Name: Zamo Shongwe
Title: Programme Manager
What does your current role involve?

• Co-ordinating the programme offices
• Acting as a liaison between the programme and the project co-ordinators in particular the SADC projects and the Access Retention and Success projects
• Liasing with the Department of Education and the Royal Norwegian Embassy
• Organizing workshops and conferences

Has your role evolved since you started? If so how?
I began as administrative support and now duties also include the supervision of staff. With increased projects and staff the nature of the job has changed, with more responsibility more decision making. I also take forward the historical knowledge from SANTED I.
What is your most memorable or satisfying experience at SANTED?
The great review we received at the end of SANTED I, knowing that I was a major part of making not just the projects but the programme as a whole a success. Having the opportunity to work with Derrick Young the former director whose enthusiasm to impart information was sometimes overwhelming but always enlightening. There have been many small wins along the way, learning new skills or making deadlines with very short timelines. But definitely it would be getting the recognition for working hard, as well as the opportunity for making an input in development of the higher education sector in South Africa and in Southern Africa. There is also something very satisfying about getting to work in a job with people you enjoy being around. The relaxed and cohesive environment certainly makes SANTED an enjoyable workplace.
What are you looking forward to in the future at SANTED?
Being a part of and having input into the SANTED as it grows and expands. Being able to put my name to initiatives like the multilingualism project and seeing. I also look forward to the success of SANTED II.