MEC Chiloane celebrates inaugural Multi-Certification Skills Programme festival
Presentations from learners were out of this world.
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), led by MEC Matome Chiloane, hosted the first Multi-Certification Skills Programme (MCSP) mini-festival on August 31, at the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre.
The MCSP, a learner-focused initiative, is designed to equip every learner in Gauteng with critical and practical skills throughout their schooling journey.
Beyond earning a National Senior Certificate, learners will accumulate a minimum of one accredited skill per academic year from Grade R to Grade 12, resulting in several skills certifications by the time they complete their basic education.
He said this programme enhanced creativity, innovation, problem-solving, confidence boosting, analytical reasoning, global citizens, leadership, teamwork, technology skills and digital literacy in learners.
“Learners are guaranteed accreditation in a diverse range of skills in three key baskets and today, we showcased the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) skills basket which includes skills that prepare learners for the 4IR, ensuring they are well-versed in the technologies shaping the future.
The skills under the 4IR basket include coding robotics, Microsoft digital literacy, artificial intelligence, drone technology and basic CAD competency,” he said.
The 4IR mini-festival focused on the 4IR skills basket under the theme ‘Extend Your Reality’, celebrating the advancements made in areas such as coding, robotics, AI, and digital literacy.
Learners from different schools, representing all phases, attended the festival and mesmerised the audience with exciting presentations, showcasing their well-managed projects.
The next mini-festivals will focus on the general skills basket and technical skills basket, showcasing the specific skills and competencies learners have acquired during their regular curriculum.
Chiloane emphasised the significance of the multi-certification skills programme in preparing learners for a future driven by technology and innovation.
“This programme is a transformative initiative that empowers our learners with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in the modern world. This festival reflects the innovative education we committed to provide in Gauteng,” said Chiloane.
The GDE extends its gratitude to all partners involved in making this event a success and looks forward to continuing efforts to ensure every learner in the province is equipped with the skills necessary to excel in the 4IR era and beyond.
