As a Student Fees Administrator at SU, Thabo Tyholweni works behind the scenes to ensure that one of the most important aspects of student life runs smoothly – keeping financial processes accurate, fair and reliable. Beyond the spreadsheets and policies, he is a creative thinker who enjoys writing, finding humour in everyday life, and bringing fresh perspective to problem-solving.

What does your role at SU entail?

My role as a Student Fees Administrator focuses on managing student financial accounts with accuracy, compliance, and consistency. This includes billing and crediting levies, allocating payments, reconciling accounts, and managing key processes such as the debit order payment plan and disbursements to external stakeholder. I work across a range of student-related charges, including accommodation, meal quotas, and other service levies, ensuring that all transactions are applied correctly and in line with approved policies.

A key part of my role is ensuring that financial information is reliable and up to date, as this supports both operational processes and institutional decision-making. I contribute by providing accurate financial data for internal processes and ensuring that records are maintained in a way that supports transparency and accountability.

In executing my responsibilities, I am guided by SU’s ECARE values. Excellence and accountability are critical in maintaining the integrity of financial records, while respect, equity, and compassion shape how I approach each case. I am always mindful that financial processes directly affect students and their families, and this awareness informs how I carry out my work.

What does a typical day at work look like?

A typical day begins with reviewing and reconciling student accounts, identifying discrepancies, and ensuring that all transactions are correctly recorded. This often involves verifying supporting documentation, checking allocations, and ensuring that any adjustments are justified and compliant with policy.

I spend a significant portion of the day managing debit order processes, including monitoring  & addressing failed transactions, and ensuring that mandates are correctly maintained. 

In addition, I oversee the accurate billing and adjustment of levies such as accommodation fees, meal quotas, and other student-related charges. Where discrepancies arise, I work closely with colleagues and internal stakeholders to investigate and resolve issues efficiently.

Each task requires attention to detail, consistency, and a strong sense of accountability. Throughout the day, the ECARE values are embedded in how I work – excellence in execution, accountability in every transaction, and equity in applying processes fairly. Compassion and respect remain essential, particularly when dealing with sensitive financial matters or complex account situations.

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

My experience in administrative and finance-related roles, has equipped me with the skills required to perform effectively in this role. I have developed strong organisational and analytical abilities, allowing me to manage multiple responsibilities while maintaining a high level of accuracy.

My experience has also strengthened my understanding of financial processes, policy application, and the importance of compliance. Working in environments that require precision has reinforced the importance of accountability and attention to detail.

Equally important has been the development of communication skills. Being able to engage constructively with colleagues and stakeholders, and to present financial information clearly, is essential in ensuring that processes run smoothly. This aligns closely with the values of respect and compassion, which are important in any professional environment, particularly one that serves students.

These combined experiences have shaped my approach to my current role and continue to support my commitment to excellence.

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

What I enjoy most is contributing to a system that supports students’ academic journeys. While much of my work takes place behind the scenes, it plays a critical role in ensuring that financial processes are accurate, fair, and reliable.

There is a strong sense of fulfilment in knowing that my work helps create a structured and dependable financial environment for students. Whether it is ensuring that accounts are correct, payments are properly allocated, or processes are consistently applied, each task contributes to the broader student experience.

I also value working in an environment that is guided by clear institutional values. The ECARE framework is not just a concept but something that is reflected in daily work. It promotes excellence in service delivery, accountability in processes, and a culture of respect, equity, and compassion. This creates a workplace that is both professional and supportive, where collaboration and continuous improvement are encouraged.

Tell us something about yourself that few people would expect.

Outside of my professional role, I enjoy creative expression, particularly writing and finding humour in everyday situations. It provides a balance to the structured and detail-oriented nature of my work.

This creative side also influences how I approach my role. It allows me to think more broadly, remain adaptable, and approach problem-solving with a fresh perspective. It also helps me connect with others in a way that is both professional and relatable.