In an unprecedented Principals’ Networking Lunch held at the iconic site, Berea College of Technology (former Tourism Junction/Station Building) on Friday, 4 October, the Berea Group of Colleges pledged R5-million to disadvantaged Grade 12 learners at Secondary Schools in the KZN region.
The announcement made by the Group PR Manager, Jessie Naidoo was met with great jubilation and applause from principals as the Group confirmed that every school who applied will be guaranteed a full bursary for the 2020 academic year. The bursary is available for any course of the learner’s choice for the duration of their study at one of the Group’s three brands, Berea Technical College (BTC), Berea College of Technology (BCT) or Berea Matric School (BMS). Director of Student Recruitment and Admissions, Mr S Magwaza said, “We are excited to partner with school principals and help change the lives of students in our area. This is not a competition, where students need to enter to win. It is unique in that students who demonstrate a genuine need will be given a bursary, for free with no obligation. This reinforces our continued commitment to employment and ensuring that all our students are 100% employable.
Principals from various secondary schools across KZN attended this prestigious event held at the new Higher Education facility in Monty Naicker Road in Durban. Distinguished guests included the CEO of the Central Applications Office (CAO), Mr G Van De Ross, Director of the Umlazi District (Department of Basic Education), Mr PN Cele, as well as key stakeholders from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and the Durban University of Technology (DUT), and a full contingent of journalists from various local newspapers.
The programme included a tour of the state-of-the-art campus, which consists of 15 air-conditioned classrooms, 4 computer laboratories, a fully equipped resource centre and two student recreational areas. Other highlights of the programme included multi-talented singer and songwriter, Zandie Khumalo who dazzled the audience with her new single and brand ambassador for the Group, Mzokoloko, popular Ukhozi FM disc jockey.
Prof. C Kistan, Rector of the institution confirmed the Group’s commitment to offering quality, accredited products and ensuring that all programmes meet the necessary regulatory standards. “The history and heritage of this building complemented with the legacy of a 21-year-old brand, Berea Technical College make this new site a perfect extension of our track record. It is like no other higher learning facility, due to its outstanding architecture and location. According to Mr Van De Ross: “There is an increase in applications to the CAO to study at colleges, particularly colleges like the Berea Group that focus strongly on the technical element and equipping learners for employment.” This endorsement was reinforced by Mr Cele, who said: “Why take a few years to complete a qualification when you can do so in a shorter period and enter the job market?”
Berea Technical College (BTC) was established in 1998 marking 21 years this year. At inception, BTC was the only campus, but today the institution has three campuses located in the heart of central Durban, including Berea College of Technology and Berea Matric School. The three distinct campuses, under the Berea Group of Colleges’ umbrella, equip students with skills, knowledge and confidence to achieve their career ambitions. The impact and influence on its students, graduates, alumni and employees are felt both locally and globally. Berea Group of Colleges offers an extensive range of courses from School of Engineering, School of Management, School of Education, School of Information Technology and School of Hospitality and Catering.
This release is issued by the Berea Group of Colleges’ PR Department. For further information, contact Group PR Manager, Jessie Naidoo on 031 8278300 or jessien@bct.ac.za