Work has begun in earnest towards the establishment and building of a digital lab that will help young unemployed people to learn critical skills in the technology field.
This is according to councillor Tefo Raphadu of Ward 105 who hosted a briefing on January 11 to update him and his Ward Project Steering Committee on the progress of the setting up of the containers that will house the digital lab.
Situated at Alex Mall, Raphadu, who is the leader of the steering committee, said he was happy with the progress so far and should take up to six months to complete. This, he added, would future-proof the youth of the township and other surrounding townships with technology skills that are currently driving the various spheres of commerce and industry in the country under the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The project recently received a major financial injection when a technology company operating in the field of mine safety and productivity, Schauenburg Systems, through its partnership with the Youth Employment Service (Yes), donated R800 000 towards the building of the container hub.
The digital lab at the Netcare Ulusha Hub, an innovative entrepreneurship facility established by Netcare together with Yes, is designed to develop the potential of the youth and turn their hopes and dreams into feasible economic opportunities.
Once launched, young people will be able to learn graphic design and data capturing among others and will be offered access to networks, training, markets, work opportunities, ideas for careers or new businesses, and the necessary partner support.
The hub already boasts a culinary academy, a 3D printing facility, Termite Labs, and a textile manufacturing facility, Hluvuko Designs, which recently landed a massive order for maternity bags from private hospital operator, Life Healthcare.
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