Unisa fosters skills development through internship programme

On 8 April 2026, Unisa’s Human Resources Department hosted an orientation event for the 2026 cohort of interns at its Muckleneuk Campus, welcoming them as they transitioned to work experience.

In her opening remarks, Kereeditse Modisane, Manager: Human Resource Development, underscored the value of the internship programme, highlighting its benefits for both the organisation and interns. She said: “By integrating interns into teams, departments gain fresh perspectives and contributions, while the interns transition from graduates to professionals, gaining valuable work experience.” The programme also supports sector education and training authority (SETA) reporting requirements, enhancing the organisation's compliance and development initiatives. Modisane emphasised: “Interns should work cooperatively with their mentors and ensure that they leave this programme with new skills, knowledge, and tangible achievements.”

Kereeditse Modisane, Manager: Human Resource Development

In his welcome address, Dr Nic van Staden, Manager: Human Resource Remuneration and Administration, congratulated the interns on their appointment in the programme. He said this is a significant milestone and that he trusts the interns will make the most of this valuable opportunity. “The primary purpose of this programme is to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical workplace experience,” said Van Staden.

“Importantly,” he remarked, “this programme is designed to equip the interns with practical skills, help them build confidence, and prepare them for the professional world.” Van Staden explained that they will be exposed to different work environments, further enhancing skills development, networking opportunities, self-discovery, and competitive advantage.

Dr Nic van Staden, Manager: Human Resource Remuneration and Administration

In her message, Xoliswa Malindisa, Human Resource Practitioner in the Contracting Section, urged the interns to honour their contractual obligations, comply with institutional policies, maintain professional conduct, and perform assigned duties diligently. She highlighted that all information and assignments are confidential. Also, she informed interns that written consent is required before sharing information and that they should report any misuse of confidential information in writing.

Cathrine Tloubatla, Human Resource Practitioner, said that interns must familiarise themselves with and align with Unisa’s vision, mission and values. “Unisa’s vision is to become the African university shaping futures in the service of humanity,” she said. Additionally, Tloubatla stated that Unisa’s mission is to provide lifelong higher education for all and foster knowledge creation that is nationally responsive and globally relevant. She further mentioned that two Unisa students have been appointed as interns in China. Consequently, she encouraged the interns to pursue their programmes diligently.

Kgomotso Setati, Human Resource Practitioner in the Employee Relations and Wellness Section, said that this section aims to promote a healthy workplace environment and harmonious employer-employee relationships. She highlighted key employee relations areas, such as managing incapacity and grievance processes, emphasising the importance of exposing interns to these issues to ensure a productive work environment.

* By William Thubakgale, Communications Directorate, Department of Institutional Advancement

** Photography by Mduduzi Comfort Khathamzi, Unisa Multimedia Office