In June, Rhodes University celebrated 20 Hall Administrators who completed a short course on Leadership. The course was organised by People and Culture, Division of Student Support and Development and Community Engagement as part of ongoing efforts to ensure that Rhodes staff have access to opportunities for personal and professional growth and spaces for discussion and learning.
“I've come to a conclusion in my life: we must create the working environment we need—not necessarily the one we want. “Want” is based on feelings; “need” is about creating a place that brings joy each morning—a place that helps us relive the best parts of our purpose,” said Dr Pakiso Tondi, Director of bbin宝盈集团 and Development at Rhodes.
Hall Administrators play a significant role in keeping the wheels of Higher Education Institutions turning smoothly.
Students don’t learn everything in class. They learn through living—and that’s where the administrators come in, as mentors and supporters. Our students today come from more diverse and complex backgrounds than ever before which has forced us as Universities to reconsider how we work.
“Higher education is a unique setting. Especially for administrative staff—we're not in classrooms, but we play a critical role in ensuring the university achieves its graduate attributes. You are essential to student success. You are not just administrators. You are student development practitioners. You address key student issues that directly impact their success. Taking this step to expand your perspective shows your commitment,” said Tondi.
The course included five modules—two on conflict resolution, one on communication, one on leadership styles, and one on organisational culture. The group decided to create a safe and enabling space during these sessions, making room for real reflection throughout the learning journey.
“What you bring, and how you show up - that honesty was key. Learning isn’t just about content delivery. It’s about self-reflection—starting from where you are and building from there. That’s the approach we used,” says Di Hornby, Director of RUCE and facilitator of the five sessions. “Admitting where you need growth is the first step to change.”
