By Themba Ndlovu
Learners began preparing for occupational training on 28 September 2026 at Sedibeng TVET College’s Vereeniging Campus, where an induction introduced them to the requirements of their respective Hairdressing and Mechatronics training programmes.
The induction welcomed learners admitted to the two occupational programmes funded by the National Skills Fund (NSF), providing them with an introduction to their upcoming training. A total of 35 places were approved, comprising 15 places for Hairdressing and 20 for Mechatronics.
The induction helped learners familiarise themselves with their respective programmes and understand the responsibilities and expectations they would need to meet throughout their training. Learners received information about their qualifications, assessment processes and health and safety requirements, as well as guidance on the various forms of support available to them during their studies.
For some learners, the training represents an opportunity to obtain a qualification while developing skills that could improve their employment prospects and enable them to support themselves and their families.
Among those admitted to the Mechatronics programme is Thulani Shabalala, who hopes to secure employment with a reputable company after successful completion his training. “I wish to see myself after four years working for a good, reputable company so that I can change my background at home,” said Shabalala.
In his address, Mr Mabutho Mbatha emphasised the National Skills Fund’s (NSF) role in supporting skills development that contributes to building a capable workforce. He highlighted the NSF’s support for technical and artisan training programmes, including mechanical fitting, millwright, electrical, mechatronics and other artisan trades.
The programmes supported by the National Skills Fund (NSF) at Sedibeng TVET College fall under the Public TVET 2020–2024 Capacity-Building and Occupational Programmes initiative, which aims to strengthen occupational training and expand learners’ access to practical skills relevant to future employment and the workplace.
