MEDIA STATEMENT

The HRDC Secretariat held a successful Human Resource Development Provincial Coordination Forum (HRDPCF) meeting at the Matthew Goniwe School of Leadership and Governance in Johannesburg, Gauteng Province, on 19 November 2025. The meeting was chaired by the Head of the HRDC Secretariat, Mr Maliviwe Lumka.

Deputy Director-General: Gauteng City Region Academy, Mr China Mashinini welcomed members of the Forum to the Gauteng Province. In his opening remarks, he stated: “Today marks a turning point for the province. We have developed concrete plans, and we will deliver on these plans. The province is in its final preparation stages to launch the Provincial HRDC in January 2026. The Council will comprise stakeholders from various sectors and will equip youth with marketable skills. It will demonstrate that investing in youth is crucial, showcase what works and what does not, and highlight existing challenges. We will turn policy into practice and hope into opportunities.” He further emphasised the province’s commitment to consistency, active participation, collaboration, and measuring success by the number of lives transformed.

The meeting received key provincial highlights related to the implementation of the Reconceptualised HRD Strategy and Master Skills Plan, presented by Chief Director at Gauteng Provincial Government, Ms Rae Davids. Her presentation focused on the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). She emphasized the need to create an environment that provides work experience and equips young people with market-relevant skills. She further emphasised the importance of scanning the economic landscape and redirecting skills development priorities accordingly.

With applications period for the 2026 National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding cycle having closed on 15 November 2025, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of NSFAS, Mr Waseem Carrim, presented an update on bursary allocations. He mentioned that during the 2025 financial year, NSFAS provided funding for 618 393 students, with an expenditure of R49 356 906 790. Mr Carrim also highlighted challenges linked to the budget deficit, caused in part by students taking longer than anticipated to complete their programmes, which delays the admission of new students. He posed a key question: “Are we funding the right programmes?”

He concluded by emphasising the potential for greater private sector involvement, particularly in addressing infrastructure-related challenges.

In conclusion, the meeting ended with the Secretariat encouraging the provincial representatives to continue reporting on the implementation of the Reconceptualised Strategy and Master Skills Plan using the new reporting template.

The meeting was attended by representatives from all nine provinces and delegates from the Gauteng Office of the Premier. The HRD Provincial Coordination Forum serves as a vital platform linking the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) with HRD initiatives at the provincial level.

Enquiries:

Mr Sydney Mhlongo

Email: Mhlongo.s@dhet.gov.za

Cell: (012) 943 3186

Issued by Human Resource Development Council of South Africa Secretariat