The University of Pretoria’s (UP) Career Services Office hosted its Appreciation Gala Dinner on 7 November to celebrate the internal and external partners whose collaboration plays a vital role in driving student employability and strengthening the link between academia and industry.

Held under the theme ‘Celebrating Partnerships, Empowering Futures’, the event was attended by UP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Francis Petersen, UP Registrar Prof Caroline Nicholson, deans, directors, employer partners, alumni mentors and key internal stakeholders.

In his keynote address, Prof Petersen highlighted the central role of partnership in UP’s forthcoming 12-year institutional strategy (2026 – 2038). He encouraged partners to envision deeper, more co-creative collaborations that extend beyond traditional bursaries, internships and recruitment opportunities.

“Our new strategy will position UP as a global institution, providing outputs in all forms for Africa, with Africa and with the world,” he said. “We must build richer relationships on the strong foundation we already have. Employability initiatives remain important, but let us take the conversation to the next level.”

Michele Le Grange, Assistant Director of Career Services, welcomed guests by emphasising the collective effort behind the unit’s achievements.

“The milestones we celebrate today are not the outcome of isolated work, but the result of meaningful partnerships. Together, we are building bridges of opportunity and shaping the future leaders of tomorrow,” she said, thanking faculties, departments, alumni mentors and industry partners for their continued collaboration and support.

Career Services manager Tando Tyakume highlighted advancements in the employability portfolio, including the expansion of career fairs from six to nine, with several fairs consistently fully booked, and annual attendance now exceeding 10 000 students. She also reflected on new initiatives that support student readiness, including the Tuks Corporate Closet and the first Final-Year Mentorship Bootcamp, both of which were launched in response to emerging student needs.

A highlight of the evening was the introduction of the Career Services Client Appreciation Awards, which recognise outstanding contributions from employer partners and UP faculties. The inaugural recipients were:

• PwC – Career Fair Champion Award
• Faculty of Veterinary Science – Internal Stakeholder/Faculty Engagement Award
• Investec – Students’ Choice Award, selected from more than 250 participating companies

In her vote of thanks, Le Grange expressed gratitude to UP leadership, internal collaborators, alumni mentors, industry partners and the Career Services team.

“Your partnership and belief in our work enable us to empower students with purpose, confidence and readiness for the world of work. This evening reminds us that together, we can transform futures.”

The gala concluded with a renewed commitment to deepen collaboration and expand opportunities that prepare UP graduates to make meaningful contributions to South Africa’s economy and society.