The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) much‑anticipated World of Work 2025 Career Fair commenced on Wednesday, 20 August at the Fred Crookes Sports Centre and culminated at Indumiso Campus in Pietermaritzburg on 22 August. Among the event’s highlights was the Gala Dinner, hosted at the Greyville Convention Centre on the evening of 20 August—a stylish and meaningful gathering that brought together academia, industry, and government.

UWS was honoured to be present, with our Head of UWSIL, Mr Andile Sipengane, delivering the keynote address. Drawing from his leadership at uMngeni Water Services, Mr Sipengane offered a poignant reflection on the evolving world of work. “While technology, innovation, and globalisation are transforming industries,” he said, “it is the young, brilliant, and innovative people who remain at the heart of economic growth and societal progress”.

He lauded the strong academic-industry partnerships forged by DUT, noting that bridging the academia-industry divide is essential for unlocking graduate success, fostering entrepreneurship, and driving innovation.

Mr Sipengane also expressed sincere appreciation for the collective efforts of industry partners, professional associations, quality assurance bodies, and national skills initiatives that work alongside tertiary institutions to strengthen the skills ecosystem.

For UWS, his message affirmed our own commitment to forging impactful collaborations and nurturing talent. As we continue our mission to empower the next generation of leaders, we are inspired by the collaborative spirit that characterized the WoW Gala Dinner – and by Mr Sipengane’s call to action to build on that momentum through meaningful partnerships.