Research on the Employability of UKZN Graduates

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Master of Administration graduate Ms Thinasonke Mbhele’s research was titled: "Employability of UKZN Graduates: A Public Administration Perspective".

Mbhele’s dissertation, supervised by Dr Thokozani Ian Nzimakwe, explored the importance of the transformation and capacitating of professional public servants through innovative strategies flexible and adaptable to South Africa’s ever-changing environment thus enhancing the standard of living.

‘Being a university student myself, it was important for me to recognise, reflect and evaluate on how far I have come and the attributes I have gained as a graduate,’ said Mbhele.

‘The findings reveal that the involvement of public sector employers and their input in the public administration curriculum are important in producing quality graduates and world class service delivery. Also resources need to be accessible to the students/gradates as recipients of these services and to ensure that they meet the requirements and are employable,’ said Mbhele.

During her academic journey, Mbhele worked as a tutor and an Academic Development Officer at the College of Law and Management Studies.  She said the experience ignited her passion for teaching and learning, research and community engagement.

‘My motivation for pursuing this qualification is my interest in the public service and the complexity of its management, through the building of human capacity to ensure efficient and effective services are delivered to the people of South Africa,’ said Mbhele.

Thandiwe Jumo