Principal proud of GS College

HIGHVELD – Gert Sibande TVET College won the coveted Department of Higher Education and Training award for excellence in innovation and technology at an inaugural TVET College awards gala dinner hosted by the deputy minister of Higher Education and Training at Gallagher Estate, Midrand recently.

The function was part of a two-day conference with the theme Together Forging a Vibrant Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) System in South Africa.

The purpose was to recognise and celebrate excellence in the TVET sector.

All 50 TVET colleges were considered for awards in nine categories.

The categories ranged from academics, finance, ICT, partnerships to artisan development.

Gert Sibande TVET College was nominated for six of the nine categories.

This was the highest number of nominations for any college in the country.

The award for excellence in innovation and technology was based on the size and scope of innovation and technology in the college, the impact on teaching and learning, the reach, the placement of students, the employment rate, sustainability, technology employed and training developed.

Ms Hester van Zyl, deputy principal: Academic, said the college prides itself in the progress it has made regarding ICT and the impact of ICT on the quality of teaching and learning.

“This award is also encouraging as it is an indication that the college is well on track to achieve its vision of becoming the leading college brand in South Africa,” she said.

Mr Petros Magagula, chairman of the college council, said: “The college council has supported the ICT strategy of the college and is humbled by this prestigious award.

“The management, staff and the E-Learning team deserve all the accolades that are being showered upon them due to their creativity, diligence and commitment.”