Meet Dr. Eric Bakama, an academic based in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, South Africa. With a passion for Quality Engineering and Smart Education, Dr. Bakama is paving the way for innovative approaches to learning in the era of the 4th Industrial Revolution.
Having made history as the first African to earn a PhD in Quality Engineering from the esteemed University of Johannesburg in 2024, Dr. Bakama’s journey is one of determination and dedication to his field.
His research journey began with probing questions about the future of traditional education in the age of instant knowledge access. Driven by a desire to measure and enhance the quality of education, he delved into Smart Education and Quality 4.0, exploring avenues for transformative change in academia.
Dr. Bakama’s academic journey started humbly in 2014 as a first-year student in Operations Management at the University of Johannesburg. Through hard work and perseverance, he ascended to earn his Bachelor of Technology and Master of Technology in Operations Management from the same institution.
Transitioning from student to tutor in 2015, Dr. Bakama honed his teaching skills while guiding first-year students in Operations Management. His passion for education led him to join the Department of Quality and Operations Management as a Lecturer in 2018, where he brought enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the classroom.
In addition to lecturing, Dr. Bakama embarked on a prolific research journey, starting with his first publication in 2017 on demand management practices in the manufacturing industry. Since then, he has authored over 15 conference papers covering a wide range of topics including Lean Manufacturing, Project Management, and Smart Education.
Embracing the role of a mentor, Dr. Bakama has taken on the supervision of Master’s students, guiding them through their research endeavors. With two graduates already under his wing and three more expected by the end of 2024, he is shaping the next generation of leaders in Operations Management.
Driven by a passion for learning and a commitment to excellence, Dr. Eric Bakama continues to inspire and innovate in academia, leaving an indelible mark on the field of Quality Engineering and Smart Education.