Enterprise iLembe resumes with skills programme

Enterprise iLembe has committed itself to combating unemployment levels among the youth and less fortunate, as part of government’s Labour Activation Programme (LAP).

Enterprise iLembe, economic development agency to the iLembe district municipality, said LAP intends to fast-track job and business opportunities through the training of the unemployed.

“LAP goes a long way in addressing unemployment, skills development and stimulating economic growth,” said Enterprise iLembe chief executive, Nathi Nkomzwayo.

According to Nkomzwayo, LAP will leave behind a legacy of sustainable development, allowing the unemployed to compete for jobs or even start their own business.

LAP forms part of the government Unemployed Insurance Fund (UIF).

Candidates have already been recruited through local municipalities and have started training in the various aspects of farm management as well as travel, accommodation and new business creation.

Learners receive a stipend of R2 000 per month which covers transport and similar costs, paid in arrears against signed attendance forms.

Enterprise iLembe said the recent protest action at its doors was due to non-payment of stipends because LAP training sessions had been suspended since January.

This was the result of payment delays from UIF for December, January and February.

“When Enterprise iLembe received payment from UIF on March 24, the December stipend was immediately paid to the learners as per the signed attendance registers.”

Training had also been extended to make up for the three months lost.

Learners were also paid for the lockdown period between April and May and LAP has since resumed.

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