24 June 2025 | Story By: Nontobeko Moimane | Picture: Sifiso Nomzaza
4 minutes read time.
On 20 June 2025, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) celebrated a powerful moment of recognition and upliftment. In a ceremony filled with pride and purpose, the university honoured its dedicated service workers, often the unseen custodians of campus life, by awarding them NQF Level 3 National Certificates in Hygiene and Cleaning Supervision. Held at the Desmond Tutu Great Hall, the event marked not just the conferring of certificates, but a celebration of growth, dignity and the vital contributions of these staff members to the university’s daily rhythm.
This was more than a certificate handover. It was a bold affirmation of the value placed on people, an investment in those often overlooked, and a reminder that every role, no matter how unseen, has the power to uplift an institution.
The initiative was the product of a transformative partnership between VUT, the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA), and Ontoanetse Consulting. It provided service workers with the opportunity to gain accredited, specialised qualifications in hygiene and cleaning supervision, equipping them with professional skills and formally acknowledging their indispensable role in VUT’s ecosystem. Delivered over the course of a year, the programme stands as a shining example of what is possible when people are empowered through education.
Dr Mukondeleli Kanana-Katumba, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, opened the ceremony with pride and purpose, reaffirming VUT’s commitment to nurturing talent across all levels of the institution. “Today, we are celebrating a remarkable achievement and unlocking potential. Education comes in different forms, and here at VUT, we value both knowledge and skill. To our graduates, never stop learning. Let this milestone inspire others to follow,” she said. Dr Kanana-Katumba also expressed gratitude to ETDP SETA and Ontoanetse Consulting for their unwavering support in building and strengthening the university’s workforce.
Messages of encouragement echoed throughout the event. Ms Sandy Mordaunt, VUT’s HR Business Partner, underscored the importance of skills development for career progression and congratulated the recipients on their achievements. Mr Gerrald Francis, ETDP SETA’s Gauteng Provincial Manager, assured attendees of continued support for such initiatives, proudly noting, “Seeing graduates stand here today shows that we are making a difference.”
A proud and emotional Ms Treaty Moshoeshoe, Executive Director and Facilitator at Ontoanetse Consulting, congratulated her students, reminding them that this was just the beginning. “You are leaders in your spaces now. Lead by example,” she said, beaming with pride as she watched them receive their certificates.
The keynote address by Dr Simphiwe Nelana, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, Commercialisation and Internationalisation, was a heartfelt highlight. He applauded the graduates’ determination and the lasting significance of their achievement. “This is a shining example of how staff development and recognition are integral to our institutional culture. These certificates are not just qualifications; they are symbols of pride, perseverance, and our commitment to leave no one behind,” Dr Nelana affirmed. He further encouraged recipients to pursue diplomas and degrees in the years ahead.
The NQF Level 3 National Certificate in Hygiene and Cleaning Supervision is designed to develop technical competence while elevating the dignity and professional standing of individuals in the cleaning and hygiene sector. It focuses on:
· Career advancement and industry mobility
· Instilling personal and professional pride
· Promoting consistent, high-quality hygiene standards
· Enhancing environmental awareness and sustainable practices
· Educating clients and colleagues on safe and effective hygiene procedures
Bringing heart and humanity to the occasion, Ms Florence Nomvuselelo Maseko, one of the proud graduates, delivered a moving message of appreciation. She thanked the facilitators and her manager for Projects and Services, Mr Aubrey Ramakaba, for their steadfast support throughout the programme.
Sharing his experience, Mr Tefo Motseathebe, the programme’s only male graduate and Supervisor for Space Allocation, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity. “This was a truly valuable programme, and I appreciate the chance to have been part of it. Young people need to know that education never gets old; you are never too young or too old to learn, grow and better yourself,” he remarked, urging younger colleagues to embrace continuous learning.
Closing the ceremony, Mr Ramakaba offered a heartfelt vote of thanks. He commended the recipients for their resilience and reminded the VUT community of the invaluable contribution these staff members make to the institution’s daily operations.
This milestone event showcased the depth of talent within VUT’s workforce and set a shining example for institutions across the sector.
VUT, ETDP SETA and Ontoanetse Consulting extend their sincere congratulations to all the graduates. These individuals embody the spirit of excellence, dedication and community that VUT seeks to foster.
As VUT strides into a future defined by inclusivity, transformation and lifelong learning, this occasion is a powerful reminder that every person matters, and every achievement deserves celebration.