More than 50 community members have completed various skills development programmes through the Mogale Tailings Retreatment (MTR) programme, exceeding the human resource development targets in its Social and Labour Plan.

This forms part of the municipality’s partnership to combat unemployment and expand skills development.

According to MTR media liaison officer Soya Madinga, young adults recently graduated with Adult Education and Training Level 4 certificates, overcoming a fundamental barrier to skills development. This was part of an initiative to combat unemployment and to give people skills for better opportunities.

Partnership drives community learning

“Community skills development succeeds when business, local government and communities work towards a shared goal. Committed leadership, active stakeholder involvement, credible training providers and determined learners all play a part. For adults returning to education, encouragement from family can also make the difference between giving up and reaching the next milestone,” said Madinga.

Madinga also emphasised that local government and business each have a role in addressing unemployment and expanding access to skills development.

Mogale City Local Municipality speaker of council Clr Doreen David also spoke about the importance of collaboration.

“Government cannot do it alone,” she said. “We need strong partnerships with companies, training providers and community organisations to ensure communities have opportunities for skills development.”

David encouraged more businesses to invest in young people and unemployed residents, noting that practical skills ‘can strengthen communities and contribute to sustainable development’.