PRM 2014 Orientation an ALL round success

By Lukhanyo Mpumela

The Cape Peninsula University of Technology’s Public Relations Management (PRM) department has organised an annual B-Tech Orientation took place on Friday, February 07, 2014 at the Roeland street Campus.

Prof. Johann van der Merwe, HOD at CPUT Public Relations Department said that the programme is intended to “orientate, help the B-Tech students adapt and give them a different perspective of the post-graduate qualification might have.”

The orientation, which included distinguished speakers “Captains of Industry “who shared their insights about the PR& Communications industry which incorporated an academic component in it. , organised by the CPUT PRM Interns.

The Chairperson of PRIAC, Public Relations Industry Advisory Committee talked about“reputation management” as a key component that PR Practictioners need to focus on, it was a befitting message that ended up being the “theme” of the orientation.

Adding on that Aloicious the chairperson of PRISA, Western Cape view, saying, “that the PR industry in Africa needs to be regulated, and gave the students an insights into various industries that they can venture in the communications industry, and how PR Practictioners should behave .He gave great insights on how one should survive the in the industry and stating that one shouldn’t be nervous about transitioning from varsity to the workplace.”

A student who was particularly inspired by the guest speakers’ speeches at the orientation was B-Tech student, Siphokazi Mazonda. According to Mazonda, the speeches were “encouraging” and affirmed that being at a tertiary institution is an achievement on its own.” Onganga Jeffrey, CPUT PR Alumni who works for one of the leading research firm talked about embracing excellence and passion “Once you graduate it is up to you as a PR Professional to make a difference in your community, your profession and whatever you always pay homage to the people, the institutions that have molded you to become who you are today.As Public Relations, we’re servants, the real truth and significance is that which you leave to your service. Let excellence be your brand” to rapturous applause. The institution’s tagline is “creating futures”, it encourages and supports students to shape a future they believe in and to restore the dream of a great society.