Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is pleased to have hosted learners of the Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP) for their mid-year session which began on 16 June 2024. The two-week programme comprised of 104 learners from four districts in the Northern Cape and included 45 grade 12s, 42 grade 11s, and 17 grade 10s.
The two-week programme was designed to offer a comprehensive curriculum across eight subjects: Mathematics, Science, Digital Literacy, Creative Writing, Law, Entrepreneurship, Critical Diversity and Study Methods. Alongside academic instruction, learners engaged in a personal skills development curriculum emphasising life skills, sports, dance, and music, fostering coping strategies and pathways to success which would help them succeed in tertiary education.
The first week of the TPP concluded with the annual sports day where learners participated in various sporting codes. The morning began with traditional sports such as tug of war and egg and spoon races. In the afternoon, learners, mentors and coordinators took part in soccer, netball and touch rugby matches.
Week two began with exciting and informative visits to the laboratories, where grade 11 and 12 learners conducted science experiments which provided them with valuable hands-on experience. Concurrently, TPP educators’ enrichment programme ran from 24 to 28 June for a mathematics and science workshop.
To conclude the June programme, learners embarked on educational excursions. Grade 10s visited the Kimberley Big Hole, grade 11s explored the McGregor Museum, and grade 12s toured the Wildebeest Kuil Rock Art Centre. These visits aimed to deepen learners’ understanding of the city’s rich and diverse history and its broader regional significance.
The day ended with a memorable matric farewell ceremony, honouring grade 12 learners on their accomplishments. This event marked the culmination of their secondary education journey, and highlighted their growth and potential as future leaders in their communities through the TPP. It was a heartfelt tribute to their dedication and perseverance, paving the way for their ongoing success.
SPU’s Senior Manager: Administration, Dr Caroline Hoorn, addressed the matric learners about to embark into the wider world, expressing belief in their growth and learning. Dr Hoorn encouraged them to reflect on their experiences and what they have been taught in this programme and make a positive impact in their communities as they move forward.
Sibusiso Kheswa, a matric learner in the programme, conveyed appreciation to the TPP team and mentors for their commitment, perseverance, and support, making their time here memorable and enjoyable. Addressing his fellow matric learners, he said, “as we are about to go our different ways, may we remember that each of us has a purpose and will succeed in our endeavours, TPP has already provided a solid foundation. As we go out, let us take what we’ve learned in this programme to create positive changes in our own lives and communities.”
Lawrence Morakabi, a student mentor in the programme, extended his best wishes to the grade 12s as their time in the programme comes to an end. He said, “today marks a significant milestone in your lives as you get ready to embark on new adventures and pursue your dreams beyond these walls. Though we bid farewell to this programme, cherish the connections we’ve built and the wisdom we’ve gained together as they will endure with us always.”
Lethan Links, a matric learner in the programme, looked back on the incredible journey he’s experienced over the past three years in the TPP programme and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to have been a part of it.
Delivering the keynote address, University Registrar, Dr Jody Cedras, urged the grade 12s to embrace faith, hope, love and integrity as they venture out into the world. He emphasised, “Your participation in this programme has not only enriched you with academic knowledge, but also equipped you with essential social and life skills. You have learned the value of hard work, the importance of a community and the power of dreams. Now, take what you have gained here at TPP and make a difference.”
The programme concluded with the awarding of certificates to the grade 12 learners for their participation and dedication in the Talent Pipeline Programme since grade 10. The event also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of SPU student mentors, who have generously devoted their time and support to these learners.
