BUSINESS BRIEFING
All the latest updates from across AMBA’s global network
In this issue, Tim Banerjee Dhoul and Ellen Buchan delve into news from AMBA-accredited schools on topics that include the management lessons to be learned from TV shows, climate solutions for the Pacific region, the trend towards ‘boomerang’ employees and an initiative to aid companies attempting to scale up
ENERGY COURSE AIMS TO ENGAGE FEMALE LEADERS
SCHOOL: Wits Business School, University of the Witwatersrand COUNTRY: South Africa
Women are estimated to represent 32 per cent of those employed by the global wind industry, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency. However, it reports far fewer numbers of women in STEM roles within the industry, compared to the number of women holding administrative positions. “We recognise that the challenge of under-representation of women in the wind energy sector is as much a South African challenge as it is a global challenge. Our country’s renewable energy sector needs to truly reflect the society in which we operate if we are to thrive,” Govender added. “As a sector, our ambition is to deliver a just transition and this must include the upliftment and inclusion of all genders. Inclusion widens the talent pool and enhances collaboration, improves retention, recruitment and reputation.” The initiative – and the involvement of Wits Business School – stems from the work of SAWEA’s collaborative Gender Diversity Working Group (GDWG) with the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) and Energy and Water Sector Education Training Authority (EWSETA). TBD
Addressing the skills shortfall in the renewable energy industry, while accelerating the growth of female leadership in the sector, is the target of a new programme designed by Wits Business School. The inaugural cohort of the Management Development Programme for Women in Renewable Energy commenced classes in March. Offered over nine months, the programme will focus on furthering participants’ understanding of business models and design thinking for strategic management, as well as self‑development and leadership, with several electives geared towards tackling distinct challenges in the sector. “The programme is tailored specifically for women already employed within the renewable energy sector as well as female specialists, consultants and managers who are seeking to grow their business and management acumen in renewable energy. The aim is to provide the necessary skills and development that will result in a pipeline of gender-diverse leaders who will elevate sector leadership and deliver role models,” said Niveshen Govender, CEO of the organisation at the helm of the programme initiative, the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA).
8 | Ambition | MAY 2023
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