By Levy Masiteng
KwaZulu-Natal has opened a specialised ICT, engineering, and technology school in the Amajuba District, in an effort to expand technical education and prepare learners for jobs in the modern economy.
Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka officially launched the Mbuso Kubheka ICT, Engineering and Technology School of Excellence on Tuesday, saying the institution was a major investment in the province’s future workforce and economic development.
“Schools of Specialisation are not simply educational institutions; they are strategic investments in the future growth and competitiveness of our province and our country,” Hlomuka said.
According to the department, the school offers subjects including Civil, Electrical and Mechanical Technology, Engineering Graphics and Design, Technical Mathematics, Technical Science, Coding and Robotics.
The school will initially admit 80 Grade 8 learners from across the province.
Learners are enrolled as full-time boarders and are selected through an aptitude assessment process.
Addressing guests at the official opening, Hlomuka said the institution represents “a beacon of excellence”.
“Today marks a historic milestone, not only for this school community but for the entire province of KwaZulu-Natal. We gather here to officially open the Mbuso Kubheka School of Specialisation, a beacon of excellence that represents our commitment to building an education system that equips young people with the knowledge, skills and capabilities required for the future,” he said.
Hlomuka said the school gives practical effect to the province’s Three-Stream Model of Education, which integrates academic, technical-vocational and occupational pathways to ensure learners develop skills aligned with industry demands.
He added that the institution would expose learners to specialised fields, emerging industries and practical workplace skills while creating pathways to employment, entrepreneurship and innovation.
“Take full advantage of every classroom, every workshop, every laboratory and every learning opportunity. Develop a culture of discipline, hard work, innovation and excellence,” Hlomuka said.
Named after late freedom fighter and former KwaZulu-Natal legislator Mbuso Kubheka, the department said the school aims to honour his legacy while producing graduates capable of driving industrialisation, creating jobs and contributing to South Africa’s development.
“Our vision is that within the next decade, every district in KwaZulu-Natal should have at least one School of Specialisation serving as a centre of excellence, innovation and skills development,” Hlomuka said.
INSIDE EDUCATION
