Businesses must help TVET colleges train workers for new jobs
South Africa's technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges cannot solve the country's skills crisis by themselves. Experts say businesses must play a bigger role in training workers for modern jobs.
At a recent business breakfast, college leaders and education officials said that if the country wants to lower unemployment and fill job vacancies, companies must work closely with TVET colleges. They need to provide on-the-job training and help update the skills that students learn.
Why change is needed
Technology is changing fast. Automation and digital tools are creating new types of jobs. Colleges are moving away from old programmes and adopting what are called 'occupational qualifications'. These are designed with industry input, so graduates have both knowledge and practical experience.
What companies can do
- Offer workplace training and apprenticeships
- Give feedback on what skills are needed now and in the future
- Help fund training programmes through Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs)
The government wants to create policies that support these partnerships. But industry leaders say that after 1994, many state-owned companies were sold and closed their training centres. Now, companies expect colleges to produce ready-made workers, but colleges cannot do that alone.
By working together, all sides can benefit. Students get real experience, companies get skilled workers, and the country reduces unemployment.
This article was originally published on TimesLIVE.
