Academics from various departments at the University of Limpopo participate in a project that aims at advancing women in leadership and management positions
By Reuben Maake | reuben.maake@ul.ac.za
The University of Limpopo (UL) has launched a project that targets Advancement of Women in Academic Leadership and Management, a pioneering initiative that focuses on empowering emerging and established female leaders within academia
Spearheaded by Professor Satsope Maoto, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, the project aims to enhance the representation of women in leadership and management positions within the academic sphere. Its core objectives revolve around capacity building, mentorship, and strategic development to support the growth and advancement of female academics into leadership and managerial roles. Prof Maoto’s efforts, in consultation with other University managers, secured R8 150,000,00 in funding from external sources over three years, making the initiative possible.
Since the implementation of the identified activities in July 2024, 40 women have engaged in intensive workshops and training sessions focused on confidence-building, strategic decision-making, and collaborative team dynamics.
Prof Maoto highlighted that the programme was prompted by her realisation of the challenges regarding employment equity and succession planning for higher positions, which affects numerous institutions of higher learning. She is convinced that there is a need to address employment equity goals and the succession planning gap in academia by, among other measures, grooming and preparing female employees for leadership and management roles.
Given the effort, contribution and dedication Prof Maoto has invested in the project, she was also recognised at the Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards for her instrumental role in securing its funding. This underscores the significance of this initiative at the highest levels of UL’s leadership, with the Vice-Chancellor dedicating funds to boost the project.
“This generous donation from the Vice-Chancellor is dedicated to the 40 women in this programme, whose impact will undoubtedly resonate beyond UL,” said Prof Maoto. “Investing in the leadership of our female academics not only strengthens our institution but paves the way for a more equitable academic landscape. This support encourages us to push forward and exceed what we’re already achieving.”
Busisiwe Hlatswayo from UCT Graduate School of Business facilitated the face-to-face negotiated programme tailor-made for the 40 identified women (First Cohort of the project) held at the Ranch Protea Hotel – Polokwane Landmark.
Busisiwe Hlatswayo from the UCT Graduate School of Business facilitated the recent training. She highlighted the importance of having such training to develop women in academia. She also noted the fundamental characteristics of leaders in an office setting. “Effective communication is the core value of leadership. Often managers ignore this aspect because they believe it is not important which results in many conflicts,’’ she added.
The programme’s transformative potential is already evident, as participants and supporters alike emphasise its impact. Professor Luus Powell, UL’s SARChI Research Chair, described the programme’s workshops as “a platform for women to connect, share experiences, and explore future collaborations in research.” She added, “It feels like an academic support group, with a shared vision and collective strength. UL’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is creating equal opportunities and fostering a culture that values women’s contributions to research and leadership.”