Lecturer-in-training at Gert Sibande TVET College in Evander says teaching is her passion

Ms Carlie Cronjé (25) believes she was born to be a teacher and that teaching is a calling.

She is a lecturer in training at the Gert Sibande TVET College.

Ms Cronje was the first trainee to complete the Gert Sibande TVET College lecturers-in-training programme.

This programme is an initiative of the Department of Education and began in 2012. Its aim is to assist with the recruitment of TVET college lecturers who can be trained according to a tailor-made TVET programme to address the need for the scarce skills in the country.

The programme has two components, namely the theory part that is offered by Unisa and practical experience gained during lectures under the guidance of mentors who are experienced lecturers at the various Gert Sibande campuses.

The lecturers in training are also given support to ensure successful completion of their studies while at the same time gaining valuable experience in the classroom.

Ms Cronjé will graduate in April.

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She matriculated at Kriel High School and studied B.Com Law at the Northwest University.

She however realised a year later that she had made a mistake and decided to change her course to study teaching.

She majored in psychology and computer applications technology.

“Teaching has been my passion from a very young age and I think B.Com Law was never my calling. I am happy that I took the decision to follow my heart and passion.”

She applied in 2016 when she saw a lecturing post that was advertised at the Evander campus.

Everything went well and she was offered the lecturer-in-training position because she had not completed her teaching degree.

“I want to be a successful teacher and teach my students to be better, especially in mathematics.

“It is not an easy subject and many students fail it, not because they do not understand it, but because they do not have an interest in it.

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“It has been perceived as a thorn in the flesh by many students and I help them to understand it by simplifying it for them.

“I believe that once they understand it, they will have interest in the subject.”

Ms Cronjé draws her inspiration from her parents who are also educated.

They have always inspired her to pursue education and to build a meaningful future through education.

Ms Cronjé is a bookworm who often takes the time to watch movies with her mom.

The campus manager of the college, Mr Zwelethu Mthethwa, said the college is proud of Ms Cronjé’s achievement.

“She is dedicated and disciplined and is a beacon of hope that inspires the students. She worked like a qualified lecturer before she became one and I promise to support her because of her respect of and love for everyone. This makes her one of a kind.”

Ms Cronjé thanked the college management for believing in her and for giving her the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of the programme.

She also thanked her fellow lecturing staff for their support and guidance.