Abstract
It is critical for the current rapidly changing education, government and business environments that training providers
provide practical application to enhance theoretical learning in education, training and development programs. There
is a need for effective and efficient work integrated learning (WIL) project leaders who aim to develop future-fit
graduate or employee skills and competencies. Empirical research was conducted to identify, confirm and present the
strengths, opportunities and risks (weaknesses and threats) in WIL projects in the emerging South African context.
The qualitative research method entailed a classical two round Delphi technique and inductive content analysis. The
key findings reveal that WIL project strengths include gaining a competitive advantage, forging industry partnerships
and creating employment opportunities. Key weaknesses include the lack of a WIL project strategy, having limited
skills and a lack of marketing competencies. Key opportunities include enhancing a diverse range of skills, creating
new markets and further study with WIL. A key threat is the changing landscape. The theoretical contribution of this
study is that it adds to the body of knowledge on WIL projects in South Africa, Africa and other developing economies.
The research contribution is the use of the Delphi technique to gain validated consensus on WIL project management
criteria. The practical contribution lies in the WIL SWOT matrix that can be utilized by WIL project leaders, managers
and administrators to effectively and efficiently evaluate their WIL and other education, training and development
projects.