PGCE Orientation Inspires New Cohort

Faculty of Education welcomes students with resilience, music, and motivation

The PGCE Orientation Day was nothing short of inspiring, energising, and unforgettable. From laughter and music to moments of deep reflection, the new cohort of students was welcomed into the Faculty of Education with warmth and purpose.

The day began with Mr. Darryl David as Master of Ceremonies. With his trademark humour and lively presence, he kept the audience engaged and smiling.

Prof. Khanare, chairperson of the PGCE committee, opened the event with her unique charm, reminding students that this journey is not about deficits but about harnessing the talents and connections we already possess. Prof. Govender, Dean of the Faculty of Education, then delivered the official welcome, setting the tone for a day of inspiration and community.

Special Guest: Ms. Popina Khumanda

One of the most moving moments of the day came from special guest Ms. Popina Khumanda, author of The Smallest Ones.

At just five years old, Popina’s childhood was shattered when rebel soldiers invaded her village in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Captured and subjected to unimaginable trauma, she and her sister eventually escaped and embarked on a harrowing journey to South Africa. Her story of resilience continued in the Eastern Cape, where she found refuge in a children’s home in Despatch. Having never attended school before, she held a pen for the very first time in that classroom. From that moment, her journey to education and freedom began.

Her testimony left students on the edge of their seats, goosebumps rising as she spoke of survival, hope, and the transformative power of education. For PGCE students, her journey is a powerful reminder: teaching is not just about imparting knowledge - it is about opening doors to freedom and possibility.

Music, Fun & Faculty Spirit

The morning was filled with rhythm and joy thanks to a live DJ who kept spirits high. Students hummed along to familiar tunes, and in a delightful twist, Prof. Khanare herself took a turn behind the DJ booth, headphones on, looking effortlessly cool.

Prof. Khanare showing her DJ skills

Programme Overview & Motivation

The afternoon sessions brought focus back to the academic journey ahead. Members of the PGCE Committee and teaching staff provided a comprehensive overview of the programme, ensuring students felt prepared and supported.

Dr. Sylvester closed the day with his lively motivational talk, leaving students energised and ready to embrace the journey ahead.

Acknowledgements

A heartfelt thank you goes to Prof. Khanare, Dr. Riffel, Mr. David, Dr. Fagan and Ms. Allie (whose animated rendition of “I Will Survive” had students cheering), Mrs. Christma Lewis (our rockstar behind the scenes ensuring everything flowed smoothly), Mr. Ndabeni and all the dedicated staff who introduced the programme and guided students through the day.

PGCE’s Off to a Great Start

With laughter, music, inspiration, and heartfelt stories, Orientation Day set the stage for a year of growth and achievement.

Onward and forward!