Empowering young people through skills development is crucial for fostering progressive and sustainable socioeconomic activity, and laying solid foundations within communities.
Over a four-month period, Kumba Iron Ore’s Sishen Mine has trained 46 young people from local communities through its portable skills training programme.
The aim was to equip them with a diverse range of skills to create a sustainable source of income and meeting their economic needs.
Participants were offered a choice of trade disciplines, including plumbing, bricklaying, carpentry, and welding, with the training provided at the Tshipi Training Centre by qualified instructors with extensive experience in each field.
During the certificate handover ceremony, Francois van Loggerenberg, principal of Learning and Development at Kumba Iron Ore, congratulated the participants on completing their training and encouraged them to apply their newly acquired skills.
As part of the programme, participants received stipends and additional training in basic computer and finance, firefighting, and first aid skills to ensure they are fully prepared to make a positive impact in their communities.
Reflecting on her training experience, Keaotshepa Setlogelo (31) from Kathu, who specialised in plumbing, explained how the opportunity would empower her.
“The knowledge and practical experience I gained from the training will enable me to start my own, small plumbing business. I intend to offer plumbing installation and repair services in my community. This training programme has provided me with the tools to upskill myself and generate an income”.
