The graduation took place at the Transnet School of Rail in Esselen Park on Thursday, 16 October 2014. Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Pamela Gillies CBE and Group Chief Executive of Transnet SOC Ltd, Mr Brian Molefe, and prof Daneel van Lill, Executive Dean: Faculty of Management (UJ) led the first graduation ceremony for Transnet employees who have completed degrees, diplomas and certificates in railway operations management, as the company intensifies training to boost its service. The UJ Department of Transport, played a pivotal role in the success of this programme, the first of its kind that offers a formal qualification in railway operations management in South Africa. The programme originated in the UK through collaboration with the Institution of Railway Operators. The graduates have qualifications from GCU, with the programme delivered in South Africa in partnership with UJ.

A total of 85 students were recognised for their great achievement. Graduates received various qualifications ranging from Bachelor of Science degrees in Railway Operations Management, Diplomas of Higher Education and Certificates of Higher Education. This was indeed a great milestone in the lives of the graduates and for the Department of Transport and Supply Chain Management in the Faculty of Management at UJ.

Transnet Freight Rail strives towards “more skilled employees, improved performance and productivity and marching towards being a world-class railway with better service to customers.”