Launch of the CENTRE OF SPECIALISATION: FITTER AND TURNER – A collaboration between DHET and JICA

Naledi Pandor, Minster of Higher Education and Training delivered the keynote address at this event organised by The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and the Japanese International Co-operation Agency (JICA) and successfully hosted by Northlink College Wingfield Campus on Tuesday, 26 March 2019.
Northlink and Tswane South Colleges has been identified as Centres of Specialisation to provide training in Fitting and Turning.
“The Centres of Specialisation Programme is paving the way for the transformation of our TVET college system to making them ever more relevant and responsive to industry labour demand needs, at the same time lifting their capacity to deliver high-level quality occupational programmes,” said Naledi Pandor, Minister of the Department of Higher Education and Training.

Naledi Pandor, DHET representatives, JICA dignitaries, the Ambassador designate Embassy of Japan in South Africa and Rear Admiral Metu of the South African Navy all went on an accompanied tour of the workshops. “My hope is that the graduates will find permanent employment through this programme,” said Tomohiro Seki, JICA Chief Representative during his speech.

He also highlighted that this partnership will focus on 4 key aspects:
1. Development of Sub-Training Materials
2. Capacity Development of Lecturers
3. Strengthening System of Providing Workplace Learning
4. Strengthening Employment Support

The programme commenced in January 2019 with 31 apprentices who were placed at Northlink College by employers as the first group to be trained at the Centre of Specialisation. Another group will be registered for training in 2020.

“I wish you everything of the best and I will be watching future developments,” concluded Minister Pandor.