“VUT hosted an Ecotourism Seminar for first and second-year students, featuring guest lectures, Q&A, and insights on sustainability and innovation.”
25 August 2025 | Story By: Thabisang Thebeeapelo | Picture: Supplied
2 minutes read time.
On 22 August 2025, the Department of Tourism and Integrated Communication at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) hosted an engaging Ecotourism Seminar tailored for first and second-year students. The event created an important platform for knowledge exchange, exposure, and collaboration in the growing field of ecotourism.
The seminar featured guest lecturers from leading institutions and organisations shaping tourism and environmental practice. Experts from Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, Durban University of Technology (DUT), the University of South Africa (UNISA), and Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), Mbombela Campus, shared academic and industry insights.
Prof Dimpho Lekaota, Head of the Department of Tourism and Integrated Communication, opened the seminar by emphasising its purpose: “One of our mandates is to inform students of what is happening in the industry. We also aim to bridge the gap between theory and practice and invite guest lecturers to share insights on industry developments and provide networking opportunities,” she said.
Mrs Grace Ntsoane, curator at Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, highlighted the environmental risks of mass tourism, urging students to evaluate sustainable tourism practices critically. She was followed by Mr Themba Majola, a VUT alumnus and animal keeper, who shared his experiences in conservation work and projects within the field. Adding an academic lens, Dr Nombuso Precious Shabalala (Dr Presh), a Tourism Management lecturer at UNISA, spoke on environmental education tools and the importance of cultural preservation in advancing ecotourism.
Students also engaged with recorded presentations from two additional experts. Dr Thulile Mofokeng, a lecturer in the Department of Entrepreneurial Studies and Management at DUT, explored entrepreneurship opportunities within ecotourism, encouraging students to cultivate a business-minded approach: “Entrepreneurial mindset is something you build over time,” she said. Mr Mbalathi, an ecotourism lecturer at TUT, broadened the discussion with a presentation on sustainability and the work environment, giving students practical perspectives on career pathways.
The day included an interactive Q&A session, where students engaged directly with guest lecturers. Speaking on behalf of his peers, second-year ecotourism class representative Tshepo Mkhwanazi expressed gratitude to the presenters and organisers for the invaluable lessons.
Closing the seminar, Dr Tanya Erasmus, VUT ecotourism lecturer and coordinator, thanked all contributors and reinforced the need for collaboration between academia and industry in shaping the future of ecotourism.