As South Africa commemorates Women’s Month, the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) recognises the valuable contribution of women who are shaping the future through their dedication, expertise and hard work. Among these outstanding women is Ms Maria Kadiege, Deputy Director: Information Technology (IT) Security Manager, who plays a vital role in ensuring that the Department’s digital systems remain secure, reliable and efficient.
Originally from Mothotlung in Brits, Ms Kadiege is a committed IT professional with extensive experience in the information technology field. Before joining DCS, she worked at the Department of Minerals and Petroleum Resources. She joined DCS in January 2017 as Deputy Director: IT Security.
Her responsibilities include protecting the Department’s information and data, implementing content definition policies, managing data encryption and backup systems, and strengthening user security.
Ms Kadiege’s entry into the IT profession was unexpected. After completing Grade 12, she initially intended to study management. However, when the management programme was already full, she opted for an Information Technology programme that had recently been introduced at the institution. She completed the required IT trade test and subsequently enrolled for a qualification in Engineering Computer Systems.
That decision marked the beginning of a successful career in information technology.
In her current role, Ms Kadiege and her team play an important part in safeguarding the Department’s data. As part of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster, DCS handles sensitive and confidential information that requires robust security measures.
IT security also supports the Department’s rehabilitation mandate by safeguarding sensitive information, protecting digital rehabilitation systems and enabling the secure delivery of rehabilitation services.
For Ms Kadiege, knowing that the Department’s information systems remain protected is a source of professional fulfilment.
One of the ways the IT Security Directorate contributes to protecting the Department is by raising awareness among officials about information security. Through information and awareness messages circulated via internal communication platforms, officials are encouraged to identify phishing attempts, scams and hoax emails that may be intended to gain unauthorised access to the Department’s systems.
Ms Kadiege holds a National Diploma in Engineering Computer Systems from Technikon North West, now known as Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), as well as a BTech Degree in Knowledge Management from TUT.
Working in a field that has traditionally been male-dominated, Ms Kadiege has demonstrated that determination, knowledge and perseverance can open doors and create opportunities for women.
She encourages women to consider careers in information technology and to continuously develop their skills. “I encourage women to pursue careers in Information Technology, to love themselves and to take pride in what they do,” she said.
Ms Kadiege has also strengthened her professional expertise through various short courses, including:
- Applied Project Management in an IT Environment – University of South Africa (2004)
- UniCenter Asset Management Software Help Desk – Computer Associates (2005)
- Data Protector Software – Hewlett Packard (2010)
- Financial Management for Non-Financial Managers – University of Pretoria (2011)
- Business Writing – University of Pretoria (2011)
- Professional Report Writing – University of Pretoria (2011)
- Advanced Management Development Programme – University of Pretoria (2013)
- Introduction to Information Security – University of South Africa (2013)
- Presentation Skills – Pro-Active College (2014)
- Huawei Certified ICT Associate – Security – Mecer Inter-Ed (2020)
- Nyukela SMS Pre-Entry Programme – DPSA (2021)
Ms Kadiege’s journey demonstrates the importance of embracing opportunities, continuously acquiring knowledge and remaining committed to professional growth. Her contribution to IT security is an example of how women continue to make a meaningful impact in specialised fields while supporting the Department’s mandate.