Dissertation defence (Computer Science): MSc Maria Ndapewa Ntinda
Time
28.2.2025 at 12.00 - 16.00
MSc Maria Ndapewa Ntinda defends the dissertation in Computer Science titled “ENHANCING PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCIES OF SOFTWARE ENGINEERING STUDENTS IN A DEVELOPING COUNTRY CONTEXT: A Design Science Approach” at the University of Turku on 28 February 2025 at 12.00 (University of Turku, Natura, Lecture Hall X, Turku).
Opponent: Professor Johannes Cronjé (Cape Peninsula University of Technology, South Africa)
Custos: Professor Erkki Sutinen (University of Turku)
The audience can participate in the defence by remote access: https://utu.zoom.us/j/61524855293
Doctoral Dissertation at UTUPub: https://urn.fi/URN:ISBN:978-952-02-0061-9
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Summary of the Doctoral Dissertation:
The job market is changing rapidly due to new technology, the shift towards greener solutions, and economic trends. As a result, employers now expect graduates to have both technical skills and practical experience. However, many universities, especially in the Global South, still focus on theoretical learning rather than hands-on training. This gap leaves many graduates unprepared for the workplace. My research explores how computing education in Namibia can be improved to better equip students for real-world jobs. The study was conducted in two phases. First, I examined how collaboration with an international university, the University of Turku in Finland, could enhance computing education in Namibia. The University of Turku’s satellite campus in Windhoek played a crucial role in integrating learning, teaching, project work, research, and innovation to enhance software engineering (SE) skills among students. Second, I looked at how partnerships between local software companies and universities could provide students with practical learning opportunities.
The findings reveal significant skill gaps among students. Many lack both technical (hard) skills and workplace (soft) skills, making it difficult for them to transition into employment. The study highlights the need for universities to move away from purely knowledge-based teaching and adopt competency-based learning, students gain hands-on experience. Stronger partnerships between universities and the software industry can ensure that students develop skills that align with real job requirements. Additionally, integrating entrepreneurship training into the curriculum would empower students to not only seek jobs but also create their own businesses. This research is particularly important in Namibia, unemployment remains a major challenge. By making education more practical and industry-focused, we can give students a better chance at securing jobs or even launching their own startups. The study emphasises that universities must rethink their teaching methods, and companies must collaborate with educators to build a skilled workforce that meets the demands of the job market. Ultimately, bridging the gap between education and industry will help create more opportunities for graduates and contribute to economic growth.
Opponent: Professor Johannes Cronjé (Cape Peninsula University of Technology, South Africa)
Custos: Professor Erkki Sutinen (University of Turku)
The audience can participate in the defence by remote access: https://utu.zoom.us/j/61524855293
Doctoral Dissertation at UTUPub: https://urn.fi/URN:ISBN:978-952-02-0061-9
***
Summary of the Doctoral Dissertation:
The job market is changing rapidly due to new technology, the shift towards greener solutions, and economic trends. As a result, employers now expect graduates to have both technical skills and practical experience. However, many universities, especially in the Global South, still focus on theoretical learning rather than hands-on training. This gap leaves many graduates unprepared for the workplace. My research explores how computing education in Namibia can be improved to better equip students for real-world jobs. The study was conducted in two phases. First, I examined how collaboration with an international university, the University of Turku in Finland, could enhance computing education in Namibia. The University of Turku’s satellite campus in Windhoek played a crucial role in integrating learning, teaching, project work, research, and innovation to enhance software engineering (SE) skills among students. Second, I looked at how partnerships between local software companies and universities could provide students with practical learning opportunities.
The findings reveal significant skill gaps among students. Many lack both technical (hard) skills and workplace (soft) skills, making it difficult for them to transition into employment. The study highlights the need for universities to move away from purely knowledge-based teaching and adopt competency-based learning, students gain hands-on experience. Stronger partnerships between universities and the software industry can ensure that students develop skills that align with real job requirements. Additionally, integrating entrepreneurship training into the curriculum would empower students to not only seek jobs but also create their own businesses. This research is particularly important in Namibia, unemployment remains a major challenge. By making education more practical and industry-focused, we can give students a better chance at securing jobs or even launching their own startups. The study emphasises that universities must rethink their teaching methods, and companies must collaborate with educators to build a skilled workforce that meets the demands of the job market. Ultimately, bridging the gap between education and industry will help create more opportunities for graduates and contribute to economic growth.
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