Synthesis Software Technologies, a South African home-grown specialised financial technology company, awarded certificates to unemployed youth at a graduation ceremony held at the Waverley Sports Club.
The ceremony was held in collaboration with Afrika Tikkun and training provider, Unlock’D on 30 April. Sixteen unemployed youths were awarded learnership certificates.
The learners are from disadvantaged communities from various parts of Johannesburg, according to Michael Shapiro, managing director at Synthesis Software Technologies.
They have successfully completed Synthesis’ learnership programme, graduating with an NQF Level 3 in end-user computing, accredited by the Media Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority.
Shapiro said the 12-month training programme, which incorporates both practical and theoretical computer proficiency training, is an annual initiative that commenced in May last year.
Through the training initiative, Synthesis and its partners equip unemployed youths, some of whom are disabled, with basic computing skills.
“These learnerships are an integral part of our commitment to skills development and transformation in South Africa,” explained Shapiro.
“We strive to create suitably qualified youths with sufficient computer proficiency skills and knowledge to enable them to seek employment opportunities. Sue Ann Huyser has created an unbelievable initiative for the beneficiaries who have all benefited from the programme. We are looking to grow this programme every year.”
Of the 16 learners who graduated, three of them have received offers for permanent employment already, according to the managing director.
He said Synthesis has, furthermore, awarded bursaries to two learners to further their studies through an A+ certification programme. They will be specialising in installing, maintaining, customising and operating personal computers, and a Network+ (N+) certification to qualify as a network administrator.
The remaining 11 learners will be enrolled in a business course for the following 12 months and will work towards attaining an NQF Level 4 certificate.
“In total Synthesis will provide learnership opportunities for 20 young people living in underprivileged communities over the next financial year.
Beneficiaries, Tebogo Kaboi and Sikelela Ndaba agreed that the training programme has been beneficial adding that they are now computer proficient. The two plan to enrol at tertiary institutions and study further and said through this learnership they have a valuable skill needed to gain employment.
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