Members of the LINK research and teaching team supervise candidates for the Wits PhD in Interdisciplinary Digital Knowledge Economy Studies, which is for students seeking to conduct in-depth research into elements and dynamics of the digital knowledge economy.

Before commencing the application process, each prospective student must submit evidence of previous research writing, and a detailed research concept paper (including research problem statement, foundational literature review, and indication of research methodology), to LINK Centre Short Course and Degree Coordinator Nokhanyo Yolwa at nokhanyo.yolwa@wits.ac.za. Only upon receipt of LINK Centre written approval of these two documents should the prospective student proceed with the application. The Degree Convenor is LINK Centre Associate Prof. Ntsibane Ntlatlapa, ntsibane.ntlatlapa@wits.ac.za.

½­³Ç×ãÇòÍøs are required to adhere to the Wits Guidelines for Generative AI (GAI) Use in Learning, Teaching, and Research. 

Where applicable, students are required to adhere to the South African San Institute's San Code of Research Ethics.

Course entry requirements and registration details.

LINK PhD graduates' successful theses:

• Nazira Hoosen: A Critical Review of Academic Practice and Integrated Edtech Use at a South African University: The 'Real' Level (PDF download)
• Songezo Mata: Exploring Early Stage Digital Transformation in Secondary Mathematics Education (PDF download)
• Robert Nkuna: Influence of the Ideology of the Developmental State on the South African Regulatory State: A Case of Network Industries (PDF download)
• Kameshnee Naidoo: Shaping the Telecoms Network Market Structure in South Africa, 2000-2003: The role of Policy and Regulation
• Praneel Ruplal: An Innovative Approach to the Regulation of Equipment Authorisation in Developing Countries: A Grounded Theory Study of South Africa

Research by current LINK PhD students:

• Nadia Bulbulia: Plurality and Diversity in the Transition from Broadcasting to Audio and Audiovisual Content Services (AAVCS) in South Africa, 2012-2023
  
• Mark Burke: Rethinking Identity, Privacy and Citizenship in Public Service Digitalisation
  
• Ndumiso Dana: Intersections between Technology and Sustainability at Community Radio Stations in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
• Ditshego Magoro: Investigating Cultural Knowledge Systems, Mandhwane and Mind Mobilisation for Rural Communities in the Digital Era
• Johanna Mavhungu: Critical Analysis of Contours of Film and Television Industries' Convergence in South Africa
• Gerhard Petrick: Competing Spectrum Demands for Broadcast and Mobile Services in the Ultra-High-Frequency Band in SADC (PhD Seminar presentation slides) (PDF)
• Peace Tusingwire: A Critical Examination of the Academics' Pedagogical Practices and the Role of the Social Shaping of Technologies in Higher Education in Uganda