Dr Neha Purushottam
Prof PD Rwelamila
Prof PD Rwelamila and Dr N Purushottam both academics at Unisa Graduate School of Business Leadership were awarded the Best Paper Award in Human Resources, Management and Organisations during the International Academy of African Business and Development (IAABD) International Conference. The conference took place from 15 – 19 May 2012, Morocco.Prof Rwelamila presented their paper entitled: “Exploring the possibilities for management education to contribute in the development of Africa – the case of South Africa” at the conference.
The 13th International Conference of the IAABD was hosted by the EL Jadida Polydisciplinary University and boasted an attendance of more than 200 representatives from 18 countries. The paper explores the possible ways in which business schools can contribute to the development of a country. Some of these approaches may facilitate addressing of issues such as quality and relevance of business education, cultural sensitivity among businesses, responsible leadership, knowledge base on African businesses and promoting innovation. Moreover, business schools may even help in curbing unemployment through rigorous entrepreneurial education.Prof Rwelimila and Dr Purushottam hope that their work may stimulate some reflective thinking and proactive actions among schools of leadership. This can contribute towards a long journey of economic and social development of both the country and the continent, through synergy of many organisations and individuals.
Prof Rwelamila is a Professor in project management. His areas of specialisation include project management, project delivery systems, influence of culture on project management, and construction industry development. Dr Purushottam is a Senior Lecturer in the area of Strategy, Governance and Marketing. Prior to joining the SBL in August 2009, she worked as a research consultant at the State Bank of India, SA, where she assisted with the strategic expansion of the bank in Africa by conducting feasibility studies on various African countries.
