Pietermaritzburg:The Department of Higher Education and Training is aiming to enroll more than 520,000 students in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges, with funding for over 700,000 students through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the current financial year.

According to South African Government News Agency, Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, announced these targets as part of the government's strategy to increase access to post-school education and training, workplace-based learning, and artisan development.

During an address to Grade 12 learners at an annual mass prayer event in the uMgungundlovu District, Dube-Ncube highlighted that the post-school education and training system is supported by a budget of R443 billion over the medium term. This year, the department is also targeting more than 1.15 million students at public universities, 91,800 workplace-based learning opportunities, and 22,000 artisan certifications.

Dube-Ncube encouraged learners to consider international scholarship programs available through partnerships with countries such as China, Germany, and Hungary. These programs offer fully funded study opportunities to South African students, covering tuition, travel, and living costs.

Additionally, Dube-Ncube urged matriculants to apply for NSFAS funding for 2027 and to submit applications to multiple post-school institutions, including universities and TVET colleges, to ensure they have options once their results are released.

KwaZulu-Natal was recognized as the top-performing province in the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations, achieving a 90.6% pass rate and producing 89,161 bachelor passes, an increase from the previous year. Dube-Ncube challenged the Class of 2026 to build on this success as they prepare for their final exams and emphasized the importance of learners taking responsibility for their academic performance and future choices.