Tshwane University of Technology - Academia meets the real world at WIL debriefing sessions

Details: Published: 27 October 2025

The 2025 WIL Debriefing sessions of the Faculty of Arts and Design’s Department of Visual Communication at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) brought together students, staff and industry partners to reflect on the learning, growth and collaboration that define the Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) experience. The sessions took place at the Gallagher Convention Centre from 13 to 15 October.

It was more than a look back; the focus was on strengthening the bridge between academia and industry – creating meaningful connections that prepare students for professional practice and ongoing growth beyond the lecture room.

It was the first time that the Department of Visual Communication’s Commercial Photography-, Motion Picture Production- and Integrated Communication Design programmes hosted their WIL Debriefing sessions together.

“The days were filled with reflection, conversation and the kind of insights that remind us why WIL is such an essential part of the journey from student to industry-ready professional. This year’s WIL experiences highlighted achievements, challenges and lessons learnt along the way. There were also robust discussions between the institution and our industry partners – a vital opportunity to strengthen collaboration, share perspectives and continue aligning academic learning with professional expectations,” says Hein Grové, Acting Head of the Department of Visual Communication.

“We believe that a WIL partnership is a two-way street and it is essential for us to contribute meaningfully by addressing topics that are both relevant and impactful to the industry,” Grové adds.

Hein Grové (Commercial Photography)

Some of the topics that were addressed over the three days included:

Carla Ralph from Learning Curve delved into the impact of AI on the photographic industry.
Anika van der Berg from Leadership & Citizenship EducationLead: DARE Training gave feedback on the leadership workshop students from Integrated Communication Design attended and the importance of leadership development.
Moipone Mampane, Deputy Director: Department of Human Settlements, spoke about Designing the Future: Communicating with impact in the AI era within the public sector.
Simangaliso Sibaya, Director: Panda Exclamated, took the audience behind the scenes of the creation of the animation character, Mkhuzi.
Leron Adonis, Industry Training and Development Manager from the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), spoke about the role and opportunities at the NFVF.
Simon Makwela, council member of the South African Screen Federation (SASFED), shared his journey as a professional in the film industry and the impact of AI on the industry.

Highlights shared were that all 27 Commercial Photography students successfully completed 250 industry hours, meeting the WIL requirements and gaining substantial practical experience. In addition, 52% of the class have reported income opportunities upon graduation, demonstrating the tangible value and impact of their placements.

“We’ve also seen a significant increase in student confidence, as they apply their skills, navigate professional environments and grow as emerging creatives,” says Monique du Plessis, WIL Coordinator and lecturer, Department of Visual Communication (Commercial Photography).

The Motion Picture Production debriefing provided a valuable opportunity for students to receive direct feedback and insights from industry professionals. During the sessions, industry representatives offered crucial support by sharing their real-world experiences, expectations and advice, which helped students bridge the gap between academic work and industry standards. The information shared extended beyond technical knowledge, touching on current trends, challenges and professional practices within the field.

This stretch of knowledge pushed students to think more critically and align their projects with industry realities. Most importantly, the open discussion format allowed for a two-way exchange – students could ask questions, clarify uncertainties and gain a deeper understanding of the industry's direction, while industry professionals could better understand the perspectives and emerging ideas from the next generation of talent.

“The dialogue not only enriched the learning experience but also fostered meaningful connections between students and industry,” says Tumisho Mahlase, WIL Coordinator and lecturer, Department of Visual Communication (Motion Picture Production).

The session with the Integrated Communication Design programme brought together students, lecturers and industry partners to exchange insights and feedback. Students shared their experiences and challenges from placements. The lecturers learnt about industry expectations to enhance the curriculum. The industry partners provided input on the necessary graduate skills, aligning the programme with market demands.

“Valuable sessions like these ensure we keep abreast with our industry to prepare future-ready graduates,” says Tumelo Rasedile, WIL Coordinator and lecturer, Department of Visual Communication (Integrated Communication Design).

All third-year Visual Communication students were placed and completed their WIL hours successfully, thereby gaining substantial practical experience, improving their confidence as they apply their skills, navigating professional environments and growing as emerging creatives.

Dr Herman Botes, Head of the Department of Visual Communication and Acting Assistant Dean: Teaching and Learning at the Faculty, thanked the Department’s industry partners who showed daily support and engagement and for lending a hand to ensure the Department prepares future-ready graduates. He also thanked the students for being proud ambassadors and the staff for their passion and dedication to making a positive difference – preparing young leaders and keeping a finger on the pulse of this ever-changing industry.