“The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) and the Kitso Information Development Centre (Kitso IDC) lit a new beacon of hope in Sharpeville as they celebrated the 2025 E-Skills certificate recipients at the historic Old Police Station site on 20 November 2025.”
25 November 2025 | Story by: Sadiki Siphiwe Rulani | Picture by: Peter Masela
6 minutes read time.
On 20 November 2025, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), in partnership with the Kitso Information Development Centre (Kitso IDC), celebrated a historic certificate ceremony honouring learners who completed a range of skills courses offered by various partners including the VUT E-Skills Colab. The event, held at the iconic Kitso IDC, formerly known as the old Sharpeville police station, stood as a powerful reminder of how education can transform spaces, communities, and lives.
Presiding over the ceremony was Mr Peter Skosana, a former mayor, parliamentarian, MEC and now Ambassador of Kitso IDC. His presence alone set the tone for a day defined by achievement and hope. The ceremony began with a prayer by Bishop Maxhekeza and the national anthem, setting the tone for unity and gratitude.
The first formal address was given by Mrs Martha Zwane, Kitso IDC Board Member and Treasurer, who warmly welcomed guests and applauded the resilience of the graduates. This was followed by a compelling message from Mrs Nkapu Ranake, Secretary of Kitso IDC. She offered a heartfelt overview of the centre’s roots and mission, unpacking the meaning behind its slogan, “Empower Inspirationally.” Ranake explained that empowerment is not merely a service Kitso provides, it is a commitment to shaping futures, restoring dignity and igniting ambition. She also described why Mr Skosana was chosen as Programme Director: because his own journey from humble beginnings to leadership roles embodies the very meaning of inspiration. She thanked all external stakeholders for helping Kitso IDC’s vision thrive.
Messages of support began with the Vaal University of Technology. Mr Darryl Lund, project manager at the VUT E-Skills CoLab he VUT praised the relentless effort of learners, families and educators, adding humorously that next year’s attendance might require a bigger venue. He urged recipients to embrace opportunity boldly, saying, “Carry the simple truth with you: your future is shaped by your willingness to grow. Surround yourself with people who lift you higher, not those who limit your rise.” His words resonated as a clear challenge to step fearlessly into the next chapter of their lives.
Mr Mpho Mogole from MTL Computer Networking Solutions congratulated the recipients, saying the moment reminded him of his own early struggles and triumphs as a learner. His message was personal yet universal, an affirmation that growth is always possible.
From the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), Mr Bright Gumede praised the incredible performance of the Kitso IDC students, remarking that their achievements in just three months were “nothing short of remarkable.” Sharing his own journey from KwaMashu to TUT, he encouraged the graduates never to underestimate their potential, reminding them that “where you start does not determine where you will finish.”
The FSASEC representative, Ms Msizi Nyembe, delivered a message focused on resilience, urging the graduates to embrace problem-solving and adaptability as lifelong skills. She praised the passion and discipline displayed throughout their learning journey.
Students from various courses then stepped forward to share their stories.
Representing electrical installation, Mr Kagiso Morake described how he once thought the course would be easy until he realised the complexity of electrical systems. He thanked his classmates for their unity, saying, “Today we celebrate because we proved that collaboration is not competition.”
Fault-finding graduate Ms Nthabiseng Mokele reflected on her learning experience, including a memorable task where TUT facilitators asked students to dismantle and repair mobile phones. At 46 years old, she proudly celebrated completing more than five short courses, proving that learning is ageless. She shared how her new skills helped her register a small business, encouraging young people to seek skills that add real value to their lives.
Computer skills graduate Ms Lesego Molebatsi thanked Kitso IDC and its partners for empowering the youth, while robotics representative Mr George Magas encouraged his peers to celebrate themselves. He confessed that he once believed robotics required advanced mathematics, but Kitso IDC showed him that passion and curiosity could carry a person further than fear ever could. “Do not stop where you are,” he urged. “Explore, expand, and share the knowledge you gained.”
Ms Lucy Monamoli added that receiving their certificates is not the end of learning but a testament to one’s ability to grow and persevere. She thanked facilitators for their commitment and dedication. Representing the visual storytelling group, Mr Kagiso Ramalekana delivered a deeply inspiring message, saying, “We are not just “graduating” from a course, we are “graduating” from a story. These short learning programmes taught us that stories are more than words; they are seeds of influence. Our stories matter because they have the power to inspire.”
A significant highlight of the day was the congratulatory message by Ms Clara Mwenze, President of SAWIC. Despite challenges in attending, she spoke passionately about her 22-year journey in the construction industry and her commitment to forging a long-term partnership with Kitso IDC. She announced that the building under construction behind Kitso IDC would soon be used as a training centre, further expanding opportunities for the community.
The keynote address was delivered by Member of Parliament Mr Sello Maeco, who recalled how he first discovered Kitso IDC after learning that the centre was serving meals to the community. Inspired, he visited immediately and was moved by how the people of Sharpeville were using education to uplift one another. He pledged to strengthen collaboration between Kitso IDC and the Department of Labour to ensure more recruitment and skills development for residents. His closing words, “Let us support Kitso IDC as it empowers the people of Sharpeville”, were met with enthusiastic applause.
The ceremony included a performance by one of the students, Skylla Star, followed by the awarding of certificates to all recipients. The vote of thanks, delivered by Deputy Chairperson Ms Nono Mohlabane, expressed deep appreciation to everyone who contributed to the event’s success. The day concluded with group photos and final remarks by Mr Skosana, who thanked all attendees and offered special recognition to the graduates for their perseverance.
In the end, the 2025 Kitso IDC graduation was more than a ceremony; it was a celebration of transformation, courage, and community. It marked not only the completion of courses but also the beginning of new personal and professional journeys. As one speaker said powerfully, “Education is not just preparation for life, it is the power that allows you to shape the world.” And on this day, the certificate recipients of Kitso IDC stood ready to shape theirs.