Takealot Group and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) have just signed a major national agreement, and while it’s happening in Gauteng, the impact could be felt all the way here in Nelson Mandela Bay.
Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) this week at Takealot’s massive Distribution Centre in Kempton Park. The deal is aimed at bridging the gap between education and employment, while also supporting township businesses in the digital economy.
“The MoU aims to provide education and training opportunities for students. It also involves bringing SETAs on board to support young people through the township economy and by listing their businesses on e-commerce platforms. This agreement is one of five secured by my office so far,” Gondwe said.
Takealot Group CEO, Frederik Zietsman, confirmed the rollout will be national:
“We are putting our platform, logistics, and expertise to work alongside DHET’s priority areas and SETA support to accelerate skills development, job creation, and drive inclusive economic growth.”
What’s in the Deal?
The MoU has four main focus areas:
- Work-integrated learning opportunities for TVET and community college students.
- Expansion of the Takealot Bursary Programme in high-demand skills.
- Nationwide textbook distribution using Takealot’s logistics network.
- Township economy support, with Mr D helping local restaurants and entrepreneurs reach more customers online.
So, What About Nelson Mandela Bay?
Here’s where it gets interesting for the Bay:
- Students: As the initiative expands, local TVET colleges and universities could be part of the work-based learning and bursary programmes.
- Campuses: The textbook distribution promise is national, so students at Nelson Mandela University and PE College may also benefit.
- Township businesses: The focus on township economies means entrepreneurs in areas like KwaDwesi, New Brighton, and Motherwell could one day plug into e-commerce opportunities through Takealot and Mr D.
For now, nothing specific has been confirmed for Nelson Mandela Bay, but with the rollout described as national, the Bay could well be part of the bigger picture.
Leave a Reply