The Durban University of Technology’s Directorate for Research and Post-graduate support, on Friday, 11 August 2017, held a discussion focusing on “The Human Factor Model and Radical Economic Transformation in South Africa”, by Dr Kwame Owusu-Ampomah.

The guest lecture was at the University’s Hotel School Conference centre. In her welcoming speech, Professor Sibusiso Moyo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement, said her office identified Dr Owusu-Amphomah as the right person to do a lecture on this particular subject (The Human Factor Model and Radical Economic Transformation in South Africa).

Dr. Owusu-Ampomah is a research director at the Research and Development strategy Division of AHPT. He is also the founder and executive Director of the centre factor development through research, education and training. Transformation of society begins with transformation of the individual was the focus of his entire presentation.

Dr. Owusu-Ampomah said without understanding what human factor is, than its significance is in the unknown. Furthermore, he said human factor and radical economic transformation go hand in hand and to achieve this, it all starts with an individual.

“There is positive and negative human factors. The positive is human potential, spiritual capital, moral capital and human ability. If an individual develops these qualities they stand a chance to have a better world,” said Dr Owusu-Amphomah.

He also highlighted on how there has not been much transformation in the country since 1994, due to trends in human factor decay in South Africa that makes radical economic transformation seem nearly impossible.

“Negative human factor qualities destroy communities and retard development and progress. Unless the quality of the human factor and its significance are understood by policy makers, implementers and concerted efforts made to improve and sustain it among leaders and followers than as a country we can achieve radical economic transformation,” added Dr Owusu-Amphomah.

The guest lecture was attended by post-graduate and undergraduate students as well as staff of the University.

Pictured: Academics, DUT staff and Dr Kwane Owusu-Amphomah, at the event.

Nomfundo Ngcobo