Former rector of the then Venda College of Education (Veco), Ernest Nndwamato Nthangeni, said it was encouraging to see former student teachers coming together to develop action plans to improve the standard of education in society.
Nthangeni was addressing more than 50 former students during a Veco reunion event held at Marude High School in Thohoyandou on Saturday, 27 December.
As guest of honour and motivational speaker, Nthangeni provided a historical overview of the college and its evolution until its closure more than 20 years ago. He said: “At my age of 80, I’m very honoured to learn that there are people who still recognize my contributions towards the development of education in this country.”
He said he was impressed by the unity among former Veco students and encouraged them to initiate small projects that could make a meaningful impact in their communities. “Veco has a reputation of producing top community leaders in various fields. I am happy and proud to learn that since you left Veco, you have improved your qualifications and now holding leadership positions countrywide. Now that you have made it in life, it is time for you to give back to the young generation so that we can groom responsible future leaders in our country.”
Former Musina municipal manager and current Limpopo ANC elections manager Abram Luruli said the reunion was a long-held dream. “We thank the organisers for doing this great job of locating us and put us together under one roof. It was interesting to hear how each one of us had been doing since we left Veco many years ago.”
Reunion coordinator Dr Nndavheleseni Albert Mbada said participants agreed the gathering would be held annually. “We have agreed on community building initiatives which we will run throughout the year. We will converge again in December 2026 to evaluate our task list and make new plans for 2027.”
Former Veco lecturer Mutshutshu Mammba and former hostel chef Bukuta Tsilatsila also attended as guests and speakers.