In the wake of South Africa’s Matric results being published many 2011 matriculants now face the reality that they may not obtain a university place despite qualifying. Learners are being urged to consider private colleges and FET institutions as a viable option for gaining a tertiary education. Among them are quality institutions offering courses that address the economic needs of our country. Many colleges have a higher ratio of graduates placed directly into related employment.

Gert Sibande College (GS College) is based in Mpumalanga, spread throughout four campuses in Ermelo, Evander, Standerton and Mpuluzi.

GS College emphasises on-site and distance e-learning through qualified assessors and moderators, who give training in SAQA affiliated courses. Business Management Studies and Engineering theory are specialities, supplemented with practical training in line with industry standards.

So, you've decided to apply to your local FET College? Congratulations! As a public FET College student, you can expect to gain both practical and theoretical knowledge, exposure to your chosen industry, as well as a meaningful qualification without paying the kind of money that will land you in student debt before the launch of your career.

Boland FET College consists of five campuses: Caledon, Paarl, Stellenbosch, Strand and Worcestor. One of the college’s strategic objectives is to deliver relevant needs-driven education and training (that can lead to employment), to the people who need it most.

Northlink FET College gets its name from a combination of “North”, indicating its geographical position, and the “link”, describing the initial linking of four former colleges which, more importantly, form a critical link between school education and the world of work.

Nothern Cape Urban FET College operates on two campuses in Kimberley: one is in the central business district, known as the City campus, and the other is in Vergenoeg, a township of Kimberley and also known as Moremogolo campus.

ORBIT FET College is a leading Further Education and Training College in the NW Province specializing in priority skills development. ORBIT comprises three Campuses in Brits, Mogwase and Rustenburg. Students who study at ORBIT FET College get a headstart to a great career due to the focus on responsive, relevant programmes that develop critical and scarce skills.