On Saturday 21st January 2017, MANCOSA held an Orientation Boot Camp for the new intake of Postgraduate students. The programme was initiated with a welcome address by the principal of MANCOSA, Prof. Yusuf Karodia followed by an introduction of the EXCO and Postgraduate academics.
Amongst the students were a substantial number of female students, poised to undertake various programmes ranging from Postgraduate Diplomas to Masters in Business Administration. Dr. Claudine Hingston from the MANCOSA Centre for Women Leadership informed them about the existence of the centre and the activities undertaken. Dr. Hingston further stated that the centre was MANCOSA’s way of supporting women leadership and empowerment through advocacy, networking and research. According to Khanyisa Shweni, who is registered for a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management, this was welcome news as she needs support in her aspiration to becoming a successful leader and be able to make meaningful contributions in the South African society.
Honours students, Ntombi Magwala and Sihle Sithole, stated that postgraduate studies will provide them with the opportunity to have a better job and be able to attain leadership positions in their workplaces. According to them, it is important for women to undertake postgraduate studies as it will enable them to be on an equal footing with men in the workplace. The importance for postgraduate studies for women was also echoed by MBA student, Diveena Naidoo, who stated that women should endeavour to pursue postgraduate studies so as to be able to take up leadership positions which positively impact society. As she succinctly puts it,
“when you educate a woman, then you educate the future”.
Postgraduate study is the key to unlocking the full potential of women and MANCOSA proudly commits to providing excellent postgraduate courses and support for all.