TVET Colleges Use Outdated Curricula, Concerns Higher Education Committee
TVET Colleges Use Outdated Curricula, Concerns Higher Education Committee. TVET colleges are once again being criticized by members of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education for using outdated curricula. As part of its oversight visit to Gauteng, the committee emphasized the need for educational institutions to equip students with skills that are in line with the evolving job market and will drive economic growth.
Concerns Over Outdated Curriculum in TVET Colleges
During an inspection of Tshwane South TVET College, the committee discovered outdated curricula were still being used, particularly in business studies programs. In an increasingly competitive job market, this issue raises significant concerns about graduates employability.
Mr. Tebogo Letsie, the chairperson of the committee, stated, “The Department of Higher Education and Training has been reviewing the curriculum for many years. Nevertheless, delays in implementing necessary updates are unacceptable. The outdated education system fails to meet industry demands, putting students’ futures at risk.”
Leadership Instability at TVET Institutions
As well as curriculum concerns, the committee pointed out serious leadership instability at Tshwane South TVET College. A number of key positions, including regional manager, principal, deputy principal, and registrar, remain vacant, with acting officials filling these positions.
To ensure institutional stability and effective governance, the committee urged the Department of Higher Education to expedite the appointment of permanent leaders.
Financial Mismanagement and Audit Concerns
Financial mismanagement was another major issue raised during the visit. Financial oversight has been inefficient for three consecutive financial years, according to qualified audit opinions. It called for immediate action to address the Auditor-General’s findings and improve the institution’s financial accountability.
Unethical Student Accommodation Practices
Student accommodation was also condemned by the committee, particularly landlords who demanded upfront payments despite the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) being responsible for covering accommodation allowances. Accommodation providers were reported to solicit sexual favors from students in exchange for housing.
Letsie strongly condemned these actions, saying, “Landlords should not exploit students financially or otherwise.”. They should be investigated and held accountable. Students are encouraged to report exploitative behavior without fear of retaliation.”
Call to Action: Reforming TVET Education for a Brighter Future
These challenges must be addressed urgently, according to the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education. Among the key recommendations are:
- Modernizing curricula in line with industry needs and job market demands.
- Filling vacant leadership positions in TVET institutions in order to ensure efficiency and stability.
- Resolving systemic inefficiencies through stronger financial management policies.
- Assuring ethical housing practices and preventing exploitation of students through stronger oversight.
South Africa economic growth is dependent on graduates who are well-prepared for the workforce and can contribute meaningfully to it. The committee remains committed to advocacy for reforms that enhance the quality and relevance of post-school education and training.
The committee will continue its oversight visit at the Gauteng Community College and Training in Wattville, Benoni, for further updates.
Address
- For media enquiries please contact the committee’s Media Officer:
- Name: Jabulani Majozi (Mr)
- Parliamentary Communication Services
- Cell: 083 358 5224
- E-mail: [email protected]
Conclusion
TVET education must address these challenges to ensure students receive high-quality training that meets industry standards. To contribute to South Africa’s economic development, the education sector needs to modernize curricula, stabilize leadership, improve financial management, and enforce ethical accommodation practices.
