Motheo TVET College has reached an exciting milestone with the official launch of its new Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Centre of Excellence at the NADA Campus. The centre was officially opened on Friday, 17 October 2025, by the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela.
This innovative facility marks a major step forward in preparing South Africa’s youth for the future world of work. The 4IR Centre forms part of a national flagship initiative by the ETDP SETA, which has supported the establishment of 10 Centres of Excellence across the country since 2020. Motheo TVET College is proud to be among the pioneers driving the integration of education, technology, and industry innovation.
During the launch, College Principal, Prof Dipiloane Phutsisi, expressed her pride in the achievement, saying, “Today is not just an official opening; it is a celebration for us as a College. We are not just opening this facility, but we are opening doors for our youth and for generations to come.”
College Council Chairperson, Mr Jabulani Tshabalala, highlighted the importance of the new facility to the local community, adding, “It is an honour for me to address you on this momentous occasion. This is a resource for the whole community.”
Mangaung Metro Executive Mayor, Cllr Gregory Nthatisi, also praised the college’s commitment to skills development, saying, “We are a small country, but the skills we are developing are world-class. As a Metro, we have a great relationship with the College and look forward to strengthening it.”
Minister Buti Manamela commended the collaborative efforts that made the project possible and emphasised the importance of ongoing partnerships. “This event reflects the power of public-private partnerships. The 4IR programme must be treated with the same importance as all other academic offerings. This launch is not a destination, but a journey,” said the Minister.
The new 4IR Centre of Excellence positions Motheo TVET College as a leader in equipping students with the advanced digital and technical skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing job market, while fostering innovation and community development in the Mangaung region.
