Firsthand experience in South Africa’s criminal justice system has inspired a National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) District Court prosecutor to research how technology can boost court efficiencies and broaden access to justice.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) graduate, Mr Smiso Khanyase, said while he had witnessed how the use of technology could improve efficiency and access to information, he had also experienced some of the challenges that can arise when systems and supporting infrastructure are not sufficiently reliable, potentially affecting efficiency and service delivery.
A key finding in Khanyase’s research titled: ‘Enhancing the Use of Technology in the Prosecution of Cases at the National Prosecuting Authority’, also highlighted how technology on its own is not necessarily the solution. The study was supervised by Dr Xoliswa Majola.
“Successful digital transformation depends on a broader ecosystem that includes reliable connectivity, adequate infrastructure, user training, organisational support, and effective change management. My hope is that my research will contribute to a more practical and realistic understanding of digital transformation, particularly in the public sector where implementation challenges are often underestimated,” Khanyase said.
Balancing the demands of a full-time legal career, rigorous business studies, and family responsibilities was no easy feat for the graduate who described the research process as one of the most challenging aspects of the MBA. “Having previously taken a gap year, completing the research became deeply personal,” he said.
“What kept me motivated was knowing my research addressed a real-world challenge and finishing the course meant more than just an academic achievement – it was proof that setbacks do not have to define the outcome of a journey.”
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini