Sep 12, 2024
2024 BOLAND COLLEGE GRADUATION: A CELEBRATION OF GROWTH, INCLUSIVITY, AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

From left to right:

BACK: Wickus v.d. Westhuizen, Rees Davids, Adiel Arnolds, Bathandwa Mooi, Dirk Boer and Minette Kilian

MIDDLE: Margie Mackriel, Angelica Williams, Salma Emjedi, Anastasia Adriaanse, Derrick Matthee, Liza Hamman, Melanie Vermaak, Chaleen October, Helen van Voore, Nateshia Mcombring, Afrika Tshona, Romenia Baxter, Alfred Mwamuka and Annelize van Zyl

FRONT: Diona van Wyk, Neil Jansen, Charles Goodwin, Sindi Lingela, Danny Plaatjies and Nomalizo Mpati

The 2024 Boland College Annual Certificate and Diploma Ceremony marked a significant milestone in our institution’s history, with several notable firsts that underscored our dedication to growth, inclusivity, and community engagement. Held at the Coetzenburg Centre in Stellenbosch, this year’s event was our first-ever single, large-scale graduation ceremony.

The Coetzenburg Centre’s expansive capacity allowed us to bring together all graduates, staff, and guests under one roof for a unified celebration. Adding a vibrant community touch, the event featured performances by local schools, including a warm welcome by the Marimba Band from Rhenish Primary School and a moving rendition of the national anthem by the Choir from Rhenish Girls’ High School. These performances set a joyous tone for the day and reinforced our connection to the local community.

For the first time, staff from all campuses, including the Head Office, were able to attend the ceremony. The staff procession was particularly notable, with participants proudly wearing their individual academic hoods, representing their respective qualifications and adding an extra layer of pride and distinction to the event.

This year, we were honoured to have Mr. Alan Knott-Craig as our guest speaker. His insightful and inspiring address left a lasting impression on all attendees, offering valuable guidance to our graduates as they embark on their future endeavours.

The ceremony also included a special moment of recognition for Ms. Sindi Lingela, the former College Council Chairperson, who received a surprise award for her remarkable contributions during her tenure. Her leadership throughout the Covid-19 pandemic was centered around student and staff wellbeing and ensuring the continuation of the academic excellence Boland College is known for. Her dedication profoundly impacted Boland College, making this recognition richly deserved.

To ensure inclusivity, the event was live-streamed, allowing graduates who could not attend due to work commitments or remote locations to participate virtually. This initiative ensured that everyone, regardless of circumstance, could share in this momentous occasion.

The 2024 graduation ceremony was a resounding success, reflecting Boland College’s unwavering commitment to growth, inclusivity, and community engagement. Congratulations to all our graduates, and heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make this event truly unforgettable.status particularly the outgoing College Council, chaired by Ms Sindi Lingela who presided over clean audits for the full duration of the Council’s 5-year term.

As they celebrate this significant achievement, they are inspired to continue striving for excellence, ensuring that Boland College remains a beacon of quality education and effective governance.

Congratulations to everyone who contributed to this remarkable success.