13 May 2025 | Story: Tayron Mhlongo and Vince Thwala | Photo: Peter Masela.
2 minutes read time.
In a proud moment of achievement and empowerment, sixty-one learners from Sharpeville were awarded certificates at the Kitso Information Development Centre (IDC) on 7 May 2025, following the successful completion of an e-skills training programme facilitated by the Northern Cape/Southern Gauteng E-skills CoLab at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT).
Led by Ms Antoinette Lombard, Director of the VUT E-skills CoLab, and supported by Project Manager and Facilitator Mr Darryl Lund alongside Mr Xolani Nyathi, the initiative aims to bridge the digital divide in underserved communities. The programme equips participants with vital digital competencies, including exposure to emerging technologies such as 3D printing, preparing them for the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy.
The Kitso Centre has become a cornerstone for community upliftment in the area, offering access to legal support, training initiatives, and programmes designed to improve the socioeconomic conditions of local residents.
Among the keynote speakers was Mr Peter Skosana, former Secretary of the Gauteng Legislature and Kitso IDC Ambassador. He commended the initiative and highlighted its role in fostering youth development and driving regional economic growth in Sedibeng.
The value of the programme was most powerfully expressed through the voices of its graduates. Ms Keitumetsi Ntsetheni shared her experience: “Because of this programme, I got employed and now I’m a breadwinner.” Her testimony highlighted the real-life impact of digital skills in securing employment.
Student representative Mr Stanley Mdluli spoke candidly about his transformation. “The only thing I knew was how to put a laptop on charge. Now I have several skills, even though I am a dropout,” he said. “Education is the key to success. Never listen to people who don’t know your strengths and weaknesses. It’s never too late to make a change.”
Mr Joseph Radebe, Acting Director of Community Engagement, congratulated the learners and announced that they would be incorporated into the 2025 to 2026 Community Engagement Programme, further evidence of the university’s commitment to inclusive, lifelong learning.
The event concluded in celebration, with families proudly witnessing the graduates receive certificates that represent far more than completion. They symbolise new opportunities and hope for a better future.
Through initiatives like the e-skills programme, VUT continues to empower the youth and create pathways to success. As these graduates step into their futures, they carry with them not only digital proficiency but also the promise of community transformation.
