WALTER SISULU’S MBODILA APPOINTED TO NATIONAL COMMITTEE ON GRADUATE SUCCESS IN SA

The Manager of the Tracking Unit and Institutional Research, Dr Munienge Mbodila has been appointed to the Advisory Committee of the National Graduate Destination Study (NGDS).

As a member of the Advisory Committee, Mbodila will provide strategic guidance on the study's methodology and ethical frameworks, review research findings and advise the Project Steering Committee to ensure the study's integrity, relevance and impact.

“This appointment is both a profound honour and a humbling recognition of the years of dedication I have invested in higher education research and student success. It represents an opportunity to contribute at a national level to shaping policy and strategy that will directly impact the lives of thousands of graduates across South Africa," said Mbodila.

 The 24-month national study, led by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), will track the career outcomes of graduates from South Africa’s 26 public universities. This landmark in the country and aims to generate evidence on graduate employment, career pathways, and the broader socio-economic contribution of university graduates.

In his advisory role, Dr Mbodila will provide strategic guidance on the study’s methodology and ethical frameworks, review research findings, and advise the Project Steering Committee to ensure the study’s integrity, relevance, and impact.

According to Mbodila, the NGDS is the first study of its kind in South Africa and seeks to answer critical questions about graduate destinations, employability and career progression. The findings are expected to assist universities and policymakers in strengthening support systems, improving graduate outcomes and enhancing the relevance of academic programmes.

He said the appointment reflects Walter Sisulu's growing reputation as a contributor to national higher education research and policy development.

This comes after the university was ranked fourth among South African universities in the latest Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, recognising its contribution to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through teaching, research, stewardship and community engagement.

"This appointment is a testament to Walter Sisulu growing stature as a hub of research excellence and innovation in higher education," he said.

"It demonstrates our institution's commitment to contributing meaningfully to sector-wide conversations and policy development."

Mbodila believes the study's findings will be particularly valuable for universities serving rural and underserved communities by identifying barriers that affect graduates' transition into employment and informing targeted interventions such as mentorship, career guidance and entrepreneurship support.

The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

By generating evidence to improve graduate employability and student success, the study is expected to contribute to a more responsive and equitable higher education system in South Africa.

By Ongezwa Sigodi