Deputy Minister Visits Mlumati TVET Campus

Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Ms Mimmy Gondwe, has visited Ehlanzeni TVET College’s Mlumati Campus as part of a nationwide oversight programme. The visit forms part of the Department’s commitment to strengthening skills development and promoting work-based learning aligned with industry needs.

The visit highlights the critical role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in equipping young people with practical skills that enhance employability and entrepreneurship. The Department’s oversight programme seeks to assess the progress of TVET and Community Education and Training (CET) institutions while identifying challenges that require intervention.

During her visit, Deputy Minister Gondwe toured the campus, engaged with management, and interacted with students. She commended Mlumati Campus for its efforts in delivering quality education and skills training, emphasising that TVET colleges are key to addressing South Africa’s high unemployment rate.

“Our vision is for TVET graduates to either secure jobs or create employment. These institutions must rise to the challenge of producing more artisans to meet South Africa’s critical skills shortage,” she said.

The visit also provided a platform to address pressing concerns faced by the college. The College Principal highlighted issues such as ageing infrastructure and the limited resources available for upgrades and expansions. He also stressed the need for increased collaboration between TVET institutions and industry partners to enhance work-integrated learning opportunities.

One of the key challenges TVET students face is the lack of access to workplace experience, which is crucial for their professional development. The Deputy Minister acknowledged this concern and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with the private sector to create more opportunities for students.

The Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation has prioritised improving the TVET sector by enhancing infrastructure, increasing funding, and fostering partnerships with businesses to ensure that graduates are work-ready. Deputy Minister Gondwe urged local industries to support these efforts by offering internships and apprenticeships to students.

As the government continues its oversight visits, it remains dedicated to strengthening the country’s post-school education system. The Department will work with stakeholders to implement solutions that enhance the quality of education and ensure that South Africa’s youth are equipped with the skills needed to drive economic growth.