“VUT, Bank SETA and Dr Oliphant hosted the Grade 12 Skills Development Closing Ceremony, celebrating Sedibeng learners with certificates, laptops, and inspiration.”
02 December 2025 | Story by: Sadiki Siphiwe | Picture by: Peter Masela
4 minutes read time.
The Vaal University of Technology’s Conference Centre came alive with celebration on 27 November as VUT, Bank SETA and esteemed sports administrator Dr Molefe Oliphant hosted the Closing Ceremony of the Grade 12 Skills Development Initiative. The gathering honoured learners from across Sedibeng who completed a transformative programme designed to prepare them for university studies and future careers.
Programme directors Mr Letshaba Sejake and Mr Lungisani Buthelezi opened the proceedings with a warm welcome, followed by an uplifting prayer delivered by Pastor Dennis Sibanda of the Department of Accountancy. Prof Chengedzai Mafini, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, then took to the podium to deliver the official welcome. He expressed deep gratitude to all who contributed to the initiative’s success and paid heartfelt tribute to Dr Molefe Oliphant, who was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Sports Science by VUT in 2006 and later played a historic role in bringing the 2010 FIFA World Cup to South Africa. Prof Mafini reminded the audience that a school in Bophelong, Dr Molefe Oliphant Secondary School, proudly carries his name in recognition of his enduring impact. He urged learners to treasure the certificates they would receive, emphasising that they carry genuine value on their CVs.
Representing Bank SETA, Ms Busisiwe Budulwayo reaffirmed the organisation’s long-standing partnership with VUT. She outlined the role of SETAs in South Africa and highlighted Bank SETA’s commitment to empowering young people through bursaries, internships, learnerships, work-integrated learning and various skills programmes. She encouraged learners who had missed the NSFAS deadline to reach out to Bank SETA for possible support and wished the Grade 12 class strength and confidence as they await their results and prepare for higher education.
Director of Community Engagement, Mr Joseph Radebe, offered an inspiring message grounded in personal experience. He shared how financial obstacles once delayed his own studies before he eventually found his academic path at VUT. Today, he serves as chairperson of Community Engagement and regional chairperson of NEHAWU.
His message to learners was clear: remain focused, work hard at university and commit yourselves to uplifting your communities.
Facilitators and educators from Sedibeng West added their reflections. Accounting Facilitator Mrs Palesa Thebe thanked VUT and Bank SETA for investing in the dreams of young people, reminding learners that perseverance remains the cornerstone of success. Mathematics Facilitator Mr Frederick Rathai and educator Mr Mandla Mabaso praised teachers and learners for raising academic standards in Sedibeng. Mr Mabaso urged learners to seize their opportunities with purpose and to work collectively towards a brighter future.
Learners themselves stepped forward with messages of gratitude and hope. Ms Asiphe Mbotshelwa thanked VUT and Bank SETA for opening doors for “learners from ekasi” who aspire to enter tertiary institutions. She encouraged her peers to believe in their worth, reminding them, “Never let anyone doubt what you bring to the table—you are the table.” Fellow learner Mr Thando Shude echoed the spirit of determination, reminding the Grade 12 class that every great journey begins with a single step.
Project facilitator Mrs Thembekile Rafube from the Department of Accountancy reflected on the collective effort behind the programme’s success, thanking drivers, educators, families, stakeholders and the catering team, Sisonke, for their unwavering commitment throughout the year. Fleet Manager Mr Thabang Machobane shared his own experiences of transporting learners from early mornings to late evenings, praising his team of drivers for prioritising safety and consistency.
The emotional highlight of the ceremony came with the handover of certificates and laptops by Prof Mafini, Ms Budulwayo and Dr Oliphant, marking both accomplishment and new beginnings. The day concluded with a vote of thanks from Ms Mothemba Mokoena, who expressed heartfelt appreciation to Bank SETA and all partners who helped shape the learners’ journey.
The ceremony closed on a triumphant note, celebrating not only academic achievement but also the spirit of collaboration, resilience and hope. For the Grade 12 learners, it signalled the dawn of a promising new chapter, filled with opportunity, confidence and a community committed to their success.