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Thousands of TVET college students who have completed their N4, N5 and N6 studies but remain unable to obtain National Diplomas because of a lack of workplace experience could soon receive support through a new government intervention programme.
Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela says government is finalising plans to expand workplace placement opportunities for students who need practical experience to complete their qualifications.
The announcement follows growing concern among TVET students who have struggled to secure the 18 to 24 months of workplace-based training required to qualify for National Diplomas.
Government acknowledges student frustrations
Manamela acknowledged the challenges facing students and confirmed that government is actively working on solutions.
“I wish to assure students and the broader public that this issue is being attended to,” he said.
The minister revealed that the Department of Higher Education and Training has already completed a national verification process to identify students who still require workplace experience.
Funding for stipends under discussion
Government is currently working with the National Skills Fund, SETAs, employers and other stakeholders to develop funding mechanisms that will support student placements.
Officials are also exploring ways to provide stipends to students while they complete workplace training.
“The biggest commitment that the sector as a whole is making is that we will work towards availing stipends for that training to happen,” said Manamela.
About 21,000 students placed each year
The minister said the department, together with SETAs, currently facilitates workplace placements for approximately 21,000 students annually.
However, he acknowledged that demand remains significantly higher.
“We are placing about 21,000 annually. That’s still a drop,” he said.
Employers urged to help
Government has appealed to employers in both the public and private sectors to increase workplace opportunities for TVET graduates.
Manamela said he has engaged business leaders and industry stakeholders to encourage greater participation.
“This is not a task that government alone can succeed in,” he said.
“Industry benefits from having access to a skilled workforce. We need to work together to give students the workplace exposure they need.”
Major announcement expected during TVET Month
The minister indicated that government plans to make a significant announcement during TVET Month regarding workplace placements for students who have completed N4, N5 and N6 studies.
The intervention is expected to involve SETAs, the National Skills Fund and industry partners working together to expand experiential learning opportunities.
Government is also reviewing workplace training grant mechanisms as part of the broader solution.
NATED qualifications remain recognised
Manamela reassured students that NATED qualifications remain recognised and valuable despite government’s broader transition to occupational qualifications.
He encouraged students to continue with their studies and assured them that existing qualifications are not being cancelled.
For many students who have waited years for workplace placements, the proposed programme could provide a long-awaited pathway to obtaining National Diplomas and entering the labour market.
Government says further details will be announced once consultations with industry and funding partners have been finalised.
