Seriti, in partnership with the Gert Sibande TVET College Skills and Artisan Development Centre, hosted a graduation ceremony for 410 local students who completed a short skills training programme in Standerton.
According to the college, the graduation marks the successful completion of their six-month long skills training programme, facilitated by the skills centre.
The programme was aimed at empowering the Standerton and Sakhile community by bridging the scarcity of skills in the province and country.
It consisted of various areas of study including engineering and soft skills with the following trades; bricklaying, plumbing, carpentry, welding, garment making, upholstery, agriculture, refrigeration, basic information technology computer (end user computer), early childhood development (ECD), hairdressing, accounting, and basic wholesale and retail, all as skills-basic programmes.
“The programme forms part of Seriti’s Social Labour Plans (SLP) and we endeavour to eliminate the scarcity of skills facing the youth of the Lekwa community,” Mr.Thabo Masike, Chief Corporate and Community Relations Officer at Seriti, said.
“Seriti’s goal is to address the unemployment problem in the area, SMME development and investment in human capital development.
“The highlight of the programme this year was the increased number of women showing interest in the field of engineering, particularly with August being Women’s Month.”
A number of ceremonies was held to honour students in the various faculties to minimise the number of guests in the hall, and ensure adherence to Covid-19 protocols.
The students received a certificate, as well as a starter tool box set and equipment to help them to begin their own businesses.
Acting College Principal, Mr Molifi Mabe, said what he experienced today is what government is pushing for
namely Public-Private Partnership.
Mr Mabe also said the college is humbled and grateful for the support from Seriti in making all of this possible.
“Such initiatives will make our country a better place for all.”
Mr Tokollo Mokoena, a wholesale and retail graduate, said he appreciated the opportunity and urged Seriti to continue funding programmes such as these as they are the breakthrough the youth need.
“Today I am a shop assistant at Ackermans, thanks to the qualification I acquired through this programme.
“I am truly grateful,” he added.
