Gert Sibande TVET College, in partnership with the Gert Sibande District Municipality, hosted the Mining Sector Business Breakfast, on July 29, bringing together key stakeholders from government, the mining industry and the education sector to strengthen collaboration aimed at developing the skilled workforce needed to support the region’s mining economy.
The engagement served as a platform for strategic discussions on strengthening partnerships that will advance skills development while ensuring that training programmes remain responsive to the evolving needs of the mining sector. Representatives from government departments, mining companies and the College explored practical ways to improve collaboration in preparing graduates for meaningful employment.
A key focus of the discussions was expanding opportunities for Work-Integrated Learning (WIL), apprenticeships, internships and graduate placements. Stakeholders emphasised that providing students with workplace exposure is essential for bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical industry experience, ultimately improving graduate employability.
Participants also discussed the importance of aligning academic programmes with current and future industry demands to ensure that graduates leave college equipped with relevant technical skills, professional competencies and the adaptability required in a rapidly changing mining environment.
The programme was headlined by the keynote address of the Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga, who highlighted the critical role of partnerships in empowering young people through education, skills development and access to economic opportunities. She stressed that investing in youth remains central to building an inclusive economy capable of creating sustainable employment and reducing inequality.
Government leaders, industry experts and Gert Sibande TVET College leadership also shared insights on the strategic role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges in supporting South Africa’s mining industry.
Discussions centred on addressing critical skills shortages, improving graduate readiness and strengthening the contribution of TVET institutions to local and regional economic development.
The Mining Sector Business Breakfast reinforced the importance of closer collaboration between education institutions, government and the private sector in ensuring that graduates possess the knowledge and practical experience required by employers.
Participants agreed that stronger partnerships will not only support the growth and competitiveness of the mining sector but also contribute to sustainable economic development across the district.
Through collaboration, innovation and a shared commitment to youth empowerment, the event reaffirmed the importance of building long-term partnerships that create pathways to employment, entrepreneurship and inclusive socio-economic growth.
By strengthening these relationships, Gert Sibande TVET College and the Gert Sibande District Municipality continue to play a pivotal role in developing a capable and skilled workforce that will drive the future of the mining sector and the broader economy of the Gert Sibande District.
As the Gert Sibande District Municipality, we remain committed to building a capable, skilled and empowered generation that will contribute meaningfully to the growth of our mining economy and the broader development of our communities.
By strengthening partnerships with Gert Sibande TVET College and the mining industry, the municipality continues to support initiatives that create pathways to employment, enhance local skills development and promote inclusive socio-economic growth throughout the district.
