As South Africa marks the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising, Minister of Higher Education and Training Buti Manamela says the task ahead is clear: create opportunities for the country’s youth through education, skills development and pathways into employment – and the reforms to do it are already rolling out.
“For millions of young people, access to education and skills development represents a pathway to dignity, economic participation and a better future,” the Minister said in an interview with the South African Government News Agency.
Twenty-four new qualifications, designed with industry
In January 2026, 24 new occupational qualifications were introduced at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges. The qualifications are designed in close partnership with industry and focus on practical, workplace-relevant skills that improve employability.
They are part of a much larger foundation: to date, 948 occupational qualifications and part-qualifications have been registered on the National Qualifications Framework, creating a strong base for occupationally directed learning pathways.
The department is also introducing a dual system of learning and earning that combines classroom learning with workplace experience. “We cannot continue producing qualifications in isolation from the realities of the labour market,” Manamela explained.
TVET colleges at the centre
A Turnaround Strategy for TVET colleges is expected to be tabled later this year, informed by consultations with colleges, industry and organised labour, and addressing infrastructure, lecturer development, student support and workplace partnerships.
“We are very clear that, to achieve the revolution, we have to put TVET colleges at the centre because of their centrality to economic growth and industrialisation,” the Minister said, adding that early workplace partnerships are already drawing positive feedback from industry.
Beyond the country’s 26 public universities, government is investing in digital infrastructure that enables flexible learning, expands access to education and prepares students for a rapidly digitising economy.
Honouring 1976 by opening doors
The reforms land in a milestone year. Youth Day on 16 June commemorated half a century since thousands of students marched against apartheid education policies, a turning point in the struggle for liberation.
“The courage, sacrifice and determination of the young people of 1976 helped change the course of South Africa,” said Manamela, himself a former student leader. Over the past 30 years, he noted, the doors of learning have been opened to millions, with more young people than ever accessing universities, TVET colleges, community colleges, bursaries and skills development opportunities.
“The 50th anniversary of June 16 is certainly a celebration. It is a celebration of the resilience of young people, the victories of our democracy and the progress we have made as a nation.”
The full interview was published by SAnews.
Photo: commons.wikimedia.org
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