ Academic Engagement. Supervisor: John McNeill Honours.  BSc. Computer Science & Information Technology University of Namibia (2010-2013) Thesis: UNAM Web-Based Portal Advert Placing System Supervisor: Dr. Victoria Hasheela-Mufeti

🏅 Professional Memberships

• Member of the Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (IITPSA)

🏆 Awards

Best IT Student (2010-2013), University of Namibia. DAAD Scholarship (2015-2016), Rhodes University. Best Postgraduate Student (2017), Rhodes University. Doctoral Scholarship (2019-2021), University of Pretoria. National Research Foundation Doctoral Scholarship (2020-2022)

💻 Technical Training

Cisco CCNA 1, 2, 3, 4 Certificates (University of Namibia, 2014). Certificate in Basic Telkom Network (Huawei University, 2013). Ampion Venture Bus of Entrepreneurs in Southern Africa (2014). Future Africa Futures Literacy Masterclass (Future Africa University of Pretoria, 2023)

🧑‍🏫 Academic Employment

Postdoctoral Fellow – Informatics Department, University of Pretoria (Apr 2024 – Mar 2026). Lecturer and Module Coordinator – IT Department, Eduvos PHEI (Feb 2024 – Dec 2024). Postdoctoral Fellow – Informatics Department, University of Pretoria (Feb 2023 – Jan 2024). Course Coordinator – Informatics Department, University of Pretoria (Feb 2023 – Dec 2023). Assistant Lecturer – Informatics Department, University of Pretoria (Apr 2021 – Dec 2022)

🏢 Professional Employment

Graduate Developer – Derivco Pty Ltd (Feb 2020 – Dec 2020). IT Consultant – Kanuga Auto Parts SA (Oct 2019 – Nov 2019). Web Developer – The Filtershop Pty Ltd (Oct 2018 – Jan 2020). IT Technician – The Notebook Company (Mar 2018 – May 2018)

📚 Research Areas and Publications

Harry Moongela’s research spans social media in tertiary institutions, organizational learning through social media, ICT in government policy, and AI in higher education. His work aims to produce high-quality, publishable research that benefits both private businesses and public organizations.

🛠️ Research Projects

Research Assistant – BRICS-ICT Alliance for Smart Resource Utilisation to Combat Global Pandemic Outbreaks (Feb 2023 – Jan 2024). Research Assistant – Generative AI in supporting the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students (April 2024 – March 2026)

🏐 Extra-Curricular Activities

Sports: Played for Sniper FC (UNAM Football Internal League, 2013), Rhodes University Volleyball Club Member (2015), University of Pretoria Volleyball Club (2023). Clubs: Rhodes University Rifle Club (2015-2016), University of Pretoria Karate Club (2019), Tennis Club (2022-2024), Golf Club (2023)

🏆 Assessment for the Research for Young Scientist Award 🏆

Strengths for the Award:

Diverse Research Portfolio: Harry Moongela has demonstrated a strong research focus on the intersection of social media and organizational learning, which is highly relevant in today’s digitally connected world. His work also extends to AI applications in education, ICT’s role in government policy, and pandemic response, showcasing versatility and a forward-thinking approach. Academic Excellence: With multiple scholarships, including the prestigious DAAD and National Research Foundation Doctoral Scholarships, Harry has consistently demonstrated academic excellence. His recognition as the Best Postgraduate Student at Rhodes University further underscores his dedication and capability. Publication Record: Harry has an impressive list of peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. His research has been published in reputable journals and presented at notable conferences, highlighting his contribution to the field. Practical Impact: Beyond theoretical research, Harry’s involvement in projects like the BRICS-ICT Alliance and the Generative AI initiative shows his commitment to applying research to solve real-world problems, particularly in healthcare and education. Leadership and Community Engagement: His roles as a research assistant and reviewer for academic journals, along with his active involvement in community service, demonstrate leadership and a commitment to giving back to society.

Areas for Improvement:

Broaden Research Impact: While Harry’s research is impactful, expanding his research to include more interdisciplinary approaches or collaborating with international institutions could further enhance the global relevance of his work. Industry Collaboration: Strengthening ties with the industry could provide additional practical applications for his research, especially in developing innovative solutions that bridge the gap between academia and the private sector. Enhanced Visibility: To increase the visibility and impact of his research, Harry could focus on publishing in high-impact journals and participating in more international conferences, particularly those outside of South Africa.

Publications: