“VUT hosts HR Management Conference on future-fit curriculum and employability in collaboration with SABPP.”
28 October 2025 | Story: Maswoba Raludzingana | Photo: Naledi Nkosi
3 minutes read time.
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) hosted its annual Human Resources Management Student Conference on Wednesday, 22 October 2025, at the Desmond Tutu Great Hall. The event, held from 09:00 to 14:00, was organised by the Department of Human Resources Management in collaboration with the South African Board for People Practices (SABPP). It brought together students from Diploma to Postgraduate level under the theme “Future-Fit Curriculum and Graduate Employability.”
The conference aimed to strengthen the bridge between academic learning and industry practice, equipping students with the insight and inspiration needed to thrive in a rapidly changing workplace.
Opening the proceedings, Dr Josiah Masoka, Head of the Department of Human Resources Management, emphasised the importance of preparing students to meet the evolving demands of the industry with adaptability and professionalism. In the absence of the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, Professor Chengedzai Mafini, the welcome address was delivered by Professor Gauda Johannes Maseko, Head of the Department of Accountancy. He highlighted that the primary objective of the conference was to foster meaningful connections between students and the world of work, instilling enthusiasm, purpose, and a deeper understanding of their academic journey.
A key feature of the programme was the presentation by Ms Musengeli Ravele from SABPP, who introduced the SABPP Student Chapter and encouraged students to join the professional body while still studying. She explained that membership not only reflects a commitment to the HR profession but also enhances employability by providing access to valuable professional networks and development opportunities.
The conference’s keynote addresses were delivered by two distinguished HR professionals, Mr Fusi Motaung and Mr Mpho Phahlamohlaka. Mr Motaung spoke on employability and entrepreneurship within the HR profession, urging students to adopt innovative mindsets and to create opportunities rather than waiting for them. Mr Phahlamohlaka focused on the challenges confronting today’s graduates, encouraging students to overcome limiting circumstances by investing in preparation, confidence, and continuous growth.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms Lesego Joy Kekane, a fourth-year Advanced Diploma in Human Resources student, described the conference as an invaluable learning platform that connected theory with practice. “The conference gave me practical insights into how organisations attract, retain, and nurture top talent,” she said. “I also gained a deeper understanding of HR policies, practices, and legislative frameworks, which are crucial for developing effective human capital strategies. This experience has strengthened my confidence and inspired me to apply these lessons meaningfully in my future career.”
The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognising the top-performing students from first to third year. These awards celebrated academic excellence and served as a reminder that dedication and hard work yield tangible rewards.
Overall, the 2025 Human Resources Management Student Conference was a resounding success. It inspired students to pursue professionalism and innovation within the HR field, while underscoring the critical importance of aligning academic knowledge with the ever-evolving needs of the workplace. The event left attendees motivated and ready to step confidently into the future as future-fit graduates poised to make meaningful contributions to the world of work.