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16 April 2024
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Story Anthony Mthembu
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Photo Supplied
Melanie Ridgard celebrates receiving a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the graduation ceremony held at the UFS Bloemfontein campus on 19 April 2024.
In the realm of self-development, few stories are as inspiring as that of Melanie Ridgard, the Interim Administration and Events Coordinator at the South African Research Chair in Industrial Development (SARChI-ID) at the University of Johannesburg (UJ). Ridgard’s forthcoming graduation with a Master in Business Administration (MBA) on 19 April 2024 from the University of the Free State (UFS) marks not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the transformative power of higher education.
Reflecting on her journey, Ridgard shares, “This moment signifies a culmination of rigorous studying, dedication and perseverance in mastering business fundamentals, leadership skills and strategic thinking.” Her pursuit of an MBA stemmed from a pivotal moment in her career when she was promoted at the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) at UFS. Tasked with leading a group of young people Ridgard recognised the need to augment her knowledge to effectively guide her colleagues. The MBA became her vehicle for professional growth, extending beyond a mere qualification to a profound transformation of her leadership capabilities.
“Attaining an MBA milestone represents a transformative experience that has shaped my thinking to make impactful contributions in any future landscape,” Ridgard explains. Her experience not only enhanced her strategic acumen but also deepened her understanding of organisational dynamics. She acknowledges the pivotal role played by the UFS Business School in nurturing her journey towards academic and personal success.
What to expect from Ridgard
Looking ahead, Ridgard’s commitment to continuous learning remains unwavering. Selected as one of five MBA students to address the 17th International Business Conference (IBC) in September 2024, she eagerly anticipates the opportunity to share insights on her work titled, “Next-Gen Integration: Navigating the Onboarding Maze for Gen Z in Today's Workplace.” Despite her current responsibilities at UJ, she harbors plans to pursue a PhD in the near future.
Amidst her ambitious pursuits, Ridgard remains grounded, prioritising the celebration of her MBA achievement. ‘’As everyone dreams about it, I just want to walk over that stage in a black gown and a hood on my head with my loved ones cheering me on,’’ she shared.
Ridgard’s journey serves as a beacon of inspiration, exemplifying the transformative potential of education and the enduring impact of determined leadership. Her story reminds us that true leadership is not merely about reaching milestones but also about empowering others and embracing continuous growth.
UFS Ground Studies Laboratory receives accreditation to international standard
2016-03-18
Lore-Mari Deysel, Deputy-Director of the institute for Groundwater Studies.
Photo: Charl Devenish |
The Institute for Groundwater Studies (IGS) Laboratory at the University of the Free State is on equal footing with international testing labs. With its accreditation in March 2016 by SANAS (South African National Accreditation System), the IGS Laboratory now officially meets global standards.
Quality of water
The IGS Laboratory mainly analyses the quality of water samples. When it was originally established in 1989, the lab’s central function was to conduct testing for researchers at the institute itself. “After the public and water boards realised their need to analyse water samples, the IGS Laboratory expanded to deliver a service to these clients,” says Lore-Mari Deysel, Deputy-Director of the institute.
Since suppliers and regulatory authorities will not accept test or calibration results from a lab that is not accredited, the IGS initiated the accreditation process.
Accreditation to international standard
In order to be deemed technically competent and able to receive accreditation, labs must meet the ISO/IEC 17025 standard. ISO/IEC 17025 was first issued in 1999 by the ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission).According to Deysel, this is the single most important standard for calibration and testing laboratories around the world.
“Laboratories that are accredited to this international standard have demonstrated that they are technically competent and able to produce precise and accurate test and/or calibration data. Furthermore, it demonstrates that the university has the capacity to supply valuable and reliable services alongside the academy,” Deysel says.