NGO, NPO & Social Enterprise
New smart skills centre to digitally empower Fraserburg communities
The Fraserburg Smart Skills Centre officially opened on 6 June 2025, bringing accessible, future-focused skills development to rural and underprivileged communities.
Image source: @CHIETA_SETA on X
The centre was developed by the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (Chieta) in partnership with the Karoo Hoogland Municipality, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in January 2025. This initiative seeks to close the digital divide and equip residents for opportunities in the digital and green economies.
Future-ready facility in the heart of the Karoo
The seventh of its kind in South Africa, the Fraserburg Smart Skills Centre is now fully operational - offering accredited digital literacy programmes, career development tools, and foundational training in key areas such as green hydrogen, coding, and online entrepreneurship. With free access to high-speed internet, digital devices, and curated learning content, the centre aims to empower youth, unemployed residents, and small businesses in Fraserburg, Williston, and Sutherland.
“[This] launch signals hope and opportunity,” said Chieta CEO, Yershen Pillay. “This centre is not just a building, it’s a springboard for skills transformation and economic renewal in one of the country’s most underserved regions.”
Sustainable growth through local partnerships
The long-term success of the Fraserburg centre will depend on strong collaboration with municipal leaders, community organisations, and local employers. Stakeholders are encouraged to co-develop programmes that address the region’s specific economic needs. Chieta says it will continue to support these initiatives through discretionary funding aligned with its strategic objectives.