Minister of Higher Education Dr Nobuhle Nkabane delivers keynote address at the NSA 6th Board Members induction
The minister noted that South Africans are no longer patient and have been raising their voices, emphasising that limited action has been taken, and it's imperative to act now.
In a pivotal effort to revitalise South Africa’s skills development landscape, Minister of Higher Education Dr Nobuhle Pamela Nkabane officiated the induction ceremony for the 6th Board of the National Skills Authority (NSA) at Gallagher Convention Centre on May 6-7.
The event marked a critical moment as the country intensified efforts to tackle youth unemployment, address skills deficits, and modernise post-school education and training.
The new NSA board is a diverse assembly of professionals representing various sectors, including organised labour, business, community organisations, education and skills development providers, and government departments.
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Notably, the board features a strong representation of women and youth, with Asanda Luwaca (33) serving as chairperson, reflecting the government’s dedication to youth leadership and inclusive governance.
Nkabane expressed confidence that they could work together to accelerate efforts in closing skills gaps, supporting inclusive growth, and creating meaningful employment opportunities for the youth.
“In my budget vote speech at the National Assembly last year, I mentioned that I have listened attentively to the voices calling for transformation,” said Nkabane.
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“South Africans are no longer patient with us; they have been raising their voices with limited action from our side. We ought to act, and we must act now. We must commit to doing what is right and good for the nation. Integrity is not just about words; it is about consistent actions.”
She emphasised the importance of the Skills Development Act, which underpins the establishment of Sector Education and Training Authorities (Setas), and the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations. These institutions are tasked with developing sector-specific skills plans and overseeing training initiatives aligned with labour market needs.
One of the most pressing issues highlighted was youth unemployment, with an estimated 3.5 million South Africans aged 15-24 neither in employment, education, nor training. Nkabane reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that Setas prioritised youth skills development, especially in emerging sectors driven by technological innovation.
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Luwaca delivered a heartfelt and introspective speech, sharing her journey from student activism to youth development work and now leading the NSA.
Luwaca acknowledged the disparities and inequalities faced by young South Africans, particularly in terms of accessing opportunities and quality education.
She called for collective action, recognised the expertise in the room, and stressed the importance of aligning policies with the people’s needs and aspirations to drive the country’s transformation agenda forward.
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