College of Economic & Management Sciences

Unisa's IGNITEWISE sparks ambition among Witbank learners

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The IGNITEWISE team celebrating a successful session after engaging with learners at the FH Mkhabela High School

Future dreams took flight at FH Mkhabela High School in Witbank, Mpumalanga, when Unisa’s Department of Industrial and Organisational Psychology recently hosted the IGNITEWISE community engagement initiative, an event designed to inspire and equip learners with the knowledge to chart purposeful academic and career paths.

The event, held in collaboration with key partners such as the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA), the Department of Labour and Unisa’s Department of Economics, showcased a powerful model of engaged scholarship. The programme delivered practical advice on navigating tertiary education, understanding labour market trends and embracing personal growth.

Guest speaker Yasmeen Ebrahim, an industrial psychologist in independent practice, introduced learners to the RIASEC model, a career guidance framework linking personality types with suitable professions, encouraging students to make informed, authentic choices about their futures.

In a dynamic Admission Point Score (APS) workshop, Freddy Kau, a lecturer at Unisa’s Department of Industrial and Organisational Psychology, guided learners through the often-challenging terrain of university admission criteria. Meanwhile, Azwihangwisi Singo, a lecturer in the Department of Industrial Psychology at Unisa, offered a candid warning against the pitfalls of poorly aligned study choices and stressed the importance of professional guidance in academic planning. He encouraged the students to reassess their options and continuously seek professional guidance.

The event also tackled broader social issues. Representatives Nomsa Sikhosana and Zamekile Thabethe from SANCA delivered a sobering message about the dangers of substance abuse, reinforcing the link between well-being and academic achievement. Maria Kutoane and her team from the Department of Labour provided insights into emerging industries and high-demand skills, underscoring the need for future-oriented learning in a rapidly changing economy.

Adding a financial perspective, Vinolia Lineo Sekokoi, a lecturer in Unisa’s Department of Economics, encouraged learners to develop economic literacy as a foundation for sustainable development and active citizenship. She outlined how economic literacy can address societal challenges and drive sustainable development.

The IGNITEWISE initiative is a shining example of how Unisa transforms lives through education and outreach, building a bridge between academic knowledge and societal impact.

 * By Dr Nthabeleng Mdhluli, Busisiwe Mahlangu, Victoria Springbok and Tebogo Mahlaela, College of Economic and Management Sciences

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Publish date: 2025-07-21 00:00:00.0

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