The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Department of Public Management, Law and Economics (DPML&E) recently held a Career Information Session at Alexander High School in Pietermaritzburg.
The purpose of this initiative was to promote the DUT Department of Public Management, Law and Economics and encourage learners to apply at DUT. Moreover, to place special emphasis on entrepreneurship and, modules and programmes offered within their department that would prepare individuals to initiate business.
The session that was coordinated by Ms Fikile Chiliza, Public Management lecturer and Ms Judell Joseph, Law lecturer focused on providing learners with an opportunity to enhance their understanding of various aspects of Public Administration such as: the public management functions in the public sector, public policies, public program and projects management, procurement and logistics, supply chain management, human resource management and effective governance in the South African public sector.
“Our programmes are integrated with a legal component which equips students with the laws relating to commercial law and the public sector. It is essential that students know and understand the laws that govern the field in which they aspire to be part of. We seek to give students a holistic understanding of the management of the public sector. The entrepreneurship initiative in our department is aimed at instilling a desire for students to transform their talents and ideas ignited in high school into practical business plans,” said Dr Martin Kabange: DUT Economics Lecturer when unpacking programmes offered in their department.
He added that their department developed entrepreneurship initiatives to cultivate a generation of young people who are willing to defy the negative economic factors and create their own success stories by using their innovation, talents, skills, and passion to generate their own wealth.
He further explained that the economic climate in South Africa does not provide certainty of employment when students finish secondary and even tertiary education.
“There is a dire need in South Africa to ignite the talents and skills of young people to be motivated to embark on starting their own business. Unemployment is a major challenge that is facing students after completing matric, as such it is critical that students are equipped with entrepreneurial skills,” added Dr Kabange.
Ms Nikiwe Madonsela, DUT Public Management lecturer when highlighting the career opportunities that are available for individuals who have a qualification in Public Management said they can be employed as Administrative Officer, Manager human resources, Supply Chain Manager, Procurement officer, Local Government consultant, Divisional Head, Assistant Director and more.
Ms Hlengiwe Mabizela, Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Coordinator explained that they also assist students with practical learning before obtaining their qualifications through Work Integrated Learning.
“Work Integrated Learning plays a significant role in providing learners with practical skills, exposure and experience. Our department collaborates with different companies both in the public and private sector to ensure that students get placement,” said Mabizela.
Pictured: DUT staff and Alexander High School learners during the Career Information session.
Sindisiwe Ndlovu
