The PAL programme included several workshops at GIBS, local excursions (such as a visit to the Constitutional Court), as well as an international visit to the universities of São Paulo and Campinas in Brazil, South America. The visit to Brazil offered an opportunity to explore the impact of global change, the role of universities in emerging markets and the implications thereof for tertiary educational institutions. As part of the visit to Brazil, the team also met with the Consul General, Mmaikeletsi Dube, in São Paulo. This opportunity allowed for fruitful discussion between the academics and the Consulate, especially with regard to future cooperation.

As part of the output of the PAL programme, the 12 participants were divided into three teams with specific action learning projects to address. The aim of the action learning projects was to support the University in the improvement of university activities and processes. During a round-table discussion on 4 October 2013, the teams presented its findings to the Executive, deans, and representatives from UP and GIBS.

The winning team of professors included Yolanda Jordaan (Marketing Management), Chris Theron (Physics), Stefan van Eck (Mercantile Law) and Alta van der Merwe (Informatics). This team outlined the role of the head of department in the career development of young and established staff members and presented practical, implementable solutions to the Vice-Chancellor and Principal.

From left to right:The Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Cheryl de la Rey, with participants of the PAL programme and representatives from UP and GIBS at the award ceremony following the successful completion of the PAL programme.