64 Learners Receive E-Skills Certificates at KITSO Information Development Centre

On Thursday, 14 November 2024, 64 learners from Sharpeville were awarded certificates at the KITSO Information Development Centre upon completing their e-skills training programme. This initiative, facilitated by the Northern Cape/Southern Gauteng E-skills CoLab at Vaal University of Technology (VUT), was led by Ms Antoinette Lombard and supported by Project Manager and Facilitator Mr. Darryl Lund, alongside Mr. Xolani Nyathi. The programme aims to equip individuals with essential digital skills to foster a competitive and inclusive society.

The celebratory event highlighted the dedication of both learners and educators in embracing opportunities presented by the digital age, including innovations such as 3D printing. Grounded in its mission to bridge the digital divide, the VUT e-skills programme has played a pivotal role in empowering participants with the knowledge necessary to thrive in today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape.

Among the dignitaries present were Emfuleni Local Municipality Mayor, Sipho Radebe, and Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Faith Mazibuko. The former Secretary of the Gauteng Legislature and KITSO IDC Ambassador, Mr. Peter Skosana, reaffirmed his commitment to youth empowerment, underscoring the importance of such initiatives in driving the Sedibeng region’s economic growth.

“As KITSO is a community centre, the Department of Social Development has opened NGO funding applications for 2025. I hope KITSO has applied to expand its reach, ensuring future generations benefit from the same training these certificate recipients have received. This initiative will help grow the Sedibeng region’s economy,” said MEC Mazibuko.

She further encouraged the certificate recipients to collaborate with the department to secure employment opportunities, thus contributing to reducing the country’s unemployment rate.

Two student representatives, Ms Keratilwe Motaung and Ms Palesa Kokoali, shared heartfelt reflections on behalf of the recipients. “This programme reminded us that life doesn’t end with matric. It showed us that there is a future beyond school. It reignited our dreams and brought light to our darkest moments. We thank our facilitator, Mr. Xolani Nyathi, for inspiring us. With this certificate, we won’t stop; we’ll continue to shine and make our mark,” they said.

In addition to awarding certificates to the participants, KITSO IDC also recognised five physically challenged individuals with special awards, as they were unable to participate in the programme. Acting Director of Community Engagement, Mr. Joseph Radebe, announced plans to include them in the 2025 Community Engagement Programme.

The joyous ceremony was filled with pride and cheer as parents and learners celebrated together. The certificates symbolised not only individual achievements but also the hope of continued training and empowerment through VUT’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the region’s youth.