More than 100 young people from the Northern Cape, Limpopo and North West have successfully completed an information and communication technologies (ICT) learnership programme, which has empowered them with e-commerce, graphic design, user experience and cloud computing skills.
This learnership programme at NQF level 4 is employed as part of Anglo American’s R1 billion investment commitment to implementing various education programmes in South Africa by 2030.
The participating learners were from across the mining group’s operations, with 57 from Anglo American Platinum, 19 from Kumba Iron Ore and 25 from De Beers.
The year-long programme has resulted in the university admission of over 40% of the graduates, while about 20% have secured fixed-term employment.
Education and community skills manager at Anglo American, Peggy Maphanga, said Anglo American believes that one of the greatest investments that can be made in the country’s future is through education.
“Attaining ITC skills in today’s digitally charged environment will equip these young people with skills they can use anywhere in the world,” stated Maphanga.
Reflecting on the success of the pilot cohort, Maphanga said about 31 former graduates were in university studying towards ICT-related courses through bursaries.
One has started a Mathematics tutoring business, another is pursuing a business in the renewable energy and construction sector, and another one is volunteering at the Lesedi High School in Kuruman. The rest are seeking employment, and plan to register for studies in 2025.
