A new e-waste training centre aimed at empowering people living with disabilities was launched at the Stanger Training Centre in Glenhills last Wednesday.

The initiative is a partnership between electronic waste producer responsibility organisation R2E2, the Stanger Training Centre and disability-focused company Green Able.

R2E2 chief operations officer Artwell Khoza said the programme would equip former pupils with practical skills in the growing e-waste sector and provide business training.

“This centre is meant to train former learners on how to safely handle, process, refurbish and recycle electronic waste. It also includes a business component where learners will be taught how to run their own e-waste recycling businesses,” said Khoza.

He said the programme was designed specifically for people living with disabilities and aimed to create greater employment opportunities.

The training facility is housed in a specially modified 12m container designed to be fully accessible to wheelchair users.

Features include a wheelchair ramp, non-slip flooring, air conditioning and specially designed workstations for people with mobility challenges.

Khoza said about R300 000 had been invested in the project, including around R230 000 for the container and modifications, and about R40 000 for branding and educational displays. Additional computers are expected to be installed.

The programme will train 10 former pupils every three months.

The centre, located on Pam Haven Drive, currently has 265 pupils.

Principal Veriah Govindsamy welcomed the initiative, saying it aligns with the centre’s mission of equipping pupils with practical, employable skills.

“Our focus has always been on training and empowering our learners so that they become more employable. Even if they do not find employment, these skills can help them start their own businesses and become entrepreneurs,” he said.

Govindsamy added that many pupils had significant potential and would benefit from the specialised training.