Zanobia Kanjee, head of e-Learning at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Unit for Distance Learning, has been recognised for her remarkable contributions in the field of digital learning technologies during the recent Higher Education Women Leaders Awards (HEWLA), hosted by Higher Education Resource Services South Africa (HERS-SA).

She received an award in the category Women in Support Services at the awards ceremony that took place at the breath-taking Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town on 29 August 2024.

Zanobia's expertise in education technology and her commitment to innovation have set her apart as a leader in her field. Known for her ability to deliver innovative solutions, she has been instrumental in empowering both support teams and end-users. Her approach focuses on enhancing and streamlining processes through enabling technologies, making her a driving force in the education sector.

“It is an honour to be the recipient of this HEWLA award, and I give my heartfelt thanks to HERS-SA for this recognition,” she said.

“It was a privilege to share a stage with these phenomenal women leaders. Congratulations to the winners in each category as well as all the finalists. We are all winners, and I commend each of you for your unwavering dedication and outstanding achievements,” she added.

Zanobia also extended her gratitude and congratulations to her fellow NWU finalists: Prof Linda du Plessis, Dr Susan Greyling, Prof Marinda Neethling and Dr Keaobaka Seshoka.

“Your passion and commitment continue to inspire me. I am grateful to the NWU for encouraging a landscape that nurtures innovation and excellence. I am incredibly proud to be part of the NWU family. This award highlights the critical role that support services play in enhancing effectiveness of higher education institutions. I dedicate this accolade to all individuals and teams in the higher education sector, who continue to work tirelessly to provide support services – this recognition is as much yours as it is mine!”

The HEWLA awards celebrate the achievements of women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in higher education. This year’s event highlighted the significant strides women are making in transforming educational environments, and Zanobia’s win underscores her impact in this space. Her dedication to support services in technological environments goes beyond just improving systems; she is passionate about creating more efficient and supportive environments that benefit students and educators alike.

The NWU’s Zanobia Kanjee received an award in the category Women in Support Services at the Higher Education Women Leaders Awards.

Zanobia Kanjee, third from the left, enjoys her moment in the spotlight with all the category winners. With them, in the middle, are Dr Mimmy Gondwe, deputy minister for Higher Education and Training, and Brightness Mangolothi, director of HERS-SA.

Winner Zanobia Kanjee with the NWU finalists. From left are Dr Susan Greyling, Prof Marinda Neethling, Dr Kea Sehoka, Prof Linda du Plessis and Zanobia Kanjee.