Eden Tech High part of programme to teach workplace-ready skills

SCHOOL NEWS - Eden Technical High School in George is among six schools in the Western Cape selected for a R127m programme aimed at equipping learners with practical, industry-relevant skills and better preparing them for the workplace.

The initiative, implemented in collaboration with Certify Academy, a division of the CAD4ALL Institute of Architecture and Digital Arts, aims to provide learners with opportunities to leave school with more than just a National Senior Certificate.

This was announced during the official launch of the Western Cape Education Department’s (WCED) Technical Schools Revitalisation Programme. The launch was performed by Premier Alan Winde and provincial Education Minister Jaco Londt at Bellville Technical High School today, Thursday 22 October.

Certify Academy’s Jody van Heerden said they have a model that will enable learners in Grades 10 to 12 to obtain multiple industry-relevant and internationally recognised skills certifications, supported by practical experience and a digital portfolio of evidence showcasing their competencies and achievements.

The programme is currently being rolled out to six schools: Eden Technical High School, Proteus Secondary, Joe Slovo Technical High School, Bellville Technical High School, Oude Molen Technical High School and Drostdy Technical High School.

A total of 2 390 Grade 10 learners, 2 499 Grade 11 learners, 1 810 matriculants and 137 teachers are participating in the programme.

The WCED said in a media statement that learners will receive industry exposure and workplace-based learning opportunities. Workshops, equipment and technology at the schools will also be upgraded to ensure learners train in environments that reflect modern industry standards.

The programme will also strengthen teaching capacity through specialist training, professional development opportunities and additional support personnel.

Partnerships with industry, TVET colleges and tertiary institutions will also be strengthened to create seamless pathways to employment, entrepreneurship and further study.

Londt said, “This is a significant investment in the future of this province and the country. When our learners succeed, businesses gain access to better skills, communities become more resilient, and the economy grows. Everyone benefits. Thank you to our officials and partners like Certify Academy for your hard work in getting this programme off the ground.”,

Premier Winde said the programme will help address the challenge of youth unemployment. “We will keep investing in equipping more young people with the skills they need to thrive in our economy. Skills development is a vital part of our Growth for Jobs strategy and through the Technical Schools Revitalisation Programme we are also better preparing our youth with skills that are more relevant for the future.”

The programme is scheduled to run over a three-year period, with the first cohort of learners expected to matriculate in 2028.

Premier Winde and Minister Londt with WCED management and officials, and principals from the participating schools (in the front row).