Thousands flock for fire and emergency training opportunity
Thousands of women flocked to Curries Fountain in an effort to gain access to a training programme.
THOUSANDS of young women eagerly waited in line for a chance to participate in a Metro Fire and Emergency Services training programme. They created a stir with motorists and residents as they queued along John Zikhali, Botanic Gardens and down St Thomas Roads to Curries Fountain on Thursday and Friday last week.
According to assistant chief, Alex Gloster, manager of the eThekwini's Metro Fire and Emergency Services training branch, the women were queuing to register and get a shot at an 'excellent opportunity' after an advert was sent out in the press, asking for female participants in the training and skills programme.
Gloster said the participants needed to bring a matric certificate passes in English and maths to be eligible for the 12-month training programme. Depending on their success in the course, they could be invited for further experiential learning.
“This is not an employment opportunity but a training opportunity, and the selected candidates only receive a stipend for transport costs. The training programme is a really good qualification in the field of fire and emergency services,” he said.
The thousands of young women had to meet physical assessment criteria on the day, which included fitting into protective boots and being able to reach a standard fire engine (rescue pumper) and fire fighting equipment. Gloster said a medical assessment would be done at a later stage, and candidates had to have no criminal record as well as no hydrophobia to be eligible for the opportunity. The funding provides for 30 candidates.
Having stood in the mega-queue from 6am, Janine Ephraim (23) said, “I've always had academic opportunities and am studying teaching through UNISA while working in retail, but I'd really like to be in an action-packed job. Sitting behind a desk is overrated.”
Hopeful Sindiswa Ncayiyana (20) said, “I hope I get in. I'm currently studying law, but would like this opportunity.” After she did not meet the physical requirements Sindiswa said she was a little disappointed.
