Mnambithi TVET College offers National Certificate Vocational (NCV) programmes, Report 191 technical diplomas, and occupational skills training across five campuses in the uThukela District of KwaZulu-Natal.
The institution operates under the Department of Higher Education and Training and provides NSFAS-funded education to qualifying students.
Table of Contents
What is Mnambithi TVET College?
Mnambithi TVET College is a public technical and vocational education institution established in 2002. The college resulted from the merger of Ladysmith Technical College, Ezakheni Technical College, Ezakheni Ex-College of Education, and Ezakheni Skills Centre. Mr. Christopher Juba Ndlela serves as College Principal, with Mrs. B.N. Mpangase as Deputy Principal for Academic Services.
The institution operates five campuses: Ladysmith Campus at 12 Walton Street, Ezakheni [A] Campus, Ezakheni [E] Campus, Ezakheni Skills Centre, and Estcourt Campus at 10 Shepstone Road. The Central Office is located at 77 Murchison Street, Ladysmith, 3370.
Accreditation and Governance
The college holds accreditation from UMALUSI, the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), and various Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). The Department of Higher Education and Training provides governance oversight, while the Auditor-General of South Africa conducts financial audits.
Mnambithi TVET College Courses
Mnambithi TVET College delivers three qualification pathways: Pre-Vocational Learning Programme, National Certificate Vocational, and Report 191 (NATED) programmes.
Pre-Vocational Learning Programme (PLP)
The Pre-Vocational Learning Programme prepares students who do not meet NCV admission requirements for technical college study. The programme runs for one year and teaches four foundational subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, and Life Skills.
Students who complete Grade 9, 10, or 11 but achieve marks below NCV entry requirements qualify for PLP. Ezakheni [A] Campus is the only location offering this programme. NSFAS funding covers eligible PLP students.
Annual fees for PLP total R5,022 for self-funded students. The programme operates on NQF Level 1 and awards a Career Preparation Programme Certificate upon completion.
National Certificate Vocational (NCV) Programmes
NCV programmes provide vocational education at NQF Levels 2, 3, and 4, with Level 4 equivalent to a National Senior Certificate. Each level requires one year of full-time study. Students complete three fundamental subjects (English, Mathematical Literacy or Mathematics, and Life Orientation) plus four vocational subjects specific to their chosen field.
The college offers eight NCV programmes:
- Education and Development – Available at Ladysmith Campus
- Electrical Infrastructure and Construction – Available at Ezakheni [A] Campus
- Finance, Economics and Accounting – Available at Estcourt, Ezakheni [A], Ezakheni [E], and Ladysmith campuses
- Hospitality – Available at Ladysmith Campus
- Information Technology and Computer Science – Available at Ladysmith Campus
- Office Administration – Available at Estcourt, Ezakheni [A], and Ladysmith campuses
- Safety in Society – Available at Estcourt Campus
- Tourism – Available at Ladysmith Campus
NCV Entry Requirements
Grade 9 completion represents the minimum entry requirement for NCV Level 2. Some programmes accept Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) evidence. Specific programmes require additional assessments:
- Electrical programmes require color competency testing
- Safety in Society requires applicants aged 17 to 25 years, South African citizenship, no criminal record, medical fitness, and a psychometric test
NCV Fee Structure
Annual fees vary by programme for the 2026 academic year:
| Programme | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Education and Development | R9,541 |
| Electrical Infrastructure and Construction | R13,550 |
| Finance, Economics and Accounting | R9,833 |
| Hospitality | R16,656 |
| Information Technology and Computer Science | R13,458 |
| Office Administration | R8,789 |
| Tourism | R12,769 |
| Safety in Society | R9,005 |
Report 191 (NATED) Programmes
Report 191 programmes provide modular technical education from N1 to N6 levels, leading to National Diplomas. Business and Utility Studies programmes run N4 to N6 levels over 18 months of theory, while Engineering Studies offer N1 to N6 levels.
Business Studies Programmes (N4-N6)
Five Business Studies programmes operate across multiple campuses:
- Business Management – Available at Estcourt, Ezakheni [A], and Ladysmith campuses (Full-time and Open Learning)
- Financial Management – Available at Estcourt, Ezakheni [A], and Ladysmith campuses (Full-time and Open Learning)
- Human Resource Management – Available at Estcourt, Ezakheni [A], and Ladysmith campuses (Full-time and Open Learning)
- Management Assistant – Available at Estcourt and Ezakheni [A] campuses
- Public Management – Available at Estcourt, Ezakheni [A], and Ladysmith campuses (Full-time and Open Learning)
Each N4-N6 level requires six months of study. Students complete four subjects per level. Business Management N4 subjects include Entrepreneurship and Business Management, Management Communication, Computer Practice, and Introductory Accounting.
Utility Studies Programmes (N4-N6)
Three Utility Studies programmes serve students interested in caregiving and hospitality sectors:
- Educare – Currently not offered at any campus
- Hospitality and Catering Services – Available at Ladysmith Campus
- Tourism – Available at Ladysmith Campus
Tourism N4 subjects include Tourism Destination, Travel Services, Travel Office Procedures, and Tourism Communication.
Engineering Studies Programmes
Engineering programmes operate on trimester schedules:
- Electrical Engineering N1-N3 – Available at Ezakheni Skills Centre
- Electrical Engineering N4-N6 – Available at Ezakheni [E] Campus (Full-time and Open Learning)
- Civil Engineering: Plumbing N1-N3 – Available at Ezakheni Skills Centre
- Civil Engineering: Bricklaying N1-N3 – Available at Ezakheni Skills Centre
Engineering N1 requires Grade 10 with Mathematics and Physical Science. Engineering N4-N6 requires Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science.
NATED Fee Structure
Semester fees for Business and Utility Studies range from R2,672 to R6,028. Engineering Studies charges R2,104 to R2,315 per trimester. Additional costs include:
- Registration Fee: R450
- Per Subject: R550
- Examination Fee: R250
- Supplementary Exam Fee: R300
National Diploma Requirements
A National Diploma (NQF Level 5) requires completion of N4, N5, and N6 theoretical study plus 18 months of workplace experience. Engineering diplomas require 24 months of practical experience. Students must submit workplace verification from employers to the Department of Higher Education and Training.
Short Skills Courses
Short skills courses provide targeted occupational training over three-month periods. The Ezakheni Skills Centre offers three short courses:
- Automotive Repairs and Maintenance – R2,800
- Carpentry – R2,800
- Welding – R2,800
These programmes teach practical skills for immediate employment in trades. NSFAS does not fund short skills courses unless an employer sponsors the student.
Artisan Training and Trade Testing
Ezakheni [E] Campus holds accreditation from the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA (MERSETA) for artisan training. The campus offers learnership and artisan programmes in:
- Electrician
- Fitter
- Instrument Mechanician
- Welder
Trade testing services enable qualified students to obtain artisan certification. The Occupational Training Unit coordinates partnerships with regional companies for workplace training.
How to Apply to Mnambithi TVET College Online
Applications for the 2026 academic year open online through the Coltech student portal at mnambithi.coltech.co.za. The application period typically runs from September through November of the preceding year for the following academic year.
Step 1: Complete Career Guidance Assessment
New applicants must complete the Career Guidance Exploration questionnaire before submitting an application. The Profiler System matches applicant responses to appropriate programmes based on interests and abilities.
The assessment takes approximately 30 minutes. Applicants create a username and password to save progress. The system generates a placement report recommending suitable programmes, though applicants retain the right to select any programme regardless of recommendations.
Step 2: Pre-Entry Placement Assessment
After career guidance, applicants complete the Pre-Entry Placement Assessment through the Profiler System. This mandatory screening evaluates academic readiness for technical college study.
Important assessment guidelines:
- Answer all questions honestly
- Do not allow others to complete the assessment
- Complete all screening batteries in the Pre-Entry Information folder
- Write down and store the username and password securely
- Use the Returning User button if the internet connection drops
Lost credentials can be recovered through the Returning User password reset function.
Step 3: Submit Online Application
Applicants complete the online application form and upload required documents in PDF format through the Coltech portal. The system requires:
Required Documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID or smart card (not older than three months)
- Certified copies of latest academic results or statement of results
- Proof of residence (utility bill or affidavit)
- Passport-size photograph
Additional Documents for NSFAS Applicants:
- Certified copies of parent or guardian ID documents
- Proof of income (payslip or appointment letter) for parents or guardians
- Three years of IRP5 tax documents if self-sufficient
- Death certificates for orphaned applicants
- Divorce decree if applicable
- Completed Annexure A for applicants with disabilities
International students must submit passport or asylum seeker status documents plus a South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) evaluation of foreign qualifications. Applications are submitted to SAQA online at www.saqa.org.za.
Application Timeline
| Action | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | September of preceding year |
| Application Deadline | November of preceding year |
| Offers Issued | December through January |
| Registration Period | January through February |
| Academic Year Begins | February |
Checking Application Status
Applicants monitor application progress through the Coltech portal dashboard. Status indicators include:
- Pending Review – Application received and under assessment
- Offer Issued – Acceptance letter available for download
- Accepted – Student confirmed registration
- Rejected – Application declined due to entry requirements or capacity
For technical portal issues, applicants contact the MIS helpdesk using the portal support function or call the campus registrar at 036 631 0360. Keep the application reference number available when contacting support.
Mnambithi TVET College Campus Locations and Contact Details
Central Administrative Office
Address: 77 Murchison Street, Ladysmith, 3370
Telephone: +27 36 631 0360
Fax: +27 36 631 4146
Email: info.mnambithi@feta.gov.za
The Central Office handles institutional governance, finance, and strategic planning. Direct general inquiries to this location.
Ladysmith Campus
Address: 12 Walton Street, Ladysmith, 3370
Telephone: +27 36 637 4782
Fax: +27 36 631 0871
Ladysmith Campus operates as the primary site for Business and Utility Studies. The campus offers NCV programmes in Education and Development, Finance Economics and Accounting, Hospitality, Information Technology and Computer Science, and Office Administration. Report 191 programmes include Business Management, Educare, Financial Management, Human Resource Management, Hospitality and Catering Services, Management Assistant, and Tourism.
Estcourt Campus
Address: 10 Shepstone Road, Estcourt, 3310
Telephone: +27 82 899 1392
Estcourt Campus serves the southern uThukela District. The campus offers NCV programmes in Finance Economics and Accounting, Office Administration, and Safety in Society. Report 191 programmes include Business Management, Financial Management, Human Resource Management, Management Assistant, and Public Management.
Ezakheni [A] Campus
Address: Ezakheni [A] Section, Ezakheni, 3381
Telephone: +27 36 636 2733
Fax: +27 36 636 2704
Ezakheni [A] Campus provides the Pre-Vocational Learning Programme and NCV programmes in Electrical Infrastructure and Construction, Finance Economics and Accounting, and Office Administration. Report 191 offerings include Business Management, Financial Management, Human Resource Management, Management Assistant, Public Management, and Electrical Engineering N4-N6.
The campus maintains on-campus student accommodation for NSFAS-funded students who live more than 50 kilometers from campus.
Ezakheni [E] Campus
Address: Ezakheni [E] Section, Manqawashi Street, Ezakheni, 3381
Telephone: +27 36 634 1020
Fax: +27 36 634 7245
Ezakheni [E] Campus specializes in Engineering Studies and artisan training. The campus holds MERSETA accreditation for electrician, fitter, instrument mechanician, and welder training programmes. NCV Finance Economics and Accounting is also offered. The campus operates state-of-the-art engineering workshops.
Ezakheni Skills Centre
Address: Ezakheni [B] Section, Private Bag X10025, Ezakheni, 3381
Telephone: +27 36 636 1017
Fax: +27 36 636 1017
The Skills Centre delivers short skills courses and artisan training. Programmes include Automotive Repairs, Carpentry, Welding, and Engineering N1-N3 levels (Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering Plumbing, Civil Engineering Bricklaying).
Campus Programme Distribution
| Programme | Estcourt | Ezakheni [A] | Ezakheni [E] | Skills Centre | Ladysmith |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NCV Electrical Infrastructure | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| NCV Finance Economics Accounting | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| NCV Office Administration | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| NATED Business Management | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| NATED Electrical Engineering N4-N6 | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| NATED Engineering N1-N3 | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Short Skills Courses | No | No | No | Yes | No |
NSFAS Funding for Mnambithi TVET College Students
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides tuition, registration, accommodation, transport, and personal care allowances to eligible TVET students. Applications are submitted online at www.nsfas.org.za between August and November each year.
NSFAS Eligibility Requirements
South African citizens with combined household income below R350,000 annually qualify for NSFAS funding at TVET colleges. Students registered before 2018 must have household income below R122,000 annually. Students with disabilities qualify with household income below R600,000 annually.
Academic requirements differ by programme:
- TVET Programmes (NCV, PLP, NATED): Requires Grade 9 completion
- University Study: Requires Grade 12 completion
NSFAS Funding Coverage
NSFAS covers:
- Full registration fees
- Complete tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Approved accommodation costs
- Transport allowances
- Personal care allowances
- Assistive devices for students with disabilities (wheelchairs, specialized computer equipment)
Students approved for NSFAS funding do not pay registration or tuition fees directly to the college. The Department of Higher Education and Training transfers funds directly to institutions.
NSFAS Application Process
Step 1: Create a myNSFAS account at www.nsfas.org.za
Step 2: Complete the online application form
Step 3: Upload required supporting documents
Step 4: Submit the application before the November deadline
NSFAS communicates decisions via SMS and email before the academic year begins. Students approved for funding must notify the college Bursary Office immediately to ensure proper fund allocation.
NSFAS Contact Information
Call Centre: 080 006 7327
Website: www.nsfas.org.za
Email: info@nsfas.org.za
College Bursary Office Services
The Bursary Office at each campus assists students with:
- NSFAS application guidance
- Means test administration
- Provisional approval letters
- Final bursary committee submissions
- Accommodation booking for NSFAS-funded students
- Alternative funding source information
Contact Student Support Services at +27 36 631 0262 for bursary assistance.
Additional Funding Options
The college lists departmental bursaries and private sector sponsorships through individual campus bursary offices. Company-sponsored students should contact the Occupational Training Unit for learnership funding arrangements.
Student Support Services at Mnambithi TVET College
The college provides comprehensive support services across all campuses to promote academic success and student wellbeing.
Academic Support Services
Academic support centers offer:
- Career guidance and counseling
- Job readiness training
- Placement assistance
- Study skills workshops
- Resource centers with internet access
- Library facilities
The Career Guidance unit administers pre-entry assessments and matches students to appropriate programmes based on aptitudes and interests.
Health and Wellness Services
Professional counseling services address personal, social, family, and psychosocial challenges. The unit provides:
- Confidential individual counseling
- Crisis intervention
- Trauma debriefing
- At-risk behavior awareness workshops (substance abuse, peer pressure, decision making)
- General wellbeing promotion
Contact Student Support Services at +27 36 631 0262 for counseling appointments.
Student Governance and Leadership
The Student Representative Council (SRC) represents student interests to college management. The current SRC Executive Committee is led by Chairperson Andile Maseko. The college provides:
- SRC training and development
- Leadership skills programmes
- Life skills training
- Student governance support
Sports and Extracurricular Activities
Students participate in:
- Sports: Soccer, Netball, Volleyball, Basketball
- Cultural Activities: Choral music, traditional dance, poetry, book review
Each campus maintains sports facilities and coordinates inter-campus competitions.
Student Accommodation
Mnambithi TVET College provides limited on-campus accommodation for NSFAS-funded students who live more than 50 kilometers from campus. Ezakheni [A] Campus operates the primary residence facility.
Accommodation Requirements
- Parents or guardians must attend a compulsory interview with the Student Resident Administrator
- Students sign the Ezakheni [A] Campus Student Accommodation Agreement
- Students pay a R500 refundable deposit for keys, LED lights, and potential damages
- Residences operate as self-catering facilities
- Students must provide their own crockery and cutlery
NSFAS covers accommodation costs for eligible students. Non-NSFAS students can access accommodation by contacting Ezakheni [A] Campus directly.
Registration Process and Important Dates 2026
Registration for the 2026 academic year follows the application process and requires specific documentation.
Registration Requirements
Accepted students must:
- Receive an official offer letter through the Coltech portal
- Accept the offer within the specified deadline
- Complete registration forms at the assigned campus
- Pay required fees or confirm NSFAS funding
- Attend mandatory orientation sessions
Registration Documents
Students bring to registration:
- Original ID document
- Original latest academic results
- Proof of residence
- NSFAS approval letter (if applicable)
- Registration forms (downloaded from portal)
- Proof of fee payment (if self-funded)
Fee Payment for Self-Funded Students
Non-NSFAS NCV students pay 25% of annual fees upon registration. Report 191 students pay fees according to semester or trimester schedules. Payment methods include:
- Bank deposit at the college account
- Electronic funds transfer (EFT)
- Cash payments at campus finance offices
Registration receipts must be retained for future reference and refund claims.
Orientation
Orientation introduces new students to:
- Campus facilities and resources
- Academic policies and procedures
- Student support services
- Timetables and class locations
- Student governance structures
Orientation dates are published on the college website and campus noticeboards in January.
Career Outcomes and Graduate Pathways
NCV Graduate Opportunities
NCV Level 4 graduates qualify for:
- Entry-level technical positions in their field of study
- Apprenticeship programmes (particularly Electrical Infrastructure graduates)
- Further NATED study (N4-N6 progression)
- Workplace learning opportunities coordinated through the Occupational Training Unit
NATED Diploma Holders
National Diploma graduates (N6 plus workplace experience) access:
- Supervisory and management positions
- Professional registration with relevant bodies
- Higher certificate and diploma programmes at universities of technology
- Specialized industry positions
Business Management diploma holders work in office administration, retail management, and business development. Financial Management graduates enter accounting, banking, and financial services sectors. Electrical Engineering diploma holders plus trade testing qualify as certified artisans.
Employment Support
The college maintains relationships with regional employers in:
- Manufacturing sector (textile, automotive components)
- Agriculture and agribusiness
- Tourism and hospitality
- Construction and infrastructure development
- Public sector administration
The Occupational Training Unit facilitates workplace training partnerships and learnership placements. Students should contact campus career offices for current placement opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to Mnambithi TVET College?
Apply online through the Coltech student portal at mnambithi.coltech.co.za between September and November for the following academic year. Complete the career guidance assessment, pre-entry placement test, and online application form with uploaded documents.
Where is Mnambithi TVET College located?
The Central Office is at 77 Murchison Street, Ladysmith, 3370. The college operates five campuses: Ladysmith (12 Walton Street), Estcourt (10 Shepstone Road), Ezakheni [A], Ezakheni [E] (Manqawashi Street), and Ezakheni Skills Centre.
What courses are offered at Mnambithi TVET College?
The college offers Pre-Vocational Learning Programme, eight NCV programmes (Education and Development, Electrical Infrastructure, Finance Economics Accounting, Hospitality, Information Technology, Office Administration, Safety in Society, Tourism), Report 191 programmes in Business Studies, Utility Studies, and Engineering Studies, plus short skills courses in automotive repairs, carpentry, and welding.
How do I check my application status?
Log into the Coltech student portal dashboard using your application credentials. The status shows as pending review, offer issued, accepted, or rejected. Contact the campus registrar at +27 36 631 0360 if status remains unchanged beyond published processing times.
Does Mnambithi TVET College accept NSFAS?
Yes. NSFAS funds eligible students for registration, tuition, textbooks, accommodation, transport, and personal care. Apply at www.nsfas.org.za between August and November, then notify the college Bursary Office after approval.
What documents do I need to apply?
Upload certified copies of ID or smart card, latest academic results, proof of residence, and passport photo. NSFAS applicants also submit parent or guardian ID copies, proof of income, and additional documentation as specified in the NSFAS application requirements.
Can I apply for second semester intake?
Late and second-semester intake policies vary by programme and available capacity. Contact the campus registrar to confirm current deadlines and space availability for mid-year registration.
Who do I contact for portal help?
Use the password reset function on the Coltech login page or contact the MIS helpdesk through the portal support feature. For unresolved issues, call the campus registrar at +27 36 631 0360 with your application reference number.
Contact Mnambithi TVET College
Central Office:
77 Murchison Street, Ladysmith, 3370
Telephone: +27 36 631 0360
Fax: +27 36 631 4146
Email: info.mnambithi@feta.gov.za
Website: www.mnambithicollege.co.za
Student Support Services:
Telephone: +27 36 631 0262
Occupational Training Unit (Skills and Artisan Enquiries):
Telephone: +27 36 631 0262
Download the 2026 prospectus and application guidelines from the college Documents page before starting your application. Visit the campus contact page to confirm telephone numbers and operating hours before traveling to any campus location.
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