Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges are playing a critical role in developing the skilled workforce South Africa needs to grow its economy.
Research has shown that they are producing more artisans, technicians, entrepreneurs, hospitality professionals, and countless other skilled individuals whose expertise supports a range of industries.
The Unilever TVET Cook Challenge that recently took place in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal served as a showcase for the work of TVET colleges in training young people for hospitality and catering roles.
TVET Colleges Driving Skills Development In South Africa
Government representatives were on hand to show their support for the TVET sector. Deputy Minister in the Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli told the delegates that the government continues to strengthen the TVET sector because practical skills are essential for economic development and job creation.
According to Mhlauli, TVET colleges are producing the skilled professionals needed to keep industries operating and support economic growth.
She emphasised that South Africa requires a broad range of skilled workers across different sectors.
“South Africa requires qualified electricians, welders, plumbers, mechanics, hospitality professionals, agricultural specialists and chefs just as much as it requires lawyers, accountants and engineers,” Mhlauli said.
Young People Encouraged To Pursue Entrepreneurship
Mhlauli urged learners studying hospitality and culinary programmes to consider entrepreneurship as a career pathway.
“We should also consider entrepreneurship. Some of South Africa's most successful entrepreneurs began with nothing more than a passion for food and the determination to succeed.
“The culinary industry offers limitless possibilities. It creates opportunities in restaurants, hotels, tourism, catering, food manufacturing, event management, baking, food styling, digital content creation and product innovation,” she said.
The Deputy Minister said young chefs have the potential to become business owners and employers in the future.
“The home bakery of today can become tomorrow's national brand. That is why entrepreneurship must become central to our thinking as a nation.
“Government is committed to building an economy where young people do not only search for employment but are empowered to create employment for others.
“This is why programmes such as the National Youth Development Agency grant programme, the Small Enterprise Development Agency, the Small Enterprise Finance Agency and the Industrial Development Corporation continue to provide financial and business development support to qualifying young entrepreneurs,” she said.
She encouraged aspiring chefs and entrepreneurs to take advantage of available government support programmes.
“Your qualification should not become a certificate that hangs on the wall. It should become the foundation upon which you build businesses that contribute to South Africa's economic growth,” she said.
Honouring The Legacy Of The 1976 Youth Uprising
Reflecting on the 16 June 1976 youth uprisings, Mhlauli said young people demonstrated courage in fighting for quality education and equal opportunities.
“They understood that education was the foundation upon which freedom, dignity and prosperity would be built. Their struggle was never simply about classrooms. It was about creating opportunities for future generations to realise their full potential. Today, we honour their legacy not only through remembrance but through action,” she said.
She added that investments in education and youth development continue the vision for which the youth of 1976 fought.
“Every investment in education, every bursary awarded, every apprenticeship created, every young entrepreneur supported, and every partnership between government, business and educational institutions is a continuation of the vision for which the youth of 1976 sacrificed so much.
“The freedom they fought for now places a responsibility upon us to ensure that every young South African has access to opportunities that allow them to succeed,” she said.
Youth Encouraged To Participate In Democracy
Mhlauli also called on young South Africans to register to vote and play an active role in shaping the country's future.
“Do not leave the future of this country in the hands of others. The decisions taken through democratic processes influence education. They influence economic policy, investment, entrepreneurship, including employment.
“If you care about opportunities for young people, if you care about building an economy that works for everyone, then make your voice heard.
“Democracy is strongest when young people participate. Do not become spectators in the future of your own country. Become active citizens,” she said.
