31 March 2025 | Story: Qhawekazi Memani| Photo: Nalesi Nkosi.
3 minutes read time.
On 27 March 2025, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Department of Accountancy officially launched the Banking Sector Education and Training Authority (BANKSETA) Grade 12 Community Engagement Initiative. The event, held at the VUT Auditorium 100, brought together key stakeholders, including principals and teachers from the Sedibeng West District, BANKSETA representatives, the Acting Executive Director of VUT’s Technology Transfer and Innovation (TTI) unit, the Director of Community Engagement, VUT lecturers, and the Head of the Accountancy Department.
In his welcoming address, Professor Chengedzai Mafini, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Gathered today are all partners in educating learners. Let us strengthen this relationship to ensure that children, particularly in Accounting and Mathematics, are given the best opportunities to excel.” He further acknowledged the value of diverse perspectives in education and encouraged educators to provide academic support while engaging meaningfully with learners.
“Through this programme, VUT has expanded its reach, incorporating 13 schools from the Sedibeng West District, with BANKSETA providing funding for the initiative,” said Professor Mafini.
Representing the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, Commercialisation and Internationalisation (RICI), Dr Speech Nelana, the Executive Director of Technology Transfer and Innovation, Mr Maemo Kobe, underscored the university’s commitment to impact-driven, socially engaged scholarship. He highlighted VUT’s dedication to addressing social challenges through research, community-based projects, and the commercialisation of intellectual endeavours. He also conveyed a message from the DVC, who expressed pride in the Accountancy Department’s efforts and pledged full support for the initiative.
BANKSETA representative Mr Koena Molamudi elaborated on the organisation’s mandate, emphasising its dedication to supporting educational initiatives that foster youth development. “We are here to offer support, and hopefully, this will not be the last project we undertake with VUT to improve the future of our learners,” he remarked. Similarly, Ms Palesa Thebe, an accounting facilitator in the Sedibeng West District, expressed gratitude for the partnership, noting that the support from both BANKSETA and VUT would significantly impact the learners’ educational journeys.
Dr Reverend Lindokuhle Manuel, a lecturer in the Accountancy Department, introduced the working committee for the project, followed by closing remarks from Professor Maseko, Head of the Department of Accountancy. Professor Gauda Maseko provided insights into the project’s origins, explaining that it initially began at Dr Molefi Olifant School, a specialised institution. However, as the programme expanded, it became evident that other schools faced distinct resource challenges. Consequently, a digital literacy component was incorporated to ensure equitable benefits for all participating learners.
Additionally, Professor Maseko announced that BANKSETA had generously contributed R800,000 towards the initiative, directly supporting 75 Grade 12 learners in the Sedibeng West District. He appreciated all attendees and thanked BANKSETA for its continued commitment to the cause.
“As an institution of higher learning, VUT upholds a strong mandate of academic excellence, research and community engagement. By fostering partnerships like this, the university reaffirms its role in societal transformation, equipping young minds with the necessary skills to succeed in higher education and the workforce,” said Mr Joseph Norman Radebe, Director of Community Engagement at VUT.
Launching the BANKSETA Grade 12 Community Engagement Initiative marks a significant milestone in VUT’s ongoing commitment to education, empowerment and community development, ensuring that learners from the Sedibeng West District receive the support they need to excel academically and beyond.
