Student teachers from various higher institutions in Strand gathered at Afrikayam Farm on Saturday 12 August to share ideas and challenges they encountered in the institutions.
Guest speakers included those who work in the industry and people in leadership positions in student organisations.
The event organiser Liso Ngqunge, who is in his third year in education at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Mowbray Campus, described the gathering as a networking platform.
He said they saw a need for the upcoming teachers to make some strides.
“We decided to come together so that we can know each other and be able to share information and assist each other, especially on applying for the National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and residential accommodation,” said Ngqunge, adding that they would be able to also share some food.
He described the event as a first of its kind. He said they will meet whenever a need arise.
Explaining the reason they had guests at their event he said they needed guidance.
“All our guests were from Strand,” Ngqunge said. “They are young people who grew up here. They encouraged and advised us on what to expect in the profession and varsity. We want to inspire other young people.”
Azola Ngalonkulu, one of the speakers and a third-year on Environment Management Course student, said the aim was to empower and motivate the students.
Also a Sasco leader at CPUT District Six Campus, Ngalonkulu said he was focused on informing the students about the possible challenges they might encounter at the institutions of higher learning they attend.
“Basically, I told them about the challenges that students face when at varsity. There are a lot of things that distract them, even the environment has an impact.
“Also, I told them how to apply for residential accommodation and NSFAS, especially the procedures to follow when applying for accommodation or the aid scheme.
But most importantly, I told them to be humble and not forget where they come from.”