ENGINEERS ‘OVER THE MOON’ AT GRADUATION

By Amn Tebogo Kekana, AD ASTRA Magazine, photos by Cpl Wiko van der Westhuizen 

Three South African Air Force (SAAF) engineers, stationed at 5ASU under the leadership of Officer Commanding, Col Adriaan Nel, were commissioned on 13 October 2009. They are: Lts Ashley Magrath, Sibusiso Yotho and Thomas Mkhalipi.

Lt Gen Carlo Gagiano formally commissioning Lt Sibusiso Yotho.

The members, who studied their different disciplines (Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Electronic Engineering) at state expense, said this was a most remarkable time since they did not have to worry about tuition fees and study materials. They acknowledged that it was the privilege of financial support from the SAAF that allowed them to pass their examinations. 

“The five years that I spent at the University of Stellenbosch studying Industrial Engineering made me grow. I was really fortunate to have had a chance to advance academically under the SAAF’s wings and I plan to turn my theory lessons into practice,” commented Lt A. Magrath. 

Lt Yotho, a mechanical engineer, said that he had always wanted to do something worthwhile with his life. He enjoyed his studies at the University of Pretoria and added that he was thankful to the SAAF and especially for the support of God, family and friends.

“I have learnt the importance of keeping my eyes on the ball and never to lose focus in all aspects of life. I want to see the day when young, vibrant engineers in the SAAF take ownership of their lives and actually become part of designing their own systems. It happened to me; you can also do it,” said the joyful Lt T. Mkhaliphi.

“You have made the SAAF proud by withstanding all the pressures that were associated with your studies and it is with great pleasure to congratulate you: well done! As officers, you need to understand that this is where the real training starts, because you are now charged with the role of leadership. May you prosper in your professional disciplines,” said Lt Gen Gagiano. 

“This is a proud moment for me as it illustrates the importance of support; we have done everything we could to always maintain communication with the now commissioned students. We intervened when there were challenges in the personal lives of these students,” said Warrant Officer Maarten Coetzee, training coordinator for the Engineers.  

Ends/tek