The University of Venda’s Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management, under the Faculty of Management, Commerce and Law recently launched an exciting new initiative in collaboration with Relay Institute and Airbnb. This strategic partnership aims to empower students with both entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial skills within the tourism sector, fostering innovation and experiential learning. The collaboration is not just a passive experience but an active engagement. It intends to enhance the University’s academic offerings, providing students with opportunities to engage in real-world experiences that will equip them with the skills necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving tourism and hospitality industries. This event took place on Thursday, 27 March 2025 at the University’s Research Conference Centre.
Group photo of the Airbnb orientation attendees
The event was attended by distinguished guests from Airbnb and Relay Institute, as well as students and faculty members from the Department of Tourism and Hospitality. Dr. Mukondeli Manuga-Radzilani, a lecturer at the University of Venda, kicked off the event with opening remarks.
She welcomed all attendees and emphasised the significance of this partnership in shaping the fu-ture of tourism entrepreneurship in Limpopo Province. Dr Mukondeleli Manuga-Radzilani stressed the importance of practical learning and how this collaboration would offer students the chance to not only learn about the tourism sector but also actively contribute to its growth.
The orientation was structured into three informative sessions, each catering to different stu-dent groups. The first group comprised first-year students, the second session was dedicated to third-level students, with some honours students, while the final session was designed for first-year students. Each group had the opportunity to engage with key stakeholders from Relay Insti-tute and Welgevonden Game Reserve, who shared their expertise and insights into the world of tourism entrepreneurship.
Ms. Mphatha Makakase, Chief Executive Officer, Relay Institute
Ms Mphatha Makakase, CEO of Relay Institute, further emphasised the role of the initiative in nur-turing young tourism entrepreneurs. She elaborated on the importance of empowering students with the right knowledge, skills, and exposure to succeed in the tourism industry. Ms Makakase pointed out that this initiative is an extension of Relay Institute’s commitment to creating opportu-nities for young people to become leaders in the tourism sector. Through its various programmes, Relay Institute aims to equip students with the tools they need to thrive in both employment and entrepreneurship.
Ms Makakasei explained that tourism is one of the largest employment sectors in the country and that it is essential to bridge the gap between education and professional practice. She also under-lined the importance of developing entrepreneurial skills, highlighting that entrepreneurship is not only about identifying problems but also about developing solutions and turning those ideas into viable businesses.
She also introduced the Relay Institute’s initiatives that focus on youth development, entrepre-neurship training, and employability boot camps, all of which aim to help young people become more competitive in the job market. Her speech reinforced the message that employability is not just about qualifications but also about cultivating personal skills, attitude, and enthusiasm. Ms Makakase encouraged students to embrace the opportunities presented by this partnership and to be proactive in shaping their futures, whether through employment or entrepreneurship.
The orientation event served as an important milestone in the collaboration between the Uni-versity of Venda, Relay Institute, and Airbnb. This partnership is not just for individual growth but also for making a meaningful contribution to our communities and the broader tourism sector. It is poised to help nurture the next generation of tourism leaders who are equipped with the skills and knowledge to make meaningful contributions. The programme’s focus on student-driven projects, experiential learning, and entrepreneurial thinking will undoubtedly empower students to engage with the tourism economy dynamically and innovatively, making a real difference in the world around them.
The partnership with Relay Institute is particularly impactful. This social enterprise has been actively involved in empowering aspiring tourism entrepreneurs across Limpopo Province. Relay Institute has played a crucial role in developing tourism leaders through initiatives such as the Tourism Stu-dent-Entrepreneur Coaching Programme and Tourism Awareness campaigns. Furthermore, Relay Institute supports students through the Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) programme, providing in-valuable hands-on experience in the field. Relay Institute’s longstanding collaboration with Airbnb, particularly through the Waterberg Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy, has opened numerous op-portunities for students and communities in the region.
Dr Mukondeleli Manuga-Radzilani, Lecturer, University of Venda
During her closing remarks, Dr Mukondeleli Manuga-Radzilani reiterated how this partnership is a significant step toward transforming the tourism sector. She also indicated that this partnership not only focuses on academic excellence but also seeks to foster a sense of community, innova-tion, and leadership among the students involved. It is a significant step toward shaping the future of tourism in South Africa and beyond.
We encourage all students to take full advantage of this opportunity and look forward to the in-novative projects emerging from this partnership. She expressed excitement for the upcoming online training set to take place from 14 to 16 April 2025. During this training, students will have the opportunity to learn how to leverage Airbnb’s platform and identify entrepreneurial opportu-nities within their own communities. Dr. Mukondeleli Manuga also highlighted the student-driven projects that will be part of this programme, as these projects will encourage innovation, critical thinking, and entrepreneurial skills among the participants.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication University of Venda
Tel: (015) 962 8525 /8710
