The Dan Nkosi Skills Development Centre in Paulpietersburg, KwaZulu-Natal, was officially opened on Friday, 16 October 2026. The centre, which was built with an investment of R14.6 million from the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA), in partnership with the Department of Higher Education and Training, the provincial government, and the municipality, is expected to provide training and job opportunities for local youth. The centre offers training in various fields, including plumbing, electrical work, and welding.
The centre's development took nearly 20 years to complete, with the first application submitted in 2009, funding secured in 2012, and construction completed in 2024. Higher Education and Training Minister, Buti Manamela, described the centre as a significant investment in the local community. He encouraged the youth to use the centre to acquire practical skills and create sustainable livelihoods. Manamela emphasized that the centre belongs to the community and should be used to increase training opportunities for youth and adults seeking new skills.
Minister Manamela highlighted that the Services SETA has provided R14.6 million in funding, in partnership with the provincial government and municipality. He stressed that the centre is not only a Services SETA project but also a community project, and that the community has a responsibility to protect and utilize the facility. The minister encouraged the youth to register for training in fields such as plumbing, electrical work, and welding.
Public Service and Administration Minister, Nkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, said the centre provides an opportunity to address social and economic challenges facing the Dumbe area, while providing youth with skills to support themselves and their families. He thanked the government for the project, saying it demonstrates a commitment to the community's needs. Buthelezi also acknowledged the historical challenges faced by the area, including the impact of HIV/AIDS, and said the centre can help restore hope among the youth.
Buthelezi urged traditional leaders and councilors to recognize the importance of the centre in the long term, citing opportunities such as telephone repairs as examples of practical training available. On behalf of the Services SETA CEO, Dr. Bongani Ndamase, Lehlogonolo Masoga said the centre has arrived at a critical time to support rural communities facing unemployment challenges. He noted that the investment has enabled the construction of the centre from scratch and emphasized that the government, community leaders, and social partners must share the responsibility of maintaining the centre.
Ndamase revealed that the centre has already trained around 30 students in public house building over 12 months, and another 30 students in mobile phone repairs. An additional 20 students are being trained in business skills, with the program set to end on 30 October. Minister Manamela said the government continues to invest in education infrastructure, including TVET colleges, universities, and community colleges.
The opening of the Dan Nkosi centre marks a significant step in expanding access to technical training in rural areas, but its long-term success will depend on the ability of the youth to access high-quality training and translate their new skills into job and economic opportunities. Students interested in applying for training at the centre should note that applications for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) will close on 31 October.
Key points
- The Dan Nkosi Skills Development Centre was opened in Dumbe, KwaZulu-Natal, to provide training and job opportunities for local youth.
- The centre offers training in various fields, including plumbing, electrical work, and welding.
- The centre's development took nearly 20 years to complete, with an investment of R14.6 million from the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA).
