Polokwane muslim welfare empowers women with basic sewing skills
The Polokwane Muslim Welfare Foundation said the aim of the programme was to assist the needy by teaching them particular skills.
POLOKWANE – The Polokwane Muslim Welfare Foundation presented their sewing students with certificates and sewing machines upon completing a skills development programme, during a graduation ceremony held in Polokwane on July 5.
The programme, which ran from March to June, saw students learn the basics of sewing and how to operate sewing machines.
Faheem Gaita, the office administrator at the foundation said their focus was to assist the needy by teaching them particular skills.
“Most of these women don’t work and are also not skilled. We wanted to empower them to be able to help themselves by starting their own business, or hopefully get jobs in the clothing industry.”
One of the graduates, Sabira Contance Magarira said the programme taught her to be self-sufficient.
“My upbringing was difficult as my parents did not have the money to take me to school. It was the first time operating a sewing machine and now I can make clothes and sell these in my community. I am grateful to the Polokwane Muslim Welfare Foundation.”
Maite Agnes Lelope, also a graduate, said she is hoping to get a job at a big clothing retailer.
“I want to thank the Polokwane Muslim Welfare Foundation for equipping us with these skills. I was not employed, and did not have any form of income so this course was worth it for me. I will share these skills with my family too.”
