A business-driven action learning (BDAL) project stemming from a USB-ED customised programme presented in 2019, the National Research Foundation (NRF) New to Management Development Programme, has proven to be significantly useful during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some of the programmes run by USB-ED consist of a BDAL group project, which is a practical assignment focused on achieving leadership development and true organisational transformation, using a results-focused orientation. The team from the NRF, Semina Rebus (Latin for ‘seeds of success’), developed an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), which also earned them the top group award for their project. Following the global pandemic of COVID-19, the NRF have been able to implement the recommendations made by the group project regarding the rolling out an EAP to NRF staff.

“Needless to say, the team is very pleased to see this being actioned,” said Dr Dave Thompson, team member.

The NRF said in a statement to staff: “The NRF recognises the increased uncertainty and additional burdens that the pandemic may place on all of us. Your safety and wellbeing as employees and colleagues remains our priority. To respond to this, we have embarked on a process of sourcing an Online Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) which will be offered for free to all NRF employees. This EAP will consist of the following services:

Online, 24-hour, 7 days a week Employee Counselling Services which include:

• Psychosocial support
• Clinical support
• Manager support
• Family care
• Financial wellbeing
• Trauma and grief counselling support

These services will be available via telephone, SMS, WhatsApp, Email and some social media platforms as well as via the service provider’s wellness portal. You will be able to utilise them as often as you need to.”

Well done to Mrs. Melissa Govender, Mr. Faried Karels, Mrs. Tshego Makete, Mrs. Zethu Ntsoane and Dr Dave Thompson on having their group project implemented by their organisation. We wish the NRF and its staff well during these unprecedented times.