By: Puleng Maphisa – 17 May 2023

VUT delegates and F’SASEC certificate receivers 

On 10 May 2023, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT)’s French Southern African Schneider Electric Education Centre (F’SASEC) gathered at Quest Conference for the tenth certificate awarding ceremony.

During the ceremony, a total of twenty-four (24) young people from in and around the Vaal region, were awarded certificates in basic Electrical Engineering.

F’SASEC was established in 2012 as part of the VUT learning programs that help to develop youth who wish to pursue Electrical Engineering at the University but do not meet the required entry criteria.  Since its inception a decade ago, the centre has been awarded over five hundred (500) certificates. In his congratulatory address, the Acting Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Prof Peter Osifo, said that F’SASEC is a great place to celebrate education and vocational training as a backbone of personal development and precious skills. “You overcame challenges and worked towards your own goals in a returning way. Each of you is strong in a way you should be proud of. Yesterday you were students but today you are skilled professionals with responsibilities and the F’SASEC representatives” said Prof Osifo during his address,” he said.

The F’SASEC HOD, Ms Msizi Nyembe, said that without the hardship of students, the day could have not been possible, adding that the day marks an important chapter in their lives and the beginning of a new journey. “You should know that life is a journey full of obstacles, however passion, commitment and an open mind to learn will be important throughout your lives.”

Over the years, F’SASEC has produced many successful graduates who are making a name for themselves in the industry. It has produced proud alumni such as Lucky Vincent Nhlapo who encouraged his friend Lehlohonolo David Mofekeng to come and enrol with F’SASEC in 2022.

One of the graduates, Lehlohonolo Mofokeng said he was encouraged by his friend who completed this program in 2021. “It was not easy for me to be where I am today, I am grateful that I kept the company of good friends who encouraged me to be the best versions of myself. Today I can fully say I have the necessary basic skills that are needed in the Electrical Engineering field, and I am up for the challenge to further my studies and become an electrical engineering guru,” said Lehlohonolo.

Another graduate, Lemark Doinese Tucks said that he is also grateful for his achievement and his wish is for youth to never give up on their dreams.