By Cnythia Modiba

On 14 April 2026, Deputy President Paul Mashatile officially launched a state-of-the-art Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Digital Innovation Lab and a Centre of Specialisation (CoS) in Millwright at Gert Sibande TVET College in Standerton, Mpumalanga.

The Deputy President’s participation represented government’s recognition of the critical role that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) play in addressing youth unemployment, supporting industrial growth, and closing the skills gaps that continue to challenge South Africa’s economy. His presence highlighted the national priority placed on equipping young people with practical, in-demand skills that connect directly to employment opportunities.

In his keynote address, the Deputy President emphasised the importance of aligning skills development with the evolving needs of the economy, noting that:

“These centres connect education with industry, empower young people with forward-looking skills, and position TVET as a driver of economic growth and social transformation.”

Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, at the launch of 4IR Digital Innovation Lab and a Centre of Specialisation in Millwright at Gert Sibande TVET College

The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, commended the National Skills Fund (NSF) and Gert Sibande TVET College for their effective partnership in implementing the CoS Millwright trade programme and the 4IR lab. He noted that the CoS initiative is central to the Department’s vision of strengthening TVET colleges as hubs of excellence in artisanal training.

The Minister further emphasised that the Millwright programme is not only producing graduates with Red Seal certifications but is also addressing skills shortages in key sectors such as mining, manufacturing, and energy.

“This project demonstrates how government, colleges, and industry can work together to ensure that our young people are not just qualified, but employable,” said the Minister.

He added that the continued operation of the programme beyond the NSF’s initial funding is a clear indication of its long term value to both the community and the economy.

The NSF entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with Gert Sibande TVET College to implement the Millwright trade programme from 2018 to 2020, with funding amounting to R8,8 million. The approved budget was utilised to purchase equipment, workshop renovations, and consumables to establish a sustainable training environment. The college successfully obtained accreditation for the Millwright trade, and since 2018, 90 learners have benefited from the programme.

The newly launched 4IR lab positions Gert Sibande TVET College as a centre of excellence in digital innovation and advanced manufacturing. It will equip learners with skills in robotics, coding, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, while also serving as a platform for collaborative research and industry partnerships. Beyond the college, the lab extends digital literacy to local schools and communities, ensuring that rural areas are included in South Africa’s digital future.