Cape Chamber gets students ready for the working world
The Cape Chamber of Commerce & Industry has hosted a novel Work Readiness Programme (WRP) for university students who would like to be better prepared for the working world, harnessing the latest technology available for remote meetings.
The initial idea was proposed by the Commerce Students Council of the University of Cape Town (UCT). The council partnered with the Cape Chamber to create an online course that breaks new ground in relevant, contemporary and cost-effective business education.
The unique aspect of this course is that the students choose the syllabus.
They are in charge of their future, and it is a clear signal from what is expected from them in later life. It also gives highly-qualified, established and experienced tutors the chance to contribute to moulding our future leaders.
The programme launched with its first 30 students, covering four online sessions. The lecturers were all volunteers with the requisite real-world training and experience, many with the appropriate academic qualifications as well. The subjects (one for each day), as selected by the students, were:
- Ethics – Recognizing and responding to ethical dilemmas.
- Social justice – Workplace inclusivity and social transformation.
- Emotional intelligence – Empathy and other interpersonal skills.
- Navigating power – Building networks, interacting with superiors and subordinates.
After the course, the students were placed in groups and submitted an assignment by answering four questions, one from each topic.
Every student received a certificate on successful completion of the course which also requires passing their assignment.
Student bodies who wish to offer this to their members, can contact the Course Director, Sid Peimer on sid@capechamber.co.za.
Questions & answers
- What does the course cost the students?
It is free (it may entail their membership of a student body). - Who are the lecturers on each subject?
Highly qualified lecturers with both an academic and practical background. - Are the lecturers paid?
No - How much does the Chamber pay to produce the virtual classrooms?
All it costs is time and dedication. - What has been the opinion of the students of the course once they have been completed?
Opinions are being surveyed but are not yet completed. - How long did it take to bring the course to fruition?
One month. - Was it difficult to find willing lecturers?
No, the Chamber was flooded with applications with numerous PhD’s and Professors. - Is this unique to UCT?
No, this course is open to all education institutions with a student body.