Necessity of being up with Developments in HR Field Spurs Postgrad Study

BY: .

The need to keep abreast of new developments in the Human Resources (HR) profession motivated UKZN staff member Ms Cynthia Bhebhe to pursue a Postgraduate Diploma in Management.

Bhebhe, who is a Human Resources Consultant in the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, says the qualification has broadened her knowledge about HR as a strategic role rather than simply an administrative function. 

‘This qualification has enhanced my understanding of the broader management role and its impact in an organisation,’ said Bhebhe. ‘The experience was challenging as the studies were in the broad spectrum of management, not just HR and I was fortunate that in our groups there were people with diverse backgrounds. I now feel that I am more equipped to contribute positively in the HR space and provide more effective HR services to the College,’ she said.

While the balancing act of being a wife, a mother, an employee and attending evening classes was tough, the prospects of career growth motivated Bhebhe to press on.

‘I joined the University as a member of staff with just a National Diploma in Office Administration from the then Mangosuthu Technikon. I am grateful to UKZN for the opportunities I have enjoyed.  Today, I have a BBA degree and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management,’ she said.

Bhebhe plans to pursue her master’s degree.

‘I want to encourage other mothers and women in general that taking the challenge of furthering one’s educational qualification is worth the sweat. Yes, there are challenges but the feeling of accomplishment in the end is worth it.’

Thandiwe Jumo