Career Readiness Workshop equips students for Work-Integrated Learning success

Preparing for Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) starts long before students enter the workplace. To help second-year Journalism and Integrated Communication students take that important step with confidence, the Tshwane University of Technology’s Department of Journalism and Integrated Communication hosted a Career Readiness and Skills Development Workshop under the theme From University to Workplace: Preparing for Work-Integrated Learning Through Skills, Professionalism and Employability.

The workshop equipped students with practical knowledge, professional skills and industry insights ahead of their WIL placements in 2027. It brought together industry professionals, alumni and University practitioners who shared valuable perspectives on workplace expectations, employability and career development.

Dr Maria Mushaathoni, Head of the Department of Journalism and Integrated Communication, welcomed guests, industry partners and students attending the programme that focused on professional development, workplace readiness and career pathways.

Congress Mahlangu, Executive Committee Member of the National Press Club, highlighted the value of professional membership and networking opportunities available to students through the Department's corporate membership. Tsabuki Makou, Cooperative Education Employability Practitioner, provided practical guidance on CV writing, cover letters and interview preparation, while Ms Lindelwa Pityi, Student Development and Support practitioner, shared insights on workplace etiquette, professionalism, accountability, time management and organisational culture.

Ms Khalipha Dazela, seasoned communicator, Media Liaison Officer and TUT alumna, shared her academic and professional journey and encouraged students to combine academic knowledge with practical experience. Addressing artificial intelligence (AI), she emphasised that creativity, critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and relationship-building are essential skills in the profession.

Tinyiko Miracle Mabale, entrepreneur and Executive Director of the iMentorU Foundation, encouraged students to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset and continually develop skills such as communication, digital literacy, problem-solving and public speaking. He also highlighted the partnership between the Department and the iMentorU Foundation, which hosts 15 students for WIL.

Ananias Ndlovu, journalist, entrepreneur and author of The Real Death of Community Media, shared lessons from his career journey and encouraged students to focus on continuous learning, growth and professional development.

The workshop reinforced the Department's commitment to preparing students for successful WIL placements and future careers by connecting academic learning with industry expectations and real-world experiences.

• Anza Phidana is a Work-Integrated Learning Coordinator for Diploma Integrated Communication at the Department of Journalism and Integrated Communication, Faculty of Humanities, TUT.