The University of Johannesburg (UJ) hosted its 2025 Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition on 29 August 2025 at the Postgraduate School Training Room, Akanya Building, Auckland Park Kingsway Campus. Organised by the Research Capacity Development (RCD) Unit, the annual competition challenges Master’s and Doctoral students from all faculties to present their research in just three minutes, using a single static slide, to a non-specialist audience.
The 3MT originated at the University of Queensland (UQ) in Australia and has grown into an internationally recognised platform for research communication. At UJ, the competition advances the university’s commitment to research excellence and innovation by helping students distil complex ideas into clear, compelling presentations while engaging the public with postgraduate research.
A structured and engaging process
Preparation for the 2025 competition began with an information session on 19 June, followed by a support session on 30 June. First-round submissions closed on 11 July, with feedback provided on 25 July ahead of the final submission deadline on 4 August. Participants were further supported through a dedicated briefing on 21 August, while judges and the keynote speaker were briefed on 26 August and introduced to the real-time judging rubric piloted at this year’s competition.
The final showcase on 29 August brought together 15 participants, 5 judges, and a keynote speaker (joining online). The event was attended by 41 people in person, with over 30 joining virtually.
Celebrating research excellence
The competition concluded with the announcement of winners:
- 1st place: Olebogeng Molefe
- 2nd place: Tselane R.G. Ndlovu
- 3rd place: Judy Dasruth
- People’s Choice Award: Musa Jaiteh
Winners received cash prizes of up to R10,000, along with trophies and certificates. All finalists were awarded certificates of participation and gifted RCD-3MT-branded T-shirts and goodie bags, contributing to the celebratory spirit.
Positive feedback and impact
The 2025 UJ 3MT Competition was widely praised by participants, staff, and judges. One participant remarked: “Can we please have more competitions? I enjoyed it so much.” Another added: “More competitions please, I really enjoyed the event.”
A staff member also highlighted the competition’s value, saying: “Thank you for the opportunity. I will tell my students about it so they can enter.”
Overall, feedback described the event as “uplifting” and “insightful”, with a strong call for similar initiatives, including opportunities for Master’s students. The overwhelmingly positive response confirms the competition’s success in creating a supportive environment for postgraduate research communication and in celebrating UJ’s vibrant research community.
