Thirty-one Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration (PGDBA) graduates celebrated earning their degree with distinction at a recent UKZN Autumn Graduation ceremony.
Reflecting on their success, here’s what some of them had to say:
‘As an Industrial Engineer working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, I was motivated to pursue this qualification to deepen my understanding of business strategy and decision-making. My goal has always been to bridge the gap between operations on the factory floor and broader corporate objectives. This programme offered the ideal opportunity to complement my technical experience with strong business insight,’ said Mr Yakeel-Raj Ashwin Bharuth.
Mr Pasha Love Dlamini said that within a month of enrolling on the programme, he was seconded to his current role in the Marketing Department of his organisation. ‘This qualification will prepare me to advance to managerial roles, as I now possess validated academic competence from a reputable institution. It also legitimises my desire to pursue my master’s degree.’
‘I have a Mechanical Engineering Degree and currently occupy a Senior Manager role in a factory. After completing these studies, I now have a more strategic view of how my company operates. I am also more confident in leading and managing the teams below me. This qualification will definitely help me further climb the corporate ladder,’ said Mr Nicoli Francois.
With plans to further her studies, Ms Nothando Majola said: ‘This qualification has already elevated the way I think and execute projects. It’s sharpened my business insight and deepened my strategic thinking, allowing me to better serve the organisations and communities I work with. In my consulting work, especially in education, training, and Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) /Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) accreditation, I now bring a more holistic, business-oriented approach that enhances quality, innovation, and sustainability. It has also boosted my confidence to pursue bigger opportunities, step into higher roles, and begin the next phase of my academic journey, pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
Operations Manager with a technical background in Mechanical Engineering, Mr Bohlale Mofokeng said, ‘This qualification has indicated that I am prepared for leadership and has enhanced both my professional credibility and personal confidence. It has further sharpened my management skills and prepared me for my next goal of pursuing an MBA.’
As a Quality Assurance Officer for the Department of Justice in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Ms Zanele Mbhele has witnessed first-hand the critical role that strong management and leadership play in ensuring efficient service delivery and upholding the values of justice. ‘I was motivated to pursue this qualification to strengthen my strategic thinking, leadership abilities, and understanding of organisational operations. With my Advanced Diploma in Accounting, I believe this qualification complements my financial expertise and strengthens my overall business acumen.’
Accounting associate Ms Karishma Naidoo said: ‘I wanted to obtain an NQF Level 8 qualification and explored several options before deciding on the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration. It offered a solid foundation for an MBA and fit my lifestyle – studying online allowed me to balance work and family. As an accounting associate, this qualification gives me an understanding of strategy, marketing, leadership, and operations, which allows me to contribute beyond finance.’
University staff member Ms Hlengiwe Ngcobo said, ‘As a Teaching and Learning Administrator at UKZN, it’s important to balance theory with practice. This qualification has empowered me to work more effectively and efficiently. ‘It’s also secured a place for me in the Master of Commerce in Management programme – something I’ve aspired to for years. My daughter Nandipha inspires me; she’s currently pursuing her Master of Commerce in Supply Chain Management. We inspire and encourage each other as a family that values education.’
Dr Sanjigadu Sebastian said he has an intrinsic desire for education and learning. ‘I developed a recent interest in the inner workings of the organisation I work for (UKZN) and, therefore, decided to pursue this qualification. This qualification allows me to explore the realm of possibility of engaging in critical thinking and enhances my business acumen. I lead a small team of colleagues and am engaging in small business activities. This qualification serves as both a foundation and a stepping stone into the world of administering a business which I did not have before.’
‘This qualification has already proven beneficial, as the knowledge gained from modules such as Principles of Business Leadership as well as Management and Organisational Behaviour contributed significantly to my recent promotion from Office Admin to Office Manager,’ said Ms Nosihle Ntuli.
After over a decade in the Safety, Health, Environment and Quality field, Ms Ntokozo Mazibuko craved growth and a new challenge. ‘To make a meaningful impact in today’s dynamic business world, I realised I needed to understand the language of business – strategy, finance, operations, and leadership. This qualification positions me for more strategic and global roles. I’m now preparing to pursue an MBA.’
A stepping stone for Ms Lischka Seebaran, she said, ‘This qualification has significantly expanded my strategic thinking and analytical capabilities, which are crucial in today’s complex business environment. It has equipped me with the tools to make more informed decisions and contribute to business growth with greater confidence. It also strengthens my prospects for leadership roles and has laid the groundwork for further studies such as an MBA. Overall, it’s a stepping stone that aligns perfectly with my long-term goal of becoming a dynamic, forward-thinking business leader in the construction sales industries.’
‘When I started my academic journey, I was conflicted between studying Business Science or Mechanical Engineering. At the time I chose Mechanical Engineering which I really enjoyed, but the itch to learn and understand business and economics never left,’ said Mr Mohlesh Reddy. ‘When the opportunity to study a PGDBA arose, it allowed me to start “scratching that itch”. This qualification allowed me to diversify my knowledge base and perspective. I feel that I am able to make better decisions by understanding the different elements that affect business as well as the different environmental influences.’
Mr Zamani Shezi said this qualification has already enhanced his understanding of key business concepts and sharpened his problem-solving and decision-making skills. ‘It sets me apart from others who may not have the same level of education, giving me a competitive advantage in the job market. It has also opened doors to new opportunities in leadership and management, allowing me to contribute more meaningfully in roles that require strategic thinking and planning.’
Despite holding degrees in Microbiology and Environmental Management, Ms Kratisha Soodhin said her career has evolved beyond technical roles. ‘I’m now Head of Department at a multinational company, where I lead teams, manage resources, and contribute to strategy. I’m also the director of my own business with branches in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. This qualification has given me critical business acumen and the confidence to navigate both corporate and entrepreneurial environments.’
‘The PGDBA’s curriculum spanning leadership, finance, and marketing were the fundamental pillars for understanding the impact of efficient management and strategic decision-making and how it propels a company’s success. Entrepreneurship is my passion and I have now equipped myself with the knowledge to create a real impact,’ said Ms Nokusho Ngubane.
Mr Melusi Mthembu said, ‘This qualification reflects my deep commitment to becoming a transformative leader in the business world, particularly in the field of auditing. I chose to pursue this qualification to bridge the gap between my technical auditing expertise and broader business acumen. Despite the challenges of balancing work and study, the journey strengthened my resilience and sharpened my focus and empowered me to confidently lead with integrity, promote accountability, and contribute meaningfully to organisational growth and governance.’
‘After transitioning from full-time entrepreneurship into a more strategic, business-focused role within the corporate space – I wanted to strengthen my understanding of business fundamentals. I’m deeply passionate about starting, building, and scaling businesses, hence the PGDBA offered a well-rounded, 360-degree learning opportunity that aligned perfectly with my aspirations. This qualification has already made a meaningful impact and has laid a solid foundation for my ambition to pursue an MBA. I intend to return to entrepreneurship – and now feel equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and credibility to do so successfully,’ said Ms Liat Madinane.
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini