The Lord Is There is a learning academy based in Tsakani that aims to empower unemployed people through skills empowerment.
The facility was founded by Thulani Soko who is an educator by profession. Soko said the idea to own and register an institution of learning started after obtaining his qualification in the teaching profession.
He further mentioned he did not have the capital to register and fund the idea at the time as he was unemployed.
He added that he has worked part-time for many colleges as a lecturer and that is where he observed the needs of a learning institution and how it operates.
Soko registered his academy in 2024 after he had found employment under the “Nasi iSpani” programme that was facilitated by the Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi.
“I was fortunate to have been granted a job by the programme.
“The stipend was not enough but it assisted me to save and register my own learning academy that focuses on assisting people from Kwatsaduza obtain skills, a qualification and hopefully a job.
“I saw a great need to establish a facility of this kind in the township to cut on travelling expenses for those that wish to partake.
“I am currently negotiating with a number of stakeholders for job opportunities for all my students as well as possible funding,” said Soko.
Soko said that he wishes to work closely with Lesufi to try and better people’s lives through education.
Soko further added that he has established a working partnership with other colleges and individuals who are greatly assisting the academy when help is needed.
“We are offering 12-month courses to the public.
“The courses are open to everyone, to people with or without matric. Furthermore, we do not have an age limit.
“People who cannot afford tertiary institution fees this year are also welcome.
“Students will choose and register for one course and will be studying SETA-accredited courses,” he said.
Classes are held on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturday from 09:00 to 13:00.
Courses include:
• Early Childhood Development (NQF Level 4- Diploma)
• Information technology technical support (NQF Level 4 – Diploma)
• New venture creation (NQF Level 4 – Diploma)
• Agriculture (NQF Level 4 – Diploma)
• Technical Support (NQF Level 4 – Diploma)
• Security Guard A, B and C, D, E
• Welding
