Tawanda W. Mataka
Durban
Summary
Research Fellow at University of KwaZulu-Natal with expertise in data analysis and project management. Proven record mentoring students and supporting curriculum development. Known for analytical problem-solving and clear communication that improves research execution.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Research Fellow
University of KwaZulu Natal
09.2025 - Current
- Conducted comprehensive research and data analysis to inform strategic planning decisions.
- Analyzed quantitative data using statistical software to identify environmental trends.
- Maintained accurate experiment records to enhance reproducibility and reference for future studies.
- Mentored undergraduate students on laboratory techniques to enhance skill development.
- Developed innovative solutions that enhanced project outcomes and facilitated team collaboration.
- Completed daily duties efficiently, ensuring operational excellence across all tasks.
- Utilized various software and tools to streamline processes and optimize performance.
- Achieved cost-savings by developing functional solutions to problems.
- Managed time effectively to ensure timely completion of tasks and adherence to project deadlines.
Postdoctoral Fellow
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
10.2025 - 09.2026
- Analyzed data using statistical software to support research initiatives effectively.
- Presented findings at academic conferences to share insights with peers.
- Collaborated with faculty to develop innovative teaching materials and methods.
- Assisted in mentoring undergraduate students in research methodologies and techniques.
External Examiner, for (a MA thesis)
Rhodes University
01.2023 - 01.2026
- Conducted assessments of student submissions for academic integrity.
- Assisted in the development of assessment criteria and guidelines.
- Provided feedback for continuous improvement of assessment methods.
- Performed quality assurance reviews on completed claims ensuring accuracy of documentation.
Senior Lecturer (Applied Linguistics) - Language and Social Education Department (LASED)
National University of Lesotho
01.2020 - 01.2025
- Taught Research and Academic Literacy Writing module to postgraduate (MA and Ph.D.) students
- Taught Applied Linguistics, and Educational Linguistics to postgraduate (MA) students
- Taught Curriculum and Teaching of English Language to postgraduate (MA) students
- Taught students enrolled in Post Graduate Diploma in Education: Curriculum Studies in English Language
- Taught Advanced English Language Education
- Taught B.Ed. in English Language Teaching Year 2 and 4 students
- Tutored Year 4 B.Ed. in Language and Social Education students, enhancing their understanding of key concepts
- Supervised post-graduate (MA and Ph.D.) students' research projects on various topics
- Supervised 13 MA students through completion of their research projects, fostering their academic growth and research capabilities
- Guided postgraduate students in developing research skills and thesis writing techniques in 2021.
- Contributed to curriculum development and reform initiatives for postgraduate (MA and Ph.D.) programs, ensuring alignment with current educational standards
- Published research findings in peer-reviewed journals and as chapters in scholarly books
- Presented research findings at leading national and international education conferences
External Examiner, for (a Ph.D.)
the University of Zululand
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Collaborated with faculty to establish comprehensive and equitable examination criteria.
- Provided targeted feedback on exam content to enhance clarity and relevance for students.
- Evaluated student submissions for academic integrity, ensuring adherence to university standards.
- Resolved student inquiries regarding examination procedures and policies efficiently.
- Participated in regular meetings to assess examiner performance and identify process improvements.
External Examiner, for (MA theses)
the University of Witwatersrand
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Evaluated academic submissions to ensure adherence to university standards, enhancing overall academic integrity.
- Assessed student assessments to uphold grading policies and procedures, ensuring fairness in evaluation processes.
- Reviewed examination materials for clarity and alignment with course objectives, contributing to effective assessment practices.
- Maintained accurate records of submissions for departmental tracking purposes.
Lecturer (Sociology in Education and English Language Teaching for Postgraduate (Honours and Master of Education))
Faculty of Education, Rhodes University
01.2016 - 01.2020
- Coordinated, designed and facilitated an Applied Linguistics MA Ed program for in-service and preservice teachers, enhancing their instructional skills across High and Primary School settings
- Co-ordinated, designed and facilitated academic writing for Ph.D. and MA Ed students
- Co-ordinated, designed, Academic Prose Writing and Applied Linguistics courses for MA Ed. Honours in English students
- Co-ordinated, designed and facilitated English Language Teaching courses for undergraduate trainee teachers
- Supervised postgraduate (MA Ed and Ph.D. in Higher Education Studies) students
- Consulted and worked with academic staff on teaching and learning, curriculum, assessment and evaluation issues
- Led Academic writing, supervision and coaching during Writing Retreats
- Oversaw one MA student's research and writing until graduation
Teacher of English
Khanyisa High School
Mthatha
01.2009 - 01.2014
- Developed engaging lesson plans tailored to diverse student needs.
- Facilitated classroom discussions that enhanced critical thinking skills and encouraged student engagement.
- Implemented assessment strategies to effectively evaluate and track student progress.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects that enriched learning experiences.
- Developed and enforced a hands-on, student-centered curriculum that increased student interest and active participation in learning.
- Customized educational resources to support unique learning requirements.
- Applied technology in the classroom to enhance educational experiences and facilitate student engagement. into lessons to enhance overall learning experiences.
- Organized field trips for students to explore different aspects of English language and culture.
Teacher of English
Chemhondoro High School
Murehwa
01.2007 - 01.2009
- Designed engaging lesson plans that addressed diverse student needs, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
- Integrated technology into lessons to enhance learning experiences.
- Facilitated classroom discussions that fostered critical thinking skills.
- Implemented assessment strategies to track and enhance student progress.
- Motivated struggling learners through positive reinforcement techniques, enhancing their confidence and participation.
- Utilized a range of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities, to accommodate various learning styles.
- Encouraged students to take an active role in their learning by asking questions and participating in class discussions.
- Collaborated with colleagues on interdisciplinary projects to enrich curriculum.
Teacher of English
Mhembere Primary School
Murehwa
01.2000 - 01.2006
- Developed and implemented lesson plans to improve student comprehension of English language concepts.
- Used pre-selected lesson plans to instruct students in English conversation and grammar.
- Facilitated small group instruction sessions that enabled students to practice speaking English together.
- Created and enforced child-based, hands-on curriculum to promote student interest and receptive learning.
- Adapted educational materials according to the needs of each individual student.
- Participated in professional development workshops to improve teaching methods.
- Encouraged open communication between teachers and parents regarding student progress.
- Planned field trips for students that exposed them to real world applications of English language skills.
External Examiner (a PhD thesis)
Walter Sisulu University
01.2026
- Facilitated workshops to deepen faculty understanding of assessment criteria, promoting consistent evaluation practices.
- Ensured compliance with university policies and regulations through comprehensive review processes, mitigating potential risks.
- Conducted quality assurance reviews on completed claims, ensuring documentation accuracy to uphold academic integrity.
External Examiner (a MA thesis)
Walter Sisulu University
01.2025
- Monitored exam environments to uphold academic honesty standards.
- Conducted examinations ensuring integrity of assessment processes.
- Maintained accurate records of examination results and submissions, supporting transparency in assessment.
- Performed quality assurance reviews on completed claims to ensure documentation accuracy.
External Examiner (PhD)
University of South Africa
01.2025
- Conducted examinations ensuring integrity of assessment processes and adherence to academic standards.
- Monitored exam environments to uphold academic honesty policies and safeguard assessment integrity.
- Maintained accurate records of examination results and submissions to support transparent evaluation and reporting.
External Examiner, for (a Ph.D. thesis)
the University of the Free State
01.2022
- Evaluated thesis submissions for adherence to academic standards and accuracy, ensuring quality assessment outcomes.
- Collaborated with faculty to establish clear assessment criteria and guidelines, enhancing evaluation consistency.
- Facilitated communication between students and faculty, addressing exam-related inquiries to support student understanding and engagement.
External Examiner, for (a MA theses)
the University of South Africa (UNISA)
01.2021
- Evaluated student assessments, maintaining accuracy and integrity throughout processes.
- Provided comprehensive feedback on assessment materials, improving clarity and quality of student evaluations.
- Reviewed academic submissions for compliance with university standards, contributing to academic integrity.
- Maintained detailed records of examination processes and results, supporting accurate assessment outcomes.
Education
Advanced Diploma - Teaching English as Foreign Language (TEFL) (LEVEL 5)
I to I Teaching and Education Experts
United Kingdom01-2023
PhD - Applied Linguistics, Concentration in Literacy Development and Language Learning
Rhodes University
South Africa01-2019
MA - Applied Linguistics, Concentration in Literacy Development and Language Learning
Rhodes University
South Africa01-2017
Skills
- Data analysis
- Data analysis tools
- Research methodology
- Data collection methods
- Research quality assurance
- Research ethics
- Literature review
- Technical writing
- Project coordination
- Problem-solving
- Analytical thinking
- Presentation skills
- Team collaboration and teamwork
- Mentoring and student support
- Active listening
PEER-REVIEWED JOURNAL ARTICLES
- Matee, L.G, Morato-Maleke,M & Mataka T. W (2025). Reimagining Higher Education in the 21st Century Africa: Benefits and Challenges. Journal of African Development & Education Research. V1. Issue 1 p. 18-36
- Theodorio, A. O., Waghid, Z., Mataka, T. W., & Adegoke, O. (2024). Demystifying Lesotho, Rwandan and Nigerian educators' viewpoints on smart technologies supporting AI in higher education. Education and Information Technologies, 1-23.
- Theodorio, A. O., Mataka, T. W., & Shambare, B. (2024). Teacher educators' use of mind mapping in the development of TPACK in a technology-rich learning environment. Education and Information Technologies, 29(14), 18675-18694.
- Makumane, M. A., T W, M., & Ngcobo, S. D. (2023). Neutralising the digital divide: is blended learning a viable solution?. International Journal of Research in Business & Social Science, 12(7), 2147- 4478.
- Mataka, T. W., Bhila, T., & Makurunge, T. (2023). Decolonising literacy development through reading to learn pedagogy: A case of a secondary school in South Africa. Web of Semantic: Universal Journal on le Education. 2(), 1-27.
- Mataka, T. W., & Mgqwashu, E. M. (2022). Democratising the Classroom for Epistemological Access: The Role of RtL Pedagogy in an Eastern Cape Secondary School, South Africa. Journal of Education and Practice (JEP), 13(27), 63-74.
- Mataka, T. W., Gloria, M. L., & Munetsi, H. W. (2022). Continuous assessment learning activity: An overdue progressive assessment approach compromisingly implemented. International Journal of All Research Writings, 4(1), 57-68.
- Mukurunge, T., Mataka, T. W., & Bhila, T. (2021). Investigating Social Media Role in Crisis Communication: Case of Hoatiti News Reporting of the Covid-19 Pandemic in Lesotho. International Journal of Trends in Scientific Research and Development, 5(5), 2257-2261.
- Mataka, T. W., Mukurunge, T., & Bhila, T. (2021). Reading to Learn (RtL) Pedagogy: A tool for accelerating Language Proficiency and Reading for Comprehension in a Primary class in Namibia. International Journal of All Research Writings, 3(1), 22-34.
- Mataka, T. W., Mukurunge, T., & Bhila, T. (2021). Disabling the Education System: A Case of Zimbabwe's Mental Genocide. International Journal of Trend in Scientific and Research and Development, 5(4), 339-346.
- Mataka, T. W., Bhila, T., & Mukurunge, T. (2020). Language in Education Policy: A barrier to academic and cognitive development of learners across grades: A case of South African teachers' narratives. International Journal Of All Research Writings, 2(1), 117-124.
- Mataka, T. W., Mukurunge, T., & Bhila, T. (2020). Virtual teaching and learning: a sad reality of the "haves" and "have nots", the teacher's voice in Zimbabwe during COVID 19 pandemic. International Journal of All Research Writings, 1(12), 8-14.
- Mataka, T. W., Mukurunge, T., & Bhila, T. (2020). Reading to Learn (RtL) through story books: Moving beyond physical school access to epistemological access in a grade R classroom in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. International Journal Of All Research Writings, 1(12), 26-35.
- Mataka, T. W., Mukurunge, T., & Bhila, T. (2020). Investigating the role of Reading to Learn pedagogy to improve reading for comprehension in a senior phase class through scaffolding: A Literacy acceleration action research case study in a grade 8 English First Additional Language (FAL) Class in rural South Africa. International Journal Of All Research Writings, 1(12), 84-92.
- Mataka, T. W., Mukurunge, T., & Bhila, T. (2020). Social stigmatisation of lecturers by departmental leadership, lecturers, and students: A case of six lecturers at an institution in South Africa on institutional duty outside the country during Covid 19 pandemic. International Journal Of All Research Writings, 1(11), 133-138.
- Mataka, T. W., Mukurunge, T., & Bhila, T. (2020). Universities in pandemonium as Covid 19 wreak havoc: A case of two conventional universities in Southern Africa. International Journal of All Research Writings, 1(11), 71-78.
- Mataka, T. W., Mukurunge, T & Bhila, T. (2020). Universities in pandemonium as Covid 19 wreak havoc: A case of two conventional universities in Southern Africa. IJARW1263 International Journal of All Research Writings 8 IJARW | ISSN (O) - 2582-1008 May 2020 | Vol. 1 Issue. 11 www.ijarw.com
- Mukurunge, T., Bhila, T., & Mataka, T. (2020). An exploration of how communities in Lesotho can benefit through Katse, Mohale and Muela dams in economic transformation. International Journal Of All Research Writings, 2(3), 87-91.
- 2026: Bridging Digital Divides in Crisis Contexts: Migrant English Literacy and Micro- Learning with Generative AI-Supported Mobile Learning – A Case Study of a Rural Shelter in Zimbabwe: 6th International Conference on Educational Technology and Online Learning – ICETOL 2026: Germany
- 2022: Mataka T. W. Neutralising the digital divide: blended learning a viable solution? Cape Town, South Africa.
- 2022: Mataka T. W. Language in Education policy: A post-colonial tragedy in Zimbabwean primary and secondary education. Bloemfontein, South Africa.
- 2021: Mataka T. W. Higher Education's key role in sustainable development for Africa. National University of Science of Technology. Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
- 2019: Mataka T. W. Democratising the classroom for epistemological access: the role of Reading to Learn pedagogy in an Eastern Cape Secondary School. Cape Town, South Africa.
- 2018: Mataka T. W. and Mgqwashu E. M. (2018) Democratising the classroom for epistemological access: the role of Reading to Learn pedagogy in an Eastern Cape Secondary School. Boston: United States of America: Reading to Learn Conference. Boston, United States.
- 2017: Mataka T. W. (2018). An interventionist strategy towards an improved understanding of scientific concepts in a South African Secondary school. South African Association Research in Mathematics, Science and Technology Education SAARMSTE Conference Rhodes University. Makhanda, South Africa.
COMPREHENSIVE ADVANCED SHORT COURSES ATTENDED
- Jul 2019: Postgraduate Supervision Course at Rhodes University (between July and September 2019). Organised by Rhodes Centre for Postgraduate Studies.
- Jul 2019: Introduction to NVivo Course at Rhodes University (between March and April 2019). Organised by Rhodes Centre for Postgraduate Studies.
Timeline
External Examiner (a PhD thesis)
Walter Sisulu University
01.2026
Postdoctoral Fellow
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
10.2025 - 09.2026
Research Fellow
University of KwaZulu Natal
09.2025 - Current
External Examiner (a MA thesis)
Walter Sisulu University
01.2025
External Examiner (PhD)
University of South Africa
01.2025
External Examiner, for (a MA thesis)
Rhodes University
01.2023 - 01.2026
External Examiner, for (a Ph.D. thesis)
the University of the Free State
01.2022
External Examiner, for (a Ph.D.)
the University of Zululand
01.2021 - 01.2023
External Examiner, for (a MA theses)
the University of South Africa (UNISA)
01.2021
Senior Lecturer (Applied Linguistics) - Language and Social Education Department (LASED)
National University of Lesotho
01.2020 - 01.2025
External Examiner, for (MA theses)
the University of Witwatersrand
01.2020 - 01.2021
Lecturer (Sociology in Education and English Language Teaching for Postgraduate (Honours and Master of Education))
Faculty of Education, Rhodes University
01.2016 - 01.2020
Teacher of English
Khanyisa High School
01.2009 - 01.2014
Teacher of English
Chemhondoro High School
01.2007 - 01.2009
Teacher of English
Mhembere Primary School
01.2000 - 01.2006
Advanced Diploma - Teaching English as Foreign Language (TEFL) (LEVEL 5)
I to I Teaching and Education Experts
PhD - Applied Linguistics, Concentration in Literacy Development and Language Learning
Rhodes University
MA - Applied Linguistics, Concentration in Literacy Development and Language Learning
Rhodes University