Mojaesi Violet Phejane, 35, is a senior learning designer at the The Centre for Teaching and Learning at the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein. She manages client relations; develops training materials, particularly around integrating technology into teaching and learning; plays a supervisory role and conducts research on best practices in blended online learning, as well as creating and managing staff and student training programmes. Mojaesi is on the executive committee of the National Association of Distance Education and Open Learning in South Africa, where she holds the social media and websites as well as the workshops and webinar portfolios. She sits on the faculty of theology and religion board. Mojaesi co-founded the Kutloanong Rehabilitation for Ex-Offenders organisation and is a reviewer for academic journals. She is the project lead for a technology learning management system tool called FeedbackFruits. “My passion lies in bridging the digital divide in online teaching and learning, fostering success in higher education. Through research, I aim to not only support institutional success but also address student access and success challenges,” she says. The advice she would give her younger self is that where you come from does not dictate where you will go.
Masters degree in Gender studies (with a distinction in research).
Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education, Basic South African Sign Language certificate.
BSoc.Sc Honors degree in Criminology, BSoc.Sc Human and Societal Dynamics degree, University of the Free State.
Certificate in Project Management and Leadership, Shaw Academy.
NQF level 5 Certificate in Assessor Training Course: Conduct Outcomes-Based Assessments.
NQF Level 6 Certificate in Moderator Training Course: Conduct Outcomes-Based Moderation, Leadership Institute & Everest Leadership.
NQF level 6 certificate in Workshop in Scientific Writing Skills for Academic Articles, Stellenbosch University.
My first achievement was called Finding Purpose Through Academic Voice. My first published research article in The Agenda was on the theme of “Prototypical Women and Social Justice”, and it marked a turning point in my academic journey. It ignited a passion for using research to empower marginalised women. My initial inspiration stemmed from the story of Reverend Ecclesia de Lange, a lesbian pastor ostracised by the Methodist Church. This highlighted the silencing of women, particularly those challenging societal norms. My research aimed to give voice to such women and advocate for their equal recognition within patriarchal structures, especially in leadership positions. The publication process underscored the importance of research, not just for knowledge dissemination, but also for effecting social change. Academic writing should not only reflect existing scholarship but also articulate the rationale behind the research — its potential to impact lives and inspire change. Furthermore, my experience highlights the importance of reclaiming silenced voices. It’s never too late for dedication and hard work to empower individuals to reclaim their voices and challenge the status quo.
My first role model is my sister Mmatsie Mooki, who grew up in unfavourable conditions and fought to make something of herself through education. She is always encouraging and supporting me on my academic and professional journey. Her support and encouragement have taught me that coming from poverty does not dictate where you go and does not limit your dreams of success. My master’s supervisor Dr Juliet Kamwendo was the reason behind my dissertation being a powerful tool for advocacy. She has supported me in supervising my work as well as encouraging me to always become the best version of me. My mentor, Professor Lynette Jacobs, is the woman behind my academic writing inspiration. She has mentored me in learning how to write and advocate for minorities as well as bring change in the lives of the young girls looking up to me.