Alumni Connect Inspires And Prepares Students And Postgraduates For The Evolving Workplace. In today’s rapidly shifting professional world, higher education institutions must go beyond academic instruction to ensure that students are truly career-ready. This is precisely what the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) accomplished through its powerful and innovative initiative: Alumni Connect Inspires and Prepares Students and Postgraduates for the Evolving Workplace. The event was more than a motivational gathering—it was a strategic move to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world employability.
Empowering TUT Graduates for the Future
Held under the theme “Empowering TUT Postgraduates: Voices, Support and Real-Time Opportunities,” the event showcased how TUT is committed to developing well-rounded graduates prepared to tackle the evolving demands of the global workforce.
Organised by the Directorate of Extracurricular Development (DED), Alumni Relations, and the Directorate of Corporate Affairs and Marketing, the event united TUT alumni, industry experts, and postgraduate students under one goal: to unlock career-readiness through knowledge sharing, mentorship, and real-time opportunities.
The event was not only inspirational but also deeply practical—tailored to address the most urgent needs of today’s graduates.
Key Highlights from Alumni Connect 2025
| Speaker | Title/Organization | Core Message |
|---|---|---|
| Dr Eric Pule | Director, Advancement and Partnerships Office | Graduates should become both employees and employers |
| Ornica Mukhavhuli | CEO, African Global Skills Academy | Confidence, personal branding, CV writing, and time management are crucial |
| Dr Rita Raseleka | Director, Research, Innovation & Engagement | Start publishing early; visibility in research is key to academic recognition |
| Thokozani Miya | CEO, NEO Aviation | Embrace change, adapt to tech, and innovate forward |
| Sir Stuart Ntlathi | Founder, SIRindustries | “Someone has your gold medal” – persevere and believe in STEM |
| Dr Keitumetse Mashego | Founder, Rebaone Wellness | Prioritize mental health, resilience, and self-investment |
Rethinking Career Paths: From Job Seekers to Job Creators
Dr Eric Pule set the tone in his opening remarks, challenging students to go beyond traditional employment goals. His assertion that graduates should aim to become employers, not just employees, resonated with the audience. This mindset shift is essential in a country where unemployment among graduates is rising, and entrepreneurship is becoming a necessity.
Bridging the Gap Between Studies and Employability
The Role of Soft Skills and Personal Branding
One of the most impactful segments came from Ornica Mukhavhuli, CEO of the African Global Skills Academy. Her questions cut deep: “Is your CV speaking to your current reality?” She highlighted how students often overlook vital soft skills such as communication, confidence, and personal grooming—all of which are essential for job interviews and workplace success.
| Skill | Importance in Job Market |
|---|---|
| Confidence | Enhances interview performance and workplace communication |
| Time Management | Boosts productivity and reduces burnout |
| Personal Branding | Differentiates candidates in competitive job markets |
| Dress Code Awareness | Creates strong first impressions |
Academic Visibility and Research Publishing
In her session titled “Getting Published and Noticed”, Dr Rita Raseleka encouraged postgraduate students to build their research presence from the beginning. She stressed that publishing research is no longer just a requirement for graduation, but a strategic career tool for building long-term academic credibility.
She urged scholars not to wait until the final year to start working on their portfolios. Instead, students were advised to contribute to journals, collaborate on projects, and build networks that align with their research interests.
Industry Insights: The Power of Human Capital and Innovation
Thokozani Miya, CEO of NEO Aviation, emphasized how technological evolution, AI, and global economic changes are rapidly redefining the workplace. His address reinforced that the future belongs to those who adapt and innovate. Students were encouraged to:
- Embrace automation and AI tools
- Learn continuously through short courses and certifications
- Follow global labour trends
- Reposition themselves for opportunities in emerging sectors
From Matlosana to Moscow: A Journey of Innovation
In one of the most compelling segments of the day, Sir Stuart Ntlathi, founder of SIRindustries, narrated his journey of innovation through a session titled “Real Voices: Navigating Challenges and Building Resilience.”
He illustrated how students from underprivileged backgrounds could reach international stages through perseverance and a passion for science, technology, and innovation. His parting words: “Somewhere, someone has your gold medal”, reminded attendees of the value of patience and persistence in their professional journeys.
Mental Health in Postgrad Life: “You Are Not Alone”
In a much-needed conversation on mental wellbeing, Dr Keitumetse Mashego, mental health advocate and founder of Rebaone Wellness, urged students to focus inward. Her session encouraged students to see themselves as their greatest project. Mental resilience, she said, is just as vital as technical expertise.
Through practical exercises and reflective storytelling, she gave students tools to navigate stress, burnout, and self-doubt common among postgraduate learners.
Real-Time Opportunities and Takeaways
Beyond inspiration, the Alumni Connect Inspires and Prepares Students and Postgraduates for the Evolving Workplace session offered tangible opportunities to attendees:
- A short story collection by TUT students was launched, showcasing young literary talent
- Exciting prizes were distributed throughout the event
- A fully funded scholarship to study in Russia was awarded, courtesy of Sir Stuart Ntlathi
For students interested in applying for international scholarships or participating in future events, they are encouraged to follow the official TUT Alumni platforms, especially their Facebook page, for real-time updates and application links.
Why Alumni Engagement Matters More Than Ever
Alumni-led initiatives like these do more than just motivate—they build a sustainable support system that connects experience with ambition. When alumni return to uplift and guide the next generation, the cycle of mentorship and success continues.
FAQs About TUT Alumni Connect Inspires and Prepares Students
How can I apply for the Russia scholarship mentioned at the Alumni Connect event?
Ans: You can apply through the official TUT Alumni platforms, particularly via their Facebook page, where announcements and links for international opportunities are posted.
Are Alumni Connect events only for postgraduate students?
Ans: While the event focuses on postgraduates, many segments are open to final-year undergraduates and recent graduates, depending on the theme and speakers.
How can I stay updated on future Alumni Connect sessions?
Ans: Follow TUT Alumni Relations on their official website and social media channels, including Facebook, for updates on future sessions, speaker lineups, and application details for available opportunities.
Conclusion
The TUT Alumni Connect Inspires and Prepares Students and Postgraduates for the Evolving Workplace initiative is a blueprint for how institutions can effectively blend education with empowerment. By nurturing leadership, confidence, innovation, and resilience, Tshwane University of Technology is preparing graduates not just for employment, but for impactful careers.
