On the 13th of June 2025, PROTEC Tongaat celebrated a milestone moment and honoured an extraordinary class of 2025 graduates whose talents span from engineering to psychology and ICT. It was a powerful reminder of the real-world impact of investing in education and our youth.

The graduates expressed their gratitude to PROTEC and Tongaat Hulett, whose support has had a  positive impact on their lives. This long-standing partnership has empowered young people across KwaZulu-Natal, in communities like Tongaat, Verulam, Ndwedwe and Bhamshela and plays a vital role in addressing South Africa’s urgent need for scarce skills.

PROTEC’s CEO Balan Moodley delivered an inspiring keynote, praising the graduates’ tenacity while reaffirming the organisation’s mission: to nurture young leaders, fuel the STEM pipeline, and provide the kind of mentorship that drives sustainable success. The guest speakers, Dr Nicole Zinhle Khamanga from Ladysmith Regional Hospital and Nhlanhla Philani Ngcobo from Lithendo Projects, were both former PROTEC students. They shared personal stories about their journey from learners to professionals, showing current students that success is possible and within reach.

Tongaat Hulett goodie bags were handed to each graduate as a token of celebration and support and the day ended with a strong message from Lucas Ntuli. He reminded us all that success needs teamwork. It takes learners, teachers, donors, and communities working together to unlock potential. 

To honour their hard work, each graduate received a special goodie bag from Tongaat Hulett. As the day came to a close, Lucas Ntuli. shared a heartfelt reminder: success doesn’t happen alone, it takes learners, teachers, donors, and communities working together to unlock potential.  #GrowingASweetFuture