– by Nontokozo Mthembu
The time has come! After months of hard work, the MDP class of 2019 delegates have finally made it to the final stretch. From long all-day studying, and balancing the work life, it’s all amounted to this great final accomplishment. The graduation ceremony was held at the Elangeni Hotel Durban beachfront on the 10th of October 2019, where 75 MDP graduands from various organisations geared up on their achievements. UEL staff members, academics, family and friends, gathered up to applaud the work of their loved ones.
UKZN Extended Learning CEO Mr Simon Tankard, shared his gratitude and an overview of the 2019 MDP class, as he spoke about the importance of education and shaping future managers. One of the MDP delegates Mr Stuart Dubber, gave his reflection on the journey over the past 6 months, this is what he had to say: “I’m not an academic, I never envisioned myself as someone who could offer visible learning, the fact that I am practising new skills today is the result of the MDP, proving that learning is really an ongoing process.”
The MDP taught delegates to unlock their abilities, to integrate different management disciplines in a holistic view on competencies required by a manager.
Renowned Councillor Fawzia Peer was the guest speaker for the evening, of which she gave an inspiring message to the delegates. Councillor Fawzia Peer congratulated the graduates after successfully completing the programme. She spoke fondly about the journey to success and how “education gives you an opportunity to build a foundation in which you can accomplish greatness”. With having gained new knowledge and completing the MDP programme, she advised them to never stop learning as education is an investment.
The evening ended off with a cocktail reception where graduates and guests were able to network and share their experiences during the six months course. We as UKZN Extended Learning (UEL), are pleased to have been part of the MDP class of 2019, and we wish them all the best going forward with their journey. Congratulations, Class of 2019! If you want to be part of the next 2020 MDP intake, please contact the MDP course coordinator:
Adiela Raiman
T: +27 31 260 4665
