An investigation of a nexus between employee skill development and competences in the Eastern Cape Department of Education

Better access to high-quality and relevant skills development is essential if South Africa is to achieve its National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 goals. The importance of training opportunities in promoting competence cannot be overstated. Equipping the workforce with the skills needed is a strategic priority for all developing countries’ national growth and progress. This paper seeks to investigate a nexus between employee skills development and competence in the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE). The paper employed a qualitative research technique and the explanatory research design to achieve its desired objectives. The results of the paper confirmed that skills training and development strategy, when implemented by institutions, ensures that staff is empowered, informed, and taught, which results in better efficiency and effectiveness. In this situation, spin-offs will benefit public organizations since employees’ increased abilities open new opportunities for long-term employment growth and organizational effectiveness. Furthermore, the knowledgeable and well-trained individual would make sound organizational decisions while successfully listening to the clients' problems. The benefits will flow down to the areas where these organizations are headquartered, and the improved image will be the goal for the ECDoE. The conclusion drawn is that Skills Development Act aims to provide skills to the South African workforce, ensure that employees have more opportunities for skill acquisition, provide opportunities for new entrants to gain work experience. The ECDoE should invest more in skills development to increase the competencies of its employees. This will guarantee the achievement of its aims and objectives, through competent employees.Thesis (MPA) -- University of Fort Hare, 202