Competency development and leadership challenges among community education and training (CET) centre managers in KwaZulu-Natal .

Abstract

The effectiveness of community education and training (CET) centres in KwaZulu-Natal is fundamentally reliant on the leadership and operational capacity of their centre managers. Acknowledging a perceived gap in managerial competencies, this study aimed to investigate the core competencies essential for effective performance, assess current competency levels, identify specific skill gaps, and propose strategies for a tailored competency-based training (CBT) programme within the KwaZulu-Natal CET College system. Grounded in the principles of competency-based theory, the study employed a qualitative, multi-method case study approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with CET centre managers, focus group discussions with lecturers and institutional stakeholders, and a review of relevant policy and institutional documents. The study adopted a reflexive stance, utilising my insider position to enhance depth while meticulously mitigating bias through systematic data triangulation and self-reflexive journalling. The findings establish a contextualised framework of core competencies critical for centre management, organised into strategic, operational, and relational domains. The research revealed notable skill deficits, particularly in financial resource management, community partnership facilitation, and the integration of technology for educational delivery. Furthermore, the analysis highlighted a significant disconnect between the self-perceived competence of managers and the functional skill gaps identified by institutional stakeholders. The thesis concludes by proposing an evidence-based blueprint for a CBT programme tailored to the unique socio-economic landscape of KwaZulu-Natal. This framework emphasises experiential learning, mentorship, and continuous professional development tied to observable performance outcomes. The study contributes practical recommendations for the KwaZulu-Natal CET College leadership, offering a pathway to systematically enhance managerial capacity, improve centre efficiency, and strengthen the overall mandate of CET provision in the region.