Durban: The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), in collaboration with the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA), has pledged R90 million for the revitalisation of Community Education and Training (CET) colleges across South Africa. This initiative was announced by Deputy Minister for Higher Education and Training, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, alongside Services SETA Administrator Lehlogonolo Masoga, during the launch of an infrastructure upgrade project at the Emlandeleni Community Learning Centre (CLC) in Ndwedwe, north of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
According to South African Government News Agency, the investment is intended to support infrastructure upgrades and improve teaching and learning conditions at all nine CET colleges in the country, with one college located in each province. The R90 million funding will be evenly divided, providing R10 million to each college, benefiting not only the main campuses but also their satellite centres which play a crucial role in delivering adult education programmes.
This initiative forms part of a larger strategy to transform CET colleges into pivotal adult education centres, offering 'second chance' learning opportunities for out-of-school youth. The initiative aims to reposition these institutions as central to inclusive education and skills development. During the event, the Deputy Minister expressed gratitude to the Services SETA for their support, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the growing number of young people not in employment, education, or training (NEET) in the country.
Dr Gondwe remarked, "We know that our country faces a significant challenge with the NEET cohort, that is, young people and adults not in employment, education or training. We cannot ignore this problem. CET colleges demonstrate that it is never too late to learn, rebuild and participate in the economy. Addressing youth unemployment and the lack of opportunities is urgent."
Masoga highlighted that the investment is part of the Services SETA's commitment to enhancing access to learning opportunities across various communities. "Services SETA has taken a deliberate decision to invest in the public education system as part of its contribution to skills development and inclusive access," Masoga said.
Emlandeleni CLC is among the first recipients of the initiative, receiving R5 million for refurbishment and upgrades, benefiting its more than 1,000 students. The improvements include roofing repairs, refurbishment of ablution and training facilities, classroom painting, installation of smart boards, and addressing other urgent needs. The launch event also witnessed additional contributions from key stakeholders to support the centre's development.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme donated five laptops to expand access to digital learning programmes. The Fibre Processing and Manufacturing (FP and M) SETA donated 10 sewing machines to enhance practical training and equip learners with skills for economic participation. The Energy and Water Sector Education Training Authority (EWSETA) pledged a borehole drilling truck to train youth and community members, improve water access, and enhance practical skills and local services. Old Mutual, in partnership with Services SETA, donated dignity packs to all learners at Emlandeleni CLC.
The Deputy Minister underscored that the support for Emlandeleni CLC and all CET colleges extends beyond infrastructure upgrades, emphasizing the need to restore the prominence of CET colleges within the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector. "The support is about reaffirming the important role of CET colleges and ensuring they are no longer forgotten in the PSET sector, but recognised as vital institutions in our education system," Gondwe said.