University students in South Africa are being given hands-on experience of working in the MICE industry through interactive simulation exercises conducted by the Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI).
In October, SAACI shared its significant industry expertise to third-year events management students at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT). This followed a similar workshop held for students at the Nelson Mandela University in August.
The workshops saw SAACI representatives, including CEO Glenton de Kock and Eastern Cape Chapter Chair Niel Mouton, guiding insightful discussions with industry leaders and hosting simulation sessions on arranging an event.
“It was an important exercise for students to see that ‘eventing’ doesn’t have to mean only one thing. Being able to immerse themselves in the day-to-day of running a business is hugely beneficial for when they have to do the same in the future,” said Mouton after the CPUT event. Mouton has also provided work experience to a number of students through his own company, Boast Events.
He stressed the importance of these workshops in providing practical experience to build on theoretical knowledge.
“A textbook is a good starting point, but real-life experiences are the best industry exposure you can get. There is a massive gatekeeping culture in our industry, which doesn’t benefit anyone. If we give students the knowledge and tools to be able to confidently enter the workforce or start their own businesses, it can only make our industry as a whole stronger.”
Events simulation an important learning tool
Mouton said the simulation exercises were a useful learning tool that could be further expanded upon.
“We hope that these events continue to grow into something bigger, with full-day workshops and interactive experiences that will reveal more to students on what eventing is about in practice.”
Esti Venske, Senior Lecturer and Programme Coordinator for Events Management at CPUT, who is also SAACI’s Learning Ambassador said: “Engaging with industry allows for a deeper understanding of the real world of work and sets the foundation for students to contribute to the economic prosperity of our country as active event practitioners.”
According to research by Custom Market Insights, the global MICE market’s value is expected to soar to $1.62 trillion by 2032, with an annual compound growth rate of 18.2%. The industry has the potential to generate employment opportunities across multiple sectors, including travel, hospitality, event services and transport.
