– by Nontokozo Mthembu
Higher Education is one of the most rapidly changing sectors in South Africa. According to Bruneian, in recent years the environment in which higher education has had to operate in has become increasingly turbulent, uncertain and complex. Therefore; change is needed and effective leadership is crucial in managing these changes (Bruneian 2001:1, Surveying the Influence of Organizational Readiness on E-Commerce Acceptance).
UKZN Extended Learning (UEL), together with Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) recently embarked on a life-changing journey in developing a co-operative leadership in South African Higher Education. This was showcased, on the three month Leadership Development Programme which comprises of intensive block modules. The first block module commenced on the 18th of November, in which delegates engaged in different themes, which included Higher Education as a system and governance; Law and ethics in Higher Education; Leadership in the VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity) World; and Professional development and talent advancement in Higher Education. The themes were facilitated by a co-operation of qualified and experienced academics, Dr Jairam Reddy ,Ms Zinhle Mpungose and Mr Nigel Chiweshe.
The first block module, concluded with discussions and empirical cases in South African Higher Education. The MUT delegates related to some of the cases that were discussed in class and outlined the development areas needed in their institution for effective leadership in South African Higher Education. Some of the delegates shared their overview on the first module:
“The facilitators were interesting and made me eager to listen, and the module content referred to real-time examples of the cases and issues that our institutions are facing, makes it easier to understand better”
“The class sessions were informative and each themes were always covered thoroughly and clearly”
Such positive feedback from the delegates is appreciated and encourages UKZN Extended Learning to continue delivering lifelong quality learning. If you or your organisation would like to be part of the next 2020 LDP open group, you can contact:
Verona Govender
T: +27 31 260 8765
