Zimbabwean-born Dr Lizanani Nleya has realised a long-held goal and graduated – at the mature age of 62 – with a Doctor of Business Administration degree.
Nleya, who is employed as a part-time lecturer at the Graduate School of Business at the National University of Science and Technology in Zimbabwe, says the achievement has now provided motivation for his wife, Priscilla, to get her PhD as well!
‘The issue of age was not a hindrance in my studies simply because I have excelled throughout my academic career.’
COVID-19 threatened to scupper his academic plans, but Nleya persevered, determined to overcome any obstacle. When the pandemic was at its peak early last year, he had already completed his research and was preparing to submit his final thesis. This was a challenge, he says, as the pandemic prevented him from having face-to-face consultations with his supervisor, Dr Bibi Z Chummun.
‘The pandemic caused a lot of challenges during my studies but with the help of Dr Chummun I managed to submit my thesis and graduate – realising my dream at the age of 62. I enjoyed my academic journey at UKZN,’ said Nleya.
His research involved examining the relationship between strategic leadership and organisational performance in small and medium enterprises in Zimbabwe. Armed with the new knowledge he has gained, Nleya hopes he can now contribute positively to his country’s economy.
‘My research was motivated by the need to see managers of small and medium enterprises play a significant role in improving the performance of their businesses,’ he said.
His study established that awareness and acceptance of strategic leadership contribute positively to the performance of small and medium enterprises in Zimbabwe. ‘I strongly believe that the results of my research will assist owners and managers stabilise their businesses in Zimbabwe’s subdued economy.’
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photograph: Supplied
Nleya, who is employed as a part-time lecturer at the Graduate School of Business at the National University of Science and Technology in Zimbabwe, says the achievement has now provided motivation for his wife, Priscilla, to get her PhD as well!
‘The issue of age was not a hindrance in my studies simply because I have excelled throughout my academic career.’
COVID-19 threatened to scupper his academic plans, but Nleya persevered, determined to overcome any obstacle. When the pandemic was at its peak early last year, he had already completed his research and was preparing to submit his final thesis. This was a challenge, he says, as the pandemic prevented him from having face-to-face consultations with his supervisor, Dr Bibi Z Chummun.
‘The pandemic caused a lot of challenges during my studies but with the help of Dr Chummun I managed to submit my thesis and graduate – realising my dream at the age of 62. I enjoyed my academic journey at UKZN,’ said Nleya.
His research involved examining the relationship between strategic leadership and organisational performance in small and medium enterprises in Zimbabwe. Armed with the new knowledge he has gained, Nleya hopes he can now contribute positively to his country’s economy.
‘My research was motivated by the need to see managers of small and medium enterprises play a significant role in improving the performance of their businesses,’ he said.
His study established that awareness and acceptance of strategic leadership contribute positively to the performance of small and medium enterprises in Zimbabwe. ‘I strongly believe that the results of my research will assist owners and managers stabilise their businesses in Zimbabwe’s subdued economy.’
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photograph: Supplied