From Left to Right: Mr Siyabulela Vikilahle(Campus Manager: Caledon(Acting)), Ms Anneline Taljaard(Psychometrist, Boland College), Mr Charles Goodwin(Principal: Boland College), Miss Alexandra Militz(Representative: GIZ), Mr Lisema Matsietsi (Representative: GIZ ZA), Ms Minette Kilian(Assistant Director: Marketing and Corporate Communications), Ms Wendy Adams(Deputy Principal: Registration Services) and Ms Romenia Baxter(Assistant Director: Student Support and Development Services
Worcester, 31 October 2025: With the vineyards of Worcester as a backdrop, Boland College, in partnership with GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit), recently hosted its Digital Economy Employer Breakfast at Nuy on the Hill, a morning that celebrated collaboration, innovation, and the power of digital transformation in education.
Far more than just a networking event, the gathering marked a milestone in Boland College’s journey to reimagine education for the modern world. As technology reshapes industries and employability, Boland College continues to position itself at the forefront of digital innovation, one of only a few institutions in South Africa selected by GIZ to pilot the Career Guidance Virtual Project.
This partnership is both an honour and a testament to Boland College’s reputation for excellence, adaptability, and visionary leadership. It reinforces the College’s commitment to equipping students with not only technical expertise but also the digital confidence, creativity, and purpose to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. “It is a privilege to be recognised by GIZ as a partner in pioneering digital career pathways,” said Mr Charles Goodwin, Principal of Boland College. “At Boland College, we believe education must evolve alongside technology. Our students deserve opportunities that prepare them not only for the jobs of today, but for the possibilities of tomorrow.”
The event brought together guests from DHET, industry, and fellow TVET Colleges, all exploring how digital innovation can enhance employability and bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace readiness.
Ms Nozipho Khumalo, Deputy Director: Lecturer Support Systems at DHET, delivered a message of encouragement that resonated deeply with the audience. Her passion for advancing the TVET sector was evident as she emphasized the importance of empowering both students and lecturers and ensuring that differently abled students are meaningfully included in the journey toward digital transformation. Her words served as a powerful reminder: “When we invest in a student, we invest in a future leader. When we support a lecturer, we strengthen an entire community.”
The keynote address by Mr Hein Wagner, Executive Director of the Hein Wagner Academy, left guests inspired. Blind since birth, Mr Wagner’s life story and message underscored the limitless potential of technology to create opportunity. “Technology has levelled the playing field,” he said. “In the digital world, ability is measured by imagination, drive, and learning, not by limitations.”
The uplifting tone of the morning was further enriched by a soulful musical performance from Mr Lulutho Daniso of Boland College’s Stellenbosch Campus, a creative reminder that the digital era is not only about data and devices, but also about human connection, creativity, and innovation.
Through initiatives like these, Boland College continues to live out its values of integrity, excellence, and innovation, ensuring that its students are not merely entering the digital economy, they are leading it.