Senior Specialist: Research and Innovation at the W&R SETA

An experienced professional (Senior Specialist: Research and Innovation) in skills development and research with over 10 years of experience in the field Mr Maphakela holds a political science degree from the University of Pretoria with specialisation in Public Administration, Public Policy and Research and has also completed a post-graduate certificate in Green Skills Research & Planning from Rhodes University. He is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree. Mr Maphakela has a strong background in managing sector skills planning, research, stakeholder engagement, document management, risk management and compliance, customer focus, and people management, within the W&RSETA. He is responsible for the implementation of the sector research agenda, Sector Skills Plan (SSP), research leadership chairs and innovation and research related partnerships aligned with the National Skills Development Plan (NSDP). As the Chairperson of the 4th Industrial Revolution Advisory Committee for MICTSETA, Mr Maphakela is at the forefront of driving innovation and strategic planning in the skills development sector through the establishment of research chairs. He has a proven track record of fostering partnerships with government bodies and leading research committees and projects.