The Polytechnic

STUDENTS ATTACHMENT HANDBOOK

FOR THE

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING

JULY 2013

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS .................................................................................... i 

1.0  INTRODUCTION..................................................................................... 1 
1.1  Background................................................................................................................. 1 
1.2  Objectives ................................................................................................................... 1 
1.3  Learning outcomes .................................................................................................... 2 
2.0  ELIGIBILITY OF STUDENTS ................................................................... 2 
2.1  Registration................................................................................................................. 2 
2.2  Insurance .................................................................................................................... 2 
2.3  Pre-Requisites ............................................................................................................ 2 
2.4  Procedures ................................................................................................................. 3 
3.0  RULES AND REGULATIONS .................................................................. 3 
3.1  Rules for Placement .................................................................................................. 3 
3.2  Code of Conduct during Industrial Attachment ..................................................... 4 
3.3  General Behaviour .................................................................................................... 4 
3.4  Working Attitude and Behaviour .............................................................................. 4 
3.5  Other Regulations...................................................................................................... 5 
3.6  Important Contact Particulars .................................................................................. 5 
3.7  Problems ..................................................................................................................... 5 
3.8  Breach of Terms and Conditions of Industrial Attachment ................................. 6 
4.0  MANAGEMENT OF INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT ...................................... 6 
4.1  Industrial Attachment Committee (IAC) ................................................................. 6 
4.2  Placement with Relevant Organization .................................................................. 7 
4.3  Duration of Industrial Attachment and Credit Hours ............................................ 7 
4.4  Supervision ................................................................................................................. 7 
4.5  Role of the Faculty of Engineering.......................................................................... 7 
4.6  Role of Academic Supervisor .................................................................................. 7 
4.7  Role of Industrial Attachment Organization ........................................................... 8 
4.8  Role of the Industrial Supervisor ............................................................................. 8 
5.0  EXPECTED CAPABILITIES FROM STUDENTS ......................................... 9 
5.1  Civil Engineering (Water, Structural and Transportation) ................................... 9 
5.1.1  Design Office....................................................................................................... 9 
5.1.2  Field Work ........................................................................................................... 9 
5.1.3  Project Administration........................................................................................ 9 
5.2  Electrical Engineering (Power, Electronics, Computer and
Telecommunication)............................................................................................................. 9 
5.2.1  Power and Machines ....................................................................................... 10 
5.2.2  Telecommunications ........................................................................................ 10 
5.2.3  Computer engineering ..................................................................................... 10 
5.3  Mechanical Engineering (Automobile, Industrial, Energy, Mechanical).......... 10 
5.3.1  Automobile Engineering .................................................................................. 10 
5.3.2  Industrial Engineering ...................................................................................... 11 

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 5.3.3  Energy Engineering ......................................................................................... 12 
5.3.4  Mechanical Engineering .................................................................................. 12 
6.0  EVALUATION AND ASSESSMENT ........................................................ 12 
6.1  Material for student Evaluation .............................................................................. 12 
6.2  Marking Scheme ...................................................................................................... 13 
6.3  Log Records ............................................................................................................. 13 
6.4  The Final Report ...................................................................................................... 14 
6.4.1  Tasks Performed .............................................................................................. 14 
6.4.2  General .............................................................................................................. 14 
6.4.3  Submission of Final Report ............................................................................ 15 
6.4.4  Report Writing Guidelines ............................................................................... 15 
7.0  ANNEXES ........................................................................................... 21 
ANNEX 1:  DAILY RECORD OF WORKS ................................................................ 21 
ANNEX 2:  WEEKLY REPORT ................................................................................... 22 
ANNEX 3:  REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR TRAINEE PLACEMENT................ 23 
ANNEX 4:  INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT SYLLABUS ..................................... 24 
ANNEX 5:  ACADEMIC SUPERVISOR’S REPORT .......................................... 26 
ANNEX 6:  INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT REPORT DUTY VERIFICATION ...... 28 
ANNEX 7:  EVALUATION BY THE INDUSTRIAL SUPERVISOR ........................ 29 
ANNEX 8:  INDUSTRIALTRAINING PLACEMENT CONFIRMATION ................. 30 
ANNEX 9:  INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT OVERALL ASSESMENT.................... 32 

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

In 2011, The Faculty of Engineering (FoE) of the University of Malawi - The

Polytechnic reviewed its curricula, which has been in existence for many years.
The reviewing process involved the introduction of a modular system. In this
modular system, one of the modules engineering students have to complete is
Industrial Attachment. I t i s t h e r e f o r e compulsory for all FoE students of the
Polytechnic to complete Industrial Attachment for a period of 3 to 6 months.
Students are required to participate and work as industrial trainees in the industry of
their chosen discipline. Industrial Attachment is a credited course programme, and
thus is compulsory in order to satisfy the degree requirements for graduation.

Industrial Attachment provides the impetus for students to comprehend and

appreciate real-life working experiences. Students may realize their ambition and
ascertain their career path from the experience gained during Industrial Attachment.
The students acquire additional skills which are otherwise not attainable in a class
setting. The attachment provides students the opportunity to meet and network
with people in the industry, and the industry the opportunity to identify talents and
potential skilled workers. Students may also get the opportunity to specialize in
niche areas.

1.2 Objectives

The objectives of an Industrial Attachment Module are to:

(a) Apply acquired knowledge in problem based exercises in real life

industrial projects;
(b) Ensure that the relevant degree coursework and training programmes are
conducted according to the expectations of the industry.
(c) Ensure t h a t the subject contents are relevant and up to date;
(d) Provide opportunity for students to acquire practical skills and experience
working on projects alongside industry experts;
(e) Provide an opportunity for students to acquire interpersonal skills and ability
for team work through interaction with professionals in their field of study;
(f) Learn about ethics in the industry;
(g) Learn accepted safety practices in the industry;
(h) Provide an opportunity for students to learn about the industry of their discipline
and related environment;
(i) Provide an opportunity for the industry to identify potential employees and to
feedback comments on the degree programme at large;
(j) Provide opportunity to obtain knowledge of how to make optimal decisions
to resolve work challenges.

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1.3 Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the Industrial Attachment, learners shall be able to:
(a) Extend the boundaries of knowledge through research and development;
(b) Develop significant commitment in the students’ profession/specialization;
(c) Integrate classroom theory with workplace practice;
(d) Develop greater clarity about academic and career goals;
(e) Develop new or advanced skills;
(f) Develop lifelong learning skills;
(g) Gain understanding of administrative functions and Organization culture;
(h) Appreciate the ethical basis of professional practice in relevant industry;
(i) Display a capacity for critical reasoning and independent learning;
(j) Exercise the role of the professional/specialist/manager/supervisor confidently
in the relevant industry;
(k) Write formatted report explaining the work in Industrial Attachment and
describing the experience;
(l) Assess the adequacy of training;
(m) Explore options in career plans and goals;
(n) Make a gradual transition from academia to career.

2.0 ELIGIBILITY OF STUDENTS

2.1 Registration

Students that are eligible for Industrial Attachment are those that have successfully
completed their third year.

At the beginning of first semester of year four, all students proceeding to Industrial
Attachment will be required to register with the Malawi Polytechnic and complete all
registration requirements. This is pursuant to section (5) of the Revised Students Rules
and Regulations of 2011.

2.2 Insurance

During the internship programme, students’ insurance will be covered by the Malawi
Polytechnic as stipulated in section 15 of the Revised Students’ Rules and Regulations
of 2011. Students will also be entitled to University of Malawi Medical Scheme
(UNIMED), which primarily ensures that students are accorded the medical cover when
they fall sick. In addition, locally registered students shall be required to have health
insurance and the premium will be included in their academic fees as determined by
Senate from time to time.

2.3 Pre-Requisites
All students must satisfy all the requirements stipulated by the Industrial Attachment
course syllabus.

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2.4 Procedures
The following section lays down procedures to be followed by students when going
for Industrial Attachment:-

i. Students who meet the pre-requisite of, and have not passed Industrial
Attachment are eligible to take the module.
ii. The FoE will assist to arrange for an Industrial Attachment placement for
every eligible student.
iii. The Organization may interview, or may just accept the student sent by the
University.
iv. Alternatively, eligible students will be given a choice to approach
Organizations that they are keen to work with, and to apply for Industrial
Attachment placements on their own. If any eligible students choose to do
so, they must inform the FoE, and in these cases the FoE will be able to
assist the students with any official correspondence as well as providing a
letter of recommendation. Moreover, before these students proceed to the
companies concerned, they must also obtain pre-approval letter from the
FoE so that their applications will not result in any conflict against the
Faculty arrangement for other students.
v. All students must inform the FoE of their Industrial Attachment appointment
as soon as they receive it. Students are also required to submit an
appropriate form available at the Faculty Office to give details of the
appointment.
vi. In the case of any students failure to secure an Industrial Attachment
placement by the deadline stipulated by the Faculty, they will have to inform
the Faculty within three days from the deadline, so that the Faculty can help
them with other arrangement.
vii. No Organization is under any obligation to pay students’ upkeep. The upkeep
of government-sponsored students will be the responsibility of the Malawi
Polytechnic. Students enrolled on self-sponsorship programme will be
responsible for their own upkeep. However, if an Organization feels that it can
pay the upkeep of students, this will be welcome.

3.0 RULES AND REGULATIONS

3.1 Rules for Placement

i. The discretion of whether or not to accept a student as an industrial trainee
lies entirely with the Organization and not with the University. A student
should prepare him/herself conversantly for the job interview, e.g. the
Organization may test the student on his/her skills and knowledge of
the relevant subject domains.
ii. There shall be only one job placement per student.
iii. Students must accept the FIRST job offered to them.
iv. Students shall not be allowed to change or swap jobs upon CONFIRMED
placement without obtaining approval from their Faculty.

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 v. All placements must be for FULL TIME work i.e. no job hopping. If a
student wants to leave his/her current placement, he/she must provide
justification to the Faculty and his/her Organization, and receive the
approval from the faculty BEFORE he/she can leave his/her current
placement.
vi. No working at close relative’s Organization. All students are required to
declare in the form in order to avoid conflict of interest.
vii. Payment of allowances for industrial trainees by the organization is
encouraged, but not a requirement.
viii. Final placements will be decided by the Industrial Attachment Committee
(IAC) whether the students apply for their positions through the University
or on their own.

3.2 Code of Conduct during Industrial Attachment

All students on Industrial Attachment must abide by the following:
i. The labour laws of Malawi govern students’ conduct during the Industrial
Attachment period,
ii. The terms of your employment contract with the Organization, and
iii. The UNIMA Act.

3.3 General Behaviour

i. Maintain confidentiality of all work matters.
ii. Dress professionally and be well groomed.
iii. Be polite and respectful.
iv. Be sensitive and courteous to all your colleagues and clients.
v. Become acquainted with your colleagues from various departments and be
appreciative of the services they provide.

3.4 Working Attitude and Behaviour

i. Show enthusiasm in the work that has been assigned.
ii. Give top priority in time, attention, and preparation to the work assigned by
the Organization.
iii. Be punctual for work and adhere to the working hours and working days as
stated in the offer letter and be willing to put in extra work hours if requested
by your Organization.
iv. Do not be absent from work unless you are sick and you have obtained the
medical certificate from the doctor. Inform your Organization supervisor or
manager in the event of an unavoidable tardiness or absence as soon as
possible and provide the medical certificate to your Organization when you
return to work.
v. Prepare thoroughly and carefully before you meet your
colleagues/superior/clients.
vi. Become acquainted with the various learning materials and resources
available for your work.
vii. Always have the initiative to explore solutions for the work assigned to you.

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 Clarify your doubts on the assigned work with your colleagues or Industrial
supervisor after you have put in your best effort. Take note on any advice
given to you in your log book so that you do not need to ask your
colleagues or Organization supervisor again in the future.
viii. Carry out your assigned duties and responsibilities responsibly and
professionally.
ix. Prior approval from respective faculty and Organization would be required if
a student wanted to leave the current placement.

3.5 Other Regulations

i. All students must document their working experience, log their activity daily,
summarise it weekly and record their progress monthly. On completion of
the training programme, students must submit a written report, and one
copy to the Industry Supervisor and another to the academic supervisor.
ii. The organization supervisor will submit a report on the student’s
performance at the end of the Industrial Attachment.
iii. In order to comply with the requirements of Industrial Attachment, the
student and/or his/her parents/guardian are required to:
o Give an undertaking that the student and/or his/her parents/guardian will
not hold the University responsible for any misfortune or accidents
and/or personal injuries involving student (whether fatal or otherwise).
Should any other person or body suffer such accidents and/or personal
injuries and/or damage to property during the course of Industrial
Attachment as a result of negligent act whatsoever or omission on your
part, the student and/or his/her parents/guardian will take and/or
undertake full responsibility.
o Indemnify and keep indemnified the University against any demands,
claims and/or lawsuits made against the University in relation to such
accidents and/or personal injuries and/or damage to property.

3.6 Important Contact Particulars

i. Update the Malawi Polytechnic of your Organization and current contact
particulars:
ii. Update the Malawi Polytechnic the full name and contact of your University
supervisor.
iii. Update the Malawi Polytechnic the full name and contact of your
Organization manager, immediate supervisor and at least one colleague of
your workplace.
iv. Inform the University your current contact particulars and the contact
particulars of your next-of-kin.
v. Inform your next-of-kin of the contact particulars above whenever possible.

3.7 Problems
Seek assistance if you encounter any problem relating to your training e.g. sickness

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or accident occurrences during the Industrial Attachment period that requires
intensive medical care, i.e. communicate directly with
 Your in-house supervisor OR inform the Organization and the Faculty as soon
as possible:
 Your FoE supervisor OR Head of Department OR Chairperson who is in-
charge of the Industrial Attachment

3.8 Breach of Terms and Conditions of Industrial Attachment

i. Disciplinary action will be taken against students who do not follow the rules
and regulations for Industrial Attachment.
ii. The Rules and Regulations of the University govern your conduct during
the Industrial Attachment period. Your Industrial Attachment contract with
the Organization governs your time and effort that you will spend with the
Organization.
iii. You are reminded to obey the Rules and Regulations of the Malawi
Polytechnic, the terms of your Industrial Attachment contract with the
Organization, and the Universities Act at all times. You should also keep
abreast with developments on campus.
iv. You will be served a written warning and/or subject to disciplinary action if
you breach any term and condition of the Industrial Attachment or any of
the University Rules and Regulations.
v. You may appeal against any written warning that has been issued to you
and/or appeal against any disciplinary action taken against you by notify the
Faculty Dean in writing and providing a full explanation of the reasons for
appeal. Such notification must be received by the Faculty Dean within
seven (7) days of the date of the letter informing you of the disciplinary
action to be imposed on you.

4.0 MANAGEMENT OF INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT

4.1 Industrial Attachment Committee (IAC)

There is a Faculty level Industrial Attachment Committee ( I A C ) , which coordinates

Industrial Attachment matters. This committee comprises four (4) people as follows:
i.Chairman – Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Engineering;
ii.Committee Members: One Coordinator from each of the three departments

The roles of the IAC are for:-

i. Coordinating/assigning someone to discuss and gather information from
external party if there is a request.
ii. Assigning students to the respective companies for industrial attachment.
iii. Overseeing preparation of the list of organizations to be considered for
Industrial Attachment.
iv. Coordinating the placement of students with the appropriate organization.
v. Coordinating the supervision of students in the industry.

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 vi. Ensuring security and safety of students during Industrial Attachment.
This includes arrangements for insurance and related matters.

4.2 Placement with Relevant Organization

Placement of students to various organizations will be facilitated by the IAC of

the FoE using documents appended in Annex 3. Work to be conducted in the
selected organization should be related to the course of study in which the student is
enrolled.

4.3 Duration of Industrial Attachment and Credit Hours

The duration of Industrial Attachment may vary according to the requirements of

each specialization. However, the minimum period for Industrial Attachment is 3
months. The Industrial attachment module has a total of 60 credits (Annex 4).

4.4 Supervision

Supervision will be jointly carried out by:

i. An academic supervisor from the FoE of the Malawi Polytechnic; and
ii. An industrial supervisor from the Organization to which the student is
assigned.

The supervisors should have the necessary qualifications or work experience in the
area of study. Students will be provided with a set of evaluation guidelines so that
they are aware of the areas of knowledge and skills on which they are evaluated.

4.5 Role of the Faculty of Engineering

The role of the FoE shall be:-

i. Appoint Coordinator to coordinate Industrial Attachment at department level.
ii. Conduct initial briefing to students not later than week 10 of the fifth
semester of study (first semester of session).
iii. Ensure that the organization is suitable to provide training.
iv. Ensure Industrial Attachment placement for each students.
v. Announce list of students offered for Industrial Attachment placement.
vi. Provide distribution list of Academic Supervisors to the organizations.
vii. Follow up action in any event of Industrial Attachment activities that affect the
reputation of the country, university, and/or harmful to students.

4.6 Role of Academic Supervisor

The role of the Academic Supervisor shall be:-

i. Academic Supervisor will be notified by Industrial Attachment coordinator of
the list of students to be visited.
ii. Academic Supervisor is required to contact and make appointment with

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 students on the date of visiting. Industrial visit will be conducted on the last
three weeks of the training period.
iii. Academic Supervisor to obtain Evaluation form of Industrial Attachment from
coordinators.
iv. Presentation need to be held by students during the Industrial Attachment
visit and assessed by Academic Supervisor and industry
supervisor/representative.
v. Academic Supervisor is required to ensure that the industry supervisor is
assessing the student using evaluation form and is submitting the evaluation
to lecturer during the visit.
vi. Academic Supervisor is required to discuss with students on any problem
encountered.
vii. Academic Supervisor is required to discuss with industry supervisor
regarding the overall performance of the trainees/students.
viii. Students’ Industrial Attachment evaluation need to be assessed using
provided form in Annex 5.
ix. Academic Supervisor is required to assess log book and report (see Annex
5).

4.7 Role of Industrial Attachment Organization

The role of the Industrial Attachment Organization shall be:-

i. Provide training scope and training schedule that will be conducted by the
students.
ii. Give briefing and information about laws and regulations of the organization.
iii. Appoint a qualified Supervisor to the student.
iv. Provide exposure and related training at the organization.
v. Prepare and submit supervision reports using the specified form.
vi. Inform the faculty if the student is involved in activities deemed unworthy and
has tarnished the university/country.

4.8 Role of the Industrial Supervisor

The role of the Industrial Supervisor shall be:-

i. Introducing the student to the organization/company;
ii. The weekly summary by the student shall be verified and countersigned by
the assigned supervisor or any competent delegated person.
iii. The supervisor will take part in assessing the student. University of Malawi
rules and regulations apply.
iv. Exposure to work environment, briefing on manufacturing/production process
flow (subject to nature of business/activities involved) or briefing on them
department activities at which the student is being attached to.
v. Students are required to fill up the daily activities section in their training
logbook. Therefore, student should be given task/assignment relevant to
chemical and related engineering aspects.

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 vi. Tasks/assignments to be given to students/trainee strictly follow section 4.0.
vii. Presentation need to be held by students during the Industrial Attachment
visit by Academic Supervisor. Industry supervisor or representative is
required to join to assess the student/trainee
viii. Industry supervisor is required to assess student’s performance using form
provided in Annex 7.
ix. The industrial supervisor is highly recommended to help students/trainee to
improve soft skills i.e. communication and professionalism.
x. Industry supervisor, by any case, should inform the FoE Industrial
Attachment coordinator should student fail to show up at training site without
notice or proper documents.

5.0 EXPECTED CAPABILITIES FROM STUDENTS

5.1 Civil Engineering (Water, Structural and Transportation)

5.1.1 Design Office

The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
 Design and detailing
 Specifications relating to
i. Functional requirements
ii. Technical performance
iii. Compliance establishment

5.1.2 Field Work

The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
 Preparations scheduling
 Work loading
 Checking compliance
 Tendering for works
 Productivity assessment

5.1.3 Project Administration

The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
 Interpersonal skills and labour issues.
 Schedule of preparations.
o Time
o Materials
o Labour
o Equipment and plant
 Cost control measures
 Tender preparation

5.2 Electrical Engineering (Power, Electronics, Computer and

Telecommunication)

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5.2.1 Power and Machines
The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
 Machine selection.
 Trouble shooting power system.
 Machine maintenance.
 Machine dismantling, repairs and assembling.
 Machine testing.
 Machine modifications.
 Machine installation.

5.2.2 Telecommunications
The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
 Basic system design
 System maintenance
 System troubleshooting

5.2.3 Computer engineering

The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
 Project management
 System design.
 System maintenance
 System troubleshooting

5.3 Mechanical Engineering (Automobile, Industrial, Energy, Mechanical)

5.3.1 Automobile Engineering

5.3.1.1 Parts Management

The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
 Parts identification methods and systems.
 Parts ordering procedures and stock control.
 Parts sales
 Sales analysis
 Warranty administration.
 Inter-personal skills

5.3.1.2 Fleet Management

The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
 Vehicle routing
 Accident handling
 Vehicle licensing
 Driver control
 Vehicle tracking
 Operating and maintenance costs control.

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  Fleet performance reporting
 Fleet management policy (acquisition, allocation, disposal)
 Fleet Management Information System (computerized with tracking)
 Interpersonal skills

5.3.1.3 Technical/Workshop
The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
 Vehicle maintenance
 Troubleshooting and diagnosis
 Vehicle systems overhaul
 Vehicle inspection
 Vehicle service
 COF repairs
5.3.1.4 Workshop Administration
The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
 Vehicle booking
 Work in Progress follow up
 Productivity analysis
 Service advising

5.3.1.5 Vehicle Sales

The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
 Tendering
 Sales promotions
 Market research

5.3.2 Industrial Engineering

The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
o Production planning and control
o Maintenance management systems
o Preventive maintenance
o Planned maintenance
o Predictive maintenance
o Quality management
o Quality control/assurance procedures
o ISO 9000 certification
o Equipment selection and procurement including technical and economic appraisal
o Studies (ergonomic, work, methods, time)
o Any other physical asset management
o Productivity improvement tools
i. Value analysis
ii. Variety reduction
iii. Group technology
iv. Lean manufacturing
o Factory design and layout

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5.3.3 Energy Engineering
The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
 Energy demand assessment
 Energy system design
 Energy system installation, testing and commissioning
 Energy system analysis (efficiency, balancing)
 Energy costing
 Energy modeling

5.3.4 Mechanical Engineering

The student is expected to have some mastery in the following areas:-
 Component design (design, drawing and analysis)
 Manufacturing processes (e.g. turning, milling, shaping)
 Equipment troubleshooting
 Equipment maintenance (e.g. service, repairs, overhauls)
 Equipment installations
 Equipment commissioning and de-commissioning
 Plant performance analysis
 Technical sales

6.0 EVALUATION AND ASSESSMENT

6.1 Material for student Evaluation

Evaluation of the Industrial Attachment will be based on the following material:

i. Minimum one written report every week from the student;
ii. Detailed written report by the student and submitted to the Academic
Supervisor and Industry Supervisor at the end of the Industrial Attachment.
iii. From the beginning of the training onwards, the Academic Supervisor from
the FoE will be monitoring the performance of the student trainee by visiting
the Industrial Attachment Organization at least once every month.
iv. The visit by supervisors shall maintain good rapport between the university
and industry.
v. The industry to evaluate the performance of the student trainee by filling log
books and submitting a written report at the end of the attachment.
vi. As the programmes are outcome-based, the industry is to provide feedback
on students’ performance’s outcome.
vii. Feedback received from the industry to be tabled at Committee meetings.
viii. The organization should give a feedback through the industry supervisor
report attached in Annex 7.
ix. Every student must submit the Industrial Attachment report to the academic
supervisor not later than the last day of semester one of that industrial
attachment period. This report is considered as final draft until the quality of
the content is approved by the faculty supervisor.

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6.2 Marking Scheme

The assessment of students during Industrial Attachment will be as follows:

i. Industrial Supervisor’s evaluation 25%
ii. Industrial academic supervisor evaluation 25%
iii. Student’s log-book, 20%
iv. Student’s final report 30%

In order to pass the Industrial Attachment, a student has to obtain at least 40% of the
total marks, which will constitute the final grade. Aggregation of this final grade will be
done by the academic supervisor using a table given in Annex 9. A student who fails the
Industrial Attachment is required to repeat the training before proceeding to the next
level.

Failure to submit the deliverables (Industrial Attachment report, weekly log report,
presentation, assessment forms) within the semester registered may cause the student
to fail the subject.

6.3 Log Records

Industrial Attachment is a mandatory exercise and should be treated with the

seriousness it deserves. Students will be required to fill in their daily log book (Annex 1)
and submit weekly log reports (Annex 2) to prove their work/activities that have been
completed respectively for the day and week. Writing must be in English, neat, and
legible. This log report is useful as a guide to write the Industrial Attachment final report.
Students must also bring along the log report to the training everyday and obtain weekly
employer/supervisor signature.

The logbook should be filled on a daily basis and verified by the industrial supervisor on
weekly basis. Any failure to fill the logbook should be explained and supported by
documentation where necessary (e.g. sickness) and verified by the supervisor.
Assessment on Industrial Attachment depends on contents of the logbook and a final
report by the student. Assessment will be jointly done by the two supervisors.

The student log book records students’ work performed throughout their appointment
with the Organization. The student log books (daily and weekly), attached in Annexes 1
and 2 contain the following information: Details of the trainee and the organization to
which he/she is attached as well as general duties and assigned responsibilities

Summarize all the assigned tasks for the week. You should include any vital
information pertaining to the development of the necessary skill sets, e.g.
programming skills, analytical skills, writing skills, etc. For the weekly log reports, write
down the task(s) given to you by your supervisor for each week and if there is
achievement (the part of the task you have completed) in the week, write it down too.

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Summarize all the assigned and completed tasks for the month. Printout the monthly
summary, discuss and verify it with your immediate supervisor (i.e. your supervisor
must sign the monthly summary).

6.4 The Final Report

The Final Report documents your work experience throughout your appointment with
the Organization. Details of your Final Report should include the following information:
Name of Organization, Address of Organization, Additional information on the
Organization, Industry of the Organization, Name of Supervisor (s), Name of
Supervising/Academic Supervisor (if any), Assigned duties, Assigned responsibilities,
Date of appointment, Date of completion, Special conditions/requirements, Skills
required to perform tasks, Legal requirements, e.g. employment contract etc.,
Language requirements/Interpersonal expectations.

6.4.1 Tasks Performed

Detail all the duties/tasks performed. Identify and state given responsibilities, any
shortcoming, and contributions from yourself to your work/Organization.

6.4.2 General
Relate your working experience with what you have studied/realized thus far. You
should explore and discuss the following:

i. Courses that you attended during the period (if any)

ii. Analysis of your skills versus training received (from the Organization and
from degree courses).
iii. Constraints that you faced at work /during the period.
iv. Lessons that you learned.
v. Suggestions on how you would improve on your shortcomings
vi. Is the duration sufficient for a meaningful experience?
vii. Any skills leant: Interpersonal, Teamwork, Writing, Technical as well as
entrepreneurial and/or Business skills.
viii. Other skills and knowledge requirements /necessary for work or career
ix. Work Culture of the Organization and also of the industry
x. Work Ethics of the Organization/industry
xi. The industry and its governing operation standards (if any)
xii. The industry remuneration standards and employment conditions
xiii. Expectation of the Organization /industry in general on employees
xiv. Technicalities on the project that you worked on without breaching any term
of agreement with the Organization.
xv. Your ambition/career aspiration now - on completion of Industrial
Attachment
xvi. Any information that you consider useful for this report.

14
6.4.3 Submission of Final Report
Each student must submit a Final Report and deliver a presentation on Industrial
Attachment at the end of the Industrial Attachment period. One copy should be
submitted to the industrial supervisor and another copy to the academic supervisor.

It is important that students submit their final report together with their Weekly and
Monthly Reports and any other relevant material. The Monthly Report must be
signed by their industrial supervisor. The Final Report should also be discussed and
verified with their supervisors prior to submission.

The Final Report must be handed in to the Faculty not later than the last day of
semester one of that industrial attachment period.

6.4.4 Report Writing Guidelines

Order of Contents

The structure of the report is based on a standard format which contains the following
sections:

a. Preface
b. Text
c. Supplement

Preface

a. Declaration Page

This page contains the declaration of the student on the originality of his/her work. This
page must be endorsed and signed by the student.

b. Abstract Page

Generally the abstract is written after the completion of the text of the report. It
summarizes the structure of the whole text and the major facts it contains. It should be
written in the same language as that used in the text and contain not more than 300
words. It should be in ONLY one paragraph.

c. Acknowledgement Page

This sub-section is not compulsory but most reports convey appreciation to those who
have been involved in the study.

d. Table of Contents

15
The Table of Contents lists the chapters, topics and sub-topics together with their page
numbers. Sub-topics and topics should be labeled according to the chapter, for
example, the first topic in Chapter 1 should be marked 1.1 and the first sub-topic, 1.1.1.
The use of letters in parenthesis (for example, 1.3.7 (a)) is appropriate as a means of
differentiating sub-topics of the same topic from each other. This numbering system
provides a clear picture of the relationship between chapters and topics and shows how
they are connected.

e. List of Figures

This list contains the titles of figures, together with their page numbers, which are listed
in the text or in the appendix. The numbering system is the same as that used for topics,
for example; Figure 1.3, Figure 1.3.7 and Figure 1.3.7 (a).

f. List of Tables

This list contains the titles of tables, together with their page numbers, which are listed in
the text or in the appendix. The numbering system is the same as that used for topics,
for example; Table 1.3, Table 1.3.7 and Table 1.3.7 (a).

g. List of Appendices

This list contains the appendix number, and title of the appendix.

Text

The report should be written in correct English. Marks will be deducted for incorrect
grammar and spellings.

The report should be typewritten, with 12 as font size. The font type will depend on
students’ preference but legible font types such as Times New Roman, Arial etc are
recommended. It should be typed on one side of the paper (A4) and 1.5 spacing. Single-
spacing is only permitted in tables, long quotations, short footnotes, notes and citation
and the bibliography/references. The Top, bottom, left and right margins should be
2.5cm. Every page of the report should be numbered in the bottom right-hand corner.

The text should consist of the following chapters:

Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Content
i. Organization chart and history of the company
ii. Process flow
iii. Daily activities in brief
iv. Description of tasks assigned, e.g. mini project
v. Strengths: Discuss your strengths at work.

16
 vi. Weaknesses: Discuss your weaknesses at work.
vii. Opportunities: Discuss the opportunities that you discovered while at work,
e.g. because of your skills
Chapter 3: Conclusions

Supplement

Specific items which were not included in the main body of the text should be put in this
Additional/Supplementary Section. Typically this section includes the following:

a. Appendices, which consist of additional illustration of the text. The appendix

supports the written text of the report.
b. References/Bibliography

All works or studies referred to in the report in the form of quotations or citations must be
included in the bibliography. The References / Bibliography should be written in the
specific format approved by the Faculty. Each reference should be written in single
spacing format and a double space should be left between references. The reference
writing should follow the APA style. The detailed information about the APA style could
be found in http://apastyle.apa.org/

Example:

For periodicals and journals:

Beven, K., (1989). Changing ideas in hydrology: The case of physically-based models.
Journal of hydrology, 105, 157-172.

For edited symposia, special issues, etc., published in a periodical:

Iwata, M., Hirano, T. and Hasegawa, S., (1982). Behavior and plasma sodium regulation
of chum salmon fry during transition into seawater. In: H.A. Bern and C.V.W. Mahnken
(Editors), Salmonid Smoltification. Proceedings of a Symposium, 29 June-1 July 1981, at
La Jolla, CA, U.S.A. Aquaculture, 28: 133-142.

For books:
Bartik, M. and Piskac, A. (Editors), (1981). Veterinary Toxicology. Developments in
Animal and Veterinary Sciences, 7. Elsevier Scientific Publishing Company,
Amsterdam/Oxford/New York, 346 pp.

For multi-author books:

Green, A.H., (1976). Field experiments as a guide to fertiliser practice. In: R.H.V. Corley,
J.J. Hardon and B.J. Wood (Editors), Oil Palm Research. Developments in Crop
Science, 1. Elsevier Scientific Publishing Company, Amsterdam/Oxford/New York, pp.
235-261.

For unpublished reports, departmental notes, etc.

Dickson, J.W., Henshall, J.K., O'Sullivan, M.F. and Soane, B.D., (1979). Compaction

17
effects under commercial and experimental cage wheels in comparison with rubber tyres
on loose soil. Scot. Inst. Agric. Eng., Dep. Note SIN/261 (unpubl.), 9 pp.

Internet site with author:

Bobby. (2006). Electronic War. Retrieved November 25, 2006 from

http://www.independent.com/national/ewar.htm

Internet document without author:

E-Commerce User Survey. (n.d.). Retrieved August 2006, from

http://www.mldh.com/mmh/survey.htm

Computer Program:

Macromedia Director version 5.0 [Computer Software] (2000 – 2004). Seattle,

Washington: Director Corporation

Format

Cover page

The cover page should be uniform for all students (see template below):-

Binding

The TWO (2) copies of the report should be SOFT BOUND (ring-bind, comb-bind or strip
bind). The letters of the cover page (front cover) should be printed in black ink. Refer to

18
the illustration of the cover page. The size of the cover page is A4. A standard white
paper is recommended.

Length

The length of the report is not specific but the ideal length is 30 – 50 pages (body of the
report).
Tables

Tables are printed within the body of the text at the centre of the frame and labeled
accordingly to the chapter in which they appear. Thus, for example, tables in Chapter 3
are numbered sequentially: Table 3.1, Table 3.2 etc.

The table label is placed above the table itself and has a format of the type:

Table 3.1: (Short Title)

TABLE

If the table contains a citation, the source of the reference should be placed below the
table.

Figures

Figures, like tables are printed within the body of the text at the centre of the frame and
labeled accordingly to the chapter in which they appear. Thus, for example, figures in
Chapter 3 are numbered sequentially: Figure 3.1, Figure 3.2 etc.

Figures, unlike text or tables, contain graphs, illustrations or photographs and, the labels
are placed at the bottom of the figure rather than at the top.

FIGURE

Figure 3.1: (Short Title)

If the figure contains a citation, the source of the reference should be placed at the
bottom, after the label.

CONCLUSION

This handbook has given guidelines regarding placement of students for Industrial
Attachment to various organizations. It has also highlighted on the requirements for such
placements, roles of every party to be involved, evaluation and assessment of students
as well as monitoring of students during their Industrial Attachment. Through the
Industrial Attachment, students will not only gain the exposure and experience from the
industry, but will also be able to learn their professional ethics as well as working in a
team, just to mention a few. They will also acquire skills needed to prepare a good report
after performing a given task. It is hoped that students will benefit from these general

19
guidelines to meet the minimal format requirements set by the FoE to complete the
Industrial Attachment and the report. All involved parties are therefore urged to adhere
to the contents of this handbook so as to achieve the desired results.

20
7.0 ANNEXES

ANNEX 1: DAILY RECORD OF WORKS

Student Name and Registration No. ………………………………………………………….

Department ………………………………………………………………………
Organization name and Address: ……………………………………………………………….

DATE WORK CARRIED OUT

In the space below make any sketches of work carried out. Use additional pages if
necessary
(Do not copy from reference, laboratory, software development and repair manuals)

21
ANNEX 2: WEEKLY REPORT

Student Name and Registration No. ………………………………………………………….

Department ………………………………………………………………………
Organization name and Address: ……………………………………………………………….

Week No…………

Signature of Student :…………………………………………………………….

Signature of Industrial Supervisor :……………………………………………….

22
ANNEX 3: REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR TRAINEE PLACEMENT

The following paperwork defines the process to source for placement:

University arranged placements:

1. Letter to seek industrial placement for (names of programmes)
2. Organization reply slip of the letter in item 1

Student arranged placements:

3. Letter from the Faculty supporting student’s own initiative to seek
industrial placement. The letter is given b y t h e Chairperson of IAC
after the student has registered with the FoE.
4. Organization reply slip of the letter in item 3 – reply is addressed to the
Principal, who will inform the Chairperson of IAC when application
is successful. A copy of the offer letter for the FoE will be filed.

Informing the Organization status of progress:

5. Letter informing students to be sent for training
6. Letter informing Organization there is “No Students to fill up offers”
7. Letter informing Organization student is “Late reporting to work”

Other Documents
8. Reminder to return Organization Supervisor’s Appraisal Forms
9. Thank you letter for Supporting our Industrial Attachment
10. Letter of Warning – Non-Compliance
11. Booking appointment to visit Industrial Trainees

MODULE SPECIFICATIONS (Syllabus) to be attached to application letters

23
ANNEX 4: INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT SYLLABUS

UNIVERSITY OF MALAWI-THE POLYTECHNIC

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING

1. Programmes: BCE, BEEE, BETE, BECE, BME, BIE, BEE,

BAE
2. Module Title: Industrial Attachment
3. Module code: FOE-IND-4-1
4. Level: 3
5. Credit: 60
6. Presented to: Senate
7. Presented by: Faculty of Engineering
8. Prerequisites: None
9. Co-requisites: None
10. Module Aim:
The aim of this module is to expose the student to practical experience as a
means of reinforcing theoretical engineering principles.

11. Intended Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, the student should be able to:
a. Identify Organizational and human resource management
b. Apply interpersonal communication skills
c. Develop motivational techniques
d. Determine relevant references and guidelines related to their engineering
discipline.
e. Relate engineering concepts to their work during training.
f. Develop soft skills like leadership, problem-solving, and corporate
communication in a work environment.
g. Enhance the application of knowledge and skills in the working place.

12. Indicative Content

a. Application of engineering principles: use of appropriate analytic, design
and evaluation methods.
b. Work organization and prioritization
c. Self appraisal
d. Progress on defined tasks
e. Interaction with workforce and response to technical instruction and
support.
f. Technical presentation abilities both written and oral, their judgment and
value.

24
 g. Flexibility of working as an individual or as a team member.

12. Assessment
Students will be assessed on Industrial Attachment as follows:
a. Industrial Supervisor evaluation 25%
b. Academic supervisor evaluation (from FoE) 25%
c. Student’s log-book, which will show details
of day to day experiences in the industry 20%
d. Student’s final report 30%

For a student to pass he/she must obtain at least 40% of the allotted grades in each of
the subsections (a-d).

13. Learning and Teaching Methods

Various (dependent on individual companies)

14. Reference
Faculty of Engineering Industrial Attachment Handbook

25
ANNEX 5: ACADEMIC SUPERVISOR’S REPORT

STUDENT AND ORGANIZATION INFORMATION

Student Name

Student Reg. No Department

Organization Name
and address

Tick where applicable:

Student

Organization Supervisor

Other personnel Designation

ASSESMENT REPORT

Brief description about student tasks.

New skills that have been learned during training.

26
Legend
5 = Excellent, 4 = Good, 3 = Average, 2 = Below Average, 1 = Weak
Please “TICK”
1. STUDENT’S PRESENTATION
1 2 3 4 5
1.1 The student is well prepared for the presentation
1.2 The visual aids are used effectively
1.3 The clarity of voice and pronunciation is good and clear
1.4 The student makes eye contact and interact with audience
1.5 The structure of presentation is well organized and interesting
1.6 The student is proficient in speaking English

2. INDUSTRIAL TRAINING ASSESSMENT

2.1 The student shows good relationship with Supervisor and

Management team
2.2 The student creates a harmonious work environment in the
organization
2.3 The student gives full cooperation in project or tasks given
2.4 The type of operation, equipment or processes are suitable for the
application of student’s knowledge
2.5 Safety is a prior practice in the work place
2.6 The student shows good grasp of knowledge on the unit operation
and process flow of this industrial company
2.7 The student shows great initiative and creativity on the project given
2.8 The student demonstrates good attitude and discipline
2.9 The student does not play truant and has good attendance
TOTAL
3. LOG BOOK

3.1 Weekly activities and verification by Industry Supervisor is illustrated

in the Log Book
3.2 Relevant sketches, diagrams and figures to support the description
of activities are attached
4. STUDENT FINAL REPORT

4.1 Summary of daily activities and job roles is clearly described

4.2 Introduction with company background, operation, process flow and
organization chart are clearly defined
4.3 Tasks, activities and/or project given is clearly reported
4.4 The report is well concluded and summarized
TOTAL MARKS EARNED
AVERAGE MARK

Academic Supervisor Name & Signature: ………………………………………………..

Kindly return the duly completed form to:

The Principal,
The Malawi Polytechnic,
P/Bag 303,
Chichiri, Blantyre 3.
ANNEX 6: INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT REPORT DUTY VERIFICATION
Date:

The Principal,
The Malawi
Polytechnic,
P/Bag 303,
Chichiri, Blantyre 3.

Dear Sir/Madam,

Report Duty Confirmation for Industrial Attachment Industrial Attachment

I am pleased to confirm that the student mentioned below has already reported his/her duty at
our organization on _ to undergo the Industrial Attachment.

Student Name

Student Matric Department

(To be filled by the organization’s industrial supervisor:) Supervisor Name

Designation

Name and
organization
address

Phone: Fax: E-mail:

Yours sincerely,

Name:

Official Stamp:
ANNEX 7: EVALUATION BY THE INDUSTRIAL SUPERVISOR

Student Name & Reg. No. :

.............................................................................................
Company Name : ……………………………………………………….

Please mark “x”.

Weak Below Average Average Good Excellent
1 2 3 4 5

1. STUDENT’S PRESENTATION
1 2 3 4 5
1.1 The student is well prepared for the presentation
1.2 The visual aids are used effectively
1.3 The clarity of voice and pronunciation is good and clear
1.4 The student makes eye contact and interact with audience
1.5 The structure of presentation is well organized and interesting
1.6 The student is proficient in speaking English

2. INDUSTRIAL TRAINING ASSESSMENT

2.1 The student communicate very well with Supervisor and

Management team
2.2 The student has shown good level of confidence in presenting the
ideas towards a given project
2.3 The student is able to adapt to overall work environment
2.4 The student interacts well with colleagues and subordinates
2.5 The student is able to complete a given task within deadline
2.6 The student is able to adapt to systems or processes of the work
place
2.7 The student is a fast learner in absorbing new knowledge and
concepts
2.8 The student is able to gain depth of concept and processes
2.9 The student takes improvement action in the event of failure of
project achievement
2.10 The student is able to think critically in resolving issues
2.11 The student takes great initiative to gain new ideas and knowledge
in project given
2.12 The student demonstrates good responsibility towards tasks and
duties assigned
2.13 The student demonstrates good attendance record
2.14 The student complies with rules and regulations of the organization
2.15 The student is punctual in attending meeting or any company event
2.16 The student is able to work independently
TOTAL MARKS EARNED
AVERAGE MARK

Industry Supervisor Signature: ……………………………

Name: ……………………………… Date: ……………………….

Kindly return the duly completed form to:

The Principal,
The Malawi Polytechnic,
P/Bag 303,
Chichiri, Blantyre 3.
ANNEX 8: INDUSTRIALTRAINING PLACEMENT CONFIRMATION

YEAR :

DEPARTMENT :

STUDENT INFORMATION

Reg. No. Name

Phone No. E-mail

Address during
Industrial Attachment

Name of Next-of-kin
(Please state
relationship),
Address and Telephone
Number

ORGANIZATION INFORMATION

Organization Name
and address

Supervisor name

Designation

Phone No. : Fax: E-mail:

 Is this your last semester? : NO/YES
(Student’s signature)
Date :

Industrial Attachment Coordinator Validation

I hereby acknowledge that the student mentioned above is qualified* and approved to undergo
Industrial Attachment at the abovementioned company/organization.

Date :
Name :

Stamp :
ANNEX 9: INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT OVERALL ASSESMENT

YEAR

Marks
Log Book Academic Industrial
No. Student Name Registration No. Industrial Placement (20) Supervisor Supervisor Student Total FINAL
Report (25) Report (25) Final (100) GRADE
Report
(30)

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

*Delete where not applicable

Certified true by the Academic Supervisor, Validated by the Department Industrial Attachment Coordinator,

Signature & Stamp: Signature & Stamp:

Date: Date:

Note : Please complete and submit this form to the Industrial Attachment Unit of the Faculty on or before the following date: