Nandisa Happiness Ndlangisa, originally from Umzimkulu and an Administrator at Mangosuthu University of Technology, has proudly graduated with a Master of Management Sciences in Administration and Information Management from the Durban University of Technology (DUT).
Ndlangisa’s achievement adds to her academic journey at DUT, where she completed her undergraduate studies and BTech in Office Management and Technology before returning to pursue her master’s degree.
Her passion for education and professional development led her to focus her master’s research on the career advancement of administrative staff in higher education.
Her dissertation, titled “Career Advancement of Administrative Staff at a University of Technology: Motivating Factors and Barriers”, explores the factors that influence career growth among administrative staff, as well as the challenges that can stand in their way.
“Administrative staff play an important role in the functioning of higher education institutions, yet their career advancement opportunities are often overlooked,” she says.
Her findings show that funding for further studies, opportunities for growth, job security, recognition and mentorship can motivate administrative staff to advance their careers. However, limited financial resources, inadequate support, heavy workloads and limited opportunities for progression can create barriers.
Ndlangisa hopes her research will help higher education institutions strengthen staff development and create better opportunities for administrative employees, while contributing to improved employee satisfaction and retention.
Completing her master’s degree was not without its challenges. Midway through her studies, her supervisor left the institution, while Ndlangisa continued to balance work, family responsibilities and her academic commitments.
She also experienced the loss of her mother and grandmother during her master’s studies. She describes both as her biggest supporters.
“One of the biggest challenges was when my supervisor left. Balancing work, personal responsibilities and academic demands required patience and perseverance,” she says. “I dedicated this project to my mother and grandmother.”
Ndlangisa credits planning, discipline, prayer and the support of her supervisors, family and colleagues for helping her complete her studies.
She says the experience has also reinforced the importance of excellence, integrity, accountability and lifelong learning.
With her master’s degree now completed, Ndlangisa plans to pursue a PhD, focusing on employee development and the evolving role of administrative professionals.
Her advice to undergraduate students is simple: “Do not be afraid to start. Postgraduate studies require commitment and perseverance, but the journey is worth it. Remember why you started.”
Pictured: Nandisa Ndlangisa
Photographer: Sifundo Thwala
Nosihle Mthembu
