“VUT, Eskom and DBE closed the 2026 Winter School, equipping 500+ Sedibeng Grade 12 learners with Maths and Physical Sciences support for NSC exams.”
21 July 2026 | Story by: Tayron Mhlongo| Picture: Sfiso Nomzaza
3 minutes read time.
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT), Eskom and Department of Basic Education (DBE) Winter School drew to a powerful close on 17 July 2026, leaving more than 500 Grade 12 learners from Sedibeng East and Sedibeng West inspired and better prepared for the road to the National Senior Certificate. The closing day marked the end of a week of intensive support in Mathematics and Physical Sciences. It reinforced the message that the programme is a springboard to further study and careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Over the programme, learners attended extra lessons, revision sessions and problem-solving workshops designed to strengthen exam technique and conceptual understanding ahead of the National Senior Certificate examinations. Sessions combined classroom tuition with practical activities, career guidance and university-readiness briefings so learners could connect academic content to future study and career pathways.
The academic collaboration emphasised that this Winter School was about more than content delivery. Learners received practical advice on applying to VUT and guidance on life after matric. They were reminded that attending classes on a university campus during the holidays is a rare opportunity and a responsibility to be seized as motivation for excellence.
Dr Grace Kanakana Katumba, Deputy Vice Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, praised the partnership with Eskom and the DBE and urged learners to keep dreaming. “With God nothing is impossible,” she said, encouraging persistence and self-belief. Mr Harry Sewsuncker, Acting General Manager at Eskom’s Lethabo Power Station, congratulated learners on their dedication and noted the lasting impact of such initiatives.
Learners and peer educators also reflected on personal growth. Ms Phumla Moloja of Phoenix High School described the experience as “amazing and insightful.” Peer educator Ms Mpho Tiyase said the programme “revealed strengths I didn’t know I had, having to manage large groups, finding my way around campus and meeting unexpected challenges.” Both highlighted how the Winter School offered a taste of university life before official enrolment.
As learners return home to prepare for their preliminary examinations, they do so with refreshed skills, practical exam strategies and a clearer sense of the pathways that lead from school to university and careers in STEM. The overall outcome of the programme credits the success of the initiative to the collaborative efforts of Eskom, the DBE, VUT staff, educators, tutors and student volunteers who worked behind the scenes to support the learners’ wellbeing and learning.
Held during VUT’s 60th anniversary year and aligned with the University’s Strategy 2033+ and National Science Month, the Winter School underscored VUT’s commitment to community upliftment and strategic partnerships that strengthen educational outcomes. By equipping young learners with both knowledge and confidence, the programme helps build the next generation of South African scientists, engineers and innovators.
The Winter School closed not as an end but as a beginning and a call for learners to keep striving, for partners to sustain collaboration, and for communities to invest in talent. With the foundation
laid from 12 July 2026 until 17 July 2026, these young people return to their studies ready to turn potential into achievement and to lead the future STEM breakthroughs South Africa needs.