The Department of Recreation and Tourism, under the leadership of Associate Professor Gugulethu Nkosi, in collaboration with Dr Simphiwe Mngomezulu-Dube, Director and Founder of ISIQALABA Coaching and Mentoring Consultancy, successfully hosted a three-day Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Readiness Workshop for students registered for WIL modules in both undergraduate programmes offered in the Department, namely Bachelor of Tourism Studies and the National Diploma in Tourism Management.
The workshop, spearheaded by the WIL coordinators AProf Nkosi and Nolwazi Mabaleka, was facilitated by Dr Mngomezulu-Dube with support from departmental staff and aimed to prepare students for their upcoming experiential learning placements, commonly referred to as Work Integrated Learning (WIL). The programme was attended by several departmental staff members, including Unathi Xothongo, Mabaleka, Associate Professor Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana, Mmeli Dlamini, and Dr Nompumelelo Linda.
The workshop commenced with a discussion on the realities of the South African labour market, highlighting the high unemployment rate and the growing number of young people classified as Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEET). Students actively participated in group discussions exploring opportunities and challenges within the tourism and hospitality sectors. They were also encouraged to identify entrepreneurial opportunities and innovative career pathways while also preparing themselves for traditional employment opportunities upon completion of their studies.
The second day focused on Mental Health Awareness and Wellness. The session was facilitated by Coach Zonke Cebekhulu from Yombuso Wellness and Coaching Institute. The purpose of the session was to create awareness of the importance of mental well-being and to encourage students to seek support when faced with challenges such as anxiety, depression and other mental health-related concerns. Students engaged openly with Coach Cebekhulu and gained valuable insights into maintaining their mental wellness throughout their academic and professional journeys.
In addition, the workshop emphasised the importance of professionalism in the workplace and students were encouraged to become ambassadors of the University of Zululand (UNIZULU) during their WIL placements. Their conduct, work ethic and professional behaviour have the potential to enhance not only their own learning and employability prospects but also the reputation of the institution.
The final day of the workshop was facilitated by Mabaleka and Dlamini, who guided students through the WIL Logbook, WIL contract, and the WIL Code of Conduct. Particular emphasis was placed on effective communication, workplace ethics and critical reflection on daily learning experiences throughout the WIL period. These elements are essential in ensuring a meaningful and successful experiential learning journey.
Students expressed their appreciation for the workshop, noting that it provided valuable guidance, increased their confidence and equipped them with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies required to embark on their WIL journey. Participants also evaluated each day of the
workshop through assessment forms administered by the facilitator, Dr Mngomezulu-Dube. The feedback received reflected the positive impact and relevance of the workshop in preparing students for the workplace.
The Department of Recreation and Tourism remains committed to preparing students for the world of work by providing practical, professional, and personal development opportunities that enhance their readiness for successful careers in the hospitality and tourism industry.
Reflecting on the purpose of the workshop, Dr Mngomezulu-Dube emphasised that students need to be capacitated to bridge the gap between potential and achievement. She noted that students do not only need employment opportunities; they need empowerment. They do not only need qualifications; they need transformation. In an increasingly fast-paced and demanding work environment, students must also be mentally resilient and emotionally prepared to thrive.
Through initiatives such as the WIL Readiness Workshop, UNIZULU continues to equip graduates with the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and confidence necessary to succeed in an evolving world of work and to make meaningful contributions to the tourism industry and relevant sectors as well as society at large.
This article was contributed by Dr Simphiwe Mngomezulu-Dube from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
