MLM launched the first Skills Development Centre in Savanna City. The Skills Development Centre is designed to bridge the skills gap by offering training in various artisan trades, including plumbing, carpentry, bricklaying, electrical work, millwrighting, boiler making, and many others.

In addition, the Centre will serve as a hub for innovation and enterprise development, equipping young people and the local workforce with practical skills, while also providing SMMEs with access to information and facilities to support business growth.

Malatsi said the centre is both an opportunity and a responsibility. He urged the community to protect the facility as it will be for their own benefit.
The project, which has been in the pipeline since 2021, was initiated in line with the Executive Mayor, Peter Teixeira’s Mayoral undertaking of creating opportunities for all. The centre is also the result of a strategic partnership between MLM and HEINEKEN Beverages.

The launch was honoured by the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, who congratulated both MLM and Heineken for the achievement.
“It’s really no surprise that Midvaal is known for having the lowest unemployment rate in Gauteng. This municipality puts in the work. You actively create opportunities, upskill residents and partner with businesses to create real jobs.

“Mayor, what I can promise you from the national government’s side is that we will return to Midvaal in the coming weeks to conduct a joint technical assessment of this Skills Development Centre’s digital requirements. Working with you, we will identify where our national programs or entities can best support you. Whether that means strengthening connectivity, expanding access to smart devices or aligning digital literacy content with what is needed here in Midvaal. We will act in partnership, within our mandate and in a way that reinforces the good work already underway.”

Speaking during the launch, Teixeira stated that young people want to contribute meaningfully to their families, their communities, and the country.
“Too often, the opportunities have been limited because of South Africa’s sluggish economic growth. This Skills Development Centre is a direct response to that reality. It is about equipping our people with the tools to create a better life for themselves.” Teixeira thanked HEINEKEN Beverages for their part in turning a promise into reality.

HEINEKEN Beverages Managing Director, Jordi Borrut, added: “Our donation of containers for this Skills Centre reflects our commitment to sustainable solutions that serve real community needs. We applaud the Mayor’s leadership in driving skills development, and we’re proud to play a role in enabling spaces that empower local communities with knowledge and opportunity”

The CEO of Ranyaka Community Transformation, Sithembiso Malevu, the Centre’s implementing agent, said the facility represents a new chapter for Midvaal and its communities. “For us at Ranyaka, this is more than just a building; it is a platform of opportunity where young people, women, and small businesses can access the skills, networks, and resources they need to thrive. We are proud to collaborate with the Municipality and HEINEKEN in making this vision a reality, and we look forward to walking this journey with the community to ensure the Centre remains responsive to their aspirations.”