Nomusa Dube-Ncube, former Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, has been awarded a Doctor of Administration degree by the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), marking a significant milestone in her distinguished career in public service.
Her doctoral thesis, titled “Legislative and Institutional Arrangements for Poverty Alleviation in iLembe District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa,” examines the challenges and institutional gaps in implementing poverty eradication strategies in one of the province’s most impoverished regions. The research highlights the need for decentralized decision-making and increased community involvement to ensure the effectiveness of poverty alleviation programs.
Reflecting on her achievement, Dr. Dube-Ncube expressed her commitment to enhancing government service delivery. “I’m passionate about ensuring that whenever government provides services they are effective, efficient, corruption-free and bring about equity and improved lived experiences for communities,” she stated.
Dr. Dube-Ncube’s academic journey complements her extensive experience in governance. She holds a Master of Public Administration and diplomas in public management, management and leadership, and training and development. Her career includes roles as South Africa’s ambassador to the Czech Republic and various positions within the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government, such as MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, and Finance. In August 2022, she made history by becoming the first woman to serve as Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, a position she held until June 2024.
Currently serving on the African National Congress’s KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Task Team, Dr. Dube-Ncube advocates for continuous learning among public officials. She emphasizes that postgraduate studies equip leaders with the analytical tools necessary for evidence-based decision-making, ultimately leading to more effective governance.
Dr. Dube-Ncube’s accomplishment serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the value of academic pursuit in enhancing public service and addressing societal challenges.
