TVET Colleges vs Universities: Why skills may matter more than degrees

“Don’t take TVET colleges for granted.” That was the advice from a TVET college graduate from Limpopo to matriculants who still view vocational education as a last resort.

Many matriculants still view TVET colleges as a last resort.

*Lerato Tema, 28, grew up in the dusty streets of Segopje Ga-Mamabolo and has always dreamed of becoming a farmer.

“I have always loved farming because my family used to farm in the backyard and grow our own vegetables. We also had chickens in the yard. That’s what made me love farming,” she said.

Her passion grew during high school. 

“When I entered high school, my love for farming grew even stronger. I decided I would study agriculture after matric because I really enjoyed it.”

Although Tema wanted to study a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Management at the University of Pretoria, her marks were too low to qualify.

“I decided to study at a TVET college because my grades weren’t good enough for university. I accepted it and furthered my studies in what I love,” she said. 

“I highly recommend TVET colleges because I gained a lot of valuable knowledge and practical experience.”

Tema, who graduated in 2023 from Mashamba TVET College in Vhembe, with a Diploma in Primary  Agriculture, acknowledges that many matriculants still overlook TVET colleges.

“I really do recommend them, especially to those who initially don’t want to go there but end up being rejected by universities. They offer excellent education and practical experience,” she said.

She cautioned against automatically choosing universities over TVET colleges, which can lead to “gap years” for some who do not meet entry requirements.

“There are many courses offered at TVET colleges, such as engineering, hospitality, office administration, and primary agriculture. Unlike universities, TVETs combine theory with hands-on training, which some workplaces now value more,” she explained.

Tema is currently in her second year of a Diploma of Animal Science at UNISA.

Meanwhile, universities and colleges have already begun accepting students for the 2026 academic year. 

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) announced on Monday that it had processed all 2026 funding applications, approving 609,653.

NSFAS board chair Dr Mugwena Maluleke said 218,043 applications remain incomplete due to missing documents, 16,862 have been cancelled, and 49,538 rejected. 

He added that on February 1, 2026, NSFAS will make an upfront payment covering the full book allowance and one month of meal, accommodation, personal care, and travel allowances.

Tema encouraged matriculants to stop undermining TVET colleges.

“People need to remove that mindset. NSFAS funds TVET students, you study what you love, graduate, and find work.”

“Universities may reject you repeatedly, and you could end up idle at home. Many people working in mines, electricity, and plumbing firms attended TVET colleges,” she said.

Speaking with IOL News, educational activist Hendrick Makaneta agreed, emphasising that TVET colleges provide realistic career pathways for learners who do not meet university entry requirements.

“TVET colleges offer diplomas and certificates in areas such as engineering, hospitality, IT, business, and agriculture, combining theory with practical experience,” he told IOL News.

Makaneta expressed concern that many matriculants still see university degrees as superior. 

“Practical skills courses such as plumbing, electrical work, and welding can offer long-term financial stability and entrepreneurship opportunities, sometimes surpassing the benefits of a university degree.”

“In a country facing high youth unemployment, alternative education models equip young people with skills immediately applicable in the workforce, empowering them to become job creators rather than job seekers.”

He also advised parents and learners to reconsider the belief that success is only possible through a university degree. 

“Many skilled tradespeople earn as much, or more, than some university graduates. Practical skills and entrepreneurship provide pathways to meaningful participation in the economy.”

Meanwhile, the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, is expected to announce the 2025 matric results on Monday, January 12.

*Lerato Tema* - not her real name.

simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za

IOL News