“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

The Sol Plaatje University (SPU), Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Andrew Crouch delivered this message to Grade 12 students during a three-day visit to high schools in the Northern Cape’s Namakwa region. The visit was aimed at introducing Grade 12 learners to SPU’s unique and niche programme offerings and recruiting students from the Namakwa region to attend SPU.

“I encourage you to take the first step in creating better opportunities for yourself,” Prof Crouch told learners. “Access to the opportunities that the Northern Cape offers – including a university education at SPU – will help break the cycle of poverty in our province. Access to information will empower you to change your life and the world around you for the better.”

Professor Crouch engaged with learners from the O’Kiep, Nababeep, and Concordia High Schools, the SA Van Wyk High School in Springbok, the St Anna Secondary Private School in Maitjieskloof, the Steinkopf, Alexander Bay and Port Nolloth High Schools, and Boesmanland High School in Pofadder. He mentioned that SPU’s core value is respect, and mutual respect is needed in order to create a better society. Education is the most important ingredient in creating that better future for ourselves and our loved ones.

Professor Crouch also spoke to learners about SPU’s Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP), which was launched in October 2021 and aims to identify the top-performing high school learners in grades 10, 11 and 12 from a broad range of rural schools across the Northern Cape.

These learners are then invited to enrol in a school holiday programme at SPU that comprises a psycho-social educational enrichment curriculum to prepare them for tertiary studies. “The TPP will ultimately create a pipeline of excellent learners who enter university, graduate and return to their hometowns, where they will give back to their communities,” he said.

He urged learners to work hard and consistently on their educational goals. “The climb is tough, but I promise you there is no better investment in yourself than education. And when you fly through your matric year, SPU will be there to support you through the next exciting phase of your academic journey, and beyond.”