- SANDF Demonstrates Military Capabilities to Youth: The South African National Defence Force showcased its air and ground capabilities to Grade 12 learners to inspire and educate them about military roles.
- Educational Initiative Led by Retired Lieutenant General: Led by Lieutenant General Derrick Mgwebi, the program aims to expose underprivileged students to developmental opportunities and military careers.
- Collaborative Effort Among Military Units: The event was organized through collaboration between Army Support Base Eastern Cape, Air Force Station Port Elizabeth, and Joint Tactical Headquarters Eastern Cape.
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) showcased its air and ground capabilities to Grade 12 learners from Mente Senior Secondary School in the Mbhashe Local Municipality during an educational visit to Port Elizabeth on 9 August 2025.
The initiative, led by Lieutenant General (Retired) Derrick Mgwebi, aims to expose underprivileged learners to educational and developmental opportunities. The day was made possible through the collaboration of Army Support Base Eastern Cape, Air Force Station Port Elizabeth, and Joint Tactical Headquarters Eastern Cape, showing SANDF’s commitment to youth engagement and inspiration.
Welcoming the learners, Colonel Vusumzi Ngcobo, Officer Commanding Army Support Base Eastern Cape, introduced the programme. Lieutenant Colonel Jim Puleng Molema from Joint Tactical Headquarters Eastern Cape and Major Sharlene Jegels, Communications Officer at Army Support Base Eastern Cape, briefed the learners on the SANDF’s role and enlistment requirements.
A key part of the visit was an interactive session with Sergeant J.M. De Villiers, Flight Engineer from 15 Squadron Charlie Flight, who introduced the learners to the operational BK117 helicopter. Under strict supervision, the learners had the opportunity to explore the aircraft, learn about its functions, and understand the teamwork required for its operation.
The tour concluded at the SA Air Force Museum in Port Elizabeth, where Warrant Officer Morne Bellingham and Lance Corporal Odwa Mbango guided the learners through historical aircraft displays and non-operational military equipment, with all safety measures observed.
The SANDF expressed pride in offering an experience that went beyond a simple tour, giving learners lasting memories, a broader outlook, and inspiration for their future careers.
