In a significant step towards addressing youth unemployment, the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Thekwini TVET College on 20 June 2025. The agreement will enable students at the college to register as job seekers on the Employment Services of South Africa (ESSA) platform.
The MoU paves the way for collaborative engagement sessions where students will receive career counselling, job-readiness support, and access to opportunities posted by participating employers through ESSA.
Speaking at a Career and Jobs Fair held at Thekwini TVET College's Cato Manor Campus, Acting Chief Director of Provincial Operations, Dr Nandipa Kahla, highlighted the importance of the partnership.
“As the Department, we will undertake regular registration visits to the college to ensure that young job seekers are registered on the ESSA system. In addition, we will identify students who can be connected with recruiters for placement in specialised training programmes,” said Dr Kahla.
She added, “The Department aims to expand this initiative to ensure that the skills training provided at institutions of higher learning is aligned with the needs of relevant employers.”
Thekwini TVET College Principal, Nkosinathi Mchunu, welcomed the collaboration, stating that it supports the college's efforts to diversify and strengthen its academic offering.
“We are working closely with SETAs to introduce programmes such as Mechatronics and Road Transport Management. This partnership will be instrumental in preparing our students for real-world opportunities,” Mchunu said.
During the Jobs Fair, which was spearheaded by the Department's Public Employment Services (PES) branch, several employers and training providers committed to offering a total of 603 job and skills development opportunities.
The Jobs Fair is part of the Department's broader PES initiative aimed at connecting work seekers with potential employers and support services. At the event, the Department also provided on-site access to various services, including:
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Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF): Assistance with claims, inquiries, and registrations
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ESSA Registration: On-the-spot registration for job seekers and employers
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Compensation Fund (CF): Support with registration, claims, and workplace injury compliance
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Workplace Rights Education: Guidance on labour laws, fair treatment, and dispute resolution
This partnership underscores the Department's commitment to bridging the gap between education and employment by ensuring that youth are equipped with both the skills and support needed to enter the labour market.
Enquiries:
Teboho Thejane
Departmental Spokesperson
Cell: 082 697 0694
E-mail: teboho.thejane@labour.gov.za
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