THE Chemical Industries Education & Training Authority (Chieta), in partnership with the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) and Transport Education Training Authority (TETA), launched the Green Hydrogen Centre of Specialisation (CoS) at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in Pretoria.
Chieta CEO Yershen Pillay, alongside MQA CEO Dr Thabo Mashongoane and TETA CEO Maphefo Anno-Frempong, spearheaded the establishment of the Green Hydrogen Centre of Specialisation (CoS) project to address the pressing need for hydrogen skills in the country.
“As a leader in the provision of training in the chemical industry, we are pleased to work with colleagues from MQA and TETA to help create skills needed to tap into the opportunities in the rapidly emerging hydrogen space,” said Pillay.
Chieta’s leadership in this initiative will ensure the Centre offers hybrid training focusing on Continuous Professional Development (CPD), aligning with the increasing demand for upskilling and reskilling in the rapidly evolving green hydrogen and derivatives industry.
Chieta’s active involvement in fostering this collaboration is seen as crucial for the CoS’s success. It enables shared resources, expertise, market reach, risk mitigation, and alignment with government priorities.
These specialised courses will be available at select tertiary institutions and TVET colleges, complementing existing degrees and NQF level 5 or higher occupational qualifications. This approach underscores a dedication to delivering top-tier training that meets industry needs.
Under Chieta’s guidance, the CoS will tackle various aspects of the green hydrogen value chain, drawing on the skills mapping conducted by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). By addressing these value chain elements, the CoS establishes itself as a comprehensive training hub.
The launch event on 1 October featured the signing of a strategic tripartite agreement between the Setas.
MQA CEO Dr Thabo Mashongoane said the initiative is a significant move that not only raises awareness about the CoS and generates momentum for the project but also showcases the unwavering commitment of all participating organisations.
“As a collective, we are excited to collaborate to work in a rapidly growing sector where specialised skills are critical for success,” said Mashongoane.
TETA CEO Anno-Frempong said as equal partners in the collaboration, the aim was to contribute towards impactful outcomes for the sector, which will ultimately lead to the creation of new skills. “Through this, we endeavour to address unemployment and also grow the economy,” she said.
