Unemployed young people in Mogale City are set to receive accredited cellphone repair training and business support through a new programme launched in partnership with the Gauteng Department of Economic Development and U-Swipe Telecoms.

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The initiative, led by Mogale City’s Local Economic Development Division, aims to tackle youth unemployment by equipping participants with practical technical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge.

According to the municipality’s senior communications practitioner, Tendani Shavani, participants enrolled in the programme will receive an accredited Cellphone Repairs Certificate at NQF Level 4.

She said the training will provide participants with technical expertise and hands-on industry experience, enabling them to pursue employment opportunities in the telecommunications sector or start their own businesses. The programme also prioritises youth, women and persons with disabilities.

Beyond technical training, Tendani said the initiative focuses on personal and entrepreneurial development.

Participants are encouraged to build confidence, unlock their potential and develop an entrepreneurial mindset,” she explained.

The curriculum includes diagnosing, assessing, reporting and repairing mobile devices, while also exposing participants to business management principles and networking opportunities.

Programme partnership, practical workplace experience and support for participants

A key strength of the programme is its partnerships with industry players, including MTN and Original Equipment Manufacturers, ensuring participants receive relevant, market-aligned training.

Trainees are also placed at U-Swipe Telecoms for practical workplace experience, where they receive on-the-job coaching and exposure to daily business operations.

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According to Tendani, the programme aligns with the Gauteng Provincial Government’s Growing Gauteng Together (GGT2030) vision by contributing to employment creation, economic growth and skills development while promoting a more inclusive economy.

It also supports environmental sustainability by encouraging the repair and reuse of electronic devices, helping to reduce electronic waste,” Tendani added.

Upon completing the programme, participants will receive support to transition into entrepreneurship. This includes access to rental trading stalls in Kagiso, Krugersdorp, Chamdor and Munsieville, where they can establish and operate their own cellphone repair businesses.

Additional support will be provided by the National Youth Development Agency, which will assist participants in accessing funding opportunities to help grow and sustain their enterprises.