”VUT’s Faculty of Management Sciences, in partnership with BANKSETA, empowers 75 Sedibeng Grade 12 learners with digital literacy, accounting, and maths skills to boost academic success and future career readiness.”
13 October 2025 | Story By: Staff Reporter| Picture: Supplied
3 minutes read time.
The Faculty of Management Sciences at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), through its Department of Accountancy, has partnered with the Banking Sector Education and Training Authority (BANKSETA) in a transformative community engagement initiative aimed at empowering secondary schools within the Sedibeng District Municipality.
Recognising the urgent need for digital orientation and academic support among local learners, the department launched this initiative to assist 75 Grade 12 learners with essential academic enrichment and digital literacy skills. Through this partnership, the Department of Accountancy secured funding of R800 000 from BANKSETA to advance the project’s objectives.
The programme offers structured classes in Accounting and Mathematics, coupled with comprehensive digital literacy training. Each learner received a tablet to facilitate access to online learning resources, while the inclusion of career guidance sessions ensures learners are better equipped to make informed decisions about their futures. This initiative not only enhances academic performance but also strengthens the learners’ readiness for tertiary education and future employment in a technology-driven environment.
According to the project plan, the initiative is currently being implemented in collaboration with the Gauteng Department of Education (Sedibeng West District), with expansion to Sedibeng East anticipated in the 2026 academic year. On Sunday, 28 September 2025, learners received tablets and calculators, an occasion that generated great excitement and heartfelt appreciation. Many learners expressed their gratitude, describing the devices as indispensable tools that empower them to access information, complete assignments, and participate fully in the digital learning ecosystem.
The learners further highlighted that digital literacy is essential for unlocking new career pathways, particularly as computer proficiency becomes increasingly vital in both higher education and the job market.
Professor Maseko, Head of Department for Accountancy, emphasised the pivotal role of digital tools in democratising access to knowledge. “These devices allow students to become active learners who take ownership of their education,” he said. “They can now access online libraries and learning platforms without being constrained by the cost of data or the need to depend solely on campus facilities.”
Prof Maseko acknowledged the Executive Dean, Professor Mafini for his guidance and leadership towards the success of the project. He also commended the departmental community engagement team for their unwavering dedication and seamless coordination, describing the project as a reflection of VUT’s commitment to societal relevance and national development imperatives. He further noted that for many financially constrained students, the provision of such devices removes a significant barrier to learning and represents both relief and opportunity.
Through this partnership with BANKSETA, the Faculty of Management Sciences continues to advance its mission of fostering education empowerment, digital inclusion, and social impact, ensuring that VUT remains a catalyst for meaningful change within its surrounding communities.