The Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport (DPWRT) has confirmed plans to transfer the former Elijah Mango College of Higher Education to Ehlanzeni TVET College, where it will be repurposed as a local campus to expand access to skills development in the region.

The move follows a formal request by the college to utilise the facility, which has stood unused for some time. According to DPWRT spokesperson Bongani Dlamini, the department has already conducted assessments on the property as part of the transfer process.

“The Ehlanzeni TVET made a request to the Department to utilise the building since it was no longer used by any institution,” Dlamini said.

He added that while no budget had been allocated for the 2025/26 financial year, ongoing discussions between the department and the college are addressing key issues, including the cost of renovations.

“The renovation is part of the discussions and a resolution has been reached in terms of which institutions will carry the costs. The outcomes of discussions will be communicated as soon as possible,” he said.

The transfer process is currently at the deeds office, where administrative steps are being finalised before the handover can be completed.

Community member Wandile Makhubela welcomed the development, describing it as a significant milestone for residents, particularly in KaBokweni and Nsikazi.

“This is a big win for the community. The damaged buildings will be fixed and turned into a campus, allowing young people to study closer to home and access more opportunities for skills and education,” Makhubela said.

Once operational, the campus is expected to improve access to technical and vocational education, reducing the need for students to travel long distances in pursuit of further studies.

However, challenges remain. The facility requires extensive cleaning, repairs and improved security to prevent further deterioration or vandalism before redevelopment begins.

Residents have been urged to safeguard the property while government processes are underway, as the project is seen as a long-awaited step towards empowering young people and strengthening local education infrastructure.