Pietermaritzburg Client Connect Event

With Artificial Intelligence rapidly reshaping the world of work, the Pietermaritzburg campus recently brought together its employer partners for a Client Connect breakfast hosted by the campus’ Career Services. Centred around the theme “Supporting students and graduates in the AI Era: Staying relevant in a rapidly evolving workplace”, the event served as both a thank you for the year’s collaboration and a platform for shared insights on how academia and industry can continue preparing students for an AI-driven future.

Shan Cade Training & Consulting, Colenbrander, Legal Aid South Africa, Dobeyn Accounting Solutions, Mitchells’ Chartered Accountants, Harvard House – Financial Services and iOCO were among the organisations that attended.

“Career Services places a great deal of emphasis on building relationships with industry so that students gain a real understanding of what’s happening in the workplace,” said Francine Mashabela (Manager: Career Services). “Even with AI, you still need human skills. It’s not just about the technological advancements but it’s about ensuring students don’t replace human thinking. AI should enhance human thinking, not become a crutch. We still want students who can problem solve, think critically and collaborate”.

Shari Cade (Shan Cade Training & Consulting Director) echoed this: “It is important for students to be reminded that AI cannot build relationships or connect with people, but humans can do that. The dialogue provided the platform for these teachings to be discussed”.

“Students rely so much on AI that it takes away their ability to think critically,” added Dr Hennie Pelser (School of Management Lecturer at the Pietermaritzburg campus). “Academia, Career Services and industry can work collectively to mould students who possess these skills”.

Alumnus Damion Joyner (Data Specialist at National Strategic) shared how AI transformed his career path. “I didn’t see the AI revolution coming, but I quickly realised the game was changing. I used my spare time to upskill and learn how to use AI. When the opportunity opened for a role focused on machine learning and AI, I was ready. Being in the technology space already, it taught me that I had to keep up with how fast the industry moves, and AI has now brought this mindset to every industry”.

The event also highlighted Career Services’ Industry Immersion Programme, which helps students complete 120 hours of workplace experience as part of their qualifications. Activities include job shadowing, workplace observation, informational interviews and workplace placements. Students receive feedback from employers, reference letters to strengthen their profiles and a certificate of achievement upon completion. The programme builds employability skills, promotes early workplace exposure and boosts student confidence.

“I am excited about the opportunity created for us to deliberate on how we can further collaborate with industry and academics in supporting our students. By creating intentional platforms for collaboration, we help our students develop key employability skills early and ensure they are well prepared for life and career after graduation,” said Mashabela.