University of Mpumalanga launches centre for lifelong learning and skills development
UMP's new Centre for continued learning will offer education opportunities for individuals, organisations and communities.
The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) officially launched the Centre for Continuing Learning and Executive Education on Thursday, June 2, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s commitment to lifelong learning and skills development.
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The launch brought together stakeholders from government, industry, academia and the broader UMP community to celebrate the establishment of a centre that aims to provide flexible, relevant and future-focused learning opportunities. It is designed to empower individuals, organisations and communities with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving, knowledge-driven economy.
UMP’s vice chancellor, Thenjiwe Meyiwa, compared the centre to the iconic baobab tree, describing it as a symbol of wisdom, resilience and shared knowledge. She emphasised that the centre will serve as a space where learning, collaboration and innovation can flourish, benefitting current and future generations.
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“This centre is a vision of a university that does not simply teach within the walls of its campuses, but reaches out into the province, communities and workplaces of Mpumalanga to build the skills, knowledge and leadership that our province so urgently needs,” she said.
The Mpumalanga MEC for education, Lindi Masina, welcomed the initiative and stated that the launch demonstrates the university’s ability to respond to the changing needs of the government, industry and local communities. She highlighted that institutions of higher learning play an important role in equipping people with skills required to support economic growth and social development.
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Representing the minister of mineral and petroleum resources, Carol Maila said the department is finalising a Memorandum of Understanding with UMP. “The agreement will pave the way for the introduction of a management and executive development programme through the centre, further strengthening collaboration between the university and the public sector,” she said.
