From left: Ms Lebogang Kekana, Teaching and Learning Coordinator, Mr Thabang Mkhize, Writing Centre Coordinator and Ms Martina Moss, Deputy Director: Staff and Student Mobility.

The Central University of Technology representatives participated at the 26th Annual International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA) Conference held at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre, Johannesburg. The CUT team led discussions on key issues that are at the heart of internationalisation today.

Ms Refilwe Moleyane, Deputy Director: International Academic Partnerships, co-presented with Chevon Slambee and Quinter Onyango from the University of the Free State. Their thought-provoking session, titled ‘Navigating Scarcity to Create Viable Avenues for Sustained Internationalisation Across Contexts’, tackled the pressing issue of resource limitations in higher education. Their presentation highlighted innovative strategies that institutions can adopt to maintain and enhance internationalisation efforts despite financial and logistical constraints. These contributions struck a chord with attendees, emphasizing the importance of resilience and creativity in fostering global academic collaborations.

Mr Leolyn Jackson, Director: Centre for Global Engagement, co-presented with Philina Wittke from the Goethe Institute. Their session, ‘The Failed Logic of Development in the Context of International Higher Education Collaboration’, critically examined conventional approaches to development within international higher education. Leolyn and Philina encouraged participants to challenge existing norms and rethink how institutions can engage more effectively in global partnerships. Their presentation sparked lively discussions, advocating for a shift towards a more inclusive, co-created international funding opportunities that promotes common good.

Other presenters, Mr Thabang Mkhize, Writing Centre Coordinator, Ms Lebogang Kekana, Teaching & Learning Coordinator, and Ms Martina Moss, Deputy Director: Staff & Student Mobility deliberated on ‘Lived Experiences: A Journey of Global Exploration and Learning-A Case Study of Two CUT Students’ they shared powerful narratives on the transformative impact of international exchange programs at CUT. Through the journeys of Thabang and Lebogang, the session showcased how global learning experiences contribute not only to academic growth, but also to significant personal development. Their stories resonated with the audience, reinforcing the value of such exchanges in shaping well-rounded individuals.

Further showcasing CUT’s innovative approach to internationalisation, Mr Katleho Pakose, Staff and Student Mobility Coordinator, and Ms Martina Moss presented on ‘integration of Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) in Student Exchange Programs: A Case Study of Radiography Students from Hanze University of Applied Sciences, The Netherlands’. Their presentation focused on how incorporating practical learning experiences within international student exchange programmes enhances employability and global competencies. The success of this model at CUT offers valuable insights for other institutions looking to align their internationalisation efforts with real-world skills development.

In another significant contribution, Mr Metsing Hlomelang, also an International Academic Partnerships Coordinator, facilitated a session titled ‘The Role of the Office of International Affairs at the University of Limpopo in Improving Local and International Students’ Experiences’, where he focused on strategies for enhancing both local and international students’ experiences, drawing valuable insights from the University of Limpopo’s initiatives. The session underscored the importance of creating inclusive and supportive environments that meet the needs of diverse student populations.