85 students graduate at Gert Sibande College
In order to ensure that training is relevant and responsive to the needs of the Gert Sibande region, the college has introduced agriculture at the newly established Perdekop campus.
About 85 business and engineering students from Gert Sibande TVET College graduated at the Kruik Lifestyle and Conference Centre recently.
Mr Nick Balkrishen, CEO and principal, congratulated the graduates on their achievements.
He spoke proudly of the continuous improvement in the academic results and highlighted that the class of 2016 has achieved the best results in the history of the college.
“In order to ensure that training is relevant and responsive to the needs of the Gert Sibande region, the college has introduced agriculture at the newly established Perdekop campus.
“Government bursaries made it possible for students from the rural community to enroll at the college.”
Mr Balkrishen said the strategic importance of partnerships between the college and businesses, industries and employers ensure the college’s curriculum is aligned with the needs of the industry.
He told guests and parents about the recent launch of the Samsung Engineering Academy that is situated at the Standerton Skills Academy.
“This academy will focus on programmes linked to refrigeration and air conditioning and will also train students on how to repair Samsung electronic products, including cell phones and washing machines.
“Gert Sibande TVET College prides itself on producing high quality students as this enhances opportunities for students.
“Fourteen electrical engineering students were offered the opportunity to go to China on a 12-month learnership programme funded by MerSETA and the Chinese and South African governments.
“The students will get the opportunity to study at top Chinese universities and also get practical experience at Chinese manufacturing companies.”
Mr Balkrishen acknowledged the importance that support played by the college council, staff, SRC and parents.
Delivering a keynote address, Dr Beeka shared his educational journey to achieve a doctorate in education and of qualifying as an advocate.
“I am overwhelmed to see the graduates and their parents and I appreciate the fact that parents are present to support their children on this special day.
“You should never forget where you came from and you should always honour, respect and love your parents.
“Material things do not make you a person, but it is your attitude towards life.”
Speaking on behalf of the Student Representative Council, the president, Mr Nhlakanipho Nkosi, said he was proud to see young people graduating during Youth Month.
“Many young people look up to you and I thank your parents for supporting you throughout the years, it was not an easy road for them.”
Ms Raksha Gobinpersadh (40), a graduate, needed a change of career.
“I wanted to do something that will challenge me mentally and physically. I enrolled in electrical engineering at Gert Sibande TVET College, Standerton campus, and completed my N4.
“I was employed at Tutuka Power Station as a learner electrician and in 2016 obtained my diploma. I was permanently employed as an electrical technician in April this year.
“It does not matter how long it takes, because you will become a winner through the grace of God and hard work.”
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