Alumni leadership series boosts entrepreneurial ambition

The annual Alumni Leadership and Practice Series gave students at the Tshwane University of Technology’s (TUT) Polokwane Campus a firsthand opportunity to gain insights into leadership, entrepreneurship, and public service as industry leaders, government officials and successful alumni shared their experiences.

TUT Alumni attending the Leadership and Practice Series. Hosted by the Department of Public Sector Finance, the series highlighted how innovation, ethical leadership and entrepreneurial thinking can create opportunities and drive meaningful change in society.

The programme included Human Settlements Minister, Hon Thembi Simelane; Limpopo MEC for Education, Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya; Polokwane City's Member of the Mayoral Committee for Finance, Councillor Tshepo Nkwe; government officials who are also TUT alumni; and representatives from Old Mutual.

The series supports the department's commitment to exposing students to leadership opportunities, entrepreneurship and practical industry knowledge, while fostering valuable professional networks.

Dr Ngonidzashe Chiranga, Academic Manager at TUT Polokwane Campus, welcomed guests and highlighted the significance of their participation.

“This event aligns with the University’s strategic plan and works hand in hand with its vision of becoming a leading entrepreneurial university,” he said.

Hon Simelane reflected on her academic and professional journey during her keynote address, encouraging students to focus on their goals and seize opportunities to make a difference in society. She commended the department for creating a platform that equips students with practical insights and industry knowledge.

“Textbooks equip us with theoretical concepts, principles, frameworks and technical knowledge while professional practice teaches us how those principles should be applied, often under pressure,” she said.

Students attending the Leadership and Practice Series engagement session. She also highlighted the importance of innovation and creative thinking, encouraging students to use their knowledge and skills to develop solutions that address societal needs.

Honourable Simelane encouraged students to start thinking about how they can use their knowledge and skills to make a meaningful contribution to society “At some stage in history, somebody started thinking that we may need a light bulb to provide a light brighter than a candle. Subsequently, someone designed a solution that society now uses daily basis. Before phones were invented, people used to communicate through a tin, it then advanced to a landline telephone and then someone closed the gap by inventing a cell phone”, she continued.

Hon Simelane said the event takes place as South Africa reflects on three decades of democracy, a milestone that underscores the importance of ethical leadership, transparency and accountability in public administration.

Dr Modumo Ramodumo, Chief Director at the Department of Small Business Development, encouraged students to explore entrepreneurship and outlined support mechanisms available to help them establish businesses.

The Department of Public Sector Finance, presenting thank you gifts and certificates to the guests. The Department of Small Business Development leads, coordinates, promotes and develops small businesses. We want you to stop looking for employment, but rather to start your own businesses.”

 He also outlined the various funding opportunities available to support students’ businesses, as well as sharing examples of peers who pursued entrepreneurship and achieved significant success.

Sipho Maluleke, Head of Public Sector Finance, concluded the event by emphasising the importance of exposing students to the realities of the workplace while they are still studying.

“We want to equip you with critical skills that are highly demanded in industry,” he said.

The Alumni Leadership and Practice Series reaffirmed the department’s commitment to preparing graduates who can lead, innovate and contribute meaningfully to society and the economy.