Executive Secretaries’ annual workshop 2024 tackles leadership and adaptability in times of change in Higher Education
The annual workshop 2024 for Personal Assistants (PAs) and Executive Secretaries in the Vice-Chancellors’ Office was hosted on 5-6 December 2024 at the Protea Hotel in Bloemfontein, in the Free State. Themed “Empowering PAs and Executive Secretaries: Elevate Skills, Embrace Change, Enhance Impact,” the workshop sought to enhance leadership skills, embrace technological advancements, and navigate office dynamics to better support institutional success. The intensive programme was therefore aimed at empowering these vital professionals in higher education.
Leadership and adaptability in times of change
The focus on Day One was on leadership development in a rapidly evolving environment. Ms Lorinda Crous, Programme Director and Executive Secretary to the Universities South Africa (USAf) CEO, opened the session by welcoming delegates and introducing Dr Phethiwe Matutu (left), CEO of USAf, who virtually delivered a keynote address titled Navigating Change and Inspiring Leadership in Higher Education: The Role of Executive Secretaries and Personal Assistants in Shaping Institutional Success.
Dr Matutu’s presentation highlighted the critical contributions of Executive Secretaries and Personal Assistants to institutional leadership and change management. She explored the challenges and opportunities facing higher education, underscoring sustainability, transformation, and responsiveness as foundational pillars. Key issues such as financial sustainability and curriculum transformation, designed to reflect local contexts, were discussed in detail. Dr Matutu also addressed the complexities of internationalisation amid geopolitical shifts and stressed the urgency of digital transformation, especially with advancements in artificial intelligence.
She noted the increasing reliance on digital tools among students and emphasised the importance of academic staff remaining engaged with these technologies to ensure their relevance. However, concerns around AI “hallucination” and the risk of digital tools deepening inequalities were also raised. Dr Matutu shared insights into an IBM-supported initiative to assess digital skills and integrate generative AI into education, urging staff to proactively upskill and adapt to these changes.
Her address concluded with practical recommendations, including the need for clear communication strategies, personal development, and professional networking to better navigate institutional challenges. A discussion followed, with participants engaging the CEO on the themes presented.
The morning session continued with an introduction to the guest speaker, Ms Mosele Lepheane (right), an Entrepreneur, Life Coach and Marketing Consultant, with over 20 years of experience. Affectionately known as Mo, Ms Lepheane dedicates her time to mentoring young women and fostering leadership in business and agriculture.
She facilitated a workshop titled Empowering Leadership and Embracing Change, providing participants with practical tools to effectively manage transitions and strengthen their leadership skills.
Afternoon Workshop: Professional Development and Personal Growth
After a networking lunch, participants engaged in another workshop focusing on confidence building, resilience, and personal growth. These interactive sessions equipped PAs and Executive Secretaries with strategies for navigating challenges in their roles while boosting their professional self-esteem.
The day concluded with a wrap-up session where key takeaways were shared, followed by a gala dinner designed to build connections and foster collaboration among delegates. The team-building allowed for valuable networking, maintaining the tone for continued learning and empowerment.
Strengthening office dynamics and supporting USAf’s vision
Day Two of the workshop began with an overview of Universities South Africa (USAf), led by Ms Lorinda Crous (in front and far right below), on the integral role of the Vice-Chancellor’s Office in supporting USAf’s initiatives. The session highlighted the importance of effective communication between the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, the USAf Office, and the broader university community. A Q&A followed, allowing delegates to engage with the material and share their thoughts.
The interactive session, later that morning, invited participants to share their experiences and challenges related to office management within the Vice-Chancellor’s Office. Delegates were encouraged to identify key issues they encountered in their roles, with discussions centred around broader thematic topics. The Day Two sessions not only provided a space for learning from one another but also fostered collective problem-solving among the attendees.
The workshop proved to be a successful gathering of over 37 individuals who left with enhanced leadership skills, a greater understanding of their roles within the university environment, and a renewed sense of purpose in supporting institutional success. With a blend of expert facilitation, interactive discussions, and peer-to-peer networking, the event was an empowering experience that will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the professional growth of all attendees.
As the delegates departed, they took with them valuable insights into leadership, change management, and the essential role they each play in shaping higher education now, and into the future.
Lorinda Crous, the workshop convenor, is USAf’s Executive Secretary to the CEO.
