On Wednesday, the University of Fort Hare (UFH) hosted Mr Xolani Mawande, Chief Executive Officer of the South African Board for People Practices (SABPP), as both institutions took a significant step towards reviving a partnership aimed at shaping the next generation of people practice professionals.
The engagement on the Alice campus marked one of the first official SABPP visits to UFH. It signalled a renewed commitment to collaboration in advancing human resource education and professional recognition in South Africa.
At the heart of this initiative is a shared commitment to producing employable, accredited professionals ready to contribute to the industry.
Mr Mawande was warmly welcomed by UFH Vice-Chancellor, Prof Sakhela Buhlungu, and the Dean of the Faculty of Management and Commerce, Prof Richard Shamare.
During the visit, he held structured engagements with academics from Business Management, Industrial Psychology, and Public Administration. These are the streams within the Department of Applied Management, Administration, and Ethical Leadership. The discussions focused on aligning academic programmes with national professional standards and supporting UFH’s efforts toward SABPP accreditation.
The occasion also marked the launch of the SABPP Student Chapter at UFH. This new platform will enable students, particularly in human resources, to engage directly with the professional body, pursue certification opportunities, and strengthen their preparedness for the workplace.
Mr Mawande emphasized the centrality of students: “At an institution rich in legacy, leadership, and learning, this initiative marks a powerful step towards nurturing ethical, future-fit HR professionals and strengthening our shared commitment to excellence in people practices. Together, we are building bridges between academia and industry for a stronger, smarter South Africa. Most importantly, this partnership is about levelling the playing field for students, ensuring that Fort Hare graduates have equal access to opportunities, recognition, and professional advancement in the HR space.”
Instrumental in initiating and driving this partnership towards renewal, is Prof Willie Chinyamurindi, Head of the Department of Business Management, who was presented with an SABPP award of appreciation. This, in recognition of his contribution to advancing the People Practice profession.
Prof Chinyamurindi stressed the significance of restoring this collaboration, saying: “This move represents the University of Fort Hare’s commitment to excellence in people development. It forms part of the University’s broader theme of renewal, which emphasizes rebuilding trust, revitalising partnerships, and enhancing academic excellence.”