The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Takealot Group to enhance youth skills development, bridge education-to-employment gaps, and support workforce growth in South Africa. The agreement was signed by Deputy Minister Dr. Mimmy Gondwe at Takealot’s Distribution Centre in Kempton Park on September 18, 2025.
The MoU aims to provide industry-relevant skills training and e-commerce business opportunities to young people through the Takealot Township Economy Initiative. Dr. Gondwe welcomed the partnership, viewing it as a significant step towards linking students with practical skills training and business platforms.
“The MoU aims to provide education and training opportunities for students and involves bringing Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) on board to support young people in the township economy by listing their businesses on e-commerce platforms,” Gondwe stated. This agreement is one of five secured by her office to date.
Frederik Zietsman, CEO of Takealot Group, emphasized that the initiative builds on existing agreements in Mpumalanga and Gauteng and will be implemented nationally with clear goals and measurable outcomes. “As a homegrown, South African e-commerce business, we are using our platform, logistics, and expertise to work alongside DHET and SETAs to accelerate skills development, job creation, and inclusive economic growth,” Zietsman said.
The MoU outlines four main focus areas:
- Adoption of TVET and Community Colleges: Students will gain work-integrated learning opportunities with Takealot, applying their classroom knowledge in logistics, e-commerce, and technology-driven business environments. Industry experts will also support curriculum development to align classroom teaching with 21st-century workforce requirements.
- Expansion of the Takealot Bursary Programme: This initiative will double the reach of the bursary scheme, enabling more students in high-demand skill areas, such as ICT, logistics, and e-commerce retail, to access education.
- Distribution of Textbooks: Takealot will leverage its logistics and delivery network to ensure timely delivery of textbooks to university and college students across various campuses nationwide.
- Collaboration with SETAs: The agreement fosters collaboration between SETAs and Takealot to support township entrepreneurs and small to medium-sized enterprises, helping them participate in the digital economy. Takealot’s MrD platform will assist township-owned restaurants and young entrepreneurs in reaching online customers and enhancing visibility.
A four-member steering committee has been established to oversee the successful implementation of this strategic partnership.