“VUT strengthens community engagement through a school outreach programme that guides learners in making career choices and exploring higher education opportunities.”
14 April 2026 | Story by: Thomas Rasehloka | Picture: Supplied
3 minutes read time.
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT), through the Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET), is deepening its community footprint through a targeted school outreach programme aimed at empowering learners across the Vaal region.
As part of this initiative, the Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Mechanical Engineering (IEOMME) Department visited Jet Nteo Secondary School in Tshirela and Thandukwazi Secondary School in Sebokeng on 9 and 10 April 2026. The programme forms part of a broader faculty mandate to build and sustain meaningful relationships with communities, while strengthening access to higher education opportunities.
Mr John Sivambu, Community Engagement Coordinator in FET, emphasised the importance of early engagement with prospective students. He explained that the programme serves both as a mentorship platform and as an opportunity to raise awareness about academic programmes offered within the faculty.
He further highlighted that the department has, over time, cultivated strong and lasting partnerships with several schools in the region, including Suncrest High School in Vanderbijlpark and Lekoa Shandu Secondary School in Sharpeville, reinforcing a sustained commitment to community development.
At Thandukwazi Secondary School, Vice Principal Mr Thuso Dolo reflected on the challenges faced by learners navigating post school decisions. He noted that many learners reach their final year of schooling without clear direction, often overwhelmed by academic pressures and limited exposure to career options. He expressed appreciation for the University’s intervention, indicating that such initiatives play a meaningful role in easing this uncertainty by providing practical guidance and support, particularly in Science and Mathematics related fields.
Similarly, Ms Ntswaki Makume, Departmental Head of Life Orientation and Geography at Jet Nteo Secondary School, highlighted the socio-economic realities faced by many learners. She explained that a significant number come from under resourced
backgrounds, which can impact both their academic performance and access to information about higher education opportunities.
She noted that institutions of higher learning are regularly invited to engage learners from Grade 10 to Grade 12, providing critical guidance on career pathways. She commended VUT as a key local partner, acknowledging the value of its continued support in equipping both educators and learners with the tools needed to make informed decisions.
As part of the outreach, the IEOMME Department distributed VUT branded items, including school bags, pens, and notepads, as a gesture of encouragement. Female learners also received sanitary pads to support dignity and wellbeing. This reflects a holistic approach to learner support, recognising that academic success is closely linked to social and personal well-being.
Learners from both schools responded positively to the initiative. Ms Tshiamo Raditsela, a Grade 12 learner from Thandukwazi Secondary School, shared that his interest had been sparked by Metallurgical Engineering, a field he had not previously considered. He indicated that he intends to explore the discipline further, with aspirations of building a career in the sector.
At Jet Nteo Secondary School, Grade 12 learner Ms Buhle Silmfe expressed her intention to pursue a qualification in Education at VUT. She noted that the engagement provided valuable clarity on the application process and helped her avoid common mistakes often encountered by prospective students.
EFT continues to drive community engagement as a core institutional priority. Members of the University community who wish to contribute to or support such initiatives are encouraged to engage with the faculty through its departmental structures.