On 6 August 2025, during a Human Resource Management (HRMA121) class at the Mahikeng Campus of the North-West University, male and female first-year students exchanged professional roles in a creative learning exercise aimed at building empathy, understanding and workplace diversity awareness.

The event, themed “Walking in different shoes as HR practitioners”, saw male students dress as female professionals and female students as male professionals. Students also composed original songs on human resource management, covering topics such as the importance of HR and workplace diversity, using genres from R&B and gospel to hip-hop.

“This activity reminded us that HR is not only about policies, but about people,” said one student participant.

Dr Kelebogile Paadi addressed the class on sexual harassment, diversity and services offered by the Disability Unit and the Counselling Unit. “As future HR leaders, you must be equipped to support people in navigating workplace challenges while maintaining your own well-being,” she said.

The Library team, led by Mrs Mmaphefo Maake, shared information on available academic resources. “Resourcefulness is a skill that will benefit you in you’re your academic and professional life,” she told students.

Through role play, music creation and collaborative tasks, the HRMA121 class explored how adaptability and empathy are essential to leadership in human resource management.

Role-reversal and music bring human resource management to life.