Partnerships that combat youth unemployment

A seminar with Unisa's Department of Human Resource Development in partnership with the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector-Education and Training Authority (ETDP-SETA) was attended by scores of interns who were excited to reflect and share their experiences of their internship programmes at Unisa.

Unisa's Department of Human Resource Development, ETDP-SETA representatives and interns applaud the partnership that provides graduates with real work experience

Welcoming and outlining the purpose of the seminar, Dr Gwendoline Van Der Berg, Acting Director of the Department of Human Resource Development from Unisa, said the seminar intended to provide a platform for professionals in training to report back on the progress of their internship programme and, to identify areas of improvement and provide solutions to challenges faced by interns.

Keynote speaker from the ETDP-SETA, Fikile Mncube, a Skills Advisor for Gauteng Province, explained that the mandate of the ETDP-SETA is to upskill people through sponsoring training providers to curb unemployment. Mncube said: "Internships provide an opportunity to identify gaps in  skills and competencies."  She adds: "Therefore, as interns, you are encouraged to raise matters that impede or limit you from getting the desired experience." Mncube advised interns to ensure they are placed in departments that align with their studies. She encouraged interns to forge good relationships with their mentors and raise matters without doubt and fear. She added: "It is always a good idea to request rotations when you feel that your department does not provide you with the desired experience and exposure."

Interns’ reflections

In her reflection, Koketso Munonde, an Intern at the Counselling and Career Development Directorate, said: "The process of getting this internship started when I saw an advert on myUnisa." She added: "I was excited to see my qualification listed, and I immediately applied. I was happy and ready to begin my journey of self-discovery, growth, and improvement."

Koketso Munonde and Thapelo Masiapata

Munonde said: "Working in the Counselling Unit has empowered me and fuelled my passion for community service and aspiration to positively impact the lives of people in different communities and with varying backgrounds." She continued: "This internship programme has reaffirmed the career path that I have chosen and has given me a clear direction to pursue going forward." Munonde shared her gratitude and described the Counselling Unit as incredibly responsive and supportive, as they were always available to guide her.

"Being part of the Quality Assurance team is a dream coming true," said Thapelo Masiapata, a Quality Assurance Intern placed at the College of Human Science. He said: "I work with experts who ensure adherence to the set standards of qualifications provided at Unisa. In addition, we help our university to ensure that it continues to provide a high standard and quality qualifications." He continued: "I appreciate what the department has done to ensure my learning journey is a success."

In closing, Mncube encouraged interns to further their studies and ensure they use the opportunity to get as much experience as they can to prepare them for future employment opportunities.

* By Tally Makhubela, Marketing and Communication Intern, Department of Institutional Advancement