Boland College proudly joined South Cape College, other TVET Colleges and key stakeholders at the Skills and Business Imbizo (NEET), held on 23 September 2025 at the Oudtshoorn Town Hall Banquet Hall. The event, championed by the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr. Mimmy Gondwe, brought together local businesses, municipalities, SETAs, and TVET Colleges to drive partnerships that create opportunities for South Africa’s youth.

The Imbizo focused on empowering young people identified as Not in Employment, Education, or Training (NEET) across Oudtshoorn and the wider Garden Route. By showcasing opportunities through partners such as the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), the National Skills Fund (NSF), multiple Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), and private sector contributors including Old Mutual and Shoprite, the event highlighted pathways to skills development, entrepreneurship, and meaningful employment.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister Gondwe underscored the importance of demand-led skills, youth empowerment, and collaboration to stimulate economic growth.
“Strong partnerships between government, industry, and colleges are essential to creating opportunities that meet the real needs of our communities. Artisans, in particular, are the backbone of local economies, whether they are builders, electricians, or mechanics, their skills sustain households and uplift neighbourhoods. By investing in artisans and demand-driven skills, we not only empower individuals but strengthen the economic fabric of our towns and cities,” she said.

Dr. Gondwe further encouraged municipalities and businesses to embrace training as a shared responsibility.
“No business can thrive without a skilled workforce, and no skilled workforce can exist without businesses opening their workplaces for practical training. Skills and business are truly interdependent. It is the intention of my Office to host similar Imbizos across the country so that more communities can benefit,” she added.

Boland College’s participation reflects its ongoing commitment to partnerships that strengthen the post-school education and training ecosystem. By supporting initiatives such as the Skills and Business Imbizo, the College continues to create pathways for skills development, entrepreneurship, and employability.
“At Boland College, we believe that strategic collaboration is the key to unlocking economic opportunities for our youth. Supporting the Skills and Business Imbizo aligns perfectly with our mission to create pathways for skills development, entrepreneurship, and employability. By working alongside South Cape College, government, our sister TVET Colleges, and industry stakeholders, we are collectively building a stronger, more inclusive skills network that empowers young people to participate fully in the economy,” said Mr. Charles Goodwin, Principal of Boland College.

The event also featured insights from Ms. Melissa Erra, Acting CEO of the National Skills Fund, who highlighted the NSF’s role in funding and supporting young people through skills development initiatives.

In closing, Deputy Minister Gondwe called on all sectors to embrace the challenge of youth unemployment.
“Given the pressing challenges we face, every workplace must become a training space. Tackling youth unemployment and poverty cannot be the sole responsibility of government, business must come on board. I urge young people to seize the opportunities showcased here today to realise their dreams and aspirations. Together, we can overcome the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality.”

Boland College is proud to stand with partners across government, industry, and education in advancing the mission of creating sustainable careers and a stronger economy for South Africa’s youth.