14/10/2026
Building successful TVET institutions requires more than quality training; it demands proactive student support, strong industry partnerships, inclusive learning environments and strategic communication. These priorities were central to the Mpumalanga and North West SSS Regional Capacity-Building Programme, held on 13–14 October 2026 at Premier Hotel The Winkler in White River, where stakeholders explored strategies to improve student outcomes and institutional performance.
Vuselela TVET College was represented by the Deputy Principal: Innovations, the Acting Deputy Principal: Academic, Assistant Directors, Student Support Officers, the Senior Bursary Officer and the Senior Marketing and Communications Officer, demonstrating the importance of collaboration in advancing institutional priorities.
Discussions involving Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) representatives emphasised transforming Student Support Services (SSS) from reactive interventions to proactive, student-centred support, including integrating these services into occupational programme implementation through process mapping. The importance of understanding NSFAS funding processes for students pursuing both trade and non-trade occupational qualifications was also highlighted.
The Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) presentation reinforced the value of occupational qualifications in developing practical skills, occupational competence and workplace readiness. Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator and Allan Gray highlighted employment partnerships, entrepreneurship, mentorship and practical business support to help young people access employment opportunities and develop sustainable businesses.
Khetha Career Development Services emphasised the importance of accessible career information and professional career guidance in helping individuals make informed educational and occupational choices. Also the importance of developing career practitioners, identifying barriers affecting learners and promoting lifelong career management to support social inclusion, skills development and economic participation.
Furthermore, Higher Health emphasized student wellness, psychosocial support, peer education and referral services, including interventions to address bullying and gender-based violence (GBV). Gert Sibande TVET College highlighted the need for accessible infrastructure, appropriate resources and coordinated support for students with disabilities.
The programme also underscored the strategic role of marketing and communication in strengthening the TVET brand. Beyond branding and awareness campaigns, effective communication must build public trust, support informed programme choices, strengthen stakeholder relationships and demonstrate the impact of training on employment, entrepreneurship and community development.
It reinforced that institutional excellence depends on integrating quality training, proactive student support, accessible funding information, career guidance, entrepreneurship, disability inclusion, student wellness and strategic communication.
Through strengthened partnerships and coordinated institutional efforts, TVET colleges can improve student experiences, enhance graduate employability and contribute meaningfully to skills development and economic participation.
