By Busisiwe Fobose

The National Skills Fund (NSF), an entity of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), participated in a Youth Empowerment Day event held at Mamelodi West Assembly of God on 20 June 2026. The event brought together young people, skills development stakeholders and training institutions to share information on education, training and career opportunities available through the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) system.

The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen awareness of skills development opportunities and encourage young people to pursue qualifications and training programmes that improve employability and support economic participation.

During the event, participants received information on occupational qualifications, workplace-based learning opportunities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college programmes, and other skills development pathways designed to respond to labour market demands.

Representatives from training institutions and the skills development sector highlighted the importance of acquiring practical and industry-relevant skills. Discussions focused on the role of occupational qualifications in preparing learners for the workplace through a combination of theoretical learning and practical workplace experience.

The event also provided young people with guidance on accessing training opportunities and making informed decisions about their future education and career paths. Stakeholders encouraged learners to consider vocational and occupational training as viable pathways to employment, entrepreneurship and further learning opportunities.

Speaking on behalf of the National Skills Fund, the Skills Development Implementation (SDI) Acting Chief Director Ms Kgaugelo Hlongwane encouraged young people to take advantage of government-funded skills development opportunities and emphasised the importance of investing in education and training, She said ‘No young person should be at home and not in school because they can’t afford colleges when they can take advantage of government funding skills to better their future’ She noted that occupational programmes often include workplace exposure, enabling learners to gain practical experience while developing skills that are relevant to industry needs.

The event highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, training institutions, industry and community stakeholders in creating opportunities for young people. Such partnerships play a critical role in expanding access to education and training while helping to address skills shortages and improve employability outcomes.

By participating in initiatives such as Youth Empowerment Day, the NSF continues to support awareness of skills development opportunities and strengthen pathways into education, training and employment. These efforts contribute to the development of a skilled workforce, support economic growth and strengthen South Africa’s Post-School Education and Training system.

The NSF remains committed to working with stakeholders to expand access to quality skills development opportunities and empower young people with the knowledge, skills and workplace experience needed to participate meaningfully in the economy.