By Khumbelo Naledzani

In 2013, the Ministry of Higher Education and Training, in partnership with the South African Public Colleges Organisation (SAPCO), declared August as TVET Month. It is now in its 11th year. On 5 August 2025, the Deputy Director-General for the TVET Branch, Mr Sam Zungu, officially launched the 2025 TVET Month at Nkangala TVET College’s Witbank Campus in Mpumalanga. The event was held under the theme “TVET for All: Skills. Opportunity. Change.”

Nine hundred and forty Grade 9–12 learners from surrounding schools in eMalahleni attended, giving them an opportunity to engage and access information about opportunities offered by higher education and training entities such as the National Skills Fund (NSF), National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), and various Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). The event also brought together host employers and college alumni.

The event aimed to promote and rebrand TVET Colleges as institutions of choice and gateways to the future. Role models in the TVET sector shared their inspiring success stories with learners and encouraged them to pursue careers in courses offered at TVET Colleges.

Among the role models was Njabulo Mabaso, an NSF beneficiary currently completing his millwright apprenticeship at Majuba TVET College. He applauded the NSF for funding his trade: “In my three-year training programme, I am funded by the National Skills Fund. The NSF pays for my monthly stipend, free PPE, and toolbox and I would like to say thank you,” said Njabulo.

Njabulo Mabaso, NSF beneficiary photographed with a learner at NSF exhibition stall

Deputy Director-General Sam Zungu told learners that TVET Colleges are not a second option. He encouraged them to consider courses offered by TVET Colleges, as they provide skills that are relevant and responsive to the country’s economic needs.

In his keynote address, DDG Zungu reminded learners that the country faces a critical skills shortage. “South Africa is currently experiencing a significant skills shortage across several sectors, from engineering, construction, and information technology to hospitality, agriculture, renewable energy, and healthcare. We cannot grow our economy or fight youth unemployment without skilled hands and minds.

We are here today to say: TVET is not a second option. It is a first-class route to building your future,” said Zungu.