Siyakhula means “we are growing". The Diversity Capacity Development Programme aims to equip staff to model, guide and support equity strategies, inclusion and staff wellbeing. The content and facilitation methods are developed and updated in partnership with the Equality Unit, the Transformation Office and the Disability Unit.
The Siyakhula programme is closely guided by SU’s
Vision 2040,
Strategic Framework 2019–2024 and
Transformation Plan.
This capacity development programme focus on three themes of competencies namely Socio-Cultural Awareness, Intergroup Engagement and Social Innovation and Design Thinking. Each theme consists of a number of workshops or structured discussions designed to address key Employment Equity, diversity and transformation challenges in Higher Education.
2025 Siyakhula workshops calendar
View PDF version
To
RSVP and book your place simply email Grizelda Adams of the Transformation Office on
grizeldaa@sun.ac.za
Please also advise of any accessibility needs you require.
Time: 10h00 – 12h00
Venue: Harmonie Ladies Res (38 Neethling Street)
Topic: Strengthening relational capacity
Participants are invited into a reflective space, interwoven with embodied practices of self-awareness, care, and compassion, to explore how relational capacities – such as historical (positional) awareness, compassion, and curiosity – can strengthen our ability to relate across difference and build meaningful connections.
Facilitators: Ayanda Nyoka and Dr Wilhelm Verwoerd
Time: 10h00 – 12h00
Venue: Harmonie Ladies Res (38 Neethling Street)
Topic:
Harnessing Ubuntu at work
In this workshop, participants will explore the concept of Ubuntu and its meaning and application through their own lived experience, and collectively imagine its application in their day-to-day work environments. The workshop will include sonic prompts, movement exercises, art crafts and discussion.
Facilitator: Gratia Aimee Ilibagiza Mutabazi
Time: 10h00 – 12h00
Venue: MSTeams
Topic: Embracing neurodiversity
Neurodiversity encompasses conditions such as Autism, ADHD, and Dyslexia, with global research indicating that approximately 10% of employees are neurodiverse. This workshop empowers participants with understanding and tools for working with neurodivergent colleagues.
Facilitator: Anika Adams
Time: 10h00 – 12h00
Venue: Equality Unit: Simon Nkoli House, 39 Victoria Street
Topic: Reclaiming the ‘personal’ in interpersonal violence
In this workshop, participants take an introspective journey into exploring violence - unpacking barriers we encounter which hinder us in our quest for change, but also reclaim parts of us which embody radical resolve and unwavering resilience in our pursuit to live fully and freely.
Facilitators: Dr Jill Ryan
Time: 10h00 – 12h00
Venue: Disability Unit: Simon Nkoli House, 39 Victoria Street
Topic:
Nurturing inclusivity: medical conditions at work
In the spirit of fostering greater inclusivity in respect of students and staff with a range of medical conditions, this session will empower participants with techniques to respond compassionately. We’ll also receive specialist advice from EpilepsySA on appropriate responses to colleagues and students experiencing seizures at work or in class.
Facilitators: Faith Xintolo
