Boland TVET College celebrated a significant milestone with the launch of its inaugural Boland Reconnect Alumni and Stakeholder Engagement at its Stellenbosch campus.
The evening brought alumni, partners and industry stakeholders together under the theme “From classrooms to communities: building futures, together”.
It marked the start of a new chapter in the college’s commitment to strengthening relationships with former students and industry partners, while celebrating the transformative power of technical and vocational education.
The evening opened with a welcome by Wickus van der Westhuizen, followed by Boland College principal Charles Goodwin, who set the tone with an inspiring address highlighting the importance of reconnection and community collaboration.
“When we chose the word ‘Reconnect’ we did so with intent, because reconnection is not just about looking back; it’s about moving forward together,” Goodwin said. “It’s about asking: How can we build an even stronger future for our college, our students and communities?”
He further reflected on Boland College’s enduring impact through its values of excellence, innovation, integrity, respect and accountability, and emphasised the institution’s vision of education that extends beyond classrooms, preparing students to become innovators, leaders, and contributors to society.
ALL ABOUT PEOPLE
“Education’s true success lies not in certificates on a wall, but in the lives touched, the jobs created, and the hope restored,” Goodwin said.
Wendy Adams, deputy principal of registration services, formally introduced Boland Reconnect, a platform designed to celebrate alumni achievements, foster mentorship and collaboration, and build a dynamic network that supports lifelong learning.
“At its core Boland Reconnect is about people, people who started their journeys here and who, after tonight, will continue contributing meaningfully to broader society,” she said.
“Our purpose is to honour our alumni, create opportunities for collaboration and strengthen the Boland College community into a living, supportive network that promotes continuous growth.”
SUCCESS STORIES SHARED
Adams also provided insight into the evolving educational landscape shaped by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), highlighting the significance of workplace-based learning and the need for strategic partnerships with employers to ensure graduates are job-ready and aligned with industry needs.
Guests were treated to an inspiring success story from Chef Ashley Wynand, a proud Boland College alumnus whose journey embodies the college’s mission of transforming education into opportunity.
The programme also featured Lieutenant-Colonel Elroy Oostendorp of the provincial police Human Resources Department, who shared insights into skills development and collaboration opportunities within the public service.
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