For many young residents of South Africa, obtaining qualifications is just the starting point. The more complex task lies in finding a way to turn that qualification into a job, income, or sustainable business opportunity.
A new three-year partnership worth R103 million between the Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA) and Takealot aims to bridge this gap by creating practical pathways from learning to earning.
The launch of the partnership took place in Katlehong on September 29th. It is aimed at creating opportunities for 20,000 young people through activities such as personal shopper training, driver skills development, marketplace selling, and on-the-job training.
The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, emphasized that skills development must involve industry so that young people can acquire competencies that employers truly require. He stated that 'there is no way our technical and vocational colleges and public colleges can graduate students needed by the industry without industry involvement.'
Manamela noted that the ultimate goal should be for training to lead to employment or entrepreneurship, with employers providing young people with practical experience by opening up their workplaces.
Services SETA Administrator Lekhlonolo Masoga reported that this partnership is designed to transform skills development into employment opportunities. He added: 'We entered this partnership with Takealot to transform skills revolution into job creation opportunities.'
For the youth, this program offers more than just a certificate. Participants gain practical work experience, develop digital technology and e-commerce skills, learn various ways to earn income, and build industry connections.
This collaboration is part of Services SETA's broader efforts to support internships, apprenticeships, and training for both employed and unemployed citizens, focusing on employment, entrepreneurship, and growth.
Masoga specified that if the program is successful over the next 12–36 months, Services SETA will consider increasing the resources allocated by Takealot to create even more opportunities for youth. The main message is that skills development should not end with receiving a certificate; it should help young South Africans take the next step—into the world of work, entrepreneurship, and meaningful economic participation.