FORUM AIMS TO PREPARE STUDENTS FOR THE WORLD OF WORK

This approach supports UMP’s Vision 2030 priorities for teaching and learning, quality student experience, engagement and partnerships, and its vision of creating opportunities for sustainable development through innovation. A key part of this work is the Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Forum, which brings together stakeholders to address student placements, workplace supervision, mentorship and the alignment of academic programmes with changing needs in industry and society.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, Professor Mashudu Davhana-Maselesеle, said Work-Integrated Learning lies at the heart of UMP’s graduate development.

“It serves as a bridge between academic knowledge and professional practice, providing students with opportunities to apply classroom learning in real workplace environments.
The University seeks to develop mutually beneficial relationships with industry partners rather than viewing industry engagement solely as a means of securing student placements,” she said.
Professor Davhana-Maselesеle said WIL should be viewed as more than a means of placing students in workplaces, with stronger relationships needed between the University and its industry partners.

Connecting Academic Learning with the Workplace

Southern African Society for Co-operative Education (SASCE) President Ms Nombulelo Nxesi has mentioned that universities and companies should rethink how young people are prepared for employment and economic participation, with greater emphasis on practical capabilities such as problem-solving, collaboration and adaptability.
“Institutions should go beyond focusing primarily on qualifications and instead ensure that graduates can apply their knowledge and create value in the workplace,” she said.

Reflecting on Ms Nxesi’s address, Dr Maanda Dagada, Chief Director at the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA), encouraged students to develop work portfolios alongside their CVs and academic qualifications.

“I was employed before in the private sector, and they wanted my portfolio. Inside, there were things I had done and pictures of my work. It was easy for them to acquaint me, so it bridges that level of experience,” he said.
Stakeholders were encouraged to consider the skills students acquire and how workplace experience supports their transition into employment or entrepreneurship.

Building Partnerships That Create Opportunities

Stronger collaboration with the world of work can support more meaningful workplace experiences while giving employers opportunities to contribute to curriculum development, research and skills development.
Through the WIL Forum, UMP and its partners can continue this dialogue and explore ways to improve workplace learning, expand opportunities for students and strengthen the connection between academic programmes and the needs of society and the economy.

This collaborative approach reflects UMP’s commitment to creating opportunities for students to develop the knowledge, skills and capabilities needed to contribute meaningfully beyond university, while strengthening partnerships that support sustainable development through innovation.