Research
A go-getter at heart and in spirit obtains PhD at 35
While organisations are rapidly transforming to keep up with technological advancements, less attention is given to the human and leadership dynamics that enable or hinder successful change.
Dr Dakalo Monyai’s research focuses on the behavioural and contextual factors that influence employee commitment to organisational change, particularly in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Her PhD research, in particular, aimed to develop a behavioural and contextual model of organisational change. The study addressed the under-researched relationship between behavioural variables (such as attitudes, readiness and commitment to change) and contextual variables (such as responsible leadership and organisational culture).
Using a quantitative approach grounded in a positivist research philosophy, the study contributes to society by offering practical insights for organisations undergoing transformation, especially in technologically evolving environments.
By understanding the behavioural and contextual drivers of change commitment, leaders and policymakers can better design change initiatives that engage employees meaningfully, reduce resistance and improve overall organisational performance.
"Becoming the first in my department to obtain a PhD is a milestone I hold with pride"
A go-getter with a deep passion for research, Monyai hails from Mamelodi East, Tsakane, in Pretoria. At 35, she brings 15 years of experience in the teaching and learning environment, having served across 4 different departments at Unisa. She currently works as an Assessment Advisor in the Directorate of Student Assessment Administration.
While Monyai has remained in the same role at Unisa over the past eight years, this stability has provided her with consistency and a solid foundation in understanding the institution and its systems. "While I have not yet experienced significant upward movement, I have used this time to invest deeply in my academic development, culminating in the completion of my PhD," she says.
Her academic journey began in 2008 when she enrolled for a National Diploma in Safety Management at Unisa, which she completed in 2012. "The transition from high school to distance learning was challenging, as I had to adapt from traditional classroom-based teaching to self-directed learning," she reflects.
However, once she adjusted, her passion and determination took over. In 2013, she registered for a BTech in Safety Management and completed it in 2014. She then pursued a Master of Business Leadership (MBL), starting in 2015, and graduated in 2018.
In 2019, she submitted a PhD proposal to the University of Johannesburg through the Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management. Her proposal was accepted, and she registered in 2020. "I completed my thesis in May 2024, and by October 2024, I received confirmation from the examiners recommending that I be awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy." This degree was officially conferred upon her on 26 May 2025.
Her academic journey, from undergraduate studies at Unisa to completing her PhD at the University of Johannesburg, has been both challenging and deeply rewarding. "Becoming the first in my department to obtain a PhD is a milestone I hold with pride, as it reflects my resilience, dedication, and commitment to both academic and professional excellence," she says with joy.
"I am hopeful that now, as a PhD graduate, new doors will open," she continues, "allowing me to contribute more meaningfully, particularly to academic or research-focused spaces where I can apply my skills, passion, and qualifications to their full potential."
Unisa research support, an enabler for professional staff
Monyai received research support from the Professional Research Committee (PRC) under Unisa’s Directorate of Research Support, and she says that this was instrumental in enabling her to complete her PhD qualification successfully.
"The dedicated time and resources afforded through the PRC allowed me to focus deeply on my research, ultimately contributing to the timely and successful completion of my studies. I am especially grateful to Ms Amisha Benode for her support and guidance throughout the Research Development application process. Her professionalism and kindness made the journey smoother and more manageable," says Monyai with gratitude.
She has published two academic articles in an international journal and has submitted a manuscript based on her doctoral research to an accredited outlet. Since completing her doctorate, she has continued to receive research support from the PRC.
Monyai’s milestones are a testament to her commitment to academic excellence and her passion for producing research that drives meaningful impact in organisational practice.
* By Mpho Moloele, Department of Research, Innovation and Commercialisation
Publish date: 2025-10-03 00:00:00.0
A go-getter at heart and in spirit obtains PhD at 35
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