Online Reporter
Sharon Jiyamwa
Herald Reporter
SECRETARIES have been urged to embrace continuous learning, new technologies and artificial intelligence to remain relevant and enhance productivity in the modern workplace.
Speaking during the 2026 edition of the annual National Secretaries Day hosted by Nedle Training Services at the Harare International Conference Centre on Friday, Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga’s wife, Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi-Chiwenga said secretaries remain central to the smooth functioning of organisations.
Col Baloyi-Chiwenga, who was the guest of honour said professionals should not be intimidated by technological developments, but should instead acquire new skills and use technology to improve their work.
“Continuous training and learning is no longer a luxury; it is a must,” she said.
“Do not be intimidated by the young people that come with new skills. You already have something that they don’t have which is experience.
“So, if you mix your experience and continuous learning, you are a valuable asset to an organisation.”
She urged secretaries to familiarise themselves with emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, saying these could make their work easier rather than necessarily replace them.
“If there is AI that has come, learn about it, don’t be intimidated. It is not going to take away your job, but it is going to make your job easier,” she said.
Col Baloyi-Chiwenga said creating a productive office environment also required respect, recognition and dignity among employees and employers.
She urged employers to ensure that workers received fair treatment, appropriate compensation and recognition for their contribution.
“Recognition costs nothing, but it builds everything,” she said.
Col Baloyi-Chiwenga also highlighted the importance of workplace wellness, saying organisations should create environments that promote mental wellness, teamwork and work life balance.
“A productive office is a healthy office,” she said, adding that workplaces should be free from intimidation, disrespect and burnout.
Col Baloyi-Chiwenga said secretaries should also uphold integrity, confidentiality and professionalism, given their role as custodians of organisational information.
She urged them to pay attention to detail and go beyond their basic job descriptions where necessary.
“Excellence comes in small things like a well typed document, a timely reminder, a well-managed diary,” she said.
“And it is what creates excellence in big things and opens doors for growth within the profession.”
She described secretaries as the “glue that holds institutions together”, saying their work contribute to organisational efficiency and, ultimately, national development.
“When anything runs smoothly, it’s because you planned it, and that’s leadership,” she said. “When a client is impressed because you answered the phone professionally, that’s branding. When an institution meets its targets because the records are in order, that’s nation building.”
Col Baloyi-Chiwenga challenged secretaries to take deliberate steps towards career progression through continuous learning and consistent improvement.
She also called on employers and leaders to appreciate, train and equip their staff with the necessary tools.
“When you invest in them, you invest in the future, not only their future, but the future of the organisation,” she said.
Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume, who was represented by his Deputy Rosemary Muronda stressed the importance of professionalism and efficiency in ensuring effective service delivery.
“Good service delivery requires committed and well quipped staff at every level of the organisation,” he said.
“Secretaries play a critical role in ensuring that information, correspondence and communication flow efficiently.”
He urged managers to recognise the contribution of administrative professionals by providing them with the necessary training, resources and supportive working environments to improve productivity.
The National Secretaries Day brought together about 800 secretaries from the public and private sectors.
Col Baloyi-Chiwenga commended Nedle Training Services for providing a platform for professional development and recognition of secretaries.
