Dr Fathima Razack’s career in higher education spans more than 27 years, a journey that has taken her from lecturing to curriculum development, academic management and quality assurance. Along the way, she has continued to learn, support others and contribute to improving the experiences of students at the Durban University of Technology (DUT).
As a Quality Promotions Officer at the Centre for Quality Promotion and Assurance within the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, Dr Razack works closely with academic departments on programme reviews, quality improvement initiatives, annual quality monitoring, as well as institutional and programme audits.
Her role also involves ensuring that DUT programmes align with the University’s quality standards and the requirements of the Council on Higher Education.
For Dr Razack, however, quality assurance is about more than policies and compliance. It is about creating an environment where staff and students can grow and succeed.
“For me, quality assurance isn’t just about policies or compliance; it’s about creating an environment where both staff and students can thrive.”
This people centred approach has helped her navigate one of the challenges she has encountered in her career: the perception that quality assurance is simply about paperwork and ticking boxes.
Rather than telling colleagues what they need to do, she believes in listening, understanding their challenges and working together to find practical solutions.
“When people understand the purpose behind a process and feel supported, they’re much more willing to embrace change,” she said.
The approach has strengthened her leadership and communication skills and reinforced her belief that meaningful change is built through trust and collaboration.
Her own journey has also been one of continuous learning. After beginning her career as a lecturer, Dr Razack moved into curriculum development, academic management and quality assurance while continuing to develop herself professionally.
Completing her PhD is one of the achievements she is most proud of.
“I started my career as a lecturer and, over the years, have had the opportunity to grow into roles in curriculum development, academic management and quality assurance. Every step along the way has taught me something new and allowed me to contribute to improving teaching, learning, and ultimately student success,” she said.
Her research has similarly focused on preparing graduates for a changing world. Dr Razack developed a curriculum model aimed at equipping graduates with the digital and professional competencies needed for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Although her research focused on the tourism sector, she believes its principles have wider relevance across higher education, particularly in curriculum innovation, graduate employability and lifelong learning.
Seeing students and colleagues succeed through initiatives to which she has contributed remains one of the most rewarding aspects of her career.
The values that guide her work were shaped long before she entered higher education. Dr Razack credits her parents as her greatest influences, particularly for teaching her the importance of integrity, humility, hard work and education.
“They always encouraged me to give my best, regardless of the circumstances, and to treat people with kindness and respect.”
She has also been fortunate to work alongside women who have encouraged and supported her throughout her career. Their influence has strengthened her belief that women should not only celebrate their own achievements, but also create opportunities for others.
“I believe that when women support one another, we all succeed.”
This is part of what makes Women’s Month meaningful to Dr Razack. She sees it as a time to celebrate women’s achievements while also reflecting on the work that remains.
“It’s also an opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come, while recognising that there is still more we can do to create a more inclusive and equitable society.”
Her message to young women is grounded in the lessons of her own journey. She encourages them to believe in themselves, remain open to learning and not shy away from opportunities that take them outside their comfort zones.
“Success doesn’t happen overnight; it comes through perseverance, resilience, and consistency. Seek out mentors, learn from every experience, and don’t let setbacks discourage you.”
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Dr Razack’s faith remains an important part of her life. It keeps her grounded and reminds her to approach both achievements and challenges with humility, gratitude, patience and purpose.
As she looks towards the future, she hopes to leave a legacy of quality, integrity and service at DUT.
“I would like to be remembered as someone who strengthened quality processes, supported colleagues, and contributed to improving the student experience. For me, the greatest legacy is knowing that you have made a positive difference in the lives of others.”
Dr Razack’s story is a reminder that a career is not built through one achievement or one position. It is shaped by the lessons gathered along the way, the people who help us grow and the difference we choose to make in the lives of others.
For more than two decades, she has continued to learn, serve and contribute. This Women’s Month, her journey stands as an example of the value of perseverance, lifelong learning and women supporting women.
Pictured: Dr Fathima Razack.
Waheeda Peters
