– by Nkosingiphile Ntshangase
Accountability commonly refers to taking or being assigned responsibility for something one may have done or one is supposed to do[1]. However, a misconception about accountability is the idea of catching business stakeholders doing something inappropriate or implementing unreasonable rules enforced harshly. Accountability is a company value that has been with UKZN Extended Learning (UEL) since its founding. This value was further cemented during the pandemic when the business continued to thrive even with the introduction of remote work. It has been an essential aspect of our company culture as it has enabled the mastering of taking accountability for the different roles and responsibilities played in the everyday operation of the organisation.
By clearly defining the organisation’s mission, values, and goals, UKZN Extended Learning (UEL) has exercised effective accountability by holding itself as an organisation and its employees accountable to common expectations. Achieving business goals requires accountability from all levels of employees. The balance between accountability and autonomy in the workplace is essential. The development of an organisational culture of accountability contributes to the achievement of high performance.
No one can deny the importance of accountability, but it can be challenging to achieve. Creating an environment that fosters workplace accountability within a company or team can be challenging and time-consuming. Accountability and integrity are virtues propagated by an organisation’s leadership. Leaders create an organisational culture; which employees then carry on in the workplace. UEL has mastered the art of accountability and exhibited a clear culture that promotes integrity through its interactions with delegates and stakeholders. It produces educational offerings of a stellar standard that is conducted meticulously.
When business and stakeholders are mutually accountable, this builds trust in the community. Thus, providing all parties involved with a sense of empowerment and belonging. To exercise exceptional leadership, transparency and accountability cannot be compromised. This is a value that UEL holds high as we want to encourage an environment that makes every interaction on the journey feel genuine and inclusive. We believe the true mark of a prosperous business is one that is reliable and empowers the next person.