21.       OPEN DEFENSE

21.1

An open defense of the dissertation is required after positive evaluation of the dissertation by committee members. In general, the following minimum principles and guidelines shall be ensured
 
a.

Public Announcement: On the university website and other forums of communication, so that anyone interested can participate.
 
b.

Public Access: Within or outside the university such as community/town halls or important public venues.
 
c.

Neutral Chair: To ensure that defense was conducted fairly and in accordance with the rules and regulations.
 
d.

Review Committee: To evaluate the dissertation and defense and shall be composed of: Dean Faculty, HOD, Chairman GSO, Supervisor Committee, and an external local examiner (National).
 
e.

Presentation: of the dissertation by the PhD researcher
 
f.

Question and Answer Session: To provide a basis for defense evaluation.
 
g.

Objective Evaluation: based on the quality of the research and the researcher’s ability to defend.
 
h.

Final Decision: expressed in the following terms:
 

• Pass or
 
• Pass with minor amendments or
 

• Deferred for resubmission and re-defense or.
 

• Fail (in exceptional circumstances and for the reasons to be recorded by the defense committee)