Velalanga Alumni Association Celebrates 1st Anniversary, Looks to the Future

The outgoing Chairperson of the Velalanga Alumni Association, Mphumzi Mdekazi, has addressed alumni on the occasion of their 1st anniversary. He thanked God and all members for their support and dedication to the association.

Mphumzi Mdekazi, the outgoing Chairperson of Velalanga Alumni Association, has been leading the group since its inception. He was appointed Chairperson in July 2025. During his tenure, he has been instrumental in setting up various committees aimed at tackling socio-economic challenges in their communities. These committees include the Education Committee, Health Committee, Economic Empowerment Committee, and Community Development Committee. These committees have been crucial in implementing projects and initiatives that have positively impacted the lives of many.

In his address, Mphumzi Mdekazi acknowledged the contributions of former Principals, Parents, and Teachers of the institution, who laid the foundation for the association. He also thanked the current generation of alumni for their enthusiasm and commitment to the cause.

Mphumzi Mdekazi went on to explain that the association has made significant strides in building relationships with institutions such as Walter Sisulu University, Ikhala TVET College, Government Entities, Parliament, and the Private Sector. These partnerships have opened up new opportunities for collaboration and resource mobilization.

However, Mphumzi Mdekazi also expressed skepticism towards critics who have been questioning the association's efforts. He challenged them to contribute positively to the community, rather than criticizing those who are working to make a difference.

In his parting message, Mphumzi Mdekazi urged alumni to continue working together to rebuild and strengthen their community. He expressed confidence that the face of Velalanga will change for the better in the years to come.

Velalanga Alumni Association was established in July 2025 with the aim of promoting education, economic empowerment, and community development. The association has been working tirelessly to address the socio-economic challenges faced by its members and the broader community.

Mphumzi Mdekazi's tenure as Chairperson marks a significant milestone in the association's history. His dedication and leadership have undoubtedly laid the foundation for a brighter future.

During his address, Mphumzi Mdekazi also touched on the legacy of the Pan Africanist Legendary English Teacher, Mr. Cyril Muwonge, the Founding Patron of the Velalanga Alumni Association. He expressed gratitude for Mr. Muwonge's contributions to the association and acknowledged the debt of gratitude owed to him and the founding parents and principals of Velalanga.

A special thank you goes out to Mr. Cyril Muwonge, the Founding Patron of the Velalanga Alumni Association, for his tireless efforts and dedication to the association. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of Velalanga alumni.

As the Velalanga Alumni Association moves forward, it is clear that Mphumzi Mdekazi's leadership has left a lasting impact. His commitment to the association's mission and vision has inspired alumni to work together towards a common goal.

A blockquote from Mphumzi Mdekazi's address:

'It is for this reason that, I would like to make a direct call and an open frank challenge to those with open skepticism and those who continue to bad mouth the Alumni, to please play their part and contribute in their own little corners and change the socio-economic conditions of our people, than the obsession to criticize those who are trying their best in getting our people out of unemployment, poverty and de-developlomental trajectory.'

• Mphumzi Mdekazi, outgoing Chairperson of Velalanga Alumni Association.