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From bursaries to AI, reforms to compliance — May brings decisive shifts in South Africa’s skills landscape

By: SA-Skills Team • Published: May 5, 2026 at 8:59 PM • 👁️ 43 views

The SA‑Skills team is pleased to share this latest update with our community of learners, providers, companies, and stakeholders. As South Africa’s skills ecosystem continues to evolve, we remain committed to keeping you informed about the opportunities, reforms, and compliance matters that shape your work and learning. This edition highlights bursary launches, digital partnerships, TVET reforms, SETA deadlines, and governance updates that are critical for May 2026.

University and Academic Developments

Universities South Africa (USAf), in partnership with the Services SETA, has announced a R520 million bursary scheme to support over 5,000 students. Valued at R100,000 per student per year, this initiative represents one of the largest commitments to higher education funding in recent years. It is expected to ease financial pressures and expand access to postgraduate study across multiple disciplines.

At the same time, USAf has entered into a strategic partnership with IBM to expand artificial intelligence capacity within universities. The collaboration is aimed at embedding AI into curricula, supporting research, and preparing graduates for emerging digital industries. This move reflects a broader trend of aligning South African higher education with global technology standards.

TVET Sector Reforms

The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) has confirmed a major overhaul of the TVET system, with occupational qualifications becoming the new default. This reform is designed to integrate classroom learning with workplace experience, ensuring vocational education directly meets industry demand. Colleges are expected to adapt curricula over the coming academic cycles.

To address student wellbeing, DHET has also launched Campus Community Safety Forums at TVET colleges, in partnership with SAPS. These forums are intended to strengthen collaboration between institutions and law enforcement, responding to ongoing concerns about safety on campuses.

Digital Skills Expansion

In a landmark move, DHET signed an MoU with Google South Africa to advance AI and digital skills. The agreement provides 10,000 Google Career Certificate scholarships in areas such as cybersecurity, data analytics, and AI essentials. It also introduces a Generative AI for Educators programme and hardware revitalisation through ChromeOS Flex. The MoU is projected to contribute significantly to youth employability and South Africa’s digital economy.

SETA Funding and Compliance Updates

The MERSETA discretionary grant funding window for 2026/27 closes on 30 May 2026, supporting technical training and sectoral priorities.
The Health & Welfare SETA (HWSETA), Safety & Security SETA (SASSETA), and Services SETA have all issued blanket extensions for mandatory grant submissions (WSP/ATR) until 31 May 2026, giving employers additional time to comply.

Governance Update

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has been placed under administration, following government’s announcement to stabilise operations and ensure continuity of student funding. Stakeholders are advised to monitor official channels for updates on governance and funding processes.

South Africa’s skills landscape is entering a decisive phase. Employers have a short but vital compliance window to meet SETA requirements, while universities and TVET colleges are being called to embrace AI partnerships that will shape the future of learning. Educators stand at the forefront of digital transformation, with new tools ready to be integrated into classrooms. Together, these reforms and opportunities signal a sector preparing not just to adapt, but to lead in building a workforce ready for tomorrow.

References

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