SOWING SEEDS OF SUCCESS: CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE AT THE VEREENIGING AWARDS CEREMONY.
Article: Tabitha Kgosimore.
In a vibrant celebration of academic and professional excellence, the College Vereeniging Campus hosted its highly anticipated inaugural Awards Ceremony on April 2025. The event brought together students, staff, and industry guests to honour outstanding achievements across multiple learning programmes.
Ms S. Sekere, a Hairdressing Facilitator for Occupational Programmes, opened the ceremony with a heartfelt scripture reading and prayer. Her message, themed “Sowing with Purpose and Patience,” drew inspiration from the Parable of the Sower—a powerful metaphor for the relationship between lecturers and students. She likened lecturers to sowers of knowledge, values, and inspiration.
She also acknowledged that not every seed takes root. Some students, like seeds that fall on the hardened path, struggled due to emotional burdens or external distractions. Others resembled seeds on rocky soil—eager to grow but unable to withstand pressure. Some were surrounded by thorns, where learning was stifled by life’s demands, such as financial hardship or digital distractions.
Drawing on the Parable of the Sower, Ms Sekere's message emphasised that some students are like fertile soil—readily absorbing, reflecting, and flourishing. Her poignant reminder to lecturers was to continue to sow with compassion, patience, love, and purpose.Even when growth isn’t immediately visible, lecturers should trust that their efforts are not in vain.
The first segment of the ceremony, led by Campus Manager Mr Naledi Motaung and Heads of Department, was dedicated to recognising outstanding lecturers.
Best Performing Lecturers in NCV Fundamentals included: Malapela MR, Maseko MN, Masakala LT, Mnakaniso, Molelekoa BG, Monareng TE, Moraila ML, Mokachane ZP, Ramoji LP, Sebatlelo MO, and Tshabalala FM.
Top Lecturers in Report 191 Nated Programmes were: Bapela PG, Kutoane MS, Madzivhandila DS, Matali LVN, Mbambale NN, Mulivhala TP, Nyawo EK, Seitshiro GKL, Seshabala LS, Vuke LA, and Xuma DC.
Best Performing Lecturers in NCV Vocational Subjects included: Cina MM, Mabunda ET, Makoe MR, Matsime DT, Radebe BT, Mothapo JB, Motiba MP, Neka M, Nemusunda TC, Seema DT, Sekete MI, Sephooa MJ, and Tshabalala AD.
The ceremony also celebrated exceptional Haircare and Engineering students for their commitment and performance in their respective fields. Among the award recipients was Mr Enoch Ndweni, a valued member of the support staff, who was honoured with two certificates for his unwavering commitment to both staff and students. His dependable service and positive spirit earned him well-deserved praise
In addition, Campus Interns were recognised for their contributions to campus life and operations. All recipients received certificates and goodie bags in recognition of their dedication and excellence in teaching. Their passion for education was applauded by all in attendance.
In her vote of thanks, Ms Z. Mokhachane, Senior Lecturer for English, expressed heartfelt appreciation to staff and students for nurturing a culture of excellence. She also extended special thanks to the organising team and reiterated the college’s mission to inspire, educate, and uplift.
The day concluded with light refreshments, allowing guests to network, unwind, and reflect on the many successes celebrated.
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