NOLUVO MGIJIMA
THE Department of Higher Education and Training has launched an R80 million facility to work as a cannabis processing hub in the rural town of Ntabankulu in the Eastern Cape. Last Friday, September 5, the deputy minister for the department Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube led a sod-turning ceremony for the project, said to be a game-changer in the local economy and in job creation.
The investment by the Wholesale and Retail SETA in the Agricultural Hub currently being constructed within the Ingwe TVET College in Ntabankulu will comprise an Agricultural Retail Hub for production and processing of cannabis. Upon completion, the facility will also include an information, communication and technology laboratory for advancement of ICT skills for the TVET college students.
Speakers at the event were optimistic that cannabis production in the Ntabankulu area would assist the community to generate money.
They said cannabis will be processed for medicinal purposes and sold to different markets around the world.
Deputy Minister Dube-Ncube said the introduction of the cannabis farming module is a skill development that will equip young people to become innovative and striving entrepreneurs.
“The campus will have research laboratories, modern classrooms, computer laboratories and engineering workshops to enhance skills,” she said. The mayor of the Ntabankulu Local Municipality Tsileng Sobuthongo appreciated the support from the community in making sure that the construction of the facility continues.
She said the construction of the new campus has created job opportunities. Acting principal for the Ingwe TVET College Dr Rachere Radile said as soon as the campus is finished they will start accepting students.
Oku Phongoma, a learner at Zwelakhe Senior Secondary, said that the construction of the campus will be a dream come true for her future goals as she does not wish to go to other provinces to further her studies.
Aza Veze, a resident in Ntabankulu, said the facility will offer skills required in the community.
