Pretoria: Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister Buti Manamela has invited nominations of qualified and suitable individuals to fill vacancies on Community Education and Training (CET) College Councils, in a move aimed at strengthening governance, accountability, and renewal in the sector. The department published a notice for the call in the Government Gazette last week.
According to South African Government News Agency, Manamela stated that this initiative forms part of the backbone of the Post School Education and Training (PSET) system, emphasizing that their councils must be credible, competent, and reflective of the aspirations of the communities they serve. This effort is part of the broader CET renewal strategy to align colleges with the District Development Model (DDM), enhance teaching and learning, expand access to literacy and skills, and establish CET colleges as central to local development.
The Minister described CET colleges as a “bridge of hope” for thousands of South Africans, particularly out-of-school youth, adult learners, and communities seeking literacy, second-chance opportunities, and pathways to skills. The department is seeking nominations of South Africans with experience in governance, community development, education and training, industry, labor, and civic organizations.
Manamela emphasized the need for individuals who can provide strategic guidance, ensure financial oversight, and help link CET colleges to the economic and social development strategies of their districts and municipalities. He noted that governance in CET colleges extends beyond oversight, stating that it is about being custodians of hope and ensuring these institutions meet the real needs of young people, women, workers, and communities eager to learn, upskill, and thrive.
As preparations for the opening of the 2026 academic year continue, Manamela reaffirmed the commitment to supporting CET councils once appointed, ensuring that their role contributes to a stable, well-functioning, and transformative sector. Nominations should be made using the nomination form available from the department’s website at www.dhet.gov.za or by contacting [email protected] or [email protected]. Nomination forms must be accompanied by a comprehensive curriculum vitae, and details on the nomination process and deadlines are outlined in the Government Gazette.