TUT honours industry partners driving student success

The Faculty of Management Sciences’ Department of Hospitality Management has recognised the organisations that help shape future hospitality professionals during a special Appreciation Dinner.

Florence Masebe Government representatives, CATHSSETA officials, the Executive Dean for the Faculty of Management Sciences, employers who host students, the Directorate of Co-operative Education and departmental staff attended the special event.

Employers received certificates for offering students practical experience and mentorship. The Co-operative Education unit, led by Dr Roelien Brink and her team, was also honoured for coordinating placements and strengthening links between the University and industry.

Programme Director, Florence Masebe, emphasised the importance of joint efforts in preparing future-ready graduates. “When education, industry and government move in the same direction, our students benefit the most.”

Lebohang Mpye, CATHSSETA representative, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to student development. “We are proud to partner with the Department of Hospitality Management to ensure that students are empowered and supported. This collaboration aligns with our mission to build capacity and strengthen the tourism and hospitality workforce.”

Prof Ndivhuwo Tshipala, Assistant Dean for Teaching and Learning at the Faculty, reflected on the wider impact of these partnerships. “Work Integrated Learning is more than an academic requirement. It is an investment in our students’ futures. When the students progress and succeed it reflects the shared effort of all the organisations represented here this evening.”

Dr Edgar Nesamvuni, Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences The department also announced plans for the coming year, including a monthly webinar series on work readiness, the establishment of the Tshwane Hospitality Forum to strengthen collaboration with employers and a roundtable on skills required in modern hospitality. Industry professionals are encouraged to join online programmes and postgraduate research activities. 

The evening concluded with networking that reinforced the shared commitment to preparing students for successful careers in the hospitality sector.  

Thanda Madlala, Lulamile Stuurman, Sharon Mukona, Magic Mbiza, Margaret Jones, From the National Department of Tourism