Nonhlanhla
Maisha
The Department of Community Safety
hosted a momentous event to honour the dedication and accomplishments of
employees who participated in the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program,
on the 19th of July 2024 at the Parktonian Hotel in Braamfontein. The
graduation ceremony served not only as a celebration of individual achievements
but also as a testament to the department's commitment to nurturing talent and
recognizing the diverse skills of its workforce.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a
process through which individuals can demonstrate and gain formal recognition
for the skills, knowledge, and experience they have acquired through work
experience, formal or informal training, or other life experiences. The
graduation ceremony was a culmination of years of hard work and perseverance by
the participants, for a journey they began in 2020. Individuals from various
units within the organization embarked on this journey to have their existing
skills and experiences formally acknowledged. For many, it was an opportunity
to validate years of practical knowledge and informal learning gained on the
job.
The ceremony commenced with an inspiring
keynote address by Chief Director for Corporate Management Services, Ms Ntombi
Manamela, who congratulated the graduates and emphasized the significance of
continuous learning and the value of recognizing prior learning in career
development.
The hall was filled with so much
jubilation as each participant was individually recognized for their commitment
to professional growth and excellence. Certificates were awarded to signify
their successful completion of the RPL program, marking a significant milestone
in their careers.
Among the guests in attendance, was the principal
of St Colonel Graduate Institute which is the institution from which the
program was conducted, Mr Colonel Ncube. Mr Ncube spoke passionately about the
importance of such a program in the workplace, he explained that such programs
are tools to redress past injustices and participants should not stop at the
certificates that they have obtained. “The key is in your hands now, you must
use this certificate to further your education” he exclaimed.
One of the graduates on the day was the
60 years old Mrs Lena Leotlela, also known as Ma Lena within the Department,
who joined the Department in 2010 as a 
cleaner. she shared her heartfelt testimonial and reflections on her RPL
journey, highlighting personal growth, newfound confidence, and enhanced job
satisfaction as direct outcomes of the program. Ma Lena explained that she only
had standard 10 when she joined the Department, this is due to the circumstance
at home and in the country when she was a learner. She said “I did not have an
opportunity to finish school and further my studies, but this program gave my
life a new meaning it revived my hope. It wasn’t an easy journey but I was
encouraged by the support the Department and the learning institution provided
us. I am now preparing for life after retirement and I am much motivated to use
this knowledge I have gained to serve my community. I would like to urge all
those who, like me, didn’t get the opportunity to learn to use this opportunity
and be encouraged and motivated by my story and learn that ‘thuto hae
tsofalwe’, meaning you are never too old to learn.”
The event provided a platform for
networking among colleagues and leaders across departments. Participants and
guests celebrated their achievements over refreshments, fostering a sense of solidarity
and community within the department.
The graduation ceremony underscored the
Department of Community Safety's commitment to investing in its workforce's
professional development. By implementing the RPL program, the organization not
only validated the skills and expertise of its employees but also positioned
itself as a leader in promoting lifelong learning and career advancement
opportunities.
As we reflect on the success of the
graduation ceremony, the Department remains steadfast in its dedication to
supporting employees' growth and recognizing their contributions. The RPL
program continues to be a cornerstone of our organizational strategy,
empowering employees to excel in their roles and contribute meaningfully to the
safety and well-being of our community.
In conclusion, the graduation ceremony
was not just a formal recognition of achievement but a celebration of the Department's
vibrant culture of learning and development. It served as a reminder of the
transformative power of recognizing prior learning and the limitless potential
it unlocks for both the individuals and the organization.