Leaners benefit from welding programme

In line with its vision to be a leading catalyst for the advancement of socio-economic development in the Eastern Cape, the Coega Development Corporation (CDC) is accelerating skills training and coaching of young people to address unemployment.

Through its Skills Development Centre (SDC), the organisation strives to create sustainable job opportunities, training, and development for local communities, with a focus on the youth, women, and persons with disabilities.

“During the financial year 2021/22, Coega reported 9 540 additional construction and 9 659 operational jobs in the Special Economic Zone (SEZ), and trained over 3 296 people, making real impact in the lives of young people and communities,” the organisation said.

The SDC is situated at the Coega SEZ facility near Motherwell in the Eastern Cape to enable the community easy access.

According to CDC Training Manager David Lambaatjeen the skills programme, at NQF Level 3, offers learners an opportunity to be awarded with 40 credits after completion.

“The successful learners receive a statement of results from the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), and learner achievement is uploaded on the National Learner Record Database with the South African Qualifications Authority; and this type of Welder produces a variety of flat fillet welds with carbon steel and stainless-steel materials,” Lambaatjeen said.

SDC learner, Kwayiyo Mavuso (33) from Motherwell said the training programme offers opportunities that can even be explored in the communities in which they reside.

“Coega SDC has really helped me obtain a skill that will open doors and make me employable,” Mavuso said.

Lusanda Marwalana (24) from Kamvelihle said the training programme provides opportunities for trained welders.

“I have gained extensive experience in a short period of time because of the training, and now I am ready for any opportunity that may come my way,” Marwalana said.

Mzoleni Kosana (34) also from Motherwell said the programme has empowered him to start his own business.

This significant milestone follows from the recently announced Coega’s accreditation by the QCTO, as an Assessment and Trade Test Centre for two new trades of  Joiner and Painter.

“Coega SDC continues to position itself as the people’s empowerment Centre of excellence through facilitating education, training, skills development, and ancillary services,” Lambaatjeen said. – SAnews.gov.za

For more information, visit www.coega.co.za or call 043 711 1600 or 047 531 1246.