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Department of Higher Education & Training

Ekurhuleni West TVET College

Technical and Vocational Education and Training

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20 years of empowering students

TVET's Achievement Ignites Hope & Sparks A New Wave Of Innovation As Hitekani Mukansi Wins Big!

Hitekani Mukansi wins big

Hitekani Mukansi, a Level 2 NCV student in Education and Development at Germiston campus, Ekurhuleni West College (EWC), has made a remarkable impact on the international stage. Alongside two fellow students, Reneilwe Mello and Lucky Letsoalo, Mukansi participated in the ATUPA youth competition, competing against students from other African countries. Her innovative business idea for an e-learning app earned her a prize of US$2000.00 (approximately R34 500.00) as second runner-up in the prestigious competition.

The ATUPA Annual International Conference, held in Durban from August 25-29, 2025, brought together experts and stakeholders from across the continent to discuss the role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in driving sustainable development, youth empowerment, and economic integration in the era of Industry 4.0.

Reflecting on her win, Mukansi said, "I'm thrilled to have won this prize, and I'm going to use the money to implement my innovative idea with the assistance of CfERI. This will enable me to re-enter the competition next year in Kenya." Her achievement is set to inspire her peers, as she added, "Winning this prize will encourage other students to participate in competitions like this one."

The conference theme resonated with delegates, practitioners, policymakers, and educators, highlighting the importance of TVET in empowering Africa's youth. Minister of Higher Education, honourable Buti Manamela, emphasized the significance of TVET in South Africa's National Development Plan (NDP) 2030, stating, "Without a skills revolution, the promise of inclusive growth will remain elusive."

Mukansi's achievement demonstrates the impact of TVET in empowering young people and fostering innovation. Her win demonstrates the potential of Africa's youth to drive change and thrive in the digital era.

EWC's delegation, led by the Principal, Academics Affairs Team Leader, CfERI Manager, SSS Manager, Campus Managers, SRC President, and Secretary-General, played a significant role in supporting Mukansi and her fellow students. The 7th Pan-African Youth Forum, held alongside the main conference, featured innovation exhibitions, keynote addresses, and student-led panel discussions, highlighting the theme "Innovate, Lead, and Thrive: Empowering Africa’s Youth for Sustainable Development and Digital Transformation."

Mukansi's achievement is a shining example of the power of innovation and determination. As she continues to push boundaries and inspire her peers, her story serves as a reminder that with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible. Congratulations to Hitekani Mukansi on her remarkable achievement!