Tsepo Machela proudly graduated with a Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Management Sciences specialising in Business Administration during the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation Ceremony held at the Olive Convention Centre on Saturday, 23 May 2026.
Based in Welkom and currently serving as a lecturer at the Central University of Technology, Tsepo described obtaining his PhD as one of the most demanding yet fulfilling journeys of his life. Having reached the milestone shortly after turning 50, he reflected on the sacrifices, discipline, and resilience required to complete his studies while managing professional and personal responsibilities.
“It was not easy balancing work life, school life and social life, but we always thank God that things turned out well,” he shared.
Dr Michele explained that the beginning of his doctoral journey was relatively manageable as he started studying during the COVID-19 period, when working from home provided him with more flexibility to focus on his research. However, once normal working conditions resumed and academic demands intensified, especially during the data analysis stage of his study, balancing every aspect of life became increasingly difficult.
Despite the challenges, Tsepo believes that academic success is strongly influenced by one’s environment and support structure. According to him, many people are capable of achieving postgraduate qualifications if they are given the necessary support and opportunities.
“Anybody can do a PhD if the environment allows them to focus and grow. The challenge is that many people have responsibilities after finishing school or their first degree. They have to work, support families and manage many commitments at the same time,” he explained.
He further highlighted how family support and financial stability often make it easier for younger students to pursue higher education without interruptions, while many working professionals must balance their studies alongside demanding responsibilities.
Dr Machela’s doctoral thesis, titled An Assessment of Generic Management Strategies on the Competitiveness of Micro Textile Entrepreneurs in Durban, focused on exploring ways to strengthen the sustainability and competitiveness of small textile businesses operating within the informal sector.
The study examined the role of Porter’s generic management strategies and incorporated indigenous approaches such as the Ubuntu management philosophy to better understand how micro entrepreneurs can build sustainable businesses and improve their competitiveness in an evolving economic environment.
Using a mixed methods research approach with a sequential triangulation design, the study highlighted the importance of strategic relationships, technology adoption, and entrepreneurial personality traits in enhancing organisational sustainability and long-term growth among micro textile entrepreneurs.
Passionate about entrepreneurship and community development, Dr Machela said his research was inspired by his desire to contribute practical solutions to unemployment and economic challenges facing many communities.
“I am an entrepreneurial person and I like solving problems. Research should help communities find solutions because every community has challenges that need practical answers,” he said.
Through his research, Tsepo proposed stronger collaboration between local textile entrepreneurs and major retailers such as Pep Stores, Foschini Group and other retail platforms. He believes such partnerships could create more opportunities for local manufacturers, reduce dependence on imported products, and contribute significantly towards job creation.
He explained that many entrepreneurs possess the skills and talent to produce quality products but often struggle with market access and customer reach. His study recommended creating systems where entrepreneurs can focus on production while retailers assist with distribution and sales.
The research also demonstrated how the Ubuntu philosophy can serve as a valuable management framework that promotes collaboration, sustainability, and shared economic growth within the informal sector.
In addition to completing his doctorate, Tsepo has already published three academic articles drawn from his thesis and said he is looking forward to publishing more research in the future as he continues contributing knowledge and solutions within his field.
Pictured: Dr Tsepo Machela
Sinamile Sithole
