Bridging the skills gap in the Northern Cape

On Wednesday, 15 May, the Services SETA launched a skills development programme in Pampierstad, Northern Cape, in collaboration with the Northern Cape Office of the Premier. The skills development programme, funded by the Services SETA, offers a comprehensive work experience opportunity for TVET College students.

The programme comprises of internship, learnership and apprenticeships. It aims to foster educational growth, equip beneficiaries with range of workforce skills and provides with opportunities to acquire new skills, knowledge, and expertise. Moreover, improving the beneficiaries’ prospect for employment in the future.  

A total of 650 beneficiaries have been selected to commence the programme and will be placed in different organisations aligned with their fields of study. The placement will provide them with practical experience and exposure to different work environments, enhancing their skills and knowledge in their respective areas of study.

Acting CEO, Mr. Andile Sipengane expressed his excitement for the collaboration between Services SETA and the Northern Cape Office of the Premier. Saying that they are committed to ensuring that the programme becomes a success. He emphasised the significant impact of the programme, stating that it will bridge the gap between formal education and practical skills, while impacting the country’s economy.

“This programme is a significant step towards addressing the high rate of unemployment in South Africa,” said Mr. Sipengane. Furthermore, he mentioned that the goal of the programme is not only to equip the beneficiaries with employable skills, but also to empower them to become self-sufficient entrepreneurs. He extended his best wishes to all the beneficiaries.

A keynote address by Dr. Zamani Saul, Premier of the Northern Cape province, expressed appreciation to Services SETA for the funding support. Saying that the skills development programme is a beacon of hope to transform beneficiaries’ potentials into success, and ultimately contributing to the growth and development of the economy. He further mentioned that each beneficiary will be receiving a monthly stipend, to accommodate their basic needs.

Annah-Leigh Thompson, a resident of De Aar in the Northern Cape, expressed her excitement for the General Security Practices learnership she is enrolled in, saying that she is looking forward to this opportunity and hope to get valuable experience.  

Boitumelo Thobeka from Kuruman in the Northern Cape is enrolled in a 12-month learnership for New Venture Creation. She stated that she sees this opportunity as a new beginning to fulfil her potential. Adding that she had always dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur. However, the lack of resources, opportunities and knowledge delayed her dream, but a dream delayed is not a dream denied, she emphasised.  

Earlier on the day, the Services SETA led a career exhibition for 1000 learners from various High schools in Pampierstad, to encourage them on the importance of academic excellence, while guiding them on their interests of studies to pursue. The Exhibition featured exhibitors from a variety of organisations, including Sol Plaatje University.