Boland TVET College celebrated a significant milestone with the launch of its inaugural Boland Reconnect Alumni and Stakeholder Engagement at the Stellenbosch Campus. The evening brought together alumni, partners and industry stakeholders under the theme “From classrooms to communities: building futures, together.”

The event marked the beginning of a new chapter in the College’s commitment to strengthening relationships with former students and industry partners, while celebrating the transformative power of technical and vocational education.

The evening began with a warm welcome from Mr. Wickus van der Westhuizen, followed by Boland College Principal, Mr. Goodwin, who set the tone with an inspiring address that highlighted the importance of reconnection and community collaboration.

“When we chose the word Reconnect, we did so with intention,” said Mr. Goodwin. “Because reconnection is not just about looking back, it’s about moving forward together. It’s about asking: How can we build an even stronger future for our College, our students, and our communities?”

Mr. Goodwin reflected on Boland College’s enduring impact through its values of excellence, innovation, integrity, respect, and accountability. He emphasised the institution’s vision of education that extends beyond classrooms, preparing students to become innovators, leaders, and contributors to society.

“Education’s true success lies not in certificates on a wall, but in the lives touched, the jobs created, and the hope restored,” he concluded.

The College’s Deputy Principal: Registration Services, Mrs. Wendy Adams, formally introduced Boland Reconnect, a platform designed to celebrate alumni achievements, foster mentorship and collaboration, and build a dynamic network that supports lifelong learning.

“At its core, Boland Reconnect is about people, people who started their journeys here and who, after tonight, will continue contributing meaningfully to broader society,” said Mrs. Adams.

“Our purpose is to honour our alumni, create opportunities for collaboration, and strengthen the Boland College community into a living, supportive network that promotes continuous growth.”

Mrs. Adams also provided insights into the evolving educational landscape shaped by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), highlighting the significance of workplace-based learning and the need for strategic partnerships with employers to ensure graduates are job-ready and aligned with industry needs.

Guests were treated to an inspiring success story from Chef Ashley Wynand, a proud Boland College alumnus whose journey embodies the College’s mission of transforming education into opportunity. The programme also featured Lieutenant Colonel Elroy Oostendorp from SAPS Provincial Human Resources Department, who shared insights into skills development and collaboration opportunities within the public service.

The evening concluded with a vote of thanks from Deputy Principal: Corporate Services, Mr. Danny Plaatjies, who acknowledged the dedication of the organising team, speakers, and all attendees who contributed to the event’s success.

As the first of many engagements under the Boland Reconnect banner, the event laid the foundation for a vibrant alumni network that will play an active role in mentorship, community upliftment, and institutional growth.

“Imagine what we could achieve if every alumnus here gave just a bit of their time, expertise, or network to support one student or one project,” said Mr. Goodwin. “That’s how transformation happens, one connection at a time.