The DaVinci Institute

The DaVinci Institute Higher Certificate (NQF 5) to Doctoral Level (NQF 10). Distance learning programmes - Online.

The DaVinci Institute is dedicated to providing educational solutions that offer a return on investment for both business leaders and individuals. Our distance learning programmes, available online, range from Higher Certificate (NQF 5) to Doctoral Level (NQF 10). Founded in 2004 at the behest of Nelson Mandela, our mission is to widen access to education and to empower future leaders to change th

e world through the teachings of Nelson Mandela and Leonardo Da Vinci. We believe that education is the most powerful weapon for effecting positive change in society. Our focus is on the Management of Technology, Innovation, People and Systems Thinking (TIPS™), a unique proprietary framework that is embedded in all of our courses. This approach helps to enhance the performance of our students and their teams in developing economies and markets. Whether you are starting your career, looking to reskill or upskill, DaVinci has a business degree that will suit your needs. Our flexible schedules allow you to study at your own pace, from anywhere and at any time. Our approach to learning goes beyond the traditional, ensuring that all students have a personal, social and economic return on investment (ROI) in their learning journey whilst using best practice models. We at DaVinci Business School co-create transformative learning journeys to help students distinguish themselves in their careers through their impact and providing learning experiences to students who need business and managerial leadership knowledge. At DaVinci Business School, we strive to prepare managerial leaders for transformative change in society. Our approach emphasises the exploration of real-world business problems and the application of knowledge through action learning and research. Our goal is to develop agile, aligned, and engaged leaders who can drive innovation and create sustainable, humane societies. We believe that the learning experience should be stimulating and conducive, which is why we create both physical and online spaces strategically across Africa. We also bring together experts and thought leaders in business and management to provide our students with a well-rounded education. Our dedicated faculty have the qualifications, research expertise, and industry experience to ensure that our students receive a high-quality education that is grounded in real-world applications. By connecting students with local and global networks in industry, government, and academia, we aim to provide students with the opportunities and support they need to succeed in their careers. DaVinci Business School use the principles of Mode 2 Knowledge Production in the student learning process. The intention of Mode 2 is to apply situated learning, problem-probing, and decision-making to address business and community-based problems.

DaVinci alumnus Dr Steve Harris has launched the latest edition of his book, Mental Toughness as a Force Multiplier for ...
09/09/2026

DaVinci alumnus Dr Steve Harris has launched the latest edition of his book, Mental Toughness as a Force Multiplier for Surviving to Thriving.

Drawing on his experience in business, leadership and high-performance sport, Dr Harris explores how individuals and organisations can use pressure, uncertainty and change as catalysts for growth.

The book provides practical guidance for maintaining focus, adapting strategically, making better decisions and leading with composure in demanding environments.

Discover more about the book and its message: https://zurl.co/p1vBb

Join Dr Steve Harris on a journey of transforming mental toughness into a force for success in his latest book edition.

The DaVinci Institute has joined higher education institutions from across Africa in an important initiative aimed at re...
08/09/2026

The DaVinci Institute has joined higher education institutions from across Africa in an important initiative aimed at rethinking how excellence is defined and measured across the continent.

The initiative was launched by the University of Cape Town (UCT), Africa’s highest-ranked university in several major global rankings, in partnership with Applied Higher Education (AppliedHE). The All-Africa Rankings Initiative seeks to develop an African-informed framework for recognising excellence across both public and private higher education institutions.

The inaugural flagship convening, the All-Africa Higher Education Xchange, took place in Cape Town from 31 August to 1 September 2026, bringing together university leaders and higher education stakeholders from across the continent both public and private institution of higher learning. The gathering focused on a fundamental question: what should excellence in African universities look like in the 21st century?

The DaVinci Institute participated in this continental conversation, contributing the perspective of a private higher education institution focused on leadership, technology, innovation and systems thinking.

The initiative is significant because conventional global rankings do not always capture the diversity of missions, priorities and contributions of African institutions. Issues such as societal impact, graduate outcomes, innovation, entrepreneurship, community engagement, African knowledge systems and contribution to economic development can be difficult to reflect through traditional ranking methodologies.

Rather than simply asking which university is number one, the initiative seeks to explore what forms of excellence matter to Africa and how these can be measured credibly and transparently.

For DaVinci, participation reflects its commitment to contributing to the future of higher education, not only as an institution responding to change, but as a participant in shaping the conversations that will influence the sector.
The initiative also creates an opportunity for African institutions, both public and private, to help ensure that measures of excellence reflect the continent's realities, ambitions and contribution to the world.

DaVinci's involvement therefore represents more than participation in a rankings discussion. It is an opportunity to help shape how African higher education is understood, recognised and valued in the years ahead.

Congratulations to The DaVinci Institute alumnus Samuel Mziwake on his appointment as Senior Legal Counsel at Gold Field...
08/09/2026

Congratulations to The DaVinci Institute alumnus Samuel Mziwake on his appointment as Senior Legal Counsel at Gold Fields.

Samuel holds a Master of Business Leadership from The DaVinci Institute and is currently studying towards his Doctor of Business Leadership.

With extensive experience across the mining, credit protection, information solutions, retail and logistics sectors, Samuel continues to demonstrate leadership in practice.

We are proud of his achievements and wish him every success in his new role and doctoral journey.

Build the management capability your organisation needs for tomorrow.Technology and innovation are reshaping the way org...
07/09/2026

Build the management capability your organisation needs for tomorrow.

Technology and innovation are reshaping the way organisations operate. Give your employees the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills needed to navigate this changing environment with confidence.

The Higher Certificate in Management of Technology and Innovation equips professionals with a stronger understanding of the contemporary organisational context, while providing a pathway towards a Bachelor’s Degree.

For organisations, it can be an opportunity to invest in employees who can contribute to innovation, adapt to technological change and drive meaningful organisational growth.

Looking to upskill your workforce? Let’s develop the capabilities your organisation needs for the future.

Learn more: https://zurl.co/CoPIi

05/09/2026

As we count down to The DaVinci Institute’s October Graduation, we return to a memorable evening from last year.

At the President’s Dinner on 29 October 2025, President Edward Kieswetter shared a powerful message with our doctoral graduates on the eve of their graduation.

His words went beyond academic achievement. He spoke about the privilege of knowledge, the responsibility that comes with it, and the kind of leadership our world needs.

For our graduates, the gowns and ceremony represented years of dedication, discipline and perseverance. But the doctorate itself represented something even greater: an opportunity to contribute, lead and make a meaningful difference.

Watch the video and hear President Kieswetter’s message to the graduating class.

As we prepare to celebrate another group of doctoral graduates this October, we are reminded that every academic journey has the potential to become a journey of purpose.

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04/09/2026

Our cultural backgrounds influence how we see the world, connect with others and lead.

As part of The DaVinci Institute’s Heritage Month campaign, Dr Bheki Mdakane, Head of Research, shares how his ethnicity, family upbringing and experience of growing up in Soweto shaped him into an open, transparent and participatory leader.

For Dr Mdakane, Soweto’s cultural diversity encouraged him to embrace different ideas, understand the people around him and collaborate across cultures.

Watch his story and reflect with us: How has your cultural background shaped the way you lead, collaborate or engage with people from different cultures?

03/09/2026

As we build up to The DaVinci Institute’s Graduation Ceremony on 21 October, we honour the memory and legacy of the late Dr Tadi Daniel Rampai, a doctoral alumnus who graduated in 2022.

In this video, Dr Rampai briefly discusses his research titled, “The Role of the Integrity Commissioner: A Systems Approach in the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality.”

His research reflects his commitment to addressing complex societal challenges through systems thinking. We remain proud of his accomplishments and the meaningful contribution he made towards the co-creation of humane and sustainable societies.

The DaVinci Institute extends its heartfelt condolences to Dr Rampai’s family, friends and colleagues. May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire future generations of Davincians.

As September marks Heritage Month, we begin by celebrating our doctoral graduates and the knowledge, leadership and dete...
02/09/2026

As September marks Heritage Month, we begin by celebrating our doctoral graduates and the knowledge, leadership and determination they represent.

Through the Doctor of Business Leadership, The DaVinci Institute develops leaders who are ready to conduct meaningful research, address complex organisational challenges and help shape a more humane and sustainable future.

Our heritage shapes who we are. Our leadership shapes what comes next.

Apply now: https://zurl.co/uSWrc

The countdown is on: 50 days to go.On 21 October 2026, The DaVinci Institute will proudly celebrate its October graduati...
01/09/2026

The countdown is on: 50 days to go.

On 21 October 2026, The DaVinci Institute will proudly celebrate its October graduation ceremony.

We look forward to recognising the hard work, resilience and achievements of our graduates as they prepare to cross the stage and begin the next chapter of their journeys.

Applications are open for the Master of Management in Technology and Innovation at The DaVinci Institute.This qualificat...
31/08/2026

Applications are open for the Master of Management in Technology and Innovation at The DaVinci Institute.

This qualification equips leaders to apply systems thinking, innovation and technology management to real-world organisational challenges.

Take the next step in your leadership journey.

Apply now:
https://zurl.co/Xtaay

Address

Johannesburg

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 16:30
Tuesday 08:00 - 16:30
Wednesday 08:00 - 16:30
Thursday 08:00 - 16:30
Friday 08:00 - 16:30

Telephone

+27116081331

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