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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 PhD scholar honoured by Free State MEC of Education
2016-12-12
Thabo Sithole was awarded a National Teaching Award
for excellence in teaching Physical Sciences.
Photo: Aneka van der Merwe
Thabo Sithole, a PhD student at the University of the Free State’s (UFS) Faculty of Education, was recently awarded a prestigious award during the provincial National Teaching Awards in November at which he was celebrated along with other teachers from the Free State.
Sithole was awarded for excellence in teaching Physical Sciences, using a variety of strategies to appeal to the different abilities of learners.
He holds a BSc Medical Microbiology, BSc Chemistry, BCom Economics, BSc Hons in Chemistry, BCom Hons in Economics and MA in Mathematics. To qualify to become an educator, he completed his Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) at UFS.
Apart from teaching, Sithole assists youths confronted with substance abuse and was instrumental in getting funding to assist young people in Jacobsdal. The Albertina Sisulu Youth Recreation Centre in the town now receives annual funding from the Free State Department of Social Development.
Through the National Teaching Awards, the Department of Basic Education acknowledges the extraordinary efforts of teachers, often achieved under very difficult conditions and in service to children from underprivileged families and economically depressed communities.
Leadership is a crucial element to all schools functioning at optimum with all teachers, learners and parents moving forward with a common vision for the improvement of the school.
Sithole’s work also focuses on clustering childhood development centres to work together in order to enhance the preparedness of learners entering primary school. The MEC for Education, Mr Tate Makgoe, said the National Teaching Awards recognised and promoted excellence in teaching.
The UFS Faculty of Education congratulated all teachers in South Africa who worked tirelessly to build a better future for all learners.