Capricorn TVET students return from China internship
POLOKWANE – Eight business management students from the Capricorn TVET College have returned after completing a 12-month internship in China, made possible through funding from the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&R Seta).
According to college spokesperson Madire Mashabela, this internship forms part of a long-standing partnership with Chinese Culture, which has been offering international opportunities to students since before the Covid-19 pandemic.
'The selection process for this prestigious opportunity was rigorous and fair and involved advertising, recruiting students and submitting their resumes and qualifications.
The Chinese Culture and W&R Seta conducted a thorough selection process, including vetting qualifications and health screenings, to ensure the most suitable candidates were chosen.'
The programme was fully funded, covering stipends, accommodation and living expenses, giving students a rare opportunity to gain international work experience and exposure to global business practices.
For student Matshukudu Katlego Joyce Marole, the experience was transformative and challenging.
'Living abroad came with immense challenges. It was a complete culture shock, unfamiliar systems and being surrounded by total strangers and I quickly realised that independence and self-reliance weren't just optional, but essential.
'I had to manage my finances, adjust to foreign food, and trust my instincts. Even my faith was tested as I had to rebuild a personal relationship with God, away from familiar church support.'
She described the work culture in China as very different from South Africa's Batho Pele principles.
'In China, productivity is prioritised over personal values. It was a major adjustment, but it pushed me to grow personally and professionally.'
Another intern, Tromocias Kgothatso Moloela, said one of her biggest challenges was the language barrier.
'Even basic tasks like online shopping required translation tools. Culturally, South Africans value open dialogue and freedom of expression. In contrast, I found that Chinese culture places a strong emphasis on following instructions without question.'
Despite the hurdles, the internship sparked a strong interest in international trade and entrepreneurship for Moloela.
After working closely with the Guangdong Baidesi Group, she developed a passion for the bathroom and kitchen accessories industry, and hopes to partner with companies like the Arrow Group to import products into South Africa for her own business.
Marole encouraged other students to embrace similar opportunities with preparation and an open heart. 'Research China thoroughly, embrace your team as teammates, not competitors, and remember, independence doesn't mean selfishness. Unity brings success,' she advised.
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