Since the inception of Principals Academy Trust in 2013, the UCT’s Graduate School of Business (GSB), has played a vital role in empowering education managers within the school system. On January 27, 2024, the GSB Class of 2023, consisting of principals who completed the short course Principals Management Development Programme, celebrated a significant milestone as they graduated. The 23 graduates were:
| Etienne de Villiers | Agulhas School of Skills |
| Isaac (Ike) Morkel | Alicedale Primary School |
| Tristan Brikkels | Athlone North Primary School |
| Florina Julies | Bergendal Primary School |
| Liesl Apolles | Blossom Street Primary School |
| Gert van Tonder | Bosmansdam High School |
| Rodger Cupido | Cloetesville Laerskool |
| Cibella Van Geems | De Heide Primary School |
| William Shand | Delft Primary School |
| Ivor (Rudolph) Rudolph | Delft Technical High School |
| Bongiwe Kuze | Fairdale Primary School |
| Leon Kapp | Maitland High School |
| Ebrahim (Abe) Abrahams | Muhammadeyah Moslem Primary School |
| Gareth Duraan | Paarlzicht Primary School |
| Genene Mason | Parow Inclusive Primary School |
| Oxford Jack | Skurweberg Secondary School |
| Nazilee Martinus | Spes Bona High School |
| Martina Steyn | St Augustines RC Primary School |
| Granville Crowster | St Mary’s RC Primary School |
| Carol Abrahams | Stellenzicht Secondary School |
| Mogamat (Luddy) Luddy | Thornton Road Primary School |
| Ferrentia September | Wes-Eind Primary School |
| Leigh-Ann Lenders | Zonnebloem Girls’ Primary School |
The event welcomed guests, including the graduates, their families, representatives from the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), PAT funders, and team members. Attendees had the privilege of hearing Professor Catherine Duggan, the esteemed Director of the GSB, deliver an inspiring address filled with words of encouragement and motivation, setting the tone for the celebratory occasion. Additionally, Ms. Leela Naidoo, representing Capitec Bank, shared insights into the comprehensive math intervention initiatives they are implementing in schools, emphasising the importance of such interventions in shaping the future of education.
Gert van Tonder, the group’s elected president, delivered a heartfelt speech. He reflected on the cohort’s collective journey, acknowledging the challenges faced and the triumphs achieved along the way. He aptly noted, “It is a tale of learning, laughter, and leadership that has transformed us not just as professionals but as individuals.”
Among the Class of 2023, Cibella van Geems (photo) emerged as the top student, demonstrating exceptional dedication and academic excellence throughout the programme. Her achievement is a testament to her unwavering commitment to continuous growth and development.
Furthermore, the prestigious Shirley Williamson Shields were bestowed upon Mr. Mxolisi Mbobo from Intshayelelo Primary School and Mr. Michael Mavovana from Hector Peterson Secondary School. Each year this floating trophee is awarded to the high school and primary school that had shown the greatest improvement using the Systemic and NSC result from the year immediately prior to the year they joined the programme.
As we celebrate the accomplishments of the GSB Class of 2023, we extend our commendations to each graduate for their resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Their journey stands as an inspiration to all, reaffirming the transformative power of education and its profound impact on individuals, communities, and society as a whole.