‘THIS country is faced with a shortage of technical skills, which are critical in our quest to address the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequalities. As government we get worried when we see an influx of students opting for university education, while neglecting the TVET Colleges.’
This was the viewpoint of the Minister for Higher Education, Dr Blade Nzimande.
He was addressing Grade 12 pupils, who had gathered at the University of Zululand for the Nelson Mandela Career Development programme. This was the second series, which started last Wednesday at Umfolozi TVET College.
‘The advantage of enrolling at a TVET College is that once you have completed your studies, you get employed or you employ yourself.
‘It is an open secret that we have a shortage of engineers, artisans, plumbers and many other technical skills, which are key in boosting the economy of the country.’
Nzimande also raised concern about the manner in which the National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) was being managed, citing elements of corruption.
‘I can confirm that as a department we are conducting an investigation into these allegations of corruption on NSFAS.’
He also warned students against the burning of institutions of higher learning, saying this was not contributing to nation building.
‘Yes, it is your right as students to protest if there are issues you are not happy about at your institution, but burning and damaging property cannot be the answer to whatever concerns you have.
‘The department is spending large amounts of money in renovating property that has been damaged by students, and that money could be used to better improve the quality of education,’ he said.
Nzimande was accompanied by KZN Premier, Senzo Mchunu, who also urged students to choose their career wisely.
