Transitioning from any level of education to university is an important rite of passage, but this step needs to be prepared for. Aware of this, universities have established relevant departments and hired specialists to help students navigate these quiet but dangerous waters. Noting the gap, Nkululeko Xaba, Administrator in the Deputy Registrar’s office, felt empowered to transfer the skills and tips that have enabled him to master the role of an office administrator.
On 28 October 2025, Xaba facilitated a tailored programme for office management students from Coastal College, Umlazi. Discussions that Xaba had with the lecturers and management of Coastal College led to this programme, which was hosted at MUT to guide the college’s students on the possibility of seamlessly transitioning to the Office Management diploma at MUT. This easy switch was supported by speeches by staff from both institutions. Dr Bongani Qwabe, a Lecturer in the Department of Office Management and Technology at MUT, used his story to impress upon students the need to consider furthering their studies beyond TVET. He himself took a similar route. He was once a receptionist. He is now a lecturer with a PhD. “Underneath the desk, I was doing my Master’s,” he said. Dr Qwabe was a guest speaker. He gave the students insight into the field of office technology and the jobs available in this field.
Xaba, who was the lead organiser of the event, called on other MUT administrators to support this programme aimed at establishing a formal relationship with the TVET college. After this inaugural programme, the possibilities are endless for both MUT and Coastal College. The programme is also a great launch pad for the formation of communities of practice between MUT students and the Coastal College students, thus positioning MUT as a true anchor university within Umlazi Township.