Early career inspiration came from television
- Wits Alumni Relations
Recent PhD geophysics graduate from Ga-Dikgale now has his sights on Helsinki.
During the April 2024 graduation season Moyagabo "Kenneth" Rapetsoa (BSc 2018, BSc Hons 2019, PhD 2024) was among the historic six PhD candidates from the Wits School of Geosciences to graduate.
Originally from Ga-Dikgale, a village nestled 45 km northeast of Polokwane in an area untouched by significant industrialisation and mining, Kenneth is driven by a powerful urge to uplift his community through academic research and scientific innovation.
“My early inspiration came from Professor Musa Manzi (BSc 2008, BSc 2009, PhD 2013) who I saw on television when I was in high school,” he says.
This encounter sparked an interest in geophysics, leading him to pursue an academic and professional career.
Kenneth is a former Mandela Mining Precinct intern, under the Advanced Orebody Knowledge programme, where he participated in research and implemented cutting-edge technologies for mining exploration and development.
“I participated in hands-on activities and gained skills in various geophysical methods, such as in-mine seismic surveys, ground-penetrating radar, electrical resistivity tomography, light detection and ranging, and thermography,” he says.
Through scientific research and data collection, Kenneth gained valuable insights into innovative approaches for acquiring geological information ahead of tunnel faces, contributing to enhanced safety and efficiency in underground mining operations.
“My internship experience not only expanded my technical expertise but also deepened my understanding of the complexities and challenges inherent in the mining industry, and this inspired me to pursue further research and innovation in the field.”
His doctoral journey started in 2018 at Wits and was converted into a PhD in 2021. His study focused on “Innovative Surface, Tunnel, and In-Pit Geophysical Methods for Mineral Exploration and Mine Planning: Case Studies from the Bushveld Complex Mines, South Africa.”
His study aimed to develop and combine advanced seismic techniques, data analysis methodologies, and geological interpretations to improve the efficiency and accuracy of mineral exploration and mine planning. The choice of this subject stemmed from Kenneth’s commitment to addressing practical challenges in the mining industry, particularly in South Africa’s mineral-rich regions.
The Bushveld Complex, known for its vast mineral deposits, presented an ideal setting for his research.
“By enhancing geophysical methods, I aimed to contribute to safer, more effective mining practices that could drive economic growth and sustainability in South Africa and beyond,” he says.
He says a highlight of his doctorate was collaborating with his role model Professor Manzi, which resulted in high-impact publications and international presentations, working with notable geophysicists and companies. He was also a finalist for the 2023 Next Generation Explorers Award and received the 2022 Steve Kearney Award.
Looking to the future, he plans to expand his work on seismic equipment and data analysis techniques. His particular interest lies in their applications for sustainable mining practices and environmental monitoring. He is eager to join the University of Helsinki’s Institute of Seismology, in Finland, and be exposed to its cutting-edge research and collaborative environment.
Kenneth wants a role where he can bridge the gap between academic research and industry application, fostering innovation that drives economic development and sustainability. He remains committed to community engagement, seeking opportunities to mentor young scientists and contribute to educational programmes in marginalised areas.
Kenneth’s fellow PhD geoscience graduates during the remarkable ceremony were: Ndamulelo Mutshafa (BSc 2018, BSc Hons 2019, PhD 2024), Bibi Ayesha Jogee (BSc 2018, BSc Hons 2020, PhD 2024); Mpofana Sihoyiya (BSc 2018, BSc Hons 2019, PhD 2024); Senamile Dumisa (BSc 2018, BSc Hons 2019, PhD 2024) and Nombuso Maduna (PhD 2024).
*This interview was published with permission from the Mandela Mining Precinct. The original can be found here.
Who is the inspirational Professor Musa Manzi?
