Ekurhuleni West College student shines on international stage with award-winning innovation
TVET's achievement ignites hope and sparks a new wave of innovation as Hitekani Mukansi wins big.
Hitekani Mukansi, a student at Ekurhuleni West College (EWC) Germiston campus, has made a remarkable impact on the international stage.
The level 2 NCV student in Education and Development, alongside fellow students Reneilwe Mello and Lucky Letsoalo, participated in the ATUPA youth competition, competing against students from across Africa.
ATUPA is a skills-pitching competition held as part of the Pan-African Youth Forum, which takes place alongside the ATUPA International Conference.
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Students from Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions and universities submit innovative concepts to address community and industry challenges for a chance to win prizes and gain mentorship.
The most recent competition took place in August 2025 and was won by Zimbabwe, with Kenya and South Africa placing second and third, respectively. Mukansi’s innovative business idea for an e-learning app earned her a prize of $2000 (approximately R34 500) as second runner-up in the prestigious competition.
The ATUPA Annual International Conference, held in Durban from August 25 to 29, brought together experts and stakeholders from across the continent to discuss the role of TVET in driving sustainable development, youth empowerment and economic integration in the era of Industry 4.0.
Reflecting on her win, Mukansi said, “I’m thrilled to have won this prize, and I’m going to use the money to implement my innovative idea with the assistance of CfERI. This will enable me to re-enter the competition next year in Kenya.”
Her achievement is set to inspire her peers. “Winning this prize will encourage other students to participate in competitions like this one,” said Mukansi.
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The conference theme resonated with delegates, practitioners, policy makers and educators, highlighting the importance of TVET in empowering Africa’s youth.
Minister of Higher Education, Honourable Buti Manamela, emphasised the significance of TVET in South Africa’s National Development Plan 2030, stating, “Without a skills revolution, the promise of inclusive growth will remain elusive.”
Mukansi’s success demonstrates the impact of TVET in empowering young people and fostering innovation. Her win highlights the potential of Africa’s youth to drive change and thrive in the digital era.
EWC’s delegation, led by the principal, academic affairs team leader, CfERI manager, SSS manager, campus managers, SRC president and secretary-general, played a significant role in supporting Mukansi and her fellow students.
The 7th Pan-African Youth Forum, held alongside the main conference, featured innovation exhibitions, keynote addresses and student-led panel discussions, highlighting the theme ‘Innovate, Lead, and Thrive: Empowering Africa’s Youth for Sustainable Development and Digital Transformation.’
“My achievement is a shining example of the power of innovation and determination. As I aim to continue pushing boundaries and inspiring peers, my story serves as a reminder that with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible,” said Mukansi.
