SOME 163 aspiring lifeguards applied for the City of uMhlathuze’s Lifeguard Development Programme at Arboretum swimming pool on Saturday.

Of these, 31 candidates met the minimum entry requirements of completing a 100m pool swim in under two minutes, under the watchful eye of beach manager Mthoko Cele and senior city lifeguards.

ALSO READ: Big boost needed for blood stocks

The initiative equips residents with essential skills to respond to water-related emergencies, including active and passive rescues, submerged victim recovery and spinal injury management.

By targeting community members, the programme improves water safety while creating skills development and job opportunities.

Candidates who met the initial requirements will undergo formal training focused on building stamina, strength, and the ability to meet the standards set by Lifesaving South Africa.

The city expects the programme to be completed by the end of April.

Commenting on those who did not meet requirements, the city said in a statement, “While it is unfortunate that a large number of candidates did not meet the minimum requirements, this outcome highlights the significant need for Learn To Swim programmes.

“The city may consider initiating such programmes in the future to better prepare residents for future opportunities.”

Don’t have the ZO app? Download it to your Android or Apple device here:

HAVE YOUR SAY