Learners encouraged to do artisanships

This was part of the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation’s (DHET) ‘Decade of the Artisan’ campaign extending from 2014 until 2024. Although DHET deputy minister, Buti Manamela, was unable to attend the event as planned, the programme still went ahead.

Matriculants from fourteen schools within a 30km radius from the college were invited and encouraged to consider artisan studies which include, civil engineering, plumbing, carpentry and automotive (mechanic) studies.

Various SETAs, other TVET colleges and professional artisans attended the programme and took turns encouraging learners to enrol for studies in technical fields. Mopani West District Circuit manager, Philippine Modika, told the youngsters to dream bigger than their environment.

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“As much as we are happy about Bachelor passes, the reality is that not everyone will be enrolled at a university. Don’t stay at home when you don’t get university admission, go register at a TVET college right here at home,” she said.

Modika also stated that she was not happy with the fact that only a handful of schools are offering technical studies in her circuit. She also added that she will start pushing for more institutions to take up these subjects from Grade 8. Chief director of Indlela, Joey Bopape, told the attendees that they need to make smart decisions at a young age.

“You are young and cool now, but in years to come the decisions you make now are crucial. Start thinking about becoming your own boss. These courses afford you an opportunity to get employment,” he said.

After the formal programme the youngsters went to the exhibition site to interact with current artisan students at the campus to understand more about the courses.