Buffalo City TVET College is a public institution that focuses on vocational and technical education and training. The college aims to equip students with career-oriented skills that prepare them for the job market or further studies at universities. Unlike universities, which primarily focus on academic degrees, TVET colleges offer practical, skills-based training.
History of Buffalo City TVET College
Buffalo City TVET College was officially established in 2002 after the merger of three prominent colleges:
- East London College
- Border Technical College
- John Knox Bokwe Careers College
Following the merger, Buffalo City College became a fully-fledged TVET institution with multiple campuses across East London. Over the years, it has grown into one of the most respected TVET colleges in the Eastern Cape.
Is Buffalo City a College or a University?
To clarify:
- Buffalo City is not a university.
- It is a TVET College (Technical and Vocational Education and Training).
The primary difference is that universities offer academic degrees, whereas TVET colleges provide practical, skills-based qualifications. Students at Buffalo City TVET College can pursue National Certificates (Vocational) [NC(V)] and NATED (N1-N6) qualifications. These courses prepare students to either enter the workforce or advance their studies at a university.
Courses Offered at Buffalo City TVET College
Buffalo City College offers a range of courses aimed at preparing students for employment or further education. These courses fall under two main categories:
- National Certificate (Vocational) [NC(V)]
- Business Studies (e.g., Marketing, Finance, Management)
- Engineering Studies (e.g., Electrical, Mechanical, Civil Engineering)
- ICT and Computer Science
- NATED (N1 – N6) Courses
- Business Studies (N4 – N6)
- Engineering Studies (N1 – N6)
These programs are career-focused, enabling students to gain practical and theoretical knowledge that aligns with industry needs.
Buffalo City TVET College Campuses
Buffalo City College operates across four campuses in East London and its surrounding areas. Each campus specializes in specific courses and fields of study.
- East London Campus
- Location: Lukin Street, Southernwood, East London
- Focus: Business and Management Courses
- John Knox Bokwe Campus
- Location: Mfaxa Street, N.U 1 Mdantsane, East London
- Focus: Business and Engineering Studies
- King Street Campus
- Location: 17 King Street, Southernwood, East London
- Focus: Business Studies
- St Marks Campus
- Location: St Marks Street, Southernwood, East London
- Focus: Engineering Studies
Each campus serves a specific educational purpose, making it easier for students to access specialized training facilities and resources.