EKURHULENI is making strides to combat unemployment and poverty.
On Friday, Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Clr Mondli Gungubele announced the roll-out of the fire and rescue operations learnership programme, where those wishing to pursue a career in emergency services will undergo training.
The launch marked the beginning of an aspiring firefighter’s journey, as the first 50 were sworn into the learnership programme where they will be trained in a range of foundational NQF Level 4 Fire and Rescue competencies.
For many, like 30-year-old Kholofelo Rampedi, this programme is the break that she needed after years of applying for skills development opportunities.
“I was on the verge of giving up. I had even forgotten I had applied when I received the call to come for physical evaluations,” she said.
”I’m truly grateful for this opportunity, because I will now at least have a useful skill to add to my CV after completing this programme.
The mayor encouraged the learners to make the most of this opportunity, as the training they will undergo will equip them with the essential skills they will need when seeking employment.
“These are our humble steps to eradicate unemployment, poverty and inequality. We are not giving you fish, because that is not sustainable; instead we are teaching you how to fish so you can go out there and start fishing to feed your families,” said Gungubele.
He also emphasised that the training does not mean the learners will ultimately work for the municipality, but is meant to improve their employability in the fire and rescue field, wherever the opportunities exist.
Ekurhuleni is putting R14-million towards this programme over the next two years. This will cover the students’ uniform, training material, training fees and stipends.
The first intake of 50 will be followed by another three intakes of 50 candidates, in June, December and January 2017. In total, 200 candidates will be trained.
The training will last for 12 months and, once completed, the students will be competent in firefighting, rescue operations, victim care, care of the environment and the protection of property, as set by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
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