Joining the Tertiary Preparation Programme was the turning point in my journey. I had doubts about returning to education, but this program empowered me to overcome every challenge. The curriculum was demanding, yet it reignited my passion for learning, pushing me beyond what I thought possible. The instructors believed in me even when I doubted myself, providing the tools and support I needed to thrive. This program didn’t just prepare me academically; it gave me the confidence and resilience to pursue my dreams. Now, I’m stepping into university with a renewed sense of purpose and the unshakeable belief that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.

My name is Kagiso Pilusa, and I am a proud 2023 TEPP participant. My journey with TEPP was like building blocks, starting with my matric in 2021 and a gap year in 2022 to explore multiple career options. TEPP was instrumental in narrowing down my choices and preparing me for tertiary studies. The program helped me build confidence and enhance social interaction skills through various extracurricular activities, making my first year both enjoyable and well-rounded. I was introduced to advanced facilities and learned to leverage them effectively. Emotional support was always available, and KYB truly felt like a home away from home.

As a young man with a strong passion and determination to become a top-notch artisan, I knew I needed guidance to achieve my goal. My search led me to KYB Tech, and it turned out to be the perfect choice. Here, I found not just skilled artisans but also a dedicated lecturer who went above and beyond to help me reach my full potential. KYB Tech provides everything needed to become a well-rounded artisan, including the essential skills to collaborate effectively with diverse individuals.

I am an engineering student currently training at Kitso Ya Boleng Academy. My genuine appraisal of my experience with Kitso Ya Boleng is quite positive. The institution as a whole practices respect and professionalism, which provides a conducive learning environment. When I arrived, I was initially clueless about the trade I am training for, but the facilitators, who are knowledgeable and experienced, are all hands-on. Despite the long hours of training each day, the facilitators make an effort to ensure that the planned work for the day is completed and, most importantly, understood. My expectations were exceeded after just two months of training at Kitso Ya Boleng Academy. The level of training at the workshop has made my adjustment process smooth, thanks to the environment created there. The interaction between the Kitso Ya Boleng institution and its students ensures a comfortable working environment. The facilitators work well with the students, providing a detailed syllabus and explaining how everything will work, giving students real-world experience. Kitso Ya Boleng has well-respected and qualified trainers, and as a student of Kitso Ya Boleng, I am assured that with my hard work, my future goals will be supported by the institution.

I am Karabo Matsebe, a proud alumna of the 2023 TEPP program. A program that does more than just help you improve your academic performance or prepare for tertiary education, rather a catalyst for change, it will ignite the fire within you to become the best version of yourself, it teaches an individual to embrace challenges and work it out. A force that transforms ordinary students into extraordinary individuals. It is a community that’s driven by a shared goal of success. The best improved students resemble the testament to the incredible power of this program. For me, TEPP wasn’t just a stepping stone it was a launchpad that propelled me into a future filled with limitless possibilities.

Gathered here in the city of expertise, we find ourselves concluding what was undeniably a beautiful year, and I am most honoured and humbled to address such a diverse and accomplished audience. We come from various corners of our beloved country. From the Kalahari of Kuruman and Postmasburg To the untouched landscapes of Steelpoort Our journeys extend from the city of flowers, guarded by the Drakensberg Mountains in Pietermaritzburg To the platinum city of Rustenburg We hail from the cherry capital of the world in Ficksburg To the 100-year-old town of Delerayville, and, of course, the Texas of South Africa, Vryburg. In this room, we represent different settings and diverse upbringings, yet here we are, united by a singular goal—academic success But achieving this one great goal required a greater team. Our gratitude extends to the graceful trustees, the resilient KYB staff members (including Ms. Nnuku, Milly, Chantiny, Galaletsang, Mr. Donald, Mpho, and Thabiso), our admirable campus maintenance staff, the exquisite kitchen staff, and our magnificent lecturers. If there is one profound takeaway from this year it is the brilliant inspiring teamwork that is displayed by the KYB team. Their dedication stands as a testament to the belief that while we cannot build the future for our youth, we can indeed build our youth for the future. Our greatest compliment is that they stood with their moto and for that we honor them No speech would be complete without acknowledging the vital role played by our parents. We thank you for being there with us in taking this major step in our lives. It might be little to our knowledge, but we firmly believe that all you do is for our good. We thank you for the unseen prayers, the trust you’ve placed in us, and for taking the role of parenting us, for not many have the privilege. Lastly, but certainly not least, a special mention to the TEPPIES. Despite being crushed by an avalanche of workload throughout the year, you emerged victorious. Your work rate, from sunrise to sunset, deserves praise beyond measure. I am confident that your parents will be immensely proud of your achievements. In conclusion, we honor the dedicated team behind our successes and express our thanks to our parents.  You have built yourselves pillars in our lives that will forever remain firm and for that, we thank you.

I am thrilled to share my exceptional experience With Kitso Ya Boleng. The supportive environment, combined with the dedication of facilitators has made a profound impact on my academic journey. My experience at Kitso Ya Boleng is truly transformative. The small class sizes and personalised attention from my facilitators allowed me to thrive academically and explore my interests in a supportive environment. This institution has already helped me develop a strong foundation in my field and prepared me for success. I haven't even been here for a year but Kitso Ya Boleng has provided me with a Well-rounded education, a sense of belonging and the tools to achieve my goals. I am grateful for my time here and highly recommend it to anyone seeking a transformative educational experience that will prepare them for a lifetime of learning, grown and success.

The programme carried me through my medical school journey, and for that I am eternally grateful. I am now a qualified Medical Intern Doctor, obtaining my training for 2 years at Pholosong Regional Hospital. I will be serving my Community Service (for a duration of 1 year) in 2026.I am still building my brand. I am still trying my best. I still want to make you proud. I hope the TKB  now known as KYB Grads team know that they will always be dear to my heart. My passion is centred by my love for children, my aspiration is to have a children medical centre of my own which will reach out to children and improve their well-being.

I am Naledi Chepape, and I am proud to be part of the 2024 TEPP family. Being in this programme has helped me significantly improve academically, socially, and in many other aspects of my life. I was not ready to further my studies immediately after high school, and this programme provided a great opportunity for me to become the best version of myself before taking on the next chapter of my life, university. With the support I received, I was able to achieve and learn a lot in a short time. This programme has offered me incredible platforms for self-improvement, and I have made a family here, making it truly feel like home.

I am Simphiwe Ngcobo from KwaZulu-Natal. I chose to trust the Tertiary Education Preparation Programme in 2024 after a challenging matric year in 2023. Being part of the programme has helped me achieve much more than just academic improvement. It has been a valuable tool as I continue searching for a suitable career path. The programme has exposed me to many opportunities and extra activities, helping me build a positive relationship with my surroundings. I have never once felt different from other students, despite us coming from various cultures and regions. The love, care, and respect I receive has made me feel at home. I believe this programme has been a great success, and I will be able to use the knowledge that I have gained to live a better and more purposeful life. Above all, I hope that many more students will be given the chance and opportunity to experience this programme.

The guidance and mentorship from TEPP lecturers and the management were particularly impactful, helping me refine my teaching skills and grow as a leader. KYB’s commitment to holistic student development has been a cornerstone of my journey. Their focus on both academic success and personal enrichment has not only prepared me for a successful career in education but also instilled in me the confidence to excel in all areas of my life. The support I received from KYB has truly shaped my path, giving me the tools and mindset needed to pursue my dreams with determination and resilience