Dr Megan Knoetze, a recent PhD graduate from the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Faculty of Humanities who focused on the field of audiology, hopes to use her research skills to help large numbers of South Africans gain access to over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids when they need them.

“Unlike in the United States, where OTC hearing aids are approved and regulated by the FDA [Food and Drug Administration] , South Africa does not yet have formal regulations or recognition for OTC hearing aids,” she explains, adding that these devices could make a meaningful impact. “They are typically more affordable and accessible, especially for people with mild to moderate hearing loss who may not have the means or opportunity to see an audiologist. They could make a real difference in bridging gaps in hearing care.”

Dr Knoetze  is one of the recent graduates that UP is celebrating as part of its annual commemoration of Youth Month. This year, UP is profiling academics and graduates who were part of its May 2025 Autumn Graduation season.

Early inspiration

She began her academic journey at UP with a BA in Audiology, initially envisioning a career in private practice. “However, during my master’s degree, I discovered a real passion for research,” she says. “I realised that research would allow me to make a difference on a broader scale – not only helping individual patients, but also improving access to hearing healthcare more widely.”

Currently, she serves as a part-time Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, where her work focuses primarily on research and supervising undergraduate and master’s students.

Contributing to others’ academic development is a full-circle moment for her. “It feels like just yesterday I was an undergraduate, figuring out how to reference correctly and write scientifically. Now, being able to share what I’ve learned and help others develop those skills is incredibly rewarding, especially while continuing my own research journey and learning along the way.”

Finding her calling

Her interest in audiology stems from a deep-seated desire to help others. “During high school, I decided to shadow a few medical and allied health professionals to explore different possibilities. The moment I shadowed an audiologist, I knew I’d found my path.”

Reflecting on that pivotal moment, she says, “That experience sparked my passion for audiology and set me on the journey I’m on today.”

Though her path may seem linear, it was marked by both academic and personal resilience. She acknowledges that the PhD journey is humbling and demands perseverance. “Studies don’t always work out as you designed and planned, and your work is constantly being critically evaluated. You have to learn not to take it personally, but to see how that feedback helps improve and strengthen your work.”

Behind  her academic success is a strong support system, including dedicated supervisors whose guidance was instrumental throughout her studies. She also highlights how UP’s institutional values – Action, Collaboration, Excellence and Diversity – are instilled in everything she does.

“Collaboration, diversity, excellence, and action have all played a meaningful role in my journey at UP. Collaboration has taught me the power of working across disciplines, with people from different backgrounds, and with international partners, all of which have enriched my research and personal growth,” she says. “Diversity has broadened my perspective and helped me approach challenges with openness and empathy. The pursuit of excellence at UP has constantly inspired me to improve and contribute meaningful work. And action has reminded me that research should not just stay on paper – it should help create real change and improve lives.”

Academic journey

Her PhD focused on help-seeking behaviours related to hearing, hearing aid uptake, and hearing aid outcomes in adults, with a specific lens on the barriers, enablers and potential of OTC hearing aids.

“Through five interrelated studies, I investigated both audiological and non-audiological factors that influence help-seeking and uptake, including predictors like hearing sensitivity and barriers such as financial constraints. I also explored user perspectives, highlighting personal, social, and auditory motivators that drive adoption, and emphasised the importance of affordability and timely intervention.”

Her research into self-fitting OTC hearing aids revealed significant findings on usability and performance. “I hope my findings will help improve access to hearing healthcare in South Africa and beyond, by informing evidence-based strategies for consumers, healthcare providers, and policymakers.”

Looking ahead

Dr Knoetze hopes to serve as a reminder to other young people that nothing is impossible. “If one is willing to work for it, they will certainly achieve it. Higher education might feel out of reach, however, with the right support and determination, it is still possible,” she says.

She also offers further encouragement for those struggling with the difficult financial aspect of tertiary education. “There are many funding opportunities, such as bursaries, scholarships, and grants, but you have to take that first step: seek them out, apply, and ask for guidance. Don’t let where you come from or any self-doubt hold you back. Every big journey starts with a small, brave step.”