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The DaVinci Institute is a distinguished business school committed to cultivating the next generation of business leaders, critical thinkers, and transformative innovators.

Here are the reasons why you should consider taking the leap with The DaVinci Institute:

Broad Range of Qualifications

Our business school offers a comprehensive range of qualifications, from NQF Level 5 (Higher Certificate) to Level 10 (Doctoral Degrees, including a Doctor of Business Leadership and a Doctor of Management).

Advance Your Career with our Postgraduate Qualifications

Whether you’re looking to switch careers or specialise, our postgraduate qualifications pave the way. Our other qualifications include a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Leadership, a Master of Management in Technology and Innovation and a Master of Business Leadership.

Unparalleled Convenience and Flexibility

We recognise that you have diverse schedules. With this in mind, we have five annual intakes (January, March, June, August, and October) and a robust online platform with recorded sessions to cater to busy professionals.

Our convenient part-time distance learning approach is perfect for those juggling personal and professional commitments.

Prestigious Alumni and Student Network

Our alumni are a testament to our excellence and remarkability. They’ve etched their mark as critical thinkers, thought leaders, and business moguls. Join a vibrant community of alumni and students, including executives, senior managers, and directors. The networking possibilities are remarkable!

We also proudly host one of the largest populations of doctoral students, showcasing our commitment to advanced research and intellectual pursuit.

Real-World Relevance

Our curriculum is rich in real-world case studies, promoting the bigger picture and systems thinking. This approach ensures our students gain practical knowledge that’s immediately applicable. In addition, our unique Managerial Leadership Framework ensures a holistic understanding of business. addition

Personal Touch and Self-Mastery

At DaVinci, we pride ourselves on personalised customer service and career guidance. Here, you’re more than just a student number – you’re an individual with ambitions and dreams.

Before commencing your qualification with us, you will be assessed through an innovative tool to help you understand your learning style, ensuring a tailored learning experience.

Pragmatic Curriculum and a Focus on Real-world Problem-Solving

We pose application-based questions that resonate with the business world. Designed for working professionals, our courses enable them to integrate and apply their learnings seamlessly.

Our qualifications are designed to equip students to tackle real-world challenges head-on, fostering a solutions-driven mindset.

Revolutionary Approach to Business Education

At DaVinci, you will not be spoon-fed knowledge through textbooks or memos. Instead, we challenge conventional thinking, fostering co-creation and solving current, relevant problems.

We believe in empowering our students to think beyond the ordinary and make remarkable contributions to the business landscape. Join us and embark on a transformative journey that bridges the gap between knowledge and application.

What our students and alumni say about their experience with us

“When I was 19 years old and looking at possible universities, my dad recommended DaVinci… Doing the BCom degree through DaVinci was life-changing! The teaching methodology at DaVinci, better known as the mode 2 learning approach, encourages individuals to leverage the strongest aspects of their thinking, to capitalise on them.” – Karl Tischlhauser (DaVinci Alumnus – BCom Class of 2020 and current Master’s student).

“When I think of the intersection of unwavering dedication, cutting-edge knowledge, and exemplary professionalism, my experience at The DaVinci Institute immediately comes to mind, especially as I reflect on my journey with them. As an electrical engineer, project manager, and currently the engineering and projects manager for the Western Cape region at Transnet Port Terminals, I found the academic rigor at DaVinci instrumental in shaping my professional trajectory. My doctoral thesis aimed at bridging a significant gap in infrastructure project delivery, and I am proud to have developed a success model that holds potential to transform the economic landscape by ensuring infrastructure projects are more successful. This model doesn’t just remain on paper but is poised to reduce risks and costs, enhance stakeholder outcomes, and improve overall infrastructure development quality.” – Dr Tonny Mhondiwa, Doctoral Alumnus

At The DaVinci Institute, we believe that an empowered student thinks beyond the ordinary; they thrive in their remarkability. Ready to make a mark in the business landscape?

Take the Next Step: Contact us, attend an online open day, or apply directly. We’re here to support your transformative journey.

Taking the plunge into a doctoral programme is both exhilarating and challenging, filled with numerous questions like, “What happens after my application?” Here’s a snapshot to guide you through your transformative journey at The DaVinci Institute.

After completing your application to one of our Doctoral programmes, you may wonder, “What now?”

Well, let’s start at the very beginning. After completing your admission, your dedicated Programme Convener will invite you to the onboarding. The onboarding phase consists of a number of online sessions that will introduce you to DaVinci staff, as well as a range of concepts applicable to the DaVinci approach.

Session one will begin with a virtual meet and greet by the Executive Management team, where you can virtually meet your fellow students.

Session two will focus on understanding two important concepts related to the DaVinci approach to leadership, namely Jarche and Cynefin.

• The Jarche Model, developed by Harold Jarche, illustrates a modern work approach. It emphasises “Seek-Sense-Share”: seeking knowledge, making sense of it, and sharing insights for personal growth and effective collaboration in today’s knowledge-driven environments.
• The Cynefin Framework, developed by Dave Snowden, is a sense-making tool for decision-making. It categorises problems into Simple, Complicated, Complex, and Chaotic domains, guiding appropriate strategies to address challenges in various contexts.

From Classroom to Real-World Solutions: Navigating 5IR with Experiential Learning

Session three will begin with an understanding of the Mode 2 and Experiential approach to learning. This will be presented with a view of the Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR) and how your studies will impact on the National Development Plan for South Africa. By the end of the session, you will have gained new perspectives and knowledge to help you excel in your learning journey.

• The Mode 2 approach to learning, proposed by Carl Bereiter, emphasises experiential and collaborative learning. It focuses on solving real-world problems, fostering adaptability, and promoting creativity by integrating practical experiences with theoretical knowledge in dynamic settings. Complimentary to this is the experiential learning approach, which immerses learners in hands-on experiences to grasp concepts, fostering active participation, reflection, and application. It emphasises practical knowledge acquisition and skill development through engagement with real-world situations.
• The South African National Development Plan is a comprehensive blueprint for the country’s growth. It aims for inclusive socio-economic progress, reducing inequality, and addressing key challenges through sustainable development strategies, infrastructure enhancement, and social transformation.

From Onboarding to Dissertation: Navigating the DaVinci Research Journey

The final session concludes on the fourth day with information sessions by the Library and IT support.

Once the onboarding has been completed, your access to DaVinci Connect will be up and running, where you will be able to download additional reading, templates, referencing guides, and all other resources needed to be successful in your dissertation.

Once you have had some time to make sense of your onboarding sessions and the information available on DaVinci Connect, the research support workshops will begin. The research support workshops are presented to assist you in writing your research proposal, which is essentially chapters one and three of your dissertation. The research support workshops are presented in the order of consideration of where you need to begin thinking and writing in your proposal phase. These are presented each month over a period of seven months.

Session 1: Conceptual/theoretical frameworks

• During this informative research session, your facilitator will discuss the differences between conceptual and theoretical frameworks and how to decide which is best for your research.

Session 2: Research philosophy and paradigms – from conceptualisation to method

• During this session, the facilitator will enable an understanding of Research Philosophy and Research Paradigms and further distinguishes between the main paradigms and how they guide you to conceptualise your study.

Session 3: Research topic, aims, and objectives

• The facilitator helps students decide on and refine the following: a topic for research, writing the aims and objectives of the study, formulating hypotheses and/or value propositions, and formulating research questions. This stage enables students to do their 1st proposal submission of Chapter 1.

Session 4: The Dale Method: Project management (PM) & literature review methodology

• Join Caroline Dale as you explore key elements of PM, including timelines and planning, and then delve into a comprehensive methodology to help navigate your literature review process. By the end of this session, you will have gained valuable insights and practical tools that will be key to your entire thesis process.

Session 5: Research design and methodology and specific underpinning methods

This session assists students in describing their research design, strategy, methods, procedures, and data gathering and analysis techniques. Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods are discussed.

Session 6: TIPS Managerial Leadership Framework

• The TIPS Managerial Leadership Framework is demystified in this session. The different pillars of the framework, the competencies, the practices of leaders, and the actualisation of a systemic perspective to your work and research are discussed in depth.

Session 7: Proposal Development

• After the first 6 research proposal development workshops, what is next? In this last session, you will be taken through the practical steps to bring it all together. Emphasis will be on integrating all your learning and presenting a feasible proposal for summative assessment.

Feedback, Refinement, and Defense: Perfecting Your Doctoral Proposal at DaVinci

After the workshops, chapter one must be submitted for feedback. Upon receipt of your qualitative feedback, you will make your recommended changes. Should you wish to consult with a member of the research office for further insights into your feedback, your Programme Convener may arrange this for you.

Approximately two to three months after submission of chapter one, your edited chapter one, plus your first draft of chapter three, is due for submission. Both will be assessed, and feedback will be provided. Within the next two months, feedback on your draft submitted (chapters one and three) must be submitted for assessment. Proposals that achieve a mark of 60% or more will be accepted. Once the proposal is accepted, a supervisor will be appointed. After consultation with your newly appointed supervisor, you will be invited to an oral defense of your proposal. You must apply for ethical clearance once your proposal has been successfully defended. Your supervisor will guide you through this process.

The Road to a DaVinci Doctorate: From Ethical Clearance to Dissertation Defense

After your ethical clearance has been approved, you will continue on your research journey to complete the remaining chapters in consultation with your supervisor. Continuous support will be provided by your supervisor, programme convener, the research office, and research seminars presented throughout the year. You have a maximum of 6 years in which to complete your dissertation.

When you are ready to submit, you must have your ‘intention to submit’ signed off by your supervisor so that the Research Office is ready to receive your dissertation and to appoint examiners. After examination of your dissertation, you will need to defend your research in an oral defense with a panel of seasoned researchers. Once completed and final comments actioned, you will be awarded your doctorate at a live graduation ceremony in either May or October.

From Aspiration to Dr.: DaVinci’s Distinguished Doctorate Degrees

Ready to start your doctorate? DaVinci offers two doctorate degrees, a Doctor of Business Leadership and a Doctor of Management in Technology and Innovation. Both result in a doctorate, the title “doctor” (Dr.), and a red gown; your research focus will determine which designation you will register for.

Are you ready to advance your career and thrive in today’s ever-changing business landscape? We have exciting news for you! The DaVinci Institute is thrilled to announce the launch of a Management Development Programme (MDP) focused on Building and Managing Exponential Business.

Designed to Empower Present and Future Leaders

Starting in September 2023, our 12-week Management Development Programme is specifically designed to empower present and future leaders like you with the essential managerial skills and a deep understanding of exponential business growth. We know that navigating through change and driving growth can be challenging, so our comprehensive curriculum is tailored to address the complexities of today’s business world.

Flexible Blended Learning Approach for Busy Professionals

What makes our MDP truly unique is its relevance to today’s business landscape and its blended learning approach. We understand your busy schedule, so we offer a mix of on-campus and online delivery, allowing you to learn at your own pace while benefiting from interactive discussions and hands-on experiences. With the flexibility we provide, you can balance your professional and personal commitments while investing in your future success.

Comprehensive Curriculum for Building and Managing Exponential Businesses

The six modules for our Management Development Programme cover various topics crucial for building and managing exponential businesses. From fostering innovation and leveraging emerging technologies to developing effective leadership strategies, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge needed to overcome challenges and drive growth in your organisation.

Applications Now Open for Both Intakes of the Management Development Programme

Applications for the first and second intakes of our MDP are now open. We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds and industries to apply and join our remarkable community of like-minded professionals. We believe in the power of collaboration and diverse perspectives to fuel innovation and create exponential impact.

Investing in your professional growth has never been more accessible. The programme fee for our MDP is R35,000, offering exceptional value for the transformative knowledge and expertise you’ll gain. Upon completing the programme, you’ll receive a certificate from the DaVinci Institute, recognising your commitment to personal and professional development.

Key Details for the Two Intakes of the MDP

Here are the key details for the two intakes of our MDP:

• Applications Open: 1 July 2023
• Applications Close: 1 September 2023
• Programme Starts: 4 September 2023
• Programme Ends: 27 November 2023

Apply or Enquire Now and Connect with Our Dedicated Team

To apply for our MDP or obtain more information, we invite you to contact our dedicated team at mdp@davinci.ac.za. We’re here to answer your questions and support you throughout your learning journey.

At the DaVinci Institute, we’re committed to unlocking your potential for exponential success and co-creating remarkable learning journeys. Join us in this exciting venture, connect with a community of remarkable professionals, and embrace the challenges and opportunities of the future. Your journey toward personal and professional growth starts now!

Johannesburg, South Africa – 26 June 2023 – Our institution, the DaVinci Institute, takes great pride in announcing that our President, Edward Kieswetter, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council. The appointment occurred during the 141st/142nd Sessions of the WCO Council held at its headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, from 22 to 24 June 2023.

President Kieswetter, also the Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), is the second South African to chair the prestigious organisation, succeeding Ahmed Al-Khalifa, Director General of Bahrain’s Customs Clearance and Services.

The election of Prof. Kieswetter, a highly respected leader within South Africa’s business and customs community, acknowledges the effective leadership of the country’s tax services and marks a moment of national pride.

“Leadership is an inordinate responsibility and a rare privilege to assist international efforts to bring matters of customs to the centre of international trade facilitation. This election is ample evidence that the leadership of SARS in matters of customs is acknowledged after many years of State capture,” said Kieswetter.

During his tenure, Prof. Kieswetter has committed to achieving the objectives of the WCO through a practical, well-managed Secretariat, a transformational modernisation plan, and an appropriate set of priorities. His focus on technology, innovation, green customs, governance, and accountability aligns with the WCO’s 2022-2025 Strategic Plan.

Please join us in congratulating Prof. Kieswetter on this prestigious appointment, and wish him continued success as he embarks on this new journey.

About DaVinci

Founded in 2004, the DaVinci Institute is a business school committed to co-creating remarkable learning journeys that empower future leaders to change the world through teachings inspired by Nelson Mandela and Leonardo Da Vinci. DaVinci brings together experts and thought leaders in business and management to provide students with a well-rounded education. The dedicated faculty, with their qualifications, research expertise, and industry experience, ensures that students receive a high-quality education grounded in real-world applications.

For more information, please contact:

Ofentse Olunloyo

Executive Head: Marketing

ofentse@davinci.ac.za

www.davinci.ac.za

011 608 1331

Our education institute, The DaVinci Institute for Technology Management, proudly joined the Association of African Business Schools (AABS) this month, a milestone that marks our dedication to the promotion and enhancement of business education in Africa.

AABS is a prestigious African association, housing the largest community of business schools across the continent. It represents over 60 esteemed institutions across numerous African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, South Africa, DRC, Egypt, Morocco, Ethiopia, Algeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Senegal, and Mali.

Membership in the AABS is only granted to organisations with a physical campus in Africa, that offer programmes in business education approved by a higher education authority in an African country. Each member is unique, independent in philosophy, and committed to their mission while accountable to their community.

“We are excited to join this leading network of quality business education in Africa, focussing on relevance, impact, and sustainability, supporting African businesses through capacity building, collaboration, and quality education programmes” said Professor HB Klopper, the Chief Executive of DaVinci.

This affiliation further solidifies our Business School’s commitment to providing world-class education in South Africa and Africa at large. DaVinci is also affiliated with the South African Private Higher Education (SAPHE), the South African Business School Association (SABSA), the South African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF), and the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), a global professional body that represents the transport and logistics industries.

“We will not only have access to various tailored workshops and network events but will also actively participate in offering workshops together with other member institutions,” adds Prof Klopper.

DaVinci is dedicated to co-creating exceptional learning journeys, providing educational solutions that yield a substantial return on investment for business leaders and individuals. Our mission is to broaden access to education and empower future leaders to effect positive change in the world.

Our Business School places a unique emphasis on the Management of Technology, Innovation, People, and Systems Thinking (TIPS™), a proprietary framework integrated into all our programmes. This approach enhances the performance of our students and their teams, particularly within developing economies and markets.

Offering a range of business degrees tailored to meet various needs, DaVinci allows students to study at their own pace, from anywhere and at any time. Our approach to learning transcends the traditional, ensuring a personal, social, and economic return on investment in students’ learning journey, whilst upholding best practice models.

DaVinci’s membership with AABS sets a new precedent for our commitment to business education and strengthens its impact in shaping the future of business and innovation in Africa. This partnership will widen access to quality business education further, encourage innovative thinking, and empower more individuals to effect meaningful change in society.

Business leaders play a critical role in shaping the culture, values, and practices of their organisations. They set the tone for how employees behave and what is considered acceptable in the workplace. In today’s competitive and fast-paced business environment, ethical behaviour has become more critical than ever before. In this blog, we explore why ethics are essential for business leaders and why South African businesses that value higher education training should prioritise ethics in their leadership development programmes.

Protecting Reputation and Brand

Business leaders who prioritise ethics help to protect their company’s reputation and brand. Companies that behave unethically can face severe consequences, such as legal action, financial loss, and reputational damage. Ethical leaders establish a culture of integrity, honesty, and transparency that helps to protect the company’s reputation and maintain the trust of stakeholders.

Building a Stronger Organisational Culture

Ethical leaders create a positive and inclusive work environment that fosters productivity, motivation, and loyalty. They establish a culture of trust, respect, and fairness that supports employee wellbeing and job satisfaction. Employees who work for ethical leaders feel valued and engaged, and they are more likely to stay with the company long-term.

Meeting Stakeholder Expectations

Business leaders who prioritise ethics meet the expectations of stakeholders, including customers, investors, and regulators. Stakeholders expect companies to behave ethically and operate with transparency, honesty, and accountability. Companies that fail to meet these expectations can lose the trust and support of their stakeholders, leading to significant consequences for the business.

Fostering Innovation and Creativity

Ethical leaders encourage innovation and creativity by creating a safe and supportive work environment. Employees who work for ethical leaders feel empowered to share their ideas and take risks, knowing that their contributions will be valued and appreciated. This culture of innovation and creativity can lead to new ideas, products, and services that drive business success.

Demonstrating Social Responsibility

Business leaders who prioritise ethics demonstrate social responsibility by considering the impact of their actions on society and the environment. They operate in a sustainable and responsible way, contributing to the well-being of their employees, customers, and the wider community. Ethical leaders recognise that businesses have a responsibility to be a force for good, and they act accordingly.

At DaVinci Business School, we offer a range of leadership qualifications. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your organisation cultivate ethical and effective leaders.

Organisational culture is the shared values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours that define how things get done within a company. The way a company operates can have a significant impact on its success, and leadership plays a critical role in shaping organisational culture. In this blog, we’ll explore how leadership influences organisational culture and why it’s essential for South African businesses that value higher education training to understand this relationship.

Setting the Tone for the Organisation

Leadership sets the tone for the organisation. The values, behaviours, and attitudes demonstrated by leaders create the standard for how employees should behave. Leaders who exhibit positive qualities such as integrity, accountability, and transparency set the expectation for employees to do the same. Leaders who are not aligned with the desired culture can create confusion and undermine the efforts to create a positive culture.

Driving Behaviour Through Communication

Effective communication is essential to shaping organisational culture. Leaders who communicate regularly and clearly help employees understand what is expected of them and why it is important. They help build trust, establish a sense of belonging, and create a positive work environment. In contrast, leaders who communicate poorly can create confusion and misunderstanding that can damage the culture and the organisation as a whole.

Demonstrating the Right Behaviours

Leadership behaviour is one of the most significant influences on organisational culture. Leaders who demonstrate the desired behaviours set the standard for what is acceptable in the organisation. If the leaders do not follow the same values or behaviours they promote, they will undermine the efforts to shape the desired culture.

Creating a Sense of Belonging

Leadership plays a critical role in creating a sense of belonging within the organisation. Leaders who foster a positive work environment, provide clear communication, and demonstrate respect and inclusivity help employees feel valued and included. A sense of belonging can help foster motivation and productivity and build a more cohesive and effective team.

Leadership has a significant impact on organisational culture, and it is crucial for South African businesses that value higher education training to understand this relationship. Leaders set the tone, drive behaviour through communication, demonstrate the right behaviours, and create a sense of belonging. By investing in leadership development, businesses can create a positive culture that supports their values and goals, and ultimately contributes to their success. At The DaVinci Institute, we offer a range of leadership development programmes that can help businesses develop effective leaders and shape the desired culture. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your organisation.

If you’re considering pursuing business education, you may be wondering if it’s worth the time and investment. The answer is a resounding yes! In today’s competitive business world, a business education can give you a significant advantage in the job market and set you up for long-term success. In this blog, we’ll explore ten reasons why you should go to business school, particularly if you’re a business professional who values higher education training.

Develop Business Skills

A business education can provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a wide range of business fields, from finance and marketing to operations and management.

Increase Your Earning Potential with Business Education

A business education can increase your earning potential by preparing you for high-paying jobs in the business world.

Expand Your Professional Network

Business school provides an excellent opportunity to connect with other business professionals and build a valuable network of contacts.

Learn From Experienced Faculty

Business school professors have years of experience working in the business world, which means they can provide valuable insights and real-world examples that you can apply to your own career.

Gain International Exposure Through Business Education

Many business schools offer study abroad programs, providing you with the opportunity to gain international exposure and develop a global perspective.

Improve Your Critical Thinking Skills

Business school courses require critical thinking and analysis, which can improve your ability to make informed decisions and solve complex problems.

Build Your Leadership Skills

Business school courses often focus on leadership and management, providing you with the skills necessary to lead and inspire teams.

Enhance Your Communication Skills

Effective communication is critical in the business world, and business school can help you develop strong communication skills through coursework and presentations.

Access to Career Services

Most business schools offer career services that can help you find internships and job opportunities, prepare your resume, and improve your interviewing skills.

Gain Credibility

A business degree can increase your credibility in the business world and demonstrate to potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed.

Going to business school can provide you with numerous advantages in the business world, including developing business skills, increasing earning potential, expanding your professional network, learning from experienced faculty, gaining international exposure, improving critical thinking and communication skills, building leadership skills, accessing career services, and gaining credibility.

At The DaVinci Institute, we offer a range of business programmes, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, executive education, and professional development courses. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your career goals. Enrol here today.