The spirit of Heritage Month was celebrated with thoughtfulness and intensity by first-year students from the School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management at the North-West University (NWU).
On 2 and 3 September, students came together to engage in courageous conversations about one of the most pressing issues in the modern workplace: fairness in recruitment and selection.
The event was conceptualised and organised by lecturer Kholiswa Mogoeng. With the theme centred around transformation and workplace justice, students participated in interactive debates and presentations that challenged conventional hiring practices and encouraged critical thinking about real-world human resource issues.
“We are taught to believe that the best candidate always gets the job, but in reality, it does not always happen that way,” said Tshiamo Tsotetsi, one of the student participants. “We need systems that recognise real skills and potential, not just whom someone knows or how confident they are in an interview.”
Students openly addressed concerns about nepotism and favouritism, where personal connections or social status can sometimes outweigh qualifications and competencies. They called for merit-based hiring systems that reflect fairness and inclusivity.
Another key area of debate was the job interview process, which some students argued often excludes capable candidates who may not excel at self-promotion.
“Some people have amazing practical skills but are not great at interviews,” said Amber Huckle. “That does not mean they cannot do the job well. We need to rethink what we value in candidates.”
Cultural diversity and sensitivity were also central to the conversations. Students highlighted how cultural background can influence the hiring experience, especially when organisations are not attuned to the needs of a diverse candidate pool.
“Sometimes, being different in how you speak, dress or express yourself culturally can work against you,” added Ross Phenyo. “That is not fair. Heritage Month is the perfect time to reflect on this and push for change.”
Expert insight: Dr Mokgojwa delivers keynote address
The event was elevated by a powerful keynote address from Dr Deborah Mokgojwa, programme leader for Labour Relations at the NWU. Drawing on her expertise in both labour law and human resources, Dr Mokgojwa emphasised the legal frameworks that support fair and equitable recruitment in South Africa.
“The Constitution and the Employment Equity Act are not just compliance checkboxes,” said Dr Mokgojwa. “They are instruments of justice to help us dismantle systemic inequality in the workplace. As future human resource professionals, your role is not only to follow the law but to champion it.”
She challenged the students to view themselves as advocates for transformation, urging them to apply both ethical judgment and legislative knowledge in their future careers.
The future of fair hiring starts here
In engaging with such critical issues during Heritage Month, these students showcased not only their academic potential, but also their readiness to lead change in South Africa’s evolving labour landscape.
“These were not just debates,” said Kholiswa, reflecting on the impact of the event. “They were moments of awakening where students realised the power they hold to shape a workplace that is fair, inclusive and truly transformed.”
With energy, empathy, and a clear understanding of justice, these future human resource professionals are already showing that they are more than ready to make their mark.
Leadership and teamwork on display
The success of the event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the student organising team. They are Amber Huckle, Tsubane Gomolemo, Tshiamo Tsotetsi, Morobane Katlego, Noel Mosome, Reatlegile Matomela, Ross Phenyo, Seabo Lekaba, Njabulo Ngubane and Lydia Mokgosi. Their energy and commitment reflected the mission of the NWU to cultivate responsible, socially aware graduates.
Special recognition was given to Vida Mmutlaneng, the Mahikeng Campus disability coordinator who provided creative support and ensured the venue radiated the warmth and vibrancy of Heritage Month.
First-year students from the School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management came together to engage in courageous conversations about fairness in recruitment and selection.
