Stakeholder dialogue enhances collaboration and student funding

A high-level stakeholder engagement session hosted by the Department of Co-operative Education (DCE), headed by Director, Dr Roelien Brink.

Dr Eric Pule, Director: Advancement and Partnerships Office In partnership with the Advancement and Partnerships Office (APO) has strengthened collaboration and improved alignment on student funding processes at TUT.

Themed Compliance for Strengthened Collaboration, the session brought together Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) alongside key internal stakeholders, including Faculty project leaders and the Financial Aid Office. The purpose was to reinforce accountability, improve coordination and support the University’s strategic priorities through compliant and sustainable partnerships.

Opening the session, Dr Eric Pule said the engagement was designed to be interactive, engaging and informative. He added that the platform encouraged open dialogue, shared learning and a renewed commitment to compliance-driven collaboration between internal and external partners.

Discussions centred on bursary application processes, available funding opportunities and mechanisms to enhance coordination and resource management. The aim was to ensure that students receive the financial support they need to complete their studies without facing unnecessary hardship.

Participants agreed that such engagements are essential for building responsive systems, sustaining meaningful partnerships and aligning institutional objectives with student needs. Through shared insights and joint planning, the session reinforced TUT’s commitment to effective stakeholder engagement, compliance and collaborative strategies that advance educational excellence and student success.

Dr Roelien Brink, Director: Cooperative Education