Solidarity recognised the critical shortage of well-trained and skilled artisans in South Africa. In 2006 it established a training college, Sol-Tech, which offers a wide range of courses in scarce skills.
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In the Media
Sol-Tech’s welcoming day was a pleasant surpriseIt’s 09:00 am on the 1st of February and students are streaming in at the Booysens-campus in Pretoria-west. As you are driving in, you immediately see the new Sol-Tech building waiting, as the builders promised it would be finished by the end of the week. The first shock is the amount of people present – about 300 students, and parents here and there.
Elbie Liebenberg, Head of Sol-Tech, kicked off with a welcoming and then asked ds. Andre Thomas to open with a scripture reading and prayer. Once again Sol-Tech fills one with a warm feeling of pride – a Afrikaans and Christian training college. Immediately you feel at home.
Afterwards Elbie Liebenberg addressed the students again, emphasising what a privilege it is to get a opportunity to study at such a quality tertiary institution like Sol-Tech. She also explained that Sol-Tech believe in a balanced life for students. Academics, sport, as well as the social and natural spiritual enhancement, is of utmost importance in the training of Sol-Tech students.
In addition, administrative arrangements, disciplinary procedures and general information where shared with the students. The students looked excited – even more than usual. Maybe it was the Sol-Tech rugby try-outs scheduled to take place that evening, but hopefully it was the realisation that one has the opportunity to make something of oneself.
Without any doubts, the day was a success. Whilst walking out, many students explained why they chose Sol-Tech. “I heard the place is good, and I want to work with my hands,” one said, while another just said: “Afrikaans and Christianity.” Even the father of one of the students explained why he was so impressed with Sol-Tech: “Professional and in Afrikaans – where else would you want your child to go?”
Sol-Tech is constantly reaching new heights, you don’t always realise how many young people are depending on this college. Nor how all these young people want to play a positive role in the South-African economy by learning rare skills.
Solidarity wishes all the first year students good luck for the year ahead!
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Video and Sound
Sound byte on the open day: Elbie Liebenberg visits Solidariteit Radio - Listen here.