For Njabulo Maphumulo, student support and development is “not just a job, but a calling". As the TygerMaties cluster coordinator on Tygerberg campus, Maphumulo is responsible for residential education in student communities.

In the month of  Workers' Day, we feature some of our staff and their part in keeping the wheels turning at our institution. Maphumulo told us more about his work at the University.

What is your role at Stellenbosch University?

As the cluster coordinator, my role is to support students outside the classroom. This involves engaging students and their leaders, designing co-curricular programmes, implementing policies and, most of all, creating a conducive space for development. 

What does a typical day at work look like?

Students at tertiary institutions face numerous challenges while navigating academic life. My typical day is about finding solutions to these challenges. I also do not have normal working hours because student support and development is not just a job, but a calling. I have an open-door policy, which allows students to contact me for assistance at any time.

How did your education or past experiences prepare you for this job? 

Before joining SU, I served in various governance, management and leadership structures. My passion for leadership development saw me holding many leadership positions in the South African higher education landscape and the international community. My role as a former student leader and student activist also played an important part in my development.

I obtained several qualifications from the University of the Western Cape. These include a Higher Certificate in Economic Development (cum laude), an Advanced Diploma in Public Administration, as well as bachelors, honours and master's degrees in Public Administration. I decided to study Public Administration due to my interest in public policy. I specialise in student funding in the context of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

I joined SU in July 2019. During my walkabouts in the welcoming period, interacting with students and staff, I got a sense that Maties is the place to be.

What do you enjoy most about your role and working at Stellenbosch University?

SU has provided me with the opportunity to work with students and contribute to a holistic and transformative student experience. What I enjoy most is to engage with students and staff to learn about the issues affecting them, and to motivate them to find solutions to work together towards a common vision.  

In my career, I have never experienced an institution as transparent as SU, and one where there are various structures in place where issues can be discussed and reviewed. This has made me enjoy my role from the beginning.

The pandemic has changed the way we work and live. What keeps you motivated during these times?

The students keep me motivated. Whenever I feel that the higher education environment is becoming challenging, I think of the students who come to study at SU so that they can equip themselves to make a positive contribution to society.  

My passion for student development is another motivator. I have managed to develop numerous approaches to ensure that our students are supported throughout this difficult time.

Tell us something about you that few people would expect/something exciting that few people know about you?

Few people know that I am very adventurous and enjoy adrenaline-rush activities such as hiking and running marathons.