Govt in bid to educate millions without Grade 9

Johannesburg – The government intends to provide education for about 12 million adults and youth with less than a Grade 9 by opening Community Education and Training Colleges.

They are intended to provide “second-chance learning opportunities for out-of-school youth and adults”, according to the National Policy on Community Education and Training Colleges published in the Government Gazette on Friday.

The intention is for them to provide education and training for those unable to get into universities or Technical and Vocational Education and Training colleges.

The programmes on offer will be determined by community needs and the needs of the state. They will include early childhood development, entrepreneurship, motor mechanics, plumbing, construction, carpentry, electricity, welding, and auto body repair.

One such college will be established as a pilot project in each province. No timelines were given.

In the short- to medium term, they will operate out of schools, vocational education colleges, and faith-based organisations.