The Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust (CRET) celebrated the remarkable achievements of its bursary students at its annual Recognition Awards ceremony at The Venue in Melrose Arch, on Thursday evening.
The prestigious event honoured 45 graduates from various universities and TVET colleges who completed their studies in 2022 and 2023 through CRET’s comprehensive bursary programme, which supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds in their pursuit of higher education study and vocational training.
The support is based on the potential of candidates and not just on academic performance. This results in the support of students who would ordinarily be overlooked by other bursary programmes that seek out top achievers only.
Since its formalised inception in 2000 the Trust has distributed over 400 bursaries to deserving young South Africans.
“The CRET Recognition Awards not only celebrates academic excellence but also highlights the transformative impact of our holistic approach to youth development. Our aim is to empower students to become well-rounded individuals who can make meaningful contributions to society,” said Chantelle Oosthuizen, Executive Director of CRET.
The graduates were recognised also for their outstanding leadership skills and social commitment.
CRET offers more than just financial assistance for tuition and accommodation. The program includes mentorship, leadership development, psychological and social support, and holiday work experience programs. These initiatives help students develop essential soft skills and fosters a supportive community environment.
Dr Sazi Nzama, Chairperson of the CRET Alumni Advisory Board, added: “Our graduates, me included, are living proof that with the right support and opportunities, young people can achieve extraordinary things. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and excited to see how they will continue to inspire and lead in their communities and beyond.”
President Cyril Ramaphosa, who originated the Trust with funding support for disadvantaged students from speaking fees he earned in the mid-1990s, affirmed the role of education and of CRET in a keynote address.
”Education is the key that unlocks the golden door of freedom,” he said.
”We can say with pride that as CRET we were there at freedom’s ring in 1994. Now, it is thirty years into democracy, and we will continue to be here for a long time to come.
”Through our work, we will continue to unlock many more doors for the men and women of our country. Doors to self-betterment, progress, and prosperity for all with a hunger for learning,” he said.
The awards come as Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation, of which CRET is a partner entity, celebrates its 20th anniversary, highlighting a sustained track record to transform lives. CRET has enabled many young people to realise their potential and to break the hold of intergenerational poverty suffered by their families.
The 2024 CRET Recognition Awards provided an inspiring evening, celebrating the success and dedication of students who have excelled both academically and in their personal development. It was attended by representatives of CRET’S longstanding partners, Grindrod, Merafe Resources, Phembani, Huawei and Victor Industries, as well as representatives of various youth-led organisations.
