CHIETA and Services Seta collaborate to open more SMART Skills Centres.
In a significant move to enhance skills development in South Africa, the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) and the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Signed at CHIETA’s office in Midrand by Yershen Pillay, CEO of CHIETA, and Andile Sipengane, acting CEO of Services SETA, the MoU affirms the strategic partnership to strengthen the skills landscape in the chemical and services sectors.
A vital component of this collaboration is the integration of CHIETA’s Smart Skills Centre technologies into the Services SETA Mkhuze Skills Centre in KwaZulu-Natal, elevating it to a state-of-the-art training facility that provides crucial digital skills and 4-IR training.
Through this partnership, CHIETA will increase the footprint of its Smart Skills Centre, which currently stands at six in rural parts of the country, by converting the Mkhuze Skills Centre into a SMART Skills Centre. CHIETA will continue with its goal to create sustainable livelihoods for all citizens through such partnerships by establishing automated, digitised SMART Skills Centres in every South African province by 2025.
A closer look at Mkhuze Skills Centre
The Mkhuze Skills Development Centre was initiated by Services SETA in response to a request from the Umkhanyakude District Municipality and the Ngwenya Traditional Council. The centre was constructed to provide education and training opportunities to the community of Mange and surrounding areas. The project, completed in November 2023, involved a significant investment of R10.4 million and created numerous employment opportunities for local community members and SMMEs.
By converting Mkhuze into a SMART Skills Centre, CHIETA will introduce advanced training programmes; foster entrepreneurship and innovation; and offer inclusive educational access through a collaborative initiative with local governments, educational institutions, and industry leaders, highlighting a unified effort to empower youth and address the digital skills gap. Ultimately, the intent is to support national development goals, empowering the local workforce to contribute to the regional and national economy.
Key highlights of the MOU
- Introduction of SMART technologies: The partnership will focus on equipping the Mkhuze Skills Centre with advanced technologies, creating a modern and innovative training environment that meets the industry’s evolving needs.
- Future collaborations: The MOU lays the groundwork for joint efforts, including developing the upcoming Prieska Skills Centre, another key initiative to drive skills development in South Africa.
- Mutual support and cooperation: Both SETAs have committed to working together in mutual trust and good faith, ensuring the successful implementation of the projects outlined in the MOU.
At the signing ceremony, Pillay stated: “This MOU marks a pivotal moment in our efforts to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of driving economic growth in South Africa. By collaborating with Services SETA, we are confident that we can significantly impact the sectors we serve.”
Pillay added that CHIETA is leading the way with smart centres and is pleased to partner with Services SETA to bring technology to rural communities.
Sipengane commented: “The Mkhuze Skills Centre is a testament to our commitment to uplifting communities through skills development. This partnership with CHIETA aligns perfectly with our mission, and we are particularly excited about the potential to transform the Mkhuze facility into a flagship centre for excellence.”
Effective until 31 March 2030, the MOU outlines a framework for both SETAs to collaborate closely, monitor progress, and achieve shared objectives in advancing South Africa’s skills development agenda.
