Cassim calls for rethink of CET colleges as councils begin five-year terms
Cassim says any changes to teaching and learning will require the department to reconsider how the CET was organised.
Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister Yusuf Cassim has urged a reevaluation of Community Education and Training (CET) colleges as new five-year council terms commence. Speaking to newly appointed external members at an induction workshop on 21 September 2026, Cassim highlighted the need to examine technology, online learning, and community-based learning hubs as areas for improvement in CET college operations.
The workshop took place over two days, coinciding with the start of the five-year terms for the new council members, which began on 1 September 2026. Cassim emphasized that the appointments were merely the beginning of their responsibility to deliver meaningful results. He emphasized that CET colleges must serve adults and out-of-school youth, providing opportunities for learning, skill development, and economic participation.
The Department of Higher Education and Training is currently developing an ideal CET college or Community Learning Centre (CLC) model, which will be a key focus in their upcoming Annual Performance Plan. Cassim challenged the sector to question whether traditional classroom-based teaching is still the most appropriate method for all learners, suggesting that modules could be delivered online and that quality content could be centrally developed for nationwide use.
He stressed that technology could extend the reach of skilled educators while maintaining personal guidance from local tutors. Cassim also stressed the importance of accommodating South Africa's linguistic diversity by combining digital content with local language support. Additionally, he proposed using existing buildings, ICT laboratories, and internet connectivity to create more flexible learning environments, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Cassim urged partnerships with the private sector, communities, and other stakeholders to expand skills opportunities, noting that government does not need to do everything alone but must provide leadership and accountability. He also highlighted the potential for learning models similar to Germany's vocational education system, but cautioned against simply copying the German model, instead suggesting a focus on how existing infrastructure could be leveraged to provide practical learning opportunities.
Cassim reminded the council members of their fiduciary responsibilities, including financial oversight, internal controls, procurement, risk management, institutional performance, and asset protection. He stressed the importance of earning and protecting public trust, while also encouraging them to familiarize themselves with their institutions' operations, students, staff, programs, finances, infrastructure, and risks.
The ultimate goal, Cassim stressed, is to use technology, infrastructure, people, and partnerships to improve the quality, reach, and relevance of education and training.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
