A Prestigious Visit to Celebrate Industry Growth
On Friday, 29 November 2024, the PtSA Centre of Excellence in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, had the privilege of welcoming Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, Mr. Andrew Whitfield. His visit provided an opportunity to showcase the Centre’s contributions to the Tool, Die, and Mould (TDM) industry and its vital role in shaping South Africa’s future workforce.
A Firsthand Look at Innovation and Talent
During his tour of the facility, the Deputy Minister engaged with our talented students and gained insights into their hands-on learning experiences. The visit underscored the synergy between government initiatives and private-sector programmes in advancing industrial development and skills training.
A Student’s Story: Inspiring Words from Ms. Pheliswa Plaatjie
A standout moment of the day was a heartfelt presentation by Ms. Pheliswa Plaatjie, one of our outstanding students. Pheliswa shared her inspiring journey into the programme – her initial discovery, the excitement of enrolling, and her gratitude as a bursary recipient.
Her words resonated as she thanked PtSA, the programme, and the Deputy Minister’s office at the dtic for the life-changing opportunity. Pheliswa’s story represents not only her personal triumph but also the collective aspirations of her peers.
Empowering the Future of the TDM Industries
The Deputy Minister’s visit reinforced the importance of nurturing talent to sustain and grow the TDM industry. It also served as a testament to the power of collaboration between education, industry, and government in creating pathways for youth to thrive in high-demand sectors.
We extend our sincere thanks to Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield and the dtic for their continued support. Together, we are not just building tools and dies – we are shaping futures and empowering the next generation of professionals to make a meaningful impact.
Looking Ahead
With unwavering commitment, we will continue to invest in our students, strengthen industry partnerships, and actively encourage innovation within the TDM industry. The future is bright, and we are excited to be part of the journey.
