Breaking the stigma : redefining the architectural image of FET colleges in South Africa

The initial topic of this thesis focused on ways in which architecture can help to bridge the gap between education and employment; a very real need in South Africa's economy of today, as stated in the February 2011 State of the Province Address by Premier of the Western Cape, Helen Zille. My research into this topic soon revealed that there are already existing models in place that aim to close this gap, namely Further Education and Training (FET) College facilities. According to the FET Act of 2006, the aim of these colleges is to provide post-compulsory general education with a focus on vocational training, while preparing students for occupational fields and increasing employment opportunities (Act No. 16 of 2006). After visiting several of these colleges within the Cape Town area, and interviewing the Campus Managers, it became apparent that the system is currently not working at its full potential. There are many reasons for this, which will be discussed later. One of the most pressing issues, however, is related to the campuses themselves. Many of the colleges have been given old and unused school buildings, or have taken over older college buildings that were designed for different purposes. This has diminished the campus usability and relevance, which has ultimately created a negative image of FET Colleges in general.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

School of Architecture, Planning and Geomatics

Year dc:date.issued

2012

Author dc:creator

• Bürisch, Kirsten Laureen

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Noero, Jo

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11427/6086

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.uct.ac.za:11427/6086