The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is the government department responsible for post-school education and training in South Africa. It oversees universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), and skills development programs.
Roles and Responsibilities of DHET:
- Regulating Higher Education Institutions
- Oversees public and private universities, ensuring they meet national standards.
- Works with the Council on Higher Education (CHE) to accredit higher education programs.
- Managing TVET and Community Colleges
- Regulates Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges to provide practical and industry-relevant skills.
- Oversees Community Education and Training (CET) colleges for adult learning programs.
- Skills Development & Workplace Training
- Manages Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and FASSET to support learnerships, internships, and workplace skills programs.
- Implements the Skills Development Act to improve workforce training.
- Funding and Student Support
- Manages the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to provide bursaries and loans for students.
- Allocates funding to public universities and colleges.
- Policy Development & Quality Assurance
- Develops policies for post-school education and training (PSET).
- Works with SAQA, Umalusi, and CHE to ensure quality education.
DHET’s Role in South African Education:
DHET ensures that higher education and vocational training meet national and industry standards, promoting skills development, economic growth, and lifelong learning.
