The School of Management, IT, and Governance recently demonstrated its commitment to producing well-rounded and versatile professionals through a guest lecture hosted by Dr Anisha Ramsaroop in the Discipline of Human Resources (HR) Management for first-year students.
This guest lecture is one of the School’s initiatives aimed at equipping graduates with the knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to build meaningful and adaptable careers.
Ms Kerusha Govender, HR Metrics Supervisor from Natal Portland Cement (NPC) and an alumna of UKZN, delivered the lecture, which covered topics such as the practical applications of HR Analytics, the required skills to become a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in this field, and how to acquire these skills.
Govender shared her insights on the real-world functions of HR Analytics beyond textbook descriptions.
She emphasised the importance of understanding the transition from university to the workplace, a challenge she personally experienced. She highlighted that such knowledge gives students a competitive edge when they enter the field of HR.
‘I have also seen our graduates struggle with the same issue. Therefore, giving them these insights and encouraging them to learn how to use common business tools and on finding a competitive edge in HR, will set them apart from other graduates in the workplace,’ she said.
Ramsaroop, who lectures at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, said this approach allows students to fully understand how academic theories are applied in professional environments.
‘In addition, through these interventions, a partnership is built with organisations to absorb students for internships and vacation stints, possibly employment,’ said Ramsaroop. ‘I am happy to say that some of my students were placed or absorbed through these partnerships.’
First-year Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resources student, Ms Wendy Mafu, described the lecture as both important and informative, underscoring its value for new students. ‘Honestly I didn’t know the HRM field is as broad as it is. I had no idea about HR Analytics which is really quite interesting as it examines all aspects of a well-functioning and integrated workplace,’ said Mafu.
Words: Samukelisiwe Cele
Photograph: Supplied
