Abstract
This study investigated the perception and integration of cultural competency as a graduate attribute within the commerce faculty of a private higher education institution (HEI) in South Africa. The research was guided by Becker’s Human Capital theory (1993) and applied a qualitative case study method, including both a document analysis in which the strategic plans and associated documents of several South African HEIs (public and private) were reviewed; and interviews with participants representing varying levels and portfolios of academic leadership. The findings indicate a limited understanding and practice of cultural competency, despite the recognition of its value in a diverse student body and society. This limitation is evident in both the document analysis and the interviews. While participants acknowledged the importance of cultural competency, their discussions often centred on cultural awareness rather than cultural competency. The key facilitators identified by participants in cultivating cultural competency included work-integrated learning programs, student societies, career centres, and group work. Participants proposed various approaches to incorporate cultural competency into the curriculum but observed that, in practice, this is often not the case. The study highlighted the need for a clearer integration of cultural competency within the curriculum and recognised the pivotal role of lecturers and academic leadership in fostering cultural competency; suggesting a demand for enhanced training in this area.