Chief Director: Human Resource Management Services at the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health, Dr Nozipho Mthembu, graduated with a PhD in Management Sciences, specialising in Human Resource Management, at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2023 Autumn Graduation ceremony at the Indumiso Campus Hall in Pietermaritzburg, on Tuesday night (16 May 2023).
The 64-year-old Dr Mthembu was born in Adams Mission, Amanzimtoti. She believes that this qualification proves that a person is never too old to learn and that it also serves as an inspiration for younger women, that education can be used to emancipate themselves.
“I occupy a very demanding position as the Head of HR in a big government department and the duties itself are extremely demanding and time consuming. Studying for a PhD requires plenty of time and often, competing priorities present a number of challenges. I have learnt to manage my time, often compromising family time and responsibilities. However, the benefits and rewards were ultimately worth it,” said Dr Mthembu.
According to Dr Mthembu, apart from all the career and financial benefits, completing this qualification also provided her with a sense of self-fulfillment. The qualification is a testament of the value and importance of family because without their love and support, she would have not made it.
“I would like to thank my husband Sifiso and my children Sboniso, Bonga, Vuyelwa, Mbali and Fanele. A special thank you to my late mother, MaButhelezi who passed on in 2010. She always encouraged me to further my studies,” remarked Dr Mthembu.
She also extended her sincere appreciation to her supervisor, Professor Innocent Dlamini. She described him as a relentless academic, deeply intellectual, with a very unassuming self, an expert in controlled self-doubt and low-key sophistication.
When sharing her words of encouragement, Dr Mthembu highlighted that it was very important for students to work hard, focus on their studies and appreciate other people’s opinions.
Pictured: Dr Zanele Mthembu being conferred with her PhD.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile.
Zanele Mashaba/Simangele Zuma
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