Skills development firm Resolution Circle has secured a grant from the National Skills Fund (NSF) for 700 tertiary students to attend its Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programmes.

Students from universities of technology (UoTs), technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions and recent graduates can apply to the programmes, which bridge the gap between theoretical education and practical industry experience.

The grant enables Resolution Circle to offer hands-on learning opportunities,  thereby enabling students to gain real-world insights and develop essential industry skills.

Through these WIL programmes, participants engage in projects under the mentorship of seasoned industry professionals, which provide them with the chance to navigate real-world challenges and capitalise on emerging opportunities in their fields.

The impact of the training on prior students has been transformative. Participants reported increased confidence, enhanced problem-solving abilities, and a greater sense of preparedness for the workforce.

These outcomes have not gone unnoticed by employers, who have recognised the high calibre of graduates who have completed these WIL programmes, Resolution Circle says in a statement.

The WIL programmes allow UoT students to enrich their academic experience by allowing them to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations. This practical exposure deepens their understanding of their chosen fields and equips them with the skills needed to excel in their future careers.

Further, TVET learners, who already possess technical training, benefit from the practical experience gained through the programmes. This exposure has made them more job-ready upon graduation, enhancing their employability and enabling a smoother transition into the workforce.

Additionally, recent graduates have also leveraged this opportunity to boost their employability. By acquiring industry-specific skills and expanding their professional networks, they have positioned themselves as attractive candidates in a competitive job market, says Resolution Circle.

"The programmes have been a game-changer for many of the students and beneficiaries. The hands-on experience they have gained through Resolution Circle has improved their skills and their ability to succeed in the industry, ensuring that they are employable," the company says.

Employers have also echoed these sentiments, noting that the graduates they have hired from Resolution Circle's WIL programmes have consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic, problem-solving skills, and a readiness to contribute from day one.

As part of its commitment to enhancing the academic journey and industry readiness of learners through a stronger link between education and industry, this initiative contributes to the development of a skilled and adaptable workforce to drive innovation and growth across various sectors.

"We are proud of the impact these Work Integrated Learning programmes are having on our learners," says Resolution Circle senior executive manager Sibusiso Shange.

"This grant allows us to bridge the gap between education and industry, provide invaluable opportunities for our learners to gain practical experience and develop the skills needed to thrive in their chosen careers," he says.