Upper Highway trainees ready to build careers

YOUTH members from the Upper Highway are ready to work on construction sites as they complete their training with the National Youth Service Programme (NYSP) and Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). Initiated by local leaders, the trainees were selected from various groups to help them develop a skillset in construction.

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The training programmes involved The National Youth Service Programme (NYSP), which is a government initiative aimed at engaging South African youth in community service activities to strengthen service delivery, promote nation-building, foster social cohesion and assist the youth in acquiring occupational skills necessary to access sustainable livelihood opportunities. They also involved the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), which is a government initiative designed to create job opportunities, sustainable livelihoods and skills development for disadvantaged and unemployed people.

Speaking on the training, Siyabonga Mathebula, who is the programme facilitator, said the programmes are SETA-accredited and aim to empower young people in the construction sector.

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“In the programmes, trainees were given three months of theoretical training and three months of practical training. In the practical training, learners are given the opportunity to be out on the field. Upon completion, they are awarded with certificates and are equipped enough to be employed,” he said.

Mathebula said they are hopeful that the group of trainees will bring about change, not only to their families but to the community and country at large.

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