VUT treated to business simulation seminar

Onica Matsheke: Junior lecturer in Logistics and Mr Moses Shuuya from the Namibia University of Science and Technology

by Qhawekazi Memani

Mr Moses Shuuya from the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) visited the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) from 9-11 October to present a business simulation experience to staff and students.

The seminar was arranged via the VUT’s Voice of Business (VoB) initiative and 20 students and staff members participated in a simulation game called LUDAS. The game gives the participants the external and internal factors that can affect one’s business, gives opportunities to learn strategies required in business, teaches about employee morale and how it affects the business, helps to identify markets one wants to sell to, and it helps lecturers to link theory to practice.

The students and staff members were put into groups and given products to sell in local and global markets.

Onica Matsheke: Junior lecturer in Logistics described the process as having been very stressful, but fruitful, and that with the assistance of Mr Shuuya they were able to complete their tasks. She said the training was very enlightening and they have learned a lot about business and markets in different countries, especially in terms of what to be mindful of.

“NUST has, since 2010, integrated the business simulation game into their curriculum, I would recommend that VUT follows suit because there are so many things the students can benefit from. The game helps ensure they become the employable graduates the university intends to produce,” said Mr Shuuya

The VoB programme aims to equip students with not only theoretical and task-related knowledge, but to equip them with the associated competencies required in the industry.