The expanded public works programme from Working on Fire (WOF) continues to carry out its mandate to create job opportunities and make a difference in the lives of young men and women from previously disadvantaged communities across the country.
Several unemployed youths across the North West Province had an opportunity to go through the WOF standard selection process. Men and women underwent fitness tests that included a 2.4 km race in 14 minutes (women) and 12 minutes (men), 40 push-ups, and 40 pull-ups in 60 seconds for both genders.
More than 20 young candidates were selected to complete the induction and advanced veld and forest firefighting training at the Kishugu Training Academy in Nelspruit. After they complete their training, the newly-recruited firefighters will return to their respective areas or towns to provide the best service to their community.
The recruitment and selection process went very well and was aimed at employing more women to fulfill the gender needs within the organisation.
Written by Maria Letsholo