University of the Western Cape – Teacher Graduation

Printeremail

 It is a pleasure for me to be with you here today at UWC annual certificate ceremony in 2012.

This event is an important achievement and showcases UWC’s work in HIV prevention and response.

I understand that the 2012 certificate ceremony, as with the previous three years, celebrates the completion by pre-service education students and community members of three academic modules.

I congratulate the 200 pre-service teachers who have completed the 15-credit modules in HIV and Teaching Practice.

USAID, since inception of its programs in South Africa, dating back during apartheid years, has supported programs working in partnership with individuals, non-governmental organizations and higher education institutions.
UWC has partnered with us (USAID) in a number of areas, particularly in developing and shaping higher education programs, by making our development programs relevant and responsive to local needs.

Today we celebrate the long standing partnership and vision for the continued development of historically disadvantaged communities. UWC has helped ensure that the U.S. assistance programs make a difference. This long standing partnership is also in line with the current USAID Forward; to support and work with local entities.

As you graduate and start new lives in your communities and schools as teachers I believe the training you received will empower you to guide learners in schools to make the correct life choices.

Education and health in South Africa are key government priorities. This program supports the achievement of key Government priorities to improve education and health in South Africa.

I believe you have now acquired knowledge to manage HIV and AIDS within the schooling environment; most importantly, you know how to constructively deal with the challenges of HIV and AIDS.

You have gained relevant qualifications to strengthen life skills programs to effectively address HIV and AIDS prevention, gender based violence, alcohol and substance abuse and how to better work with other relevant Government departments.

The U.S. Government is very pleased to be working with UWC through USAID, with funding from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) to address education and health challenges to improve the quality of life for all.

On behalf of the USG and USAID, I wish you the best of luck in the work you will go on and do, and congratulations again for completing this wonderful program.

Thank you.