Public Management, Laws and Economics recently hosted a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Employer’s Luncheon at Buhle Estate in Pietermaritzburg.
The aim of the event was to acknowledge and show gratitude to employers for providing support, coaching and mentorship to students. Furthermore, the department wanted to encourage and promote collaboration and strengthen relationships with stakeholders by establishing mutual beneficial relationships.
The Programme Director for the event was Public Management Lecturer: Ms Nikiwe Madonsela.
Public Management, Law and Economics Head of Department Acting (HOD): Dr Zwelithini Zwane opened and welcomed everyone. He mentioned that he values every organisations that are willing to assist students with WIL.
“It is my pleasure to express how much we appreciate the work done by each and every organisation. Our students are indeed privileged to being exposed to the corporate world because it will assist them in adapting to the ever-changing work environments. We look forward to working with you for many more years. Thank you for all the effort and commitments,”, he said.
Public Management, Law and Economics lecturer and WIL Coordinator Hlengiwe Mabizela in her purpose of the day speech mentioned that it is essential for the students of Public Management, Laws and Economics to complete their WIL in order to be practically trained and developed, hence acquiring skills and knowledge about the working industry before completing their qualification.
“In order to do so relationships have to be created between various organisations, government departments, municipalities, private businesses and many more. It is sometimes challenging to get positive responses from other organisations but I am happy that some are available to offer these kinds of opportunities and resources to equip students with necessary skills, practical knowledge and gain exposure of the workplace setting in preparation for their career goals,” elaborated Mabizela.
The Faculty of Management’s Executive Dean: Dr Melanie Lourens shared her gratitude remarks to the employers and also admired the work done the Public Management, Law and Economics staff members.
The Imbali Education and Innovation Precinct (IEIP) Project Manager: Mr Mfanozelwe Shozi on behalf of the DUT Midlands Campus Director: Dr Joe Molete shared a message of gratitude to the employers for continuously implementing the provisions of the Skills Development Act.
“It is important to highlight that the WIL does improve the quality of life for students, their prospects of work and labour mobility which is why we value the partnership created. The involvement of employers ensures that our curriculum would always be in line with changes and demands of the markets. Engaging with workplaces assist to reset technologies that are required and used by industries to improve on new ways and methodologies of work. Students will indeed obtain the right skill-sets and knowledge especially through performing hands on tasks through utilising advanced technological tools,” said Mr Shozi.
Furthermore, he elaborated on the DUT ENVISION2030 strategic perspectives which are society, stewardship, systems and processes and sustainability.
The employers were then given a platform to share their experiences with the collaborations between their organisations and DUT. They then outlined the positive parts, challenges and the way forward. After the discussion, there was a poetry recital by Sphindile Dlamini.
The event concluded with the certificate awards for the employers and closing remarks from Dr Zwane.
Zanele Mashaba
