The City of Ekurhuleni, in partnership a consulting, innovation and skills development company Lutzanetix (Pty) Ltd and the Department of Employment and Labour, is empowering 215 young people through a road-rehabilitation and tar-patching training programme.
The programme provides beneficiaries with an opportunity to gain both theoretical and workplace experience. The theoretical training is provided by Lutzanetix Pty Ltd whilst the City of Ekurhuleni enlists the candidates at the Roads and Transport depots where they are exposed to road maintenance processes, project management, workplace readiness and mentorship. This gives them an opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge gained during training in a practical working environment.
One of the beneficiaries, Tshiamo Mapena, who is completing her practical training at the Vosloorus Roads Depot, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity.
“The practical knowledge I gained has surpassed my expectations. This opportunity has given me a valuable insight into road maintenance, and I am truly grateful to the city for opening its doors and allowing us to gain this experience,” said Mapena.
“The programme has also exposed me to sustainable livelihood opportunities and encouraged me to develop an entrepreneurial mindset. I now feel inspired to use the skills I have gained to one day start my own business.”
Through the programme, the city is not only providing beneficiaries with access to municipal depots but is also creating an enabling environment for young people to gain practical skills, workplace exposure and experience that can improve their employment and entrepreneurial prospects.
The programme seeks to:
The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts by the city and its partners to equip young people with relevant skills and experience that can improve their chances of entering the labour market, pursuing further opportunities or establishing their own businesses.
- contribute towards reducing youth unemployment in the City of Ekurhuleni;
- strengthen skills development and workplace readiness among beneficiaries;
- provide beneficiaries with meaningful practical work experience;
- expose participants to road rehabilitation, maintenance and project management processes; and
- empower beneficiaries through practical training, stipend support and certification.