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Benefits of 3MT
Benefits of 3MT
Build confidence in presenting your research
Learn to communicate your work clearly to non-experts
Show the value and impact of your study beyond your field
Strengthen your CV with a recognised academic achievement
Prizes include:
Prizes include:
1st Place - R10 000 cash voucher
2nd Place - Laptop and router
3rd Place - Tablet and RU merchandise
Popular vote ( most views and comments ) - Voucher
#3MT Video guidelines:
#3MT Video guidelines:
Choose a catchy title that grabs attention and reflects your main message.
Focus on a clear, simple message -you only have 3 minutes, so highlight what your audience needs to understand and be convinced.
Write and rehearse your script several times to improve flow, clarity, and confidence. Practice using strong body language, facial expressions, and eye contact.
Make it understandable to people outside your field. Use clear, jargon-free language. Test your pitch on friends or family to see if they understand it.
Present yourself thoughtfully - your clothing, gestures, and slide (if used) all help tell your story. Use one static slide only - no animations.
You can present any part of your research: a proposal, a literature review, early findings, or your full study. What matters most is engaging delivery and clear value.
Rules and Tips:
Rules and Tips:
Read all rules carefully before filming.
Read all rules carefully before filming.
Your video must be 3 minutes or less. Anything longer will be cut at 3 minutes.
Only you can appear in the video - no other people allowed.
You can film using a phone, held by you or a friend.
If you use a visual aid, it must be one static PowerPoint slide or graphic - no animation, transitions, or effects.
Filming Tips
Use good lighting (natural or a lamp)
Record in a quiet place and speak clearly
can Keep the camera steady (use a tripod or stable surface)
Frame your face and shoulders
Look directly at the camera, not your script
What to Show in Your Presentation
Engagement: Make it interesting
Clarity: Use simple, jargon-free language
Conviction: Show why your research matters
Who Can Enter?
Honours, Master’s, PhD students, and postdoctoral fellows - at any stage of study.
Past Entries:
Past Entries:
Rhodes has taken part in the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) since 2020, winning national competitions and showcasing excellent research communication.
2020
First year of 3MT at Rhodes – 109 entries, 89 admissible.
National winners: Takudzwa Comfort Madzivanzira & Blessing Mabate.
2021
122 entries, 99 admissible.
National winner: Siphokazi Msengana (second consecutive national win).
Watch 2021 entries
Read about the 2021 win
2022
Winner: Dr Lindokuhle Nene, who represented Rhodes at the SANORD conference in Norway.
Watch 2022 entries
2023 & 2024
Continued participation and excellence.
Visit the Centre for Postgraduate Studies for recent entries and details.
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