On Friday, 05 May 2023 the College held a meeting with College appointed Facilitators and potential candidates for Masters and PhD degrees. The purpose of this meeting was to support Motheo TVET College staff members on their journey towards obtaining their Masters and PhDs degrees. The College has entered a partnership with University of South Africa with the intention to register the said staff members. 

During her opening address the College Principal Prof Phutsisi who joined the meeting virtually said her vision is to establish a Technical University where staff members would be adequately qualified as academics in the Technical and Vocational qualifications. This concept emanates from countries such as the United Kingdom, Russia and other related countries, which embrace the concept of a University College or Technical University. “This is a historic moment for us as a College as I celebrate a decade of my appointment as the Principal at this College. Please be committed and sacrifice your time for the benefit of the institution, yourselves and our students,” said Prof Phutsisi. 

During her presentation Dr Gaelebale Phukuntsi advised staff members to sacrifice their time in order to obtain their qualifications. “Reading is also important in research proposal and remember that you own that work. This is going to be an independent process and there will be time where it will be interdependent,” said Dr Phukuntsi. She also encouraged staff members not to quit as there will be challenges in life. 

During his address Dr Phori, one of the Facilitators, explained that this is going to be a structured program for a period of 24 months. “You will be required to work hard and do your own work. You will be expected to write your titles in 13 to 15 words, and it must give direction. You must make meaning of the data that you have generated. Your research must arouse curiosity and be original,” said Dr Phori.

This commencement project will benefit around 23 staff members, ranging from Curriculum Management to Engineering Related Studies. ETDPSETA funding allocated for staff development at Motheo TVET College will fund this initiative. “We are grateful for the support provided as such”, said Prof Phutsisi. The College Management wished all participants well in their studies.