KANYAMAZANE – Aiming at contributing towards the fight against unemployment, Spar launched Siyapheka Kitchen at the MRTT Hospitality and Tourism Academy.
Eighty one students were interviewed and only 24 were selected for the programme. The main objective of the programme is to contribute to skills development which is one of the main factors of unemployment in the country.
Spar management director, Mr R de Vos, speaking to the excited lucky 24, said he started the programme to curb unemployment and skills shortages in Mpumalanga.
“Our main criterion was to see someone who wants to change their world. We chose the 24 learners to skill them, employ and place them in different fields in the hospitality industry,” he said.
He also added that this is a big step to help the students grow and be able to work together.
Ms Lucky Moeketsi from the Department of Education said the partnership between Spar and Mpumalanga Regional Training Trust came at a good time for them, Spar and the students. She thanked the MRTT and said they should not only train the students, but should also place them in different companies.
“This is an opportunity of a lifetime, don’t play with it. If you do, you will not only be disappointing MRTT and Spar, but also other young people who would love to have this opportunity.
Three learners also took to the pulpit to say a few words. One of the learners, Ethel Nkosi said, “This has changed our lives. I now wake up excited, realising the possibilities that will come with this initiative.” She also urged fellow students not to waste the opportunity, but make the most of it and create something that will also help other disadvantaged people.
