The Kwa-Thema Community Education and Training (CET) centre, formerly known as Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET), has relocated from Lefa Ifa Secondary School to Sechaba Primary School in Vergenoeg as its full-time learning hub.

Speaking to the African Reporter, facilitator Martha Nkosi said the move was necessary as learners lacked a permanent centre.

Nkosi said the centre offers sewing, matric second chance programmes, and pre-2008 matric rewrite options, with additional courses planned for the future.

“It is important for townships to have CET centres because it allows them to get the matric and further their studies.

“Also, with the skills offered here, we ensure that people get them because not everyone is academically gifted, so we want the community to come and obtain the skills to uplift themselves and the local economy by opening their own businesses,” explained Nkosi.

Nkosi emphasised that the centre’s programmes should empower the Kwa-Thema community.

The centre’s Representative Council of Learners (RCL) president, Siyamthanda Mabophe (22), told the publication that moving to the new premises has been positive for students, especially regarding safety and having a dedicated learning environment.

He said students previously faced challenges including travelling between different sites and returning home late.

However, he acknowledged that the move may have led to a loss of some students due to increased travel distance.

Mabophe noted that having dedicated school infrastructure and classrooms has simplified learning for students. He said one of his favourite aspects of the programme is the chance to showcase and develop skills.

“You get a chance to showcase your skills, to improve on that, and also try and create a living out of it,” he said.

Mabophe, who is completing the Level Four programme, described attending a CET centre as a second chance that transformed his view of education.

Returning to education helped him recognise its value and allowed him to interact with people he might not otherwise have met. He believes adults who left school early should reconsider their options rather than view their circumstances as the end of their educational journey.

“I believe it is never too late to change your life because, with the skills obtained, you can do something that changes your life, like opening a business or teaching other people,” he said.

Mabophe called for expanded employment opportunities and skills development for CET learners, noting that a lack of experience creates barriers to finding work.

The 22-year-old said students who completed programmes such as peer education should be given opportunities to apply those skills in the workplace. He also appealed for increased funding and improved infrastructure for CET centres nationally.

Mabophe encouraged adults considering returning to education to seize the opportunity to improve their lives.

“Take that opportunity and try to change your life and make a better version of yourself,” he concluded.