MEGA LAUNCH LIVE AT CSIR,PRETORIA - WITH MERSETA ACEO MR MOKGOTSANE
Today marks the mega launch of a transformative project aimed at revolutionising Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, positioning them at the forefront of preparing skilled workers for the challenges and opportunities of the 4IR. This is a momentous occasion, where we embark on an exciting journey towards embracing the future of education and workforce development in the era of the 4th Industrial Revolution.
I stand before you with immense pride and excitement to share with you the success the merSETA has had in launching three 4IR Centres so far, and the plans we have to launch many others across the country. Our aim in establishing these centres is to upgrade training facilities and workshops across TVET colleges. This initiative is a result of a strategic partnership and visionary collaboration with an esteemed Original Equipment Manufacturing company, Festo Didactic, and underscores our unwavering commitment to enhancing education and knowledge in vocational training for non-academic skilled workers.
Through this partnership, we are poised to bring about significant advancements in TVET colleges through various initiatives:
Firstly, we will establish state-of-the-art centres equipped with 4IR technology and tools at selected TVET colleges. These centres will serve as hubs of innovation, providing students and staff with hands-on training and practical experience essential for thriving in the digital age.
Furthermore, our collaboration will entail the development of cutting-edge curricula tailored to industry 4.0 standards. By incorporating awareness training, practical applications and management education, we ensure that our students are not just equipped with theoretical knowledge but are ready to tackle real-world challenges with confidence and proficiency.
Moreover, we are committed to empowering TVET college educators and staff through comprehensive training on industry 4.0 concepts. By nurturing a cohort of Master Trainers for Industry 4.0, we aim to foster a culture of continuous learning and excellence within our educational institutions.
The merSETA’s support through this initiative is testament that our commitment to enhancing TVET colleges is unparalleled. Through strategic partnerships and investments, we are confident that we will realise our vision of creating centres of excellence for 4IR education, thereby empowering individuals, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth in communities across the country.
Moreover, our partnership with EON Reality heralds a new era of digitalisation and Extended Reality processes in the manufacturing sector. This groundbreaking initiative, backed by the Department of Higher Education and Training, will bring the Knowledge Metaverse to thousands of students and interns, revolutionising employee training and enhancing safety in high-risk industries through simulation-based learning.
I conclude by extending my heartfelt gratitude to all our partners, stakeholders and supporters who have played a pivotal role in shaping this transformative endeavour. Together, we are not just preparing for the 4th Industrial Revolution - we are leading the charge towards a future where innovation, excellence and opportunity abound for all.
Thank you.