Government sends students to Turkey

The Free State provincial government has sent 33 students from across the province to Mevlana University in Turkey, where they will pursue their studies in the fields of engineering, international trade and medicine.
The project was spearheaded by Free State premier, Ace Magashule, in conjunction with the Turkish government.

The send –off of the students, which was attended by MEC’s, heads of departments (HODs), celebrities and business people, took place at the OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg on Friday.

The students applied for the scholarships and their applications were evaluated jointly by the provincial government and representatives of Mevlana University who selected the best 33.

The MEC for economic development, tourism and environmental Affairs, Mosebenzi Zwane, encouraged the students to study hard and not disappoint the provincial government and the people of the Free State.

“You must remember you are not only representing yourselves but the country and the African continent. We are very proud of you because you (students) have shown that dedication and hard work pays. Go there and make us, the president of the country and the premier of the Free State proud,” said Zwane.

Kamohelo Makhele (24) from Zastron, Southern Free State, is one of the 33 students who will study international trade for the next four years at Mevlana University. International trade is the study of the exchange of capital, goods, and services across international borders or territories. In most countries, such trade represents a significant share of gross domestic product (GDP).

Another bursary beneficiary, Kamohelo Makhele, was elated to get a call from the premier’s office informing that he was selected to be part of the scholarship to study abroad three weeks after he had applied.

“After receiving that call, I pinched myself to see if I’m not dreaming. It was always my dream to study hard so that I can be somebody one day. I also plan to financially assist my mother who is unemployed.

“Despite dreaming about this day for many years, I never knew that my dream would become reality so soon. I want to thank all those who made this possible for the rest of us, especially those us who come from the disadvantaged families,” said Makhele.

The students were accompanied by Agriculture MEC, Mamiki Qabathe, as Head of Delegation, HOD for education, Stanley Malope, provincial government Communication Services and the International Relations staff in the office of the Premier.