Navigating Crisis Through Innovation: Key Lessons for Future Educational Disruptions

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Dr Nerisha Deveduthras recently earned her PhD, exploring how system readiness emerged in Higher Education during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a special focus on the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), under the supervision of Dr Ruwayda Petrus and Dr Shanya Reuben.

Her thesis is titled: 'Exploring System Readiness in the Adoption of Emergency Remote Teaching During the Coronavirus Pandemic at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa'.

Drawing on a systems theory perspective, the research demonstrated how the transition to emergency remote teaching required adaptive leadership, co-ordinated institutional responses and evolving academic practices. The study offers timely insights for Higher Education Institutions seeking to strengthen resilience, responsiveness, and continuity in the face of future disruptions.

“One of the significant findings was that system readiness during educational disruption often emerges out of necessity. This was demonstrated by how many academics and leaders had to rethink traditional approaches to teaching, administration, and student engagement almost overnight,” she said.

Deveduthras found that collaboration across disciplines and colleges was crucial in navigating these challenges, highlighting the importance of flexibility and resilience in Higher Education. She noted that these insights can help universities better prepare for future disruptions, ensuring they remain responsive and supportive of both staff and students.

“On a broader level, I think my work adds to the conversation about how institutions can adapt to change and continue to serve society effectively, even under pressure,” she added.

Balancing work and study proved to be her most significant challenge. She explained that managing these responsibilities required discipline, careful time management, and personal sacrifice, even though it was not always easy.

Reflecting on her journey, she shared that she had the opportunity to meet and engage with a wide range of academics across different colleges and disciplines. “I also met many academic leaders, including deans, whom I might not have had the chance to interact with had it not been for my PhD. It was insightful to learn how they innovated during a crisis such as COVID-19 and how they navigated such a challenging situation,” she said.

Deveduthras also received strong support from her family, friends, supervisors and colleagues. “Having people check in and support you along the way makes a real difference,” she added.

She plans to remain in academia and continue building her career with a focus on industrial psychology. Her long-term goal is to contribute meaningfully to both theory and practice, helping organisations and individuals navigate challenges more effectively through research.

She advises her peers to remain consistent and patient. “A research degree is a marathon, not a sprint. There will be times when progress feels slow or obstacles seem overwhelming. Having a clear plan, breaking the work into manageable steps, and maintaining a routine really helps.”

Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini