The social development programme ‘People Against Poverty and Unemployment’ (PAPU) partnered with AFM Masters field and 21st Century Skills on a workplace readiness training.
The initial programme is by the Gauteng Provincial Department of Education, Gauteng City Region Academy’s Programme being implemented by EOH and 21st Century Skills Companies.
Learners were trained in IT and Business Skills. The purpose of the work readiness project is to introduce and elevate learners’ skills to levels that will allow them to operate successfully in a business environment.
The programme seeks to massify education, training and development needs within the Gauteng Province by providing work readiness training using a blended learning approach.
According to PAPU the centre manager, Dawn Joseph, the learning programme is conducted over ten days and is completely free. During the ten-day period, each student received a tablet to use to enable them to access information for the training.
“It is accredited training and carries 27 credits and they will also get certificates as well. This will make them employable and capable of entering the job market,” said Joseph.
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The programme aims to benefit unemployed South Africa citizens, between the age groups of 18 and 29.
Applicants had to be highly motivated individuals who have between Grade 10 and 12 educations with communication skills, computer literacy, and mathematics.
Registrations started on February 15 but officially started on February 19. The training took place at the Masters Field Hall in Dowling Avenue in Westbury until March 2 but organisers plan on running the programme throughout the year. Joseph stated that they were training over 45 youth from the community and surrounding areas.
Centre manager reminds the community that they are still continuing to provide learnerships job-seeking capabilities internet, assistance with employment computer and life skills training, parenting skills workshops, artisan and technical skills with Sparrow FET College, referrals to the Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET) College to complete matric, and social services for drug abuse.
“We have other partnerships with Ifundi for learnerships training as well. Our uptake of youth and community in this quarter will reach close to 400.
“The community is responding at an unprecedented pace and that says a lot about our services and the need in this community in Ward 68, 69 and 82,” said Joseph.
For further information contact the PAPU centre.
