The Role of Further Education and Training Colleges in Enhancing Skills Development to Combat Poverty

The connection between poverty and lack of education seems entirely self-evident, yet real progress in overcoming the obstacles to education and economic affluence has eluded governments and social activists worldwide for decade. This document intends to interrogate how can further education and training enhance skills development initiatives in combating poverty in the South African situation. The importance of Further Education and Training (FET) colleges in responding to the skills development needs of South Africa will be analysed. This discussion document will focus on the national development trajectory; understanding of the role of the FET college sector; and funding and governance.