The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) launched its Centre for Continuing Learning and Executive Education (CCLEEd) at the Mbombela Campus on 02 July 2026, with representatives from the public and private sectors joining the University community for the occasion.
The Centre offers Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) and Executive Education aimed at advancing lifelong learning, career progression and skills development. Its programmes are designed to respond to the needs of individuals, organisations and the broader socio-economic priorities of Mpumalanga, South Africa and beyond.
Drawing on the image of the baobab tree, UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa described the Centre as a symbol of wisdom, resilience and shared knowledge.
“The baobab tree reminds us that knowledge grows when it is shared. Like its many branches, this Centre brings together different disciplines, sectors and communities to learn from one another and solve society’s challenges collectively.”
Professor Meyiwa said one of the Centre’s distinctive features is its use of stackable micro-credentials.
“Participants can complete short programmes that, when stacked together, can articulate towards formal qualifications such as the Management Advancement Programme and the Professional MBA. This creates a flexible, accessible pathway for lifelong learning.”
She added that the Centre’s programmes have been shaped through engagement with communities, traditional leaders, government departments and industry partners. UMP also plans to expand the Centre’s offerings in areas including mining, governance, artificial intelligence, climate-smart agriculture, women’s leadership and entrepreneurship.
“The jobs of today and tomorrow require new skills, new thinking and new approaches. The digital transformation of our economy, the imperative of climate change, and current geopolitical shifts towards a multipolar world order require us to build a capable, ethical and developmental state. This, in turn, requires a workforce committed to continuous learning.”
Professor Meyiwa noted that every SLP offered by the Centre is quality assured by UMP and aligned with the Council on Higher Education’s guidelines.
“When you study with us, you can be confident that you are receiving a qualification that is recognised and respected.”
The Vice-Chancellor called on government departments and other partners to see the Centre as a resource for strengthening governance, financial management and leadership capacity. She also encouraged academics, researchers and
administrators to view CCLEEd as a platform for sharing expertise and engaging beyond the University.
Mpumalanga MEC for Education, Honourable Lindi Masina, representing the Premier, said the launch reflects efforts to advance lifelong learning, career progression and skills development, with the University of Mpumalanga responding to the evolving needs of government, industry and communities.
“The programmes offered through this Centre respond directly to the skills required for a modern, dynamic and inclusive economy. Whether it is artificial intelligence, climate-smart agriculture, financial management or women in leadership, these programmes will prepare our workforce for the future.”
Honourable Masina emphasised that knowledge has become one of the world’s most valuable resources and that institutions of higher learning have a responsibility to prepare citizens for a rapidly changing economy.
“Knowledge is the new currency of economic growth. Nations that invest in education, innovation and continuous learning are the nations that prosper. Lifelong learning is no longer optional; it has become an economic necessity,” she added that the Centre aligns with the National Development Plan 2030, the Provincial Human Resource Development Strategy and the Mpumalanga Economic Growth and Development Path.
“We see this Centre strengthening governance, improving financial management, promoting ethical leadership and building technical expertise across both the public and private sectors. It will contribute meaningfully to innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable economic development.”
Ms Carol Maila, Senior Executive at the Mining Qualifications Authority, representing Honourable Minister Gwede Mantashe, said the Centre addresses key challenges facing the country.
She said the Department is finalising a Memorandum of Understanding that will introduce a Management and Executive Development Programme through the Centre.
“This partnership will deepen collaboration between academia, government and industry while creating opportunities for management advancement and leadership development within the mining and minerals sector,” said Ms Maila, adding the Centre is being launched at a time when industries are adapting to automation, digital transformation and green technologies.
The Centre for Continuing Learning and Executive Education expands UMP’s contribution to skills development, leadership training and professional learning.
Through flexible and relevant learning opportunities, it is expected to support individuals, organisations and communities in building the knowledge and skills needed in a changing economy.
About the CCLEEd
The Centre for Continuing Learning and Executive Education currently offers Short Learning Programmes in Public Finance, Governance and Leadership for Traditional Councils. It is also in the process of introducing SLPs in Artificial Intelligence, Climate-Smart Agriculture and Food Security, Inclusive Education Practices, Strategic Management and Leadership, Financial Accounting for SMEs, Taxation and VAT for SMEs, farming operations and individuals, HIV, Well-being and Productivity, Stress Management and Psychological Well-being for Professionals, Women in Leadership, and Intra-Africa Trade.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by JB Creative Cinema. Copyright © UMP.