“Labour Relations students at the Vaal University of Technology participate in an informative guest lecture by an inspector from the Department of Employment and Labour, gaining practical insight into workplace compliance, labour inspections and the application of labour legislation in South Africa.”
10 March 2026 | Story by: Sphiwe Sadiki | Picture by: Sifiso Nomzaza
4 minutes read time.
Students enrolled in the Labour Relations programme at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) recently participated in an engaging industry focused session that strengthened the connection between academic learning and practical workplace experience.
On 6 March 2026, Labour Relations lecturer Ms Sibongile Mbuli invited Mr Mpho Mphumela, an inspector from the Department of Employment and Labour, to present a guest lecture to students at the University’s GW203 building. The session aimed to provide students with practical insight into labour inspections, employee rights and the enforcement of workplace legislation in South Africa.
Opening the engagement, Ms Mbuli welcomed the students and expressed appreciation to the guest speaker and his team for taking the time to engage with future labour relations practitioners. She emphasised the importance of exposing students to professionals working within the field, noting that such engagements help bridge the gap between classroom learning and the realities of the labour market.
Taking the podium, Mr Mphumela greeted the students and reflected on his own academic journey, proudly sharing that he is an alumnus of the University. He encouraged students to remain dedicated to their studies and reminded them that the knowledge acquired at university can open doors to meaningful and impactful careers. Mr Mphumela also shared that he is currently pursuing an Honours degree at the University of Johannesburg, demonstrating the value of continuous learning and professional development.
Drawing from more than ten years of experience as a labour inspector, Mr Mphumela explained that inspectors are appointed by the Minister of Employment and Labour to ensure that workplaces comply with labour legislation, particularly the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. He highlighted the critical role inspectors play in protecting
employees’ rights and ensuring that employers provide fair and lawful working conditions.
During the session, he explained that workplace inspections are conducted to monitor compliance with labour laws governing working hours, wages, leave provisions and occupational safety standards. In certain cases, employers may receive prior notice before an inspection takes place, while in other circumstances inspections may be conducted without notice.
Mr Mphumela further highlighted the collaboration between the Department of Employment and Labour and the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) in resolving labour disputes and promoting fair labour practices. This partnership plays an important role in strengthening the enforcement of labour legislation while helping both employers and employees understand their rights and responsibilities.
The lecture soon became highly interactive when students were invited to participate in a discussion on the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. Students confidently shared their views and demonstrated a solid understanding of labour relations principles, impressing the guest speaker with their engagement and insight.
As part of the discussion, students were asked to identify different types of leave provided for under South African labour legislation, including annual leave, sick leave, family responsibility leave and maternity leave. The conversation also addressed important matters relating to workplace injuries and employee protection.
Advising students on best workplace practices, Mr Mphumela stressed the importance of properly recording employee attendance and documenting workplace incidents. He explained that accurate reporting procedures are essential when an employee is injured while on duty, as proper documentation enables access to compensation and insurance benefits where applicable.
He further explained that employees who sustain injuries at work may receive compensation depending on the severity of the injury and the level of disability, in accordance with relevant compensation legislation. In cases where a serious injury or death occurs while performing work duties, financial compensation may be provided to the employee or their nominated beneficiaries.
The engagement concluded with an energetic question and answer session, where students posed thoughtful questions regarding labour inspections, workplace rights and compliance procedures. The discussion offered valuable insight into how labour legislation is applied in real workplace environments.
The session proved both educational and inspiring, reinforcing the importance of practical industry exposure in higher education. By bringing experienced professionals
into the classroom, VUT continues to equip students with the knowledge, confidence and practical understanding needed to succeed in the labour relations field.
The engagement not only strengthened students’ understanding of labour legislation but also inspired them to pursue careers dedicated to promoting fair labour practices and protecting workers’ rights across South Africa.