By Matṧeliso Phulane
The International Business College (IBC) on Friday held its 10th graduation ceremony where 155 students graduated from various faculties.
Four graduates received best performers’ awards. These were Ntṧebo Motṧoene(craft certificate in catering), Tlotliso Ranyamatsane (electrical installation), Khoabane Marabe (automotive mechanics), and ‘Mamokete Ramositose (national diploma in accounting).
The institution was founded in 1992 by the late Kali Charles Thaanyane.
The college mainly caters for students who have not been accepted into tertiary institutions due to unsatisfactory Lesotho General Certificate of Secondary Education results.
It also offers part-time courses for those in full time employment who would like to develop or diversify their skills, as well as the mainstream student market. These programmes include national diplomas in accounting, business management, hospitality management, as well as craft certificates in catering, automotive mechanics, fashion design, and carpentry.
In her remarks, IBC proprietor ‘Masenate Thaanyane said she was impressed by the way the college has grown since its inception.
She noted that she started the institution with the aim of helping unemployed women to acquire qualifications in sewing. These were referred to as ‘breast feeding grass’ at home but she managed to change their lives and most of them have now opened their own businesses.
Thaanyane recounted that managing the IBC was not easy after her late husband’s death some years ago.
She further congratulated the outgoing students and wished them success in future.
In an interview with theReporter, Khoabane Marabe who received an award in automotive engineering said he hoped his qualification would get him a job.
Alternatively, he would strive to open his own workshop and create employment for himself and others.
For her part, Relebohile Sefeeane said she was delighted that she had eventually graduated.
Sefeeane noted that completing the course was not easy due to financial challenges as a self-sponsored student.
“It was difficult; IBC is a private institute and relies on student fees to run its operation. Sometimes I would miss lectures due to late payment of fees,” she said.
Sefeane added that technology and innovation courses offered by the college were helpful and allows graduates to start their own businesses.
