THE HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

Welcome to the HRD and PhOB Graduate Programme. You are certainly not here by chance. With the options available to you and expert training involved, you are primed to lead. The most attractive products of our postgraduates are their ability to analyse social problems; carry out research using qualitative, quantitative, and a blend of tools; and make recommendations for change. In simple terms, our postgraduates are seen by the world as social problem solvers. Nonetheless, you are also the people called upon to carry out the market research that guides the production and expansion of companies around the world; or to guide governmental and non-governmental policies; or to assist entities to understand the social environment in which they operate. Finally, in the last few decades, we have become the foundation for many of the doctoral studies in the behavioural sciences. As you join us on this journey of applied knowledge in the social world, it is important for you to have an open mind. This will allow you to separate knowledge and science from prejudice. We wish for your embrace of the beautiful and meticulous nature of the social sciences, and we hope that you have fun admiring and participating. Remember though, that this is a step (sometimes a jump) above undergraduate studies. Though you are a bit more mature, more is also expected of you in your career and personal lives; hence you will find the programme challenging. You will need to learn to manage your time well. Remember too that you have an able and student-friendly support staff you can consult, that aims to make your student experience positive. Please do not become shy when you need to speak with someone. Again, welcome, manage your time, seek assistance as needed – and make sure to enjoy your postgraduate experience.