TVET colleges key to economic growth – Mohai

By Emily Setona

QWAQWA – Deputy Minister (DM) to the presidency for planning monitoring and evaluation and champion of the District Development Model (DDM), Seiso Mohai, has emphasized the crucial role that technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges play in preparing South Africa’s workforce for the future.

Speaking during his visit to Maluti TVET College’s Kwetlisong Campus in Qwaqwa on February 25, Mohai highlighted the significance of vocational training in driving economic growth, particularly in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District, the Free State, and the country at large.

“TVET colleges are the way forward for the South African economy. They equip students with skills that are directly linked to industry needs, ensuring that graduates are job-ready and able to contribute meaningfully to various sectors,” Mohai stated.

He pointed out that developed economies such as Germany and the Asian Tigers have successfully built strong industrial bases through significant investment in vocational training. He believes South Africa can follow suit by enhancing collaboration between government, business, and the private sector to bridge the skills gap.

Mohai praised Maluti TVET College’s focus on engineering and technology training, stating that these disciplines are vital for attracting private sector investment and fostering job creation. He pointed out that the engineering capacity at Maluti TVET is impressive. Companies are now recruiting students even before they graduate, which is a testament to the quality of education and skills being imparted here.

He also highlighted agriculture as a critical sector in the Free State’s economy, emphasizing that modernizing farming techniques through advanced vocational training will be key to addressing food security challenges.

“Agriculture remains the backbone of the Free State’s economy. By integrating new environmental and technological advancements into TVET curricula, we can ensure that graduates are well-prepared to drive innovation in this sector,” he added.

A major theme of Mohai’s address was the need for stronger partnerships between TVET institutions and industries. He noted that modern workplaces are evolving, with many tasks now performed using advanced technologies rather than traditional heavy machinery. The work environment has changed. Many industries now rely on computer-based operations, and TVET colleges must keep up with these trends to remain relevant.

Echoing Mohai’s sentiments, executive mayor of Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality (TMDM), Conny Msibi, expressed her admiration for the college’s programs and questioned why institutions like Maluti TVET are not being fully utilized to solve local challenges.

“During the walkabout on the side of electricity, I asked myself why we are having a problem with electricity when the TVET college offers such an exceptional course and the students are ready to go and offer their skills to the world. We promise to offer our support to the TVET college,” she stated.

Msibi’s remarks underscored the importance of aligning TVET education with real-world needs and ensuring that graduates have the opportunity to contribute to the local economy.

Mohai and Msibi’s visit reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening vocational education as a key driver of economic transformation. With enhanced collaboration between TVET institutions, local government, and the private sector, colleges like Maluti TVET are well-positioned to equip young South Africans with the necessary skills to build a sustainable and thriving economy.

“The more we invest in TVET education, the more we empower our youth with the skills necessary for economic growth. These institutions must occupy a central place in our development agenda,” Mohai concluded.