The course is offered by the Centre on African Philanthropy and Social Investment (CAPSI) at Wits Business School. It follows years of planning and collaboration by Inyathelo to professionalise this sector, with the support of the organisation’s funders and partners. The diploma course structure is the product of a stakeholder workshop organised by Inyathelo and CAPSI in 2019, with considerable input from leaders in education and philanthropy. This was funded by the Kresge Foundation.

This course provides an opportunity for students to develop critical thinking and leadership skills, as well as core competencies as managers in the philanthropy and non-profit sectors.

The diploma provides a comprehensive overview of the complex world of grant-making and grant seeking. It allows learners to understand the thinking that shapes resource mobilisation and donor decision-making. It also suits those leaning more toward academia and research, as they can continue their studies to the doctoral level at CAPSI.

The diploma covers one year of full-time study, with six core courses and a choice of three electives.  The topics include organising and managing resource mobilisation; measuring and reporting performance for non-profit organisations; marketing and communications; working with communities and ethical leadership. Candidates also have an option of three electives.  

Admission requirements are a Bachelor’s degree (NQF 7), although non-degreed individuals with working experience will be considered in exceptional cases.