For Ms Zintwezinhle Ntshangase, effective university administration goes beyond managing diaries, correspondence, and committee processes.
It requires empathy, discretion, and a commitment to helping people access the support they need.
As Executive Personal Assistant to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) and Head of the College of Law and Management Studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Ntshangase serves as a vital link between the DVC’s office and UKZN’s staff, students, senior management, and external stakeholders.
Her career in Higher Education administration began at the former University of Durban-Westville, where she worked as a Postgraduate Co-ordinator. She later gained experience in government and public sector organisations, including the Department of Public Works, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), and the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL). At SASSA, she held key leadership positions, including Department Co-ordinator and Grants Administration Team Leader. In these roles, she managed operations, supervised staff, oversaw compliance, and co-ordinated major projects.
Ntshangase joined UKZN in 2019 as Executive Assistant to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the College of Law and Management Studies. Her responsibilities include managing high-level correspondence, administering College committees, co-ordinating travel and financial processes, and ensuring governance decisions are effectively communicated and implemented. “The position requires resilience, adaptability, and the ability to balance strategic oversight with meticulous attention to detail,” Ntshangase said.
Although much of her work happens behind the scenes, students facing difficulties that could prevent them from completing their studies often turn to her office for assistance.
Ntshangase recalled helping an academically successful student who faced unexpected financial hardship. She arranged confidential referrals to appropriate university offices and discreetly approached senior academics willing to step in. The student received the necessary support to continue studying and eventually graduated.
“Behind every query or difficulty is a person striving to succeed, often against significant challenges,” she said. “I am driven by a deep commitment to fairness and empowerment, and by the belief that no student should be left behind simply because they lack access to the right support.”
Ntshangase also shares her administrative expertise by training and mentoring colleagues, encouraging administrative professionals to recognise that their contribution extends far beyond routine office tasks.
“Effective office management is not just about handling diaries or correspondence; it is about creating systems that ensure information flows smoothly, deadlines are met, and leadership is supported with the right material at the right time,” she explained.
She emphasises accurate minute-taking, sound committee administration, financial oversight, clear communication, and the ability to anticipate problems. Confidentiality is equally vital, as administrative employees are frequently entrusted with sensitive information.
Of UKZN’s REACHT (Respect, Excellence, Accountability, Client Orientation, Honesty, Trust) values, respect resonates most strongly with Ntshangase. She demonstrates this by listening carefully, protecting confidential information, and ensuring everyone who enters the DVC’s office feels valued.
“Respect allows me to balance the demands of a complex College with the human side of administration,” she said.
Her career has also shaped her understanding of women’s leadership. Working alongside strong female leaders at UKZN taught Ntshangase that women can confront challenges firmly while fostering environments in which others can grow. She believes true leadership is measured by impact and influence rather than titles. “My career has taught me that women’s leadership is defined by resilience, character, and the ability to balance strength with empathy,” she noted.
Advising young women pursuing careers in professional services and university administration, she encourages them to build competence, cultivate confidence, seek mentorship, and lead with integrity. “Excellence and empathy can coexist,” she said. “By embodying both, young women can grow into leaders who not only manage institutions effectively but also inspire those around them.”
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Words: Lee Rondganger
Photograph: Albert Hirasen