NWU WTO–WCP Leadership Celebrates the PhD Achievement of Dr. Marnel Ferreira

Dr. Marnel Ferreira completed her PhD in International Trade in June 2025, under the supervision of Dr. Adelia Jansen Van Rensburg (Promoter) and Dr. Lorainne Ferreira (Co-promoter), both of whom serve as senior academics and active contributors to the WTO Chairs Programme (WTO–WCP) at North-West University. Her doctoral research makes a pioneering contribution to Africa’s digital transformation agenda through the development of a Digital Readiness Index for Africa. By integrating 28 carefully selected variables across 54 African countries, her study provides a robust, evidence-based framework for evaluating digital infrastructure, skills, and digital business development on the continent.

The research highlights the varying levels of digital preparedness across Africa and fills a critical gap left by global digital indexes that overlook key African dynamics. Dr. Ferreira’s Digital Readiness Index establishes a continent-specific tool that can guide policymakers, development organisations, and national governments in designing targeted strategies to promote inclusive digital growth. Her achievement reflects the continued excellence and impact of NWU’s International Trade programme and underscores the strategic role played by Dr. Jansen Van Rensburg, as the WTO–WCP Chair for South Africa, and Dr. Lorainne Ferreira in advancing cutting-edge research that supports Africa’s developmental priorities.