Johnathan Paoli
Higher Education and Training deputy minister Buti Manamela has called for the collaboration between different spheres of skills and specialised areas of knowledge, in order to effectively face the multi-disciplinary landscape of the future.
Manamela delivered a keynote address at the WorldSkills South Africa (WSZA) send off ceremony at the River Meadow Manor in Centurion on Friday.
The deputy minister said his key message was to encourage the collaboration that could be seen being pursued within government, universities and between academics.
He emphasised the production of more PhDs and the need to improve the conditions and numbers, particularly skills in specific areas that are currently under-explored.
Manamela said this event confirmed the role the country has in global technological development and research.
“This is a validation of the important work we do in research, we wish to see it having a long term impact on the country’s economy, contribution to technology development and the future of the research being done in universities,” he said.
The department in partnership with WorldSkills South Africa, bade farewell to 26 competitors who will represent the country at the WorldSkills International competition in Lyon, France, from 10 to 14 September.
The South Africans will be joining nearly 1500 other competitors from more than 65 countries across the world to showcase their expertise in 62 skills divided into 6 sectors, including: Construction and Building Technology, Social and personal Services, Creative Arts and Fashion, Information and Communication Technology, Manufacturing and Engineering Technology, and Transportation and Logistics.
The competitors come from TVET Colleges, Universities of Technology and private training providers, and were selected after winning gold medals in the WSZA national competition which took place in Durban in January this year.
The research symposium brought students, academics, and other interested parties together to continue the discussion on collaboration between science, engineering and economics at South African and other research entities.
Acting WSZA Technical Delegate, Fumani Mboweni, extended his appreciation to the current ministry for his support and also acknowledged former Minister Blade Nzimande for his instrumental role in securing their participation in the esteemed WorldSkills international competition.
Deputy Director-General Zukile Mvalo highlighted that WorldSkills provides an unparalleled platform for young professionals from diverse trades to showcase their abilities.
“As they compete, they not only represent themselves but also carry the hopes and dreams of the nation. Over the years, we have realised that our participation in WorldSkills facilitates our efforts in aligning our TVET sector with world-class benchmarks and training practices,” Mvalo said.
Mvalo extended his heartfelt wishes for success to the talented competitors and said they carried the aspirations of the nation.
“May their dedication and skills shine brightly on the world stage, knowing that South Africa stands firmly behind them,” he said.
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