Students Exposed to Relevant Knowledge and Work Opportunities During WIL Indaba 2024

The University of Zululand’s (UNIZULU) 2024 Hospitality and Tourism Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Indaba was a groundbreaking event that delved into the theme “An African university developing a Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Service Learning (SL) Framework in partnership with stakeholders”.

Held over three days, the indaba brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from the hospitality and tourism industry, academia, and students to explore innovative approaches to WIL and SL.

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) refers to programmes that link university students to a workplace related to their field of study.

The first day, hosted at the BON Hotel in Empangeni, set the tone, with the Head of Department of Recreation and Tourism Dr Gugulethu Nkosi’s keynote address accenting the importance and purpose of WIL.  She stated that WIL is one of the requirements that UNIZULU hospitality and tourism students should fulfil before they graduate or complete their studies.

“The purpose of this event is to create a platform where the University of Zululand – both staff and students – will be in a position to engage fruitfully with the industry,” said Dr Nkosi.

Her address was followed by a presentation by Professor Kaitano, an associate professor in the Vaal University of Technology. Unpacking artificial intelligence (AI) needs in hospitality and tourism, the speaker’s presentation sparked lively discussions, highlighting the sector’s vast potential for technological integration.

Nolwazi Mabaleka and Anele Sibisi, lecturers in UNIZULU’s Recreation and Tourism Department, swayed the conversation in another direction with their in-depth discussion on the University’s WIL plans. They underscored the need for symbiotic relationships between educational institutions and industry stakeholders.

The final day, held at the Richards Bay Civic Centre, shifted the focus to empowering students. Professor Pragasen Mudali, Deputy Dean of Research and Internationalisation in the Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering, stressed the significance of including students in the indaba, encouraging them to absorb the insights shared.

He said, “Education is not just about imparting knowledge but igniting passion and creativity in the next generation of leaders. By involving students in the industry discussions, we unlock their full potential to drive innovation and growth.”

The Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA) was invited to present on career paths and emerging trends which provided valuable guidance to students. Representatives from various universities showcased their opportunities to further hospitality and tourism studies, underscoring the indaba’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of hospitality and tourism leaders.

The event’s culmination featured insights on internships, scholarships, and funding opportunities. The founder and CEO of Siphosethu travel agency, Zama Cele, encouraged students to leverage their skills to start their own businesses.

“Don’t just look for jobs, create opportunities that empower you and the whole country. Tourism is not just a sector; it is a catalyst for economic growth. Africa’s tourism growth depends on entrepreneurs who turn passion into businesses,” said Cele.

– Nomvelo Xulu

Pictures: James Thwala