By Johnathan Paoli
Almost R280,000 has been raised for students from Goldfields Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College at a fundraising dinner in Welkom, Free State.
Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister Mimmy Gondwe, who spoke at the event, said the donations were a tangible vote of confidence in the potential of the students and a signal of the community’s belief in the transformative power of education.
The money would help boost the advancement of technical and vocational education, the deputy minister said.
She stressed the importance of collaboration between TVET colleges and businesses, noting that partnerships of this nature ensured that graduates were equipped with skills that were both relevant and in demand.
“I’m pleased to have played a role in helping the TVET college secure funds and support. Every effort we make, regardless of size, has the potential to drive meaningful change,” she said.
With industry support, these institutions were better positioned to produce work-ready graduates who could contribute meaningfully to the economy.
The gala dinner attracted around 20 businesses and organisations from mining, retail, finance and other industries, as well as individual entrepreneurs and academics.
Together, they pledged a total of R278 250, demonstrating both community solidarity and confidence in the college’s mission.
Other notable donations included R20,000 each from Absa and Nomnga Properties, R15,000 from Tailormade Trading and R5000 each from the Khatatso Nkeane Foundation and Coltech.
In addition, a combined R13,250 was contributed by individuals, reflecting strong personal investment in the future of the region’s youth.
Gondwe also led by example, personally contributing R2000 towards the fundraising drive.
She said TVET colleges could not work in isolation and needed to collaborate with industry to ensure that students left institutions with the skills needed to meet the demands of the modern economy.
Her comments echo the government’s broader emphasis on aligning education with labour market needs – a priority outlined in the department’s National Skills Development Strategy.
The college’s principal, Francis Mahlangu, expressed his gratitude to the minister and the donors.
“We value the leadership provided by deputy minister Gondwe; her presence at the gala dinner strengthened our resolve to continue transforming the TVET landscape in accordance with the national skills agenda,” he said.
Mahlangu said funds raised would go directly into developing infrastructure and expanding skills programmes, ensuring students benefited from improved resources and opportunities.
With government funding often constrained, partnerships with business and community stakeholders are important to help sustain innovation, improve infrastructure and create practical learning opportunities for students.
After praising the institution, Gondwe called for the continuation of nurturing such partnerships to help find innovative ways of resourcing colleges.
INSIDE EDUCATION
