About the Role
The Northern Cape TVET College is looking for a dedicated individual to take on the role of Partnership and Linkages Coordinator in Upington. This position is vital for fostering collaborative relationships that enhance the educational landscape for students in the region. By working closely with industry partners, government departments, and NGOs, the successful candidate will ensure that students are well-prepared for the workforce through effective Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunities. The role not only supports student success but also strengthens community ties, making it an essential part of public service in South Africa.
In this position, you will be at the forefront of strategic partnership development, resource mobilization, and industry engagement, all aimed at improving the educational offerings of the college. Your efforts will directly impact the lives of students by connecting them with valuable work experiences, ultimately contributing to the economic growth and skill development in the Northern Cape.
About the Department
The Northern Cape TVET College is committed to providing quality vocational education and training that meets the needs of the local economy and aligns with the strategic goals of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). The college aims to equip students with practical skills that drive employability and career advancement. Working in this department means being part of a transformative initiative that empowers individuals and supports community development through education.
What You’ll Do
- Identify, establish, and maintain strategic alliances with industry partners, government departments, and NGOs.
- Draft and manage Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and Service Level Agreements (SLAs) to formalize partnerships.
- Facilitate the placement of students and lecturers in industry settings for Work-Integrated Learning and Workplace-Based Experience.
- Monitor and assess the quality of placements to ensure compliance with curriculum and trade test regulations.
- Lead resource mobilization efforts by identifying funding opportunities and drafting proposals for college projects and support services.
- Conduct market research to identify emerging skill demands and advise on program offerings.
- Represent the college in stakeholder forums and manage reporting on partnership activities and grant utilization.
- Oversee the administration of the Partnerships and Linkages Section, including budget management and staff supervision.
What You’ll Need
- Appropriate recognized Bachelor’s Degree or National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in Marketing, Business Management, or related field.
- A minimum of seven years of experience in Business Development, Stakeholder Management, or Partnerships, with at least three years in a supervisory role.
- Registration with a relevant professional body (e.g., SACE or HPCSA).
- Digital literacy, with proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams.
- A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel as needed.
- Strong understanding of the TVET sector and relevant legislation like the CET Act and PFMA.
- Proven track record in facilitating student placements and securing funding through effective proposal writing.
How to Apply
Apply online at the application instructions below.
Requirements
Appropriate recognized Bachelor's Degree / National Diploma (NQF Level 6) or equivalent qualification in Marketing, Business Management, or related field.A minimum of seven years (7) working experience in Business Development, Stakeholder Management, or Partnerships Environment of which at least three (3) years should be at Supervisory level.
Registration with a professional body (e.
g.
, SACE or HPCSA) etc.
Digital literate and competent in Word / Excel / PowerPoint / Outlook / Teams.
A valid driver's license and willingness to travel.
30 Competencies: In-depth understanding of the TVET College sector and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) strategic goals.
Knowledge of the CET Act, PFMA, and National Skills Development Plan (NSDP).
Understanding of SETA landscapes, apprenticeship models, and work-integrated learning (WIL) policies.
Familiarity with the BBBEE Act and its implications for corporate social investment and partnerships.
Strategic Networking: Ability to build and maintain high-level relationships with industry, government, and NGOs.
Negotiation & Persuasion: Proven ability to secure Memoranda of Understanding (MoU’s) and funding.
Project Management: Overseeing multiple partnership projects from inception to evaluation.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written reporting skills for executive-level presentations.
Financial Acumen: Ability to manage budgets and monitor the ROI of various linkages.
Proven track record in facilitating placements for students in Work-Integrated Learning (WIL).
Experience in resource mobilization and proposal writing for donor funding or grants.
Experience in conducting market research to align college programs with local industry needs.
Managing formal agreements and ensuring compliance with MoU / MoA terms.
A Postgraduate qualification in Business Administration or Management.
Experience working specifically within a TVET environment or Higher Education sector.
Project Management Certification (e.
g.
, PRINCE2 or PMBOK).
Job Duties
Strategic Partnership Development and Management: Identify, establish, and maintain strategic alliances with industry partners, government departments, SETAs, and NGOs.This includes the formalization of these relationships through the drafting and management of Memoranda of Understanding (MoU’s) and Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
Student Placement and Work- Integrated Learning (WIL): Facilitate and coordinate the placement of students and lecturers in industry for Work-Integrated Learning and Workplace-Based Experience (WBE).
Monitor the quality of placements to ensure they meet the specific requirements of the curriculum and trade test regulations.
Resource Mobilization and Fundraising: Lead the identification of external funding opportunities, including SETA grants and private sector sponsorships.
Draft and present high-quality funding proposals to secure resources for college projects, infrastructure, and student support services.
Industry Liaison and Market Research: Conduct regular market scans and industry research to identify emerging skill demands.
Use these insights to advise the College Academic Board on program diversification, ensuring that the college’s offerings remain responsive to the local and national economy.
Stakeholder Engagement and Reporting: Represent the College in provincial and national stakeholder forums.
Manage the reporting process by compiling comprehensive monthly and quarterly reports on partnership activities, placement statistics, and grant utilization for the College Management Team and DHET.
Management of the Partnership Unit: Provide leadership and manage the administrative duties of the Partnerships and Linkages Section.
This involves managing the Section’s budget, supervising staff performance, and ensuring all activities align with the College’s Strategic Plan and Annual Operational Plan (APP).
