By Mzwandile Ndlovu
In a tough job market, success in finding employment takes skills, strategy and professionalism. Final-year language students at the North-West University (NWU) honed their post-university preparations during a work-readiness workshop hosted by the School of Language Practice in collaboration with Career Services on the Mahikeng Campus.
The annual event, held on 26 September 2025, aimed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and professional expectations by offering practical guidance, career insights and industry perspectives. Speakers from academia, government and industry shared experiences and strategies relevant to language practice and the broader professional environment.
“This work helps us align what we do as a university with what is expected in the workplace,” said Prof Mpho Chaka, deputy dean for teaching and learning in the Faculty of Humanities.
Where opportunities can be found
The programme explored opportunities for language students preparing to enter the workforce. Mickey Moreetsi from the Pan South African Language Board outlined what opportunities exist for graduates at entry level, while Marissa Griesel, project manager and workshop facilitator at South African Centre for Digital Language Resources, shared how a career in language practice can evolve through digital humanities and language technologies.
Speakers from the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development discussed how language practitioners play a role in courtroom interpretation.
Dr Wena Coetzee, a freelance editor, talked about editing as a key skill in language practice, and how freelancing works. Dr Keaobaka Seshoka from the NWU Language Directorate highlighted how language practice underpins effective communication in professional settings.
Targeted strategies, tax and lifelong learning
During a session on professional conduct and career development, Relebogile Sekati, Mahikeng Campus liaison officer, shared how students can approach the job market through targeted search strategies. “Key steps include defining your goals, updating your CV and online profiles.”
Tax matters were highlighted when Innocent Mashava from the School of Accounting Sciences explained what graduates should understand about the South African Revenue Service.
Gene Mathey, lecturer from the School of Languages, encouraged students to consider postgraduate studies to enhance their employability and prospects. “If you are interested in joining academia, you need to be a lifelong learner. Continue to study towards an honours and then a master’s degree,” he said.
Reflecting on the event, Thoriso Maseng, senior manager for Career Services and Alumni Relations, said: “This is an important engagement, and I am proud of the work done by the team to create this platform for our students.”
Dr Keaobaka Seshoka from the NWU Language Directorate shed light on language practice in a professional setting.
