On 9 September the Sparrow Combined School hosted the Ithemba Bridging Programme graduation ceremony.
Cecilia Hattingh, programme coordinator explained, “The programme runs for six months, roughly March until September, and each intake has about 3 500 applicants.
Once screened, we interview about 300. Once we’ve completed background, criminal and psychometric tests, the final intake is about 150 students.”
She added, “Students need to be in possession of a financial qualification, either a B.Com or a diploma since the programme is in conjunction with the Fasset (The Finance and Accounting Services SETA). These students undergo six months of development, including training on the Generic Management SAQA NQF4 qualification.”
Furthermore, the institution is contracted to place at least 70 per cent of their students.
Hattingh added, “We are still placing students from last year – once they have completed the programme, we don’t just forget about them. We place all of our learners to make a difference in their lives – being skilled and not able to work does not create futures. Finding your fit and earning a salary paves the way.”
MC for the event was para-triathlete Stan Andrews who shared his story of overcoming his disability and entertained the guests with anecdotes. Guest speakers included Jeanetta Basson and Kelly Meredith.
The main message to the graduates, as they embark on their working careers, can be summarised as follows:
- Each day is a new chance to make a change.
- Often we get asked to step up and prove ourselves. When you set a goal, tell five people or it will never happen. Telling people puts enough pressure on you to follow it through.
- Be better than you were yesterday
- Seek out mentors and listen to them. Respect them and the time they give you. Document what you learn.
- Take responsibility for your actions – it earns you respect and keeps you humble.
- Whatever you do, do it with pride. You will inspire pride in others.
- Keep your promises otherwise you break trust.
- Don’t take shortcuts.
- Be proactive.
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