Prof. Herman Steyn: The Founder Behind the Programme in Project Management

A Vision That Became Reality

The Programme in Project Management (PPM), launched in 1997 at the University of Pretoria, was the initiative of Prof. Herman Steyn. Around 1996, project management evolved from a narrow field of scheduling, budgeting, and control to a professional, multi-disciplinary field. He recognised the potential of the University of Pretoria – a large, multidisciplinary university – to move beyond Gantt charts and address the various aspects of the emerging, interdisciplinary field of project management. The department of the university, which has since evolved into the Graduate School of Technology Management (GSTM), was the ideal incubator for developing project management programmes, integrating various disciplines at the University into educational project management programmes.

Recognising also the growing demand for skilled project managers in South Africa, he envisioned a programme that combined academic rigor with practical, real-world application. His goal was simple yet ambitious: to create a structured, multidisciplinary course that would equip working professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to manage projects successfully across various industries. The leadership of the GSTM bought into this vision, collaborated with Enterprises University of Pretoria (EUP), and has been supporting the initiative enthusiastically.

Leadership Through Experience

Prof Steyn’s leadership is grounded in decades of hands-on project management experience. Before founding the PPM, he managed large-scale projects across diverse sectors, handling multi-million-rand budgets and leading teams to deliver complex initiatives on time and within scope. This deep practical insight shaped the PPM’s unique approach — a programme that doesn’t just teach theory but equips participants to apply skills immediately in their workplaces. As founder, he has guided the PPM’s evolution from its early days into one of South Africa’s most respected project management programmes. He ensured the course remained relevant by integrating modern project management techniques, aligning with international standards, and fostering a learning environment that blends academic knowledge with practical experience.

Building a Legacy

Under Prof Steyn’s leadership:

• The PPM grew from a 20-day on-campus course into a flagship programme offered in multiple formats: full-contact classes presented as weekend or midweek sessions, as well as a fully online option.
• It gained recognition from both national and international professional bodies, including the Project Management Institute (PMI), ECSA, SACPCMP, and SACNASP.
• Thousands of professionals have benefited from the programme, acquiring the skills to manage projects effectively and elevate industry standards.

Prof Steyn’s vision has always been people-centered: to empower participants, nurture leadership skills, and instill confidence in managing complex projects. His dedication has left an enduring mark on the project management landscape in South Africa and beyond.

The PPM Today

Approximately three decades after its inception, the PPM continues to thrive. It is multidisciplinary and practical, reflecting the founder’s original vision. Whether delivered face-to-face or online, the programme equips professionals from diverse backgrounds with the tools they need to lead projects with confidence and competence.

Prof Herman Steyn is more than an educator — he is a visionary leader and founder, whose work continues to shape the future of project management.