Industrial development zone agency the Coega Development Corporation (CDC) has signed an agreement with Ingwe Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College for project preparation and infrastructure development of the college's five TVET campuses over the next three years.

The CDC will play a key role as the implementing agent for further development of much-needed infrastructure at the Mount Frere, Mount Fletcher, Maluti, Siteto and Ngqungqushe campuses.

The primary objective of the Ingwe TVET College Infrastructure Programme is to enhance the quality of education provided by creating a conducive teaching and learning environment for educators and students.

The college’s strategic plan is guided by the South African National Development Plan, which seeks to eliminate poverty and reduce inequality, and is therefore focused on the development of infrastructure facilities, digital economy integration and the introduction of specialised centres to meet the high demand for vocational and occupational skills, Ingwe and the CDC said in a joint statement.

“This partnership . . . provides us with both infrastructural and technological ability to create access to the TVET sector. Through this, we hope not only to create access, but also to become instrumental in narrowing the three major gaps engulfing our society, namely poverty, inequality and unemployment.

“We want to nurture students who will not only seek employment, but most importantly create employment and advance the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” said Ingwe principal Bheki Nkonyane.

“The Ingwe TVET College operates in a province facing poverty-related challenges and comprises students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Our role as a trusted infrastructure implementing agent is pivotal in driving substantial socioeconomic impact and progress in infrastructure development,” said CDC Mthatha acting programme director Sphelele Matiwane.

“As an implementing agent, we pledge to consistently put our experience and knowledge to good use to the benefit of others throughout the province, and we strive to do an excellent job in managing the Ingwe TVET Infrastructure Programme to support and champion socio-economic development throughout the country,” said CDC infrastructure planning and development executive manager Dr Mpumi Mabula.