The Faculty of Management Sciences at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) has appointed Dr Wiza Munyeka as the Head of Department for the Department of Human Resources Management (HRM). He officially assumed his role on 01 September 2024 and is determined to contribute to the strategic growth of the department.

Born in Lusaka, Zambia, Dr Munyeka is the middle child in what he described as a close-knit family of three, with an older brother, a younger sister, and a devoted mother having lost his father at an early age.

He holds a PhD and a Master of Commerce in Human Resource Management, bringing extensive experience from his roles at the University of Limpopo, Ramere Mineral Investments, Tshwane University of Technology, and the University of Venda.

“My professional and academic journey is one of perseverance, dedication, and passion for education and research. Over the years, I have gained valuable academic experience from being a tutor to a senior lecturer. This was a critical period in shaping my teaching philosophy and honing my skills as an educator,” said Dr Munyeka.

His extensive experience across multiple universities has equipped him with a deep understanding of the complexities of higher education in South Africa. He is a key figure in fostering academic growth and development at DUT.

His research interests focus on Human Resource Management and organizational effectiveness, exploring key themes such as employee engagement, strategic HR management, leadership, and organizational development. Speaking on his new job title and aspirations as HOD, Dr Munyeka said the role aligns with his commitment to driving innovation and improving the overall academic experience and is eager to tackle the challenges that currently exist within the department.

“In the short term, my goals for the Department of HRM include addressing immediate challenges such as enhancing research output, securing professional accreditation for our programme through the South African Board for People Practice (SABPP), and increasing staff capacity,” he said. He highlighted his plans which are to establish clear research targets, offer mentorship to staff members, and initiate collaborations with industry partners to ensure their curriculum remains aligned with market demands.

“I aim to increase postgraduate enrolment by improving the department’s visibility and offering competitive and relevant programmes. In the long term, my focus is on building a department recognised for academic excellence, research leadership, and industry engagement,” Dr Munyeka said.

He acknowledged DUT’s ENVISION2030 Values as integral to shaping the institution’s future and driving excellence through a holistic, forward-thinking approach. He added that these values guide not only academic and operational excellence but also the institution’s broader impact on society, sustainability, and governance.

“As Head of the Human Resources Management Department, I plan to implement and embody these values through the four key perspectives of Stewardship, Systems and Processes, Sustainability, and Society,” shared Dr Munyeka.

Furthermore, Dr Munyeka expressed his commitment to fostering an environment where collaboration, growth, and excellence will thrive for staff, students, and parents.

“To the HRM staff, I encourage open communication, mutual support, and continuous professional development. Together, we can enhance our research output, innovate our teaching methods, and strengthen our industry partnerships. Your dedication and expertise are the foundation of our department’s success, and I look forward to working closely with each of you to achieve our shared goals,” he said.

Dr Munyeka wishes for HRM students to know that their academic success and personal development are his top priorities.

“The HRM field is dynamic and full of opportunities, and I with the aid of the Department are committed to providing you with the knowledge, skills, and support you need to excel both academically and professionally. Let us work together to make your journey at DUT transformative and rewarding,” he added.

To the parents, he said: “Thank you for entrusting us with your children’s education. We understand the important role we play in shaping their futures, and I, together with the Department of Human Resources Management assure you that we are dedicated to providing a supportive and nurturing environment where they can grow into capable and confident HR professionals.”

Pictured: Dr Wiza Munyeka, the newly appointed Head of Department for the Department of Human Resources Management (HRM).

Photographer: Mnqobi Ngobese.

Thulasizwe Nkomo