The DaVinci Institute recently participated in a dynamic engagement in Sasolburg, where we connected with students, parents, and educators eager to explore higher education opportunities. The event was a resounding success, with an overwhelming level of interest in our programmes and an inspiring energy from the students in attendance.
Prof. Bennie Anderson, our CEO, delivered a thought-provoking address that captivated students and sparked meaningful discussions about their future in higher education. His insights resonated deeply, prompting a wave of curiosity and enthusiasm as students eagerly approached our team to learn more about the opportunities available at DaVinci. Many of these students had obtained a Bachelor’s pass in matric, demonstrating their academic readiness and commitment to further studies.
However, what made this event truly stand out was the level of parental involvement. Parents not only accompanied their children but also actively engaged in discussions, asking key questions about the credibility of our qualifications, employability prospects, and funding options. As Jeremy Jeffrey, head of strategic support, noted:
“Parental support is a crucial factor in student success. Seeing such strong engagement from parents reinforces the importance of making higher education more accessible and equipping students with the right tools to succeed.”
One of the most pressing concerns that emerged from our conversations was funding. A staggering 99% of the students we engaged with cited financial constraints as a significant barrier to higher education. While their interest in DaVinci’s programmes was strong, the lack of accessible funding options remains a challenge. This underscores the urgent need for sustainable funding solutions, scholarships, and strategic partnerships that can help academically capable students overcome financial obstacles.
A Unique Advantage in a Competitive Landscape
Another key takeaway from the event was DaVinci’s distinct positioning in the higher education landscape. While several training providers were present, most focused on vocational training or industry-specific certifications. The DaVinci Institute stood out as the only dedicated higher education institution at the event, offering degree-level qualifications that integrate academic learning with real-world industry application through our Mode 2 learning methodology. This innovative approach was particularly well received by students eager to gain practical, career-relevant skills that align with the evolving demands of the modern workplace.
In total, we engaged with 209 students who expressed a keen interest in pursuing further studies with us. This represents a significant pool of potential future DaVincians—students who are eager to embrace a transformative education journey but require support in accessing funding.
Looking Ahead
The Sasolburg event reaffirmed the growing demand for quality higher education and highlighted the barriers that must be addressed to make it more accessible. Moving forward, The DaVinci Institute remains committed to exploring funding solutions and strengthening our engagement efforts to ensure that ambitious students have the opportunity to realise their full potential.
This is just the beginning of many more impactful engagements to come!
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