UKZN’s Industrial and Organisational Psychology Wins SIOPSA Excellence Award

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UKZN has won the SA Society for Industrial and Organisational Psychology’s (SIOPSA) Presidential Excellence Award for being a university that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing Industrial-Organisational Psychology through academic excellence, research, industry collaboration and social impact.

The award recognises UKZN for cultivating top-tier Industrial and Organisational Psychology (IOP) education, and celebrates innovative curricula, meaningful research, and the development of graduates who are workplace-ready. Recognised for its exceptional impact, ‘The recipient university exemplifies dedication to student success, diversity and inclusion, and meaningful contributions to both academia and industry.’

UKZN Psychology Academic Leader, Ms Shaida Bobat, has a transformative vision focused on critical engagement. Since 1991, she has challenged the discipline to connect psychology with South Africa’s socio-political realities. Under her leadership, UKZN’s IOP approach is critically engaged and responsive, establishing a programme recognised as a national exemplar. Reflecting on the recognition, Bobat noted: “This award affirms our discipline’s commitment to shaping industrial and organisational psychologists who are not only academically prepared, but also ethically engaged, socially responsive, and equipped to lead transformative change in the world of work. Importantly, it also validates our belief that Higher Education should be aligned with the broader social contract, where academic excellence meets social justice, and professional training serves the public good.”

Bobat works alongside a committed team of academics: Dr Shanya Reuben, Dr Madlabana-Luthuli, Dr Ruwayda Petrus, Ms Leigh Lorimer and emeritus Professor Anna Meyer-Weitz. Together, they bring a rich and diverse range of expertise in applied practice, critical scholarship, and transformative teaching. United in their commitment to inclusive, ethical, and contextually relevant education, the team ensures that students are equipped not only to enter the workforce, but to shape it for the better.

While the programme primarily serves IOP students, its impact extends beyond the classroom. Students work with public and private sector partners, NGO’s and schools. This focus strengthens student learning while delivering meaningful value to both workplaces and communities.

On behalf of the team, Reuben extended appreciation to SIOPSA for this honour and recognition, highlighting it as a testament to the team’s commitment to excellence, collaboration, and impact.

Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela

Image: Shutterstock