New Academic Heights for Dr Amanda Gumede

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Emerging academic, Dr Amanda Gumede, has recently graduated with a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education, marking a significant milestone in her professional development within the sector.

As part of the qualification, Gumede completed a comprehensive range of modules, including ‘Researching in Higher Education’; ‘Supervising Research in Higher Education’; ‘Practice, Reflection and Portfolio Development in Higher Education’; ‘Diversity and the Student in Higher Education’; ‘Higher Education Context and Policy’; ‘Teaching and Learning in Higher Education’; ‘Higher Education Curriculum Design and Evaluation’; and ‘Assessing Learning in Higher Education’.

Reflecting on her journey, Gumede emphasised the importance of strengthening her expertise across all pillars of Higher Education. She noted that, while she is an expert in her discipline of Geography and Environmental Science, it was essential to further equip herself with the knowledge and skills required to effectively serve her students, her institution, and society at large.

She explained that her decision to pursue the qualification was rooted in a commitment to holistic academic development: “Since becoming a permanent academic, I have committed myself to continuous professional development, capacity-building, and skills enhancement initiatives. In addition to attending various symposia and workshops, I also completed all the courses in the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Extended Learning University Education Induction Programme (UEIP). The Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education was therefore the logical next step.”

Gumede highlighted that academics are often appointed based on discipline-specific expertise, typically focused on content knowledge and research. However, other critical pillars of Higher Education - such as teaching and learning, curriculum development, assessment, administration, and understanding student diversity - are frequently developed on the job without formal training.

“In this regard,” she noted, “It is in the best interest of both our academic career growth and the students we serve to equip ourselves to deliver the highest quality education possible. After completing the Postgraduate Diploma, I can confidently say that it was both necessary and beneficial in enabling me to balance and contribute effectively across all pillars of the sector.”

According to Gumede, the programme also provided valuable opportunities for engagement and knowledge exchange with colleagues from diverse disciplines, institutions, and professional portfolios across the country. These interactions enriched her perspective and strengthened her practice.

Speaking about balancing academic responsibilities, studies, and personal life, she said she required careful planning and discipline. 

Gumede credits effective time management, organisation, and forward planning as key strategies that helped her maintain equilibrium and minimise last-minute pressures.

“It has been a demanding two years, but completing the Postgraduate Diploma has significantly boosted my confidence. I now feel better equipped to engage meaningfully with the various pillars of Higher Education,” she said.

Looking ahead, Gumede plans to expand her work into research within Higher Education, with the aim of addressing pressing and context-specific challenges within her discipline. She emphasised that such qualifications should not merely serve as credentials, but as tools for meaningful reflection and improved practice.

“These qualifications are more than just certificates; they should enhance one’s capacity and transform practice. The modules should be approached as opportunities for reflection and growth, rather than as a tick-box exercise.”

She also expressed gratitude for the support she has received throughout her journey, particularly from her family.

“I deeply appreciate the unwavering support I’ve received throughout my career. My husband, in particular, has been my strongest pillar - his patience, selflessness, and belief in me have enabled me to grow and thrive.”

Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela

Photograph: Supplied