Mogale City Local Municipality (MCLM) has acknowledged concerns regarding unpaid learner stipends under the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA)-approved 2024/ 25 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Programme Skills Programme.

According to mayoral spokesperson Palesa Molefe, the municipality recognises the importance of the programme in promoting skills development, improving employability and advancing socio-economic empowerment within local communities.

She said the concerns raised around stipend payments have been noted and are receiving the necessary attention to ensure the matter is addressed within the applicable contractual and regulatory framework.

Molefe explained that, in line with the approved Learning Programme Budget and the provisions of the Training Services Agreement (TSA), the municipality’s role is that of host employer and implementation partner.

Following concerns identified during the implementation phase, the municipality’s Legal Division submitted a proposal for the review of certain provisions within the agreement to ensure clarity regarding roles and responsibilities and to safeguard the interests of learners and all contracting parties.

“This process necessitated engagement between CETA and the appointed Training Provider to consider revisions to the TSA,” she said.

She continued that on February 6, they signed the revised agreement, and they are still waiting for formal feedback and finalisation from CETA, to continue the programme processes in accordance with the approved programme framework.

Mayor Lucky Sele said they remain committed to ensuring that this skills development initiative achieves its intended purpose of empowering our residents.

“We are actively engaging with CETA and the Training Provider to ensure that all contractual obligations are honoured and that learners are treated fairly and transparently throughout the process,” he added.

“We will continue to engage with all relevant stakeholders and will keep the community and programme beneficiaries informed of further developments as engagements with CETA progress,” Molefe concluded.