IN CONVERSATION WITH JEROME SEPTEMBER, DEAN OF STUDENTS
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Universities across the world are increasingly rethinking how they prepare
students for a rapidly evolving job market shaped by technological disruption,
global competition, and shifting workplace expectations. At University of the
Witwatersrand, initiatives such as the Annual CCDU Breakfast provide an
important platform for dialogue between the university and industry leaders.
These engagements allow employers to share insights into the skills they are
seeking, while universities reflect on how academic programmes and student
development initiatives can better align with labour market realities.
Earlier in the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Zeblon Vilakazi, discussed the need
for graduates who are not only technically competent but also adaptable,
innovative, and equipped with human-centred skills such as critical thinking,
communication, and ethical leadership. As conversations around artificial
intelligence and automation continue to reshape the future of work,
universities are under growing pressure to ensure that students are equipped
for careers that may not yet exist. Closing the discussion is the Dean of Students, Jerome September, whose
office plays a critical role in supporting the holistic development of students
beyond the classroom. From leadership programmes and student wellbeing to career readiness initiatives, the Dean of Students’ office ensures that graduates leave university not only academically qualified, but also personally and professionally prepared to navigate complex futures.
This final conversation reflects on the key themes of the event and the role
student development plays in shaping resilient, future-ready graduates.
students for a rapidly evolving job market shaped by technological disruption,
global competition, and shifting workplace expectations. At University of the
Witwatersrand, initiatives such as the Annual CCDU Breakfast provide an
important platform for dialogue between the university and industry leaders.
These engagements allow employers to share insights into the skills they are
seeking, while universities reflect on how academic programmes and student
development initiatives can better align with labour market realities.
Earlier in the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Zeblon Vilakazi, discussed the need
for graduates who are not only technically competent but also adaptable,
innovative, and equipped with human-centred skills such as critical thinking,
communication, and ethical leadership. As conversations around artificial
intelligence and automation continue to reshape the future of work,
universities are under growing pressure to ensure that students are equipped
for careers that may not yet exist. Closing the discussion is the Dean of Students, Jerome September, whose
office plays a critical role in supporting the holistic development of students
beyond the classroom. From leadership programmes and student wellbeing to career readiness initiatives, the Dean of Students’ office ensures that graduates leave university not only academically qualified, but also personally and professionally prepared to navigate complex futures.
This final conversation reflects on the key themes of the event and the role
student development plays in shaping resilient, future-ready graduates.
