Published: 14 April 2026

As part of the process to fully implement occupational programmes, the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) continues to roll out training initiatives aimed at capacitating lecturers and facilitators within the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector. Mopani TVET College is honoured to host a five day Early Childhood Development (ECD) training programme, which is currently taking place at the Phalaborwa Campus Conference Room from 13 to 17 April 2026. The training is conducted in partnership with Services SETA and focuses on capacitating lecturers and facilitators in the ECD Occupational Programme through an introduction to the theoretical components of the curriculum. This initiative forms part of broader reforms led by DHET to phase out NATED (Report 191) programmes in favour of occupational qualifications that are guided by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). The transition reflects a policy shift towards practice oriented training that responds directly to labour market demands and industry requirements. The Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development is one of the new occupational programmes to be offered by the College. It is a nationally recognised qualification designed to equip practitioners with practical competencies, pedagogical knowledge, and applied skills required to support holistic child development in early learning environments. Lecturers and facilitators from various TVET colleges across the country are in attendance. The training demonstrates a significant step towards strengthening lecturer and facilitator preparedness and ensuring the effective implementation of occupational programmes within the TVET sector.