FEF launches Alumni Chapter to shape future-ready graduates

In a significant step towards strengthening alumni engagement and advancing student success, the Tshwane University of Technology's Faculty of Economics and Finance (FEF), in partnership with the Alumni Relations Office, officially launched the FEF Alumni Chapter.

Zwavhudi Muruba, Economist at the South African Reserve Bank. The initiative aims to build a vibrant network of alumni, academics, students and industry leaders who can collaborate to mentor future graduates, create career opportunities and support the faculty's vision of producing graduates equipped for a rapidly changing world. The launch brought together alumni, university leadership, academics, students and industry representatives, underscoring the critical role that alumni can play in bridging the gap between higher education and the professional world.

In her opening remarks, Prof Polly Mashigo, Executive Dean of FEF, highlighted the challenges confronting young people and graduates, including unemployment and a rapidly evolving labour market. She emphasised the importance of preparing graduates not only for employment but also for entrepreneurship and leadership within an increasingly dynamic economy.

Prof Mashigo further called for stronger collaboration between the University, alumni and industry partners through mentorship, professional networking, knowledge sharing and career development opportunities for students.

Dr Eric Pule, Director of the Advancement and Partnerships Office. Addressing attendees, Dr Eric Pule, Director of the Advancement and Partnerships Office, stressed the importance of sustaining strong relationships between the University and its alumni community. Reflecting on the faculty's legacy and contribution to society, he noted that alumni possess invaluable experience, industry expertise and professional networks that can help shape the next generation of graduates.

"Our alumni are a living bridge between the University and the world of work. Graduates should actively support students through mentorship, internships, entrepreneurship initiatives, research collaboration and professional networking opportunities,” said Dr Pule.

The keynote address, delivered under the theme Building a Future-Ready Graduate through Alumni Engagement, was presented by Zwavhudi Solomon Muruba, Economist at the South African Reserve Bank. Drawing on his experience in the financial sector, Muruba encouraged students to complement their academic qualifications with practical skills, workplace experience, continuous learning and professional networking.

The programme also featured a message from Alumni Fund Ambassador Ms Zilke Heyns, delivered by Nhlawulo Vision Chauke, Senior Officer: Alumni Relations and Communication. He urged alumni to contribute meaningfully to student success through mentorship, skills transfer and professional guidance, while drawing attention to the financial and social challenges many students continue to face. "Giving back is not about repaying a debt. It is about paying an opportunity forward," he said.

Shalate Portia Davhana, Manager: Alumni Relations and Fundraising. A panel discussion moderated by Ms Raabetswe Dire, Chief Executive Officer of EDENVINNE BEAUTY, explored the topic Preparing Future-Ready Graduates for a Digitally Driven and Secure Economy. Panellists shared valuable insights on digital transformation, financial innovation, investment opportunities, information security and the importance of practical workplace exposure.

The formal launch of the chapter was led by Ms Shalate Portia Davhana, Manager: Alumni Relations and Fundraising, who highlighted the importance of establishing a structured platform through which alumni can remain engaged with the faculty and contribute to its long-term growth and student development.

A key milestone during the event was the nomination of the FEF Alumni Committee, marking the beginning of a new chapter of sustained collaboration between the faculty and its graduates.

Prof Polly Mashigo, Executive Dean of Faculty of Economics and Finance. Closing the event, Prof Nebbel Motubatse, Assistant Dean of the faculty congratulated the newly nominated committee members and encouraged them to embrace their leadership responsibilities as ambassadors of both the faculty and the University.

The launch of the FEF Alumni Chapter reflects the University's commitment to fostering lifelong relationships with its graduates while creating meaningful pathways for student development, professional growth and industry collaboration.