Computer training opens doors
Twenty-eight per cent of Engen Computer School's graduates have gone on to secure full-time employment.
FULL-TIME employment is what 28% of the graduates from Engen Computer School have found.
Having completed the course in May, they are an example of how the programme positively impacts the lives of South Durban residents.
Gregory Gordon, Quinton Horwood and Selby Smith, all in their 40s, are among the latest shining examples of the benefits of formal computer training.
According to the computer school’s course convener and training director of Added Advantage Academy, Sheryl Casalis, the trio had become redundant as they were not computer literate.
“They all expressed gratitude for the free training they received which has changed their lives. As primary breadwinners, they can now provide for their families thanks to their new computer skills, which enabled them to secure new contracts and become part of the workforce once again,” she said.
Other success stories from the recent graduates are Deon-Dre de Wee, who found employment in the logistics department at Chep. Robin Harris secured a position at ADT and Siyamthanda Mchunu works at EMRS.
“With high levels of unemployment in South Africa, we believe that upskilling is of paramount importance to boost a person’s chances of securing employment,” said refinery general manager, Sykry Hassim.
This free computer skills training school, over the past decade, has transformed many lives in South Durban. To date, 2 355 graduates have had their prospects of finding employment enhanced.
“The stories of success bring hope to those who study at the centre knowing that the course really does increase their chances of finding employment,” added Casalis.
The computer school offers introductory-level computer skills training, covering eight-unit standards of the national certificate: information technology, end-user computing qualification.
To enrol, applicants must be unemployed school-leavers and reside in South Durban. While matric and age criteria are not prescribed, most students who attend the school are aged between 20 and 40.
“As a caring and responsible company, we are both proud and humbled to play a small role in positively changing lives of community members who reside in an area close to the refinery.
“We are committed to stepping up and doing the right thing, starting with paying special attention to the people in the communities in which we operate,” Hassim added.
