POLOKWANE – The chairperson of the portfolio committee on higher education, Tebogo Letsie, says there is an urgent need for traditional public universities and colleges to adopt hybrid learning models.

This comes as institutions face an anticipated surge in first-year enrolments, spurred by a record-breaking 87.3% matric pass rate for 2024 – an increase of over 5%.

In Limpopo, the pass rate rose by 5.5% to 85.5%, with notable achievements in mathematics, business studies, accounting, and physical sciences.

While the surge in bachelor passes is celebrated, critics have raised concern about potential oversaturation of university admissions, suggesting the need for higher standards for these qualifications.

The MEC has encouraged diploma and certificate-qualifying candidates to explore opportunities at TVET Colleges.

To address stigma around TVET education, initiatives such as engaging Gr 9 learners in subject selection are underway in Vhembe, with plans to expand to other regions including Capricorn.

“Adopted circuits have demonstrated above 80% pass rates, showing the potential for TVET Colleges to contribute meaningfully to academic and economic growth,” said Lerule-Ramakhanya.

Educational psychologists and parents have highlighted the importance of strengthening primary education in science and commerce.

Many have called for experienced teachers to mentor newcomers in teaching gateway subjects and advocated for the return of teaching colleges.

The MEC acknowledged these concerns, stating that regular government-led workshops and personal capacity-building opportunities are available to teachers.

A beacon of hope for higher education in Limpopo, the Tshwane University of Technology’s Giyani campus is progressing toward completion, with its College of Education slated for readiness by the end of 2025.

However, years of vandalism and neglect have left infrastructure severely compromised. Student intake is expected to commence in late 2025, with a full academic rollout by 2026.