Partnership with Nelekat boosts employability for TUT graduates

Industry partner Nelekat plays a vital role in equipping TUT graduates with practical skills through internship training and certifications, strengthening career readiness and workplace confidence.

Keoagile “Kay” Thakadu, Managing Director of Nelekat (Pty) Ltd’s. Leading the partnership with the Tshwane University of Technology, Keoagile “Kay” Thakadu, Managing Director of Nelekat (Pty) Ltd’s role extends beyond employment opportunities. As part of the partnership aimed at strengthening graduate employability through structured industry support, she mentors graduates, supports structured development, and aligns training with industry needs to prepare students for long-term career growth.

Nelekat provides internship placements, accredited training programmes and industry-recognised certifications that give students practical experience and align academic learning with workplace expectations. The initiative supports graduates, especially in the Information and Communication Technology field, by building technical skills and confidence.

ICT graduate, Sthembiso Ngwenyama, said the experience shaped his career path. “Nelekat’s CompTIA A+ programme taught me troubleshooting skills leading to certification and career growth.”

According to him, the training strengthened his technical expertise and improved his competitiveness in the ICT sector.

Marketing graduate, Sharon Khoza, shared a similar experience. “My internship at Nelekat equipped me with the skills, confidence and knowledge to launch my marketing career. I am truly grateful for the opportunity.” Her experience highlights the value of workplace exposure in easing the transition into employment.

“Employability is not just about securing a job. It is about equipping graduates with the right skills, confidence and practical experience to thrive in the workplace. As an employer, I believe in creating real opportunities that allow young people to grow and realise their full potential,” Thakadu added.

The TUT Alumni Relations Office and the Directorate of Cooperative Education support this partnership by linking students and graduates with industry partners. They facilitate mentorship opportunities, strengthen professional networks and provide access to workplace experience.

By aligning employability initiatives with industry needs, the Directorate of Cooperative Education creates platforms that promote entrepreneurship professional development and career mobility. This approach equips graduates with qualifications skills and industry insight to compete in a dynamic economic environment.

The partnership between TUT and Nelekat demonstrates how collaboration between academia and industry drives graduate success and prepares students for meaningful participation in the workplace.