Tubatse Ferrochrome to train unemployed youth

On November 7, The Samancor Tubatse Ferrochrome (TFC) management announced it has partnered with Rail Traction Training (RTT) and the Transport Education Training Authority (Teta) to provide skills training to 15 local unemployed youths in the railway shunter skills programme. The programme’s launch was held at the Tubatse Chrome Club in Steelpoort.

RTT’s managing director, William Mkhondo, said the training will last for about a month and will involve theoretical courses and workplace experiential learning. He confirmed the youths will have completed the programme by December 16 and will be bestowed with certificates.

“We are a service provider offering training solutions within the rail industry. We specialise in rail core training programmes and development, and train personnel apprentices, ad hoc as well as refresher training programmes.

“RTT is among the best and experienced companies in rail traction training. This is not the first time we are training locals in Tubatse. We provided skills programmes for unemployed youths for TFC in 2018.

“The organisation’s aim is to provide skilled people with relevant competencies to the rail industry, so that they can perform their functions at organisational level with the appropriate timing to support the country’s economic growth. We wish to provide rail-specific training solutions through dedicated leadership and teams, and innovative cutting-edge technology,” Mkhondo said.

TFC’s training and development specialist, Corr Murray, said they always want to improve the lives of the locals for the better. He reiterated that they want to develop and train the youths in the areas around the smelter.

“This is an opportunity for the youths to acquire new skills. The programme will also improve the quality of life of the young people and their prospects of getting employed.

“We saw it fit to invest in our communities. The youth we are developing will grow to be better people in future and provide for their families. The training will allow them to seek jobs all over the country, at TFC and other industries.”

Murray told the students, “After we have empowered you with skills, don’t rest on your laurels, but create opportunities for yourself and others.”

During the training, TFC will also assist with personal protective equipment, transportation and a stipend to ensure this training succeeds. The successful candidates will be issued with statement of results from Teta, confirming the student’s competence as railway shunters.

Mkhondo urged the students to be dedicated and to work hard to complete the training.