W&RSETA 2026 Research Conference Programme
EVENT DETAILS
Conference Information
Venue
Focus Rooms, Modderfontein, Gauteng
Dates
29–30 October 2026
Preparation Day
28 October 2026
Format
Hybrid (Physical and Virtual Participation)
09:30 - 09:40
Opening Remarks
Ms. Lynette Ntuli
Programme Director
09:40 - 09:55
Welcome Remarks
Welcome Address
Mr. Tom Mkhwanazi
Chief Executive Officer, W&RSETA
09:55 - 10:15
Keynote Address
Keynote Address
Ms. Zandile Mposelwa
Director Corporate Affairs & Better Days Promise Lead
MENAT SSA, Kellanova
10:15 - 11:20
Plenary Session 1: Digital Futures – Wholesale and Retail Sector
Topic: Post-COVID-19 Technology Adoption
Ms. Lynette Ntuli
Moderator
Dr. Linda Chipunza
Lead Researcher, CPUT Research Leadership Chair
Dr. Makhosazane Buthelezi
W&RSETA PDRF, UJ
Panel Discussion: How is digital innovation reshaping the skills landscape in the W&R sector? What strategies are needed to support a future ready workforce?
Mr. Yunus Goolam Doba
W&RSETA Research Leadership Chair, DUT
Mr. Khulekani Mkhize
GM Mahogany Ridge DC, Clicks Group
Ms. Alisha Sarabjeeth
Head of Information, Mr. Price Group
11:15 - 11:25
Tea Break
11:25 - 12:25
Plenary Session 2: Township Economy & Youth Employability
Topic: Transforming the Township Retail Market
Ms. Lynette Ntuli
Moderator
Mr. Jonathan Aspeling
W&RSETA Research Leadership Chair, CPUT
Panel Discussion: What does the research tell us about strengthening township economies and unlocking youth potential?
Ms. Charlene Peens
Group Training Manager, BOXER
Dr. Poppet Pillay
Durban Textile and Leather incubator
Mr. Billy Bokako
SEDFA: Senior Manager Incubation
Ms. Noxolo Mabuza
Executive Manager Strategy & Transformation, Joburg Market
12:25 - 13:25
Plenary Session 3: Impact and Sustainability
Topic: Food Safety Competence Research (Pilot)
Dr. Terence Hermanus
Moderator
Prof. Leus Ryk
W&RSETA Research Leadership Chair, CUT
Topic: Insights into the Challenges, Opportunities & Implications Faced by W&RSETA Bursary Programmes
Dr. Semona Pillay
W&RSETA Research Leadership Chair, UJ
Panel Discussion: How do we measure long-term impact and ensure sustainability in skills development programmes?
Ms. Mary Ramonyatse
Deputy Principal Innovation & Development, Capricorn TVET College
Mr. Tony Lebese
Co-Founder and Custodian, EESUp
Mr Indongo
Manager Research & Planning, NTA
13:25 - 13:40
Sector Reflections and Recommendations: Research Conference 2026
Dr. Deborah Machard W&RSETA, Strategic Planning, Performance and Evaluation Executive
13:40 - 13:50
Closing Remarks and Way Forward
Ms. Lindiwe Nhlapho
W&RSETA, Chief Financial Officer