In an era where every click is tracked and data has become a global currency, the question of who truly holds power is more pressing than ever. For Diane Prins, Junior Lecturer in the Department of Philosophy and Classics at the University of the Free State (UFS), this is not merely a philosophical inquiry, but the foundation of an academic journey that has earned her the highest honour in her faculty. 

Prins, a dedicated staff member and scholar, recently marked a significant milestone. As she crossed the graduation stage, she was awarded the Dean’s Medal for the best master’s degree in the Faculty of the Humanities – a distinction that underscores both academic excellence and intellectual depth. 

Decoding the digital frontier

Her dissertation, Digital colonialism in the Global South: A critical analysis of the instrumental view of technology, interrogates the often-invisible systems shaping contemporary lives. While platforms developed by global technology companies are widely regarded as convenient tools, Prins’ research reveals a far more complex and, at times, troubling reality.

Drawing on the Kantian Enlightenment concept of autonomy – the fundamental human capacity to think and act independently – she examines how this autonomy is increasingly compromised within systems of surveillance capitalism. 

"The study highlights how poor countries, especially from the Global South, become dependent on external platforms for digital services, leading to forms of economic and cultural exploitation," she  explains. "Overall, the dissertation reflects on the ethical challenges posed by surveillance capitalism and digital colonialism in the digital age." 

A masterclass in resilience

While her academic record reflects consistent excellence - having achieved Cum Laude status for her undergraduate degree, honours, and master’s – Prins attributes her success to what she describes as "quiet perseverance". 

Her journey is a testament to resilience, discipline, and the support systems that sustained her throughout her studies. 

"Graduating Cum Laude represents more than academic achievement, but also resilience, personal growth, the quiet perseverance behind the journey, and the support that carried me through the challenges along the way," she says. 

Shaping a responsible future 

Prins’ work extends beyond academic achievement. It contributes meaningfully to the UFS strategic focus on Responsible Societal Futures by encouraging critical reflection on the ethical implications of digital systems.  Her research serves as a reminder that building a sustainable future requires safeguarding human autonomy in both physical and digital spaces.