FASSET's 24th AGM highlights strategic achievements and collaborative vision
Story: Phumla Ngubo | Photo: Supplied
On a significant day for stakeholders in the finance and accounting sectors, the Mayor of Walter Sisulu Local Municipality (WSLM), Cllr Vania Davids, and the Director of Corporate Services, Rene Godsson, attended the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET).
The event commenced with Interim Board chairperson, Bongani Mathibela, reviewing and approving the minutes from the previous AGM held on 29 November 2023, reaffirming key discussions from that session. CEO, Ayanda Mafuleka, welcomed attendees to FASSET's 24th AGM, acknowledging representatives from various bodies, including the National Skills Authority, officials from Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), and chairpersons of FASSET’s Board Committees.
Mafuleka proudly reflected on FASSET’s achievements over the past financial year, reporting that the organization met 90% of its strategic targets outlined in the Annual Performance Plan—a remarkable improvement of over 100% compared to the previous year. She also highlighted FASSET’s enhanced visibility on social media and its partnerships with Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, as well as Community Education Training (CET) colleges, underscoring the organization’s commitment to educational advancement.
Mayor Vania Davids addressed the audience, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the AGM. She noted the critical role of commitment to workforce and community development and, referencing Xhosa culture, emphasized the distinction between "invited guests" and "visitors" as a means of fostering meaningful relationships and collaboration.
In her address, Mayor Davids underscored the relevance of the United Nations' Agenda 2030 and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on those closely aligned with FASSET's mission. These included Quality Education, Decent Work, Economic Growth, and Reduced Inequality. She connected these global goals to South Africa's National Skills Development Plan, envisioning an educated and skilled workforce as a driver of sustainable development.
The Mayor highlighted her municipality's dedication to providing quality services and stressed the importance of partnerships across sectors to achieve shared goals. She particularly praised FASSET’s internship programs for nurturing young professionals and contributing to local economic growth. Drawing from her own experiences, she acknowledged FASSET’s support for WSLM's objectives, emphasizing the mutual benefits of their collaboration.
In her closing remarks, Mayor Davids delivered an inspiring message: “Thathani lento. Iyasebenza, iyaphilisa,” meaning, “Take this. It works, it sustains.” She concluded with an enthusiastic call to action, “LESEDI! KGANYA!” signaling hope for continued collaboration and progress.
The meeting celebrated FASSET’s past successes while laying the groundwork for future partnerships aimed at enhancing South Africa's workforce. Stakeholders left the AGM with optimism and a renewed commitment to achieving a shared vision of workforce and community development.