Unisa graduates gain work experience at their alma mater

Unisa recently hosted the second round of its internship orientation programme at the main campus. In attendance were 82 graduates who will work as interns in various departments.  In line with its 150^th anniversary theme, “Reclaiming Africa’s Intellectual Futures”, Unisa is determined to empower and impart skills to its graduates in the form of experiential learning.

Mentors and mentees attending the programme

As part of celebrating 150 years of changing lives, the university, in collaboration with the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation and the Office of The Presidency, sponsored graduates’ internship programme to empower change and participate in eradicating socio-economic issues such as poverty and unemployment. The institution aims to serve society by promoting an African perspective that encompasses quality academic excellence.

Management and mentors were present to welcome the new colleagues and representatives. Dr Phumzile Dlamini, Acting Executive Director: Human Resources (HR), gave the congratulatory message. Acting Director: HR, Dr Gwendoline van der Berg, welcomed the new colleagues with these words of advice: “It is your attitude, more than your aptitude, that will determine your altitude”. Interns were encouraged to approach the work environment with determination and the willingness to learn.

The programme elaborated on some of the services interns are entitled to within the institution, such as the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) service offerings. The EAP is designed to assist with personal, health, marital, family, and financial concerns, as well as issues around alcohol, drug or stress that may affect employees’ job performance.

Colleagues from other regions joined online as they also welcomed new interns. and were able to interact with colleagues at the main campus.

* By Seyabonga Thipe and Rememberance Manganyi, Interns, Department of Institutional Advancement