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South Africa’s TVET colleges are being repositioned as the main centres for occupational training and artisan development.
As of 20 February 2026, Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela confirmed that government is implementing a new dual training model following direction in the 2026 State of the Nation Address.
What is happening?
Government is rolling out a dual training model that integrates classroom learning with structured workplace experience.
According to Minister Manamela, the focus has shifted from policy debate to implementation.
The 2026 State of the Nation Address directed departments to strengthen TVET colleges as the primary sites of occupational training.
Occupational qualifications will now combine theory, practical training and real workplace exposure into one pathway from enrolment to employment.
Importantly, this is not a pilot programme. The Minister stated that occupational qualifications will become the default model for vocational education.
However, readiness across colleges is uneven. Some institutions can start immediately in specific trades, while others still need targeted support.
Over the next 90 days, government will fast-track accreditation, confirm workplace placements, align funding and enrol learners in priority trades.
Why it matters to you
If you are a TVET student, employer, or parent in the Eastern Cape, this change directly affects how vocational training will work.
Firstly, learners should expect stronger links between studies and real workplace experience. Secondly, qualifications are designed to improve employability through structured placement.
However, there are still bottlenecks. Accreditation delays, limited workplace placements and equipment alignment remain challenges across regions.
Therefore, students may see phased implementation depending on their college’s readiness.
What you need to know
| Key Area | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Training model | Classroom learning integrated with workplace experience |
| Qualification type | Occupational qualifications replacing older separated models |
| Implementation status | Immediate rollout in ready colleges and trades |
| Next 90 days focus | Accreditation, placements, funding alignment, enrolment |
| Employers’ role | Provide workplace placements and training support |
Additionally, colleges, SETAs, employers and state-owned entities are expected to coordinate to remove systemic bottlenecks.
What you should do next
If you are a current or prospective TVET student:
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Check with your college about occupational qualifications in your trade.
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Ask whether workplace placement is secured before enrolment.
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Confirm accreditation status for your programme.
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Monitor updates from the Department of Higher Education and Training.
If you are an employer:
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Engage your local TVET college about placement opportunities.
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Confirm SETA alignment for funding and training approvals.
Early engagement will reduce delays as the rollout accelerates.
Where to get help / official sources
For official updates:
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Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
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Your local TVET college administration
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Relevant SETA office
For more education updates, visit our NSFAS / Education hub.
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