On 23 May 2025, Vuselela TVET College in Taung was recently transformed into a hub of inspiration during a Mayoral tour, a collaborative effort by MaxProf, EST-Sourcing, and the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality. This event underscored the profound role of education as a catalyst for positive change, with a substantial total of R143,400 in bursaries awarded to 20 deserving students. This initiative highlights a strong commitment to fostering young talent and investing in the future.
The ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including MaxProf CEO Pratish Ramdas, the Executive Mayor of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, the Municipal Manager, and various dignitaries, all advocating for the importance of investing in South Africa’s youth. The Honourable Executive Mayor Motseokae Maje delivered an uplifting message, quoting Nelson Mandela: “Education is the key to unlocking limitless possibilities,” inspiring students to envision their bright futures.
Since launching the Mayoral Bursary Initiative in 2023, MaxProf has partnered with the municipality to empower ambitious scholars. In its inaugural year, the initiative awarded R100,000 to seven students. The stakes were raised in 2024 with R80,100 granted to 14 students across Vuselela TVET College and the University of Pretoria. Now, in 2025, the program has blossomed, providing support to 20 eager learners, reinforcing the belief that accessible education can change lives and communities.
Here’s a snapshot of where the support is making a difference:
- Engineering & Innovation- One student is continuing their journey in Mechanical Engineering N4.
- Management Assistant – two students at N5 level, one sudent at N4 and one student at N6 level.
- Office Administration – seven students at Level 2, one student at Level 3 and two studnets at Level 4.
- Public Management – one student at N6 level and one student at N5.
- Agriculture – 2 Students in Farming Management N4.
- Two students enrolled in the Pre-Vocational Learning Programme.
The ceremony was an electrifying blend of celebration and recognition, showcasing the resilience and ambition of the bursary recipients. Tebogo Ntsime, an N6 Public Management student, eloquently expressed his gratitude on behalf of his peers. He extended thanks to EST-Sourcing, MaxProf and the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality for their belief in the students’ abilities. “The bursary award has lifted a huge burden off our shoulders, and we are forever grateful,” Ntsime stated. “The bursaries awarded to us are more than just financial support, but a reminder that our hard work and dedication are recognised and valued.”
Ms. Thejane from Vuselela TVET College addressed the eager students, urging them to strive for academic excellence. Her words resonated with the promise that their hard work could pave the way for future support from notable organisations like MaxProf. “Your achievements not only reflect on you but also on our institution as a whole,” she emphasized, painting a vivid picture of a collaborative future where student success directly influences the strength of partnerships. With this encouragement, students left the hall motivated, understanding that their efforts today could unlock invaluable opportunities tomorrow.
MaxProf CEO, Pratish Ramdas passionately reiterated the company’s commitment to education, emphasizing the crucial partnership between businesses and local municipalities to effect meaningful change. He articulated, “By investing in young minds, we are not just funding studies; we are shaping futures and unlocking potential that will uplift communities and drive progress.” His words resonated deeply, solidifying the initiative’s purpose and the transformative power of education.
Through vital initiatives such as this bursary program, young scholars are being equipped with the essential tools needed to thrive. With dedication and hard work, these students are poised to leave an indelible mark on the world. They are not merely the leaders of tomorrow; they are the proactive changemakers ready to uplift their communities and significantly contribute to South Africa’s ongoing growth and development.
